Dog-Friendly Restaurant Policy Under Review in Hong Kong – A New Pet Economy Shift?

In the 2025 Policy Address, Hong Kong’s Chief Executive John Lee announced that the government is considering a new licensing regime for dog-friendly restaurants. This initiative aims to allow pet dogs (excluding guide and police dogs) to legally enter designated food establishments — a potential shift from the current restrictions under the Food Business Regulation (Cap. 132X), which has prohibited dogs in restaurants since 1994.

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What Is the Proposed Policy?

• Restaurants may apply for a “dog-friendly restaurant license.”
• Eligible venues must meet hygiene, ventilation, and safety standards.
• Establishments will be required to display clear dog-friendly signage.
• The government plans to consult with the F&B industry and animal welfare groups before finalizing policy details.

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Why the Change?

Public & Business Support:

• Responds to growing demand from pet owners for more inclusive public spaces.
• Encourages growth of the pet economy in retail, services, and hospitality.
• Provides new revenue and branding opportunities for restaurants.

Concerns Raised:

• Tight restaurant spaces may pose hygiene and comfort challenges.
• Diverse dog sizes and behaviors complicate policy enforcement.
• Unclear insurance and liability guidelines may pose legal risks.

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What Can Restaurants Do to Prepare?

While official guidelines are still pending, restaurants can begin preparing for pet-integration by combining physical upgrades with digital systems — particularly CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools. With a CRM platform, restaurants can:

• Build segmented lists for pet-friendly customers and send personalized campaigns.
• Track customer preferences and offer pet-related loyalty rewards.
• Manage bookings with special seating zones for pet owners.
• Monitor event attendance and satisfaction for continuous improvement.

These strategies support the development of a pet-friendly brand identity, helping restaurants boost customer retention and loyalty. Additionally, restaurants may evaluate their physical layouts, create dedicated outdoor or pet zones, train staff in basic pet etiquette, prepare for health and ventilation compliance, and discuss liability insurance enhancements.

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Policy Status & Timeline

• The government is reviewing Cap. 132X to align with the proposed changes.
• No confirmed implementation date yet.
• Ongoing consultations will involve the public and relevant industry stakeholders.

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For Pet Owners & Diners

• Watch for signage indicating whether a venue is pet-friendly.
• Not all restaurants will opt in — please respect individual choices.
• Pet-related surcharges or conditions may apply, so always check ahead.

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FAQs

Will all restaurants be required to allow dogs?

‍No. Only those that apply for and receive the dog-friendly license will be permitted to do so.

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Will all dog breeds be accepted?

‍Details are still under review. Future regulations may include restrictions by breed, size, or behavior.

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How will cleanliness and food safety be managed?

‍The government will set hygiene standards that licensed restaurants must follow strictly.

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When will this policy be implemented?

‍The proposal is under consultation, and no official launch date has been announced.

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Turning Pet Access Into a Business Advantage

If enacted, this policy could mark a shift toward a more pet-inclusive city — opening new doors for hospitality businesses ready to serve Hong Kong’s growing number of pet families. By embracing technology and preparing proactively, restaurants can position themselves at the forefront of this emerging pet economy.