Many owners enjoy taking their dogs for walks and playtime. As long as a few simple rules are followed, it's not difficult for your dog to go out and play. Most Hong Kong people are very dog-friendly, but some who don't know much about dogs may feel anxious about overly enthusiastic behavior. As long as everyone is accommodating and owners supervise their dogs properly, most Hong Kong people are happy to share public spaces with their dogs.
Restrictions on large dogs in Hong Kong
Hong Kong requires all dogs weighing 20 kg or more to wear a leash in public places. While this regulation is not strictly enforced and does not apply to country parks or swimming areas, owners should avoid allowing their dogs to roam freely in crowded and busy areas. If your dog has exhibited aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs, it should wear a muzzle when out in public. We recommend a larger muzzle that allows the dog to breathe and cool down. Hong Kong has strict hygiene regulations, so owners should remember to clean up after their dogs.
If your dog is well-trained, you can apply for an exemption from leashing. However, the dog must pass a test administered by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and have proof that it has received effective preventative vaccinations.
Click here to learn more about exemptions from dog leashes.
Generally speaking, dogs are not allowed in buildings, supermarkets, shopping malls or restaurants.
Beaches and Country Parks
Hong Kong is an international city, but it still boasts numerous country parks, and the good news is that all of them welcome dogs to spend quality time with their owners. Furthermore, dogs are allowed to roam freely without leashes within the country parks. Owners can drive their dogs to the country parks to explore Hong Kong's natural environment. Click here to view a list of Hong Kong's country parks.
Dogs are not allowed at any public beaches (i.e., beaches with lifeguards). However, if you want to take your dog to the beach, Stanley Back Beach, Shek O Back Beach, and a small area along the promenade between Deep Water Bay and Repulse Bay are good options for dogs to swim, provided they are not at the main beaches.
Potential crisis
1. Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection typically transmitted through rat urine, which is then washed into streams and sewers after rain. We have seen cases of leptospirosis in dogs throughout Hong Kong, and in almost all cases, the affected dogs had a history of playing in streams and drinking fresh water. Owners often assume that running water is clean and drinkable. However, this is not the case.
Leptospirosis often leads to liver and kidney failure. Early symptoms are harmless—sometimes vomiting and diarrhea may occur. However, by the time signs of kidney and liver failure appear, the disease has already caused serious damage.
2. Bowen Road Dog Poisoning Case
Two roads on Hong Kong Island — Bowen Road and Blackie's Path—have been the site of numerous suspected dog poisoning incidents. Despite police investigations, incidents continue to occur. The bait is typically a piece of chicken or pork laced with common pesticides, which can cause convulsions, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. If you suspect your dog has ingested the bait, seek veterinary attention immediately. We also recommend avoiding these areas and muzzling your dog when passing through them. Even the most well-trained dogs can suffer serious consequences if they accidentally eat poisoned bait. Fortunately, these are currently the only two roads in Hong Kong where poisoning incidents have been reported.
