Singapore enforces one of the strictest Breed-Specific Legislation (BSL) policies in Asia, administered by the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS). This sets Singapore apart sharply from Japan or Taiwan — countries with no breed restrictions at all. If you are relocating from Vietnam to Singapore with a dog, verifying your breed before planning anything else is essential.
This article sets out the complete list of fully banned breeds, restricted breeds, and the special conditions that apply. See our detailed Singapore pet import laws guide for the full import process including RNATT, PALS, and Import Permit requirements.
Group 1: Completely Banned Breeds (No Entry Under Any Circumstances)
The following breeds and all crosses involving these breeds are completely prohibited in Singapore. There is no special permit process, no exemption application, and no individual exception — regardless of the owner’s circumstances:
| Banned Breed | Additional Notes |
|---|---|
| Pit Bull (all variants) | Includes: American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, American Bulldog |
| Akita | Both Japanese Akita and American Akita are banned |
| Neapolitan Mastiff | Also known as Mastino Napoletano |
| Tosa | Also known as Tosa Inu / Japanese Mastiff |
| Dogo Argentino | Argentine Dogo |
| Fila Brasileiro | Brazilian Mastiff |
| Boerboel | South African Mastiff |
| Perro de Presa Canario | Canary Mastiff / Dogo Canario |
On mixed breeds: The ban applies to cross-breeds involving any of the above. If your dog has any documented bloodline from a banned breed — whether confirmed by DNA test or assessed by AVS officers based on physical appearance — entry may be denied. In ambiguous cases, AVS will assess appearance and behaviour at CAPQ. A DNA test may provide supporting evidence, but does not guarantee AVS acceptance.
Group 2: Specified Dogs — Permitted, But Under Strict Conditions
Singapore’s regulations define a second category: “Specified Dogs.” These breeds are not banned outright but must comply with mandatory conditions when kept and moved in Singapore. If your dog belongs to one of these breeds, all conditions must be in place from the day of arrival:
| Specified Dog Breed | Banker’s Guarantee | Insurance | Other Mandatory Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bull Terrier Doberman Pinscher Rottweiler German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian) Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) |
SGD 2,000 | Min. SGD 100,000 third-party liability | Obedience Training certificate (AVS-accredited trainer); muzzle in all public areas; strong approved leash at all times |
| Mastiff variants (Bull Mastiff, Cane Corso, and other Mastiff variants) |
SGD 5,000 | Min. SGD 100,000 third-party liability | Obedience Training certificate (AVS-accredited trainer); muzzle in all public areas; strong approved leash at all times |
Under the Animals and Birds Act (Chapter 7), Specified Dogs are subject to a mandatory Dog Licence applied via the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS). In addition to the licensing fees (SGD 35 lifetime if sterilised, or SGD 15/year sterilised vs SGD 90/year unsterilised), owners must provide the Banker’s Guarantee stated above, obtain third-party liability insurance of at least SGD 100,000, and complete a compulsory Obedience Training course with an AVS-accredited trainer before or at the time of import. All four elements — licence, Banker’s Guarantee, insurance, and Obedience Training certificate — must be in order from day one. For a full breakdown of the import process specific to these breeds, see our guide on the full requirements for importing Specified Dogs into Singapore.
Group 3: HDB Housing Restrictions
Even if your dog’s breed is neither banned nor Specified, you may face a housing barrier. Singapore has two main housing categories:
- HDB Flats (Public Housing): Approximately 80% of Singapore residents live in HDB flats. Only breeds on the HDB Approved Breeds List — approximately 62 small-to-medium breeds — are permitted in these units. Large and high-energy breeds are generally excluded.
- Landed Property: More permissive rules apply. Breeds not on the banned or Specified list are generally permitted, subject to AVS licensing.
If you are moving into an HDB flat, verify your breed against the HDB Approved List on the Housing & Development Board (HDB) website before purchasing flights. The distinction between “permitted to enter Singapore” and “permitted in HDB housing” is critically important and regularly overlooked.
What Are Your Options if Your Dog is a Banned Breed?
Daisy Pet understands this is extremely difficult news for some pet owners. Practical options to consider:
- Temporary placement in Vietnam: Leave your pet with a trusted family member or reputable boarding facility in Vietnam during your assignment in Singapore.
- DNA breed verification: If your dog’s appearance is ambiguous and you believe it may not carry banned bloodlines, a DNA test may provide supporting evidence (though it does not guarantee AVS acceptance).
- Individual consultation with Daisy Pet: We have assisted many owners in complex breed situations. Contact us for a specific assessment before making any decisions.
Quick Comparison: Singapore vs Other Daisy Pet Markets
| Country | Complete Breed Ban? | Restricted Breeds? |
|---|---|---|
| 🇸🇬 Singapore | 8+ breeds banned (strictest in region) | Specified Dogs — Banker’s Guarantee + Insurance + Obedience Training |
| 🇯🇵 Japan | No breed ban | No restrictions |
| 🇹🇼 Taiwan | Pit Bull only | ⚠️ Some breeds |
| 🇦🇺 Australia | Varies by state | ⚠️ State-dependent |
Once you have confirmed your breed is eligible, see our full Singapore pet import law guide for the complete RNATT, licensing, and quarantine process. The full step-by-step journey is mapped out in our 5-month timeline guide.
Related: Pet Shipping from Vietnam to Singapore: 2026 Complete Guide — full overview covering AVS regulations, preparation timeline, quarantine requirements, and cost breakdown.
Last updated 12 Aug 2026
Compiled by our specialists from the regulations in force on the date above, for reference only. Rules may change after this date. Please verify with the competent authorities or contact us for the most accurate information.
Official sources cited in this guide
- Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS)nparks.gov.sg
- Housing & Development Board (HDB) websitehdb.gov.sg
