Hong Kong’s long-awaited dog-friendly restaurant scheme is moving closer to launch, with restaurants allowed to apply from May 18 to let dogs enter their premises. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said the first batch of approvals is expected in mid-June, while approved venues could start welcoming customers with dogs from a date in July.
The first phase will be capped at up to 1,000 restaurants. If more than 1,000 applications are received, places will be allocated by ballot. Restaurants must hold a full licence and be larger than 20 square metres. Hotpot, barbecue, teppanyaki and Korean barbecue restaurants will not be accepted for safety reasons.
The move follows an earlier Government plan to approve Hong Kong’s first dog-friendly restaurants by mid-2026, creating a clearer legal framework for venues that want to admit dogs. Until now, dogs have generally not been allowed inside licensed food premises, except for guide dogs, although some venues have allowed pets in outdoor areas or under different licence arrangements.
For dog owners, the scheme could open up more dining options in selected venues. It also gives restaurants a clearer process to apply for dog admission, while allowing customers to check approved premises before visiting. The FEHD will publish the list of approved restaurants before the July start date.
The policy also comes as Hong Kong reviews wider animal-related rules. Earlier this week, the Government said it aims to update the public within 2026 on the next phase of work on animal cruelty legislation, including possible tougher penalties and stronger enforcement powers for AFCD officers.
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