Hong Kong Dog-Friendly Restaurant List Updated; 3 Restaurant Types Still Banned
AM730 · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) has greenlit over 900 restaurants to permit dogs as of September 25, 2026. The approved list, launched in mid-June, expanded this week with two new additions: COFFGANIC in Wan Chai's Hopewell Centre and Haagen-Dazs at the AIRSIDE mall in Kai Tak. While the policy marks a significant shift for pet owners, three categories of eateries remain barred: hot pot restaurants, barbecue establishments (including teppanyaki and Korean BBQ outlets), and venues smaller than 20 square metres. Owners violating the rules face penalties up to HK$10,000 and three months' imprisonment, with additional daily fines for continued non-compliance.
Key Points
- Over 900 restaurants have completed FEHD approval procedures to admit dogs as of the latest update
- Two new entries added September 25: COFFGANIC (Hopewell Centre, Wan Chai) and Haagen-Dazs (AIRSIDE, Kowloon)
- Dogs must remain leashed on leads no longer than 1.5 metres, handled by an adult at all times inside venues
- Fighting breeds and designated dangerous dogs are strictly prohibited from entering approved restaurants
- Violators face a maximum fine of HK$10,000 and up to three months' imprisonment
- Hot pot, barbecue, and restaurants under 20 sqm remain ineligible for the programme
Why It Matters
This policy update reflects Hong Kong's evolving stance on pet-friendly public spaces, providing dog owners greater flexibility to dine out with their companions. The strict enforcement framework—including substantial penalties and hygiene requirements—aims to balance animal welfare with food safety standards, setting a precedent for how densely populated urban centres can accommodate pets in shared spaces .
This policy update reflects Hong Kong's evolving stance on pet-friendly public spaces, providing dog owners greater flexibility to dine out with their companions. The strict enforcement framework—including substantial penalties and hygiene requirements—aims to balance animal welfare with food safety standards, setting a precedent for how densely populated urban centres can accommodate pets in shared spaces .