Dog Adoption in Singapore: A Complete Guide for Future Owners

Pets are always a great addition to a household since they are known to be great companions that will shower you with lots of love and cuddles, providing comfort while lessening stress and anxiety.

Additionally, getting a pet is a huge responsibility that requires serious commitment. You have to be prepared to handle all the financial costs and expenses that come with pet ownership. 

We hope this guide to adoption for dogs in Singapore can answer your questions on why you should adopt and inform you of the things to consider when it comes to dog adoption.

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Serene Tham 
 
0 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
It's been 1.5 months since we got our Japanese Spitz puppy and she has been an absolute joy. Much thanks to Yvonne for answering all our questions and being so helpful in sharing information on caring for our little pup. She had a clean bill of health and came home healthy, energetic and quite well adjusted. After purchasing this little one, we still keep in touch with Yvonne and are grateful for the after sales support indeed. :)
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ivan Cheng 
 
2 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Amazing experience with Pretty Pets Kennel!! Special shoutout to Branden who took the effort and patience to explain to us about the cavapoo. Really love at first sight. Initially wanted to have a second thought but with the professional explanation. It left us with only 1 choice. Guess what? We got a new family member now…☺️🎊🎉
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Su Chew 
 
3 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I got my family’s dream dog, a Papillion-Japanese spitz mix at Pretty Pet’s Kennel! I’m very grateful to Yvonne who introduced me to the designer mix dog. According to Google, it has better tolerance with Singapore’s humid heat vs Pomsky (or pure Japanese spitz). Pretty Pets Kennel designer mixes can be rare and have high visibility, so it’s important to secure them quickly if you really desire them. I’m lucky Yvonne kept me up to date on the sale this litter. ❤️

After I brought him back, Yvonne checked in daily for about 3 days to make sure the puppy was settling well and I was doing all the right things. I’m lucky that he is about 50% toilet trained from the moment I brought him in. Perhaps it’s also part of Pretty Pets structure that he is partly toilet trained. They also ethically check on some viruses before they release the pup.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Dionis Soh 
 
3 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Went down to pretty pets kennel with no intention of getting a puppy there but Yvonne was really assuring and helpful. She also checked in with us on how our Ryo was adapting.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Jermaine Huang 
 
5 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We had a wonderful experience with Branden, who gave us thoughtful recommendations and helped us find a suitable dog for our family. He was patient with all our questions, took the time to understand our needs, and guided us throughout the entire process.

Branden was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. His excellent service made the whole journey smooth and reassuring. We really appreciate his patience and support, and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a furry addition to their family!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Shirley Wee 
 
5 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
After 5 years, we came back to get our 2nd puppy, this time round to accompany our little boy. Thanks Branden for the great advice and care for our little puppy 🙏🏻
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Rae Lim 
 
6 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We’ve had such a lovely experience with them, from the very first time we met Yvonne to even after Pebbles came home.

We actually chanced upon this place quite randomly and very much on a whim. Our boy had very recently left us, and at the time we were simply looking around — not even specifically for another puppy.

Yvonne was extremely warm and took the time to get to know us. When she found out that we had previously had a Japanese Spitz, she asked if we would like to have a look at the puppies. I don’t think we need to say much more after that. ❤️ Our puppy girl came home with us the following week.

What really impressed us was seeing how well the furkids/babies were cared for. We know that, unfortunately, the conditions in these situations are not always ideal, so it was reassuring to see the care and attention given to the puppies. We were even able to interact with our puppy’s birth parents, which was something really special for us.

The aftercare has been just as lovely. Yvonne continues to check in with us and follows up to make sure everything is alright, and she has always been there when we have questions or concerns. We really appreciate that the care didn’t simply stop once our puppy went home.

There is probably never a “right” time to welcome another furkid after losing one. We certainly weren’t looking to replace our boy, and we know our hearts weren’t really prepared for another puppy so soon. But we are incredibly grateful for that one simple question that led us to meet our little puppy girl.

Thank you, Yvonne, for bringing our little puppy girl into our lives. ❤️🐾
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ng Si En 
 
8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Yvonne was (and still is) helpful and patient in answering our queries about our bichon puppy and providing timely advice, even after more than a month of taking our puppy home! She’s healthy and doing well
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Rex Chan 
 
8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
​We wanted to send a huge thank you to Yvonne for all help and guidance. Taking the time to patiently explain everything to us made us feel so comfortable and confident in choosing our lovely furkid. Your kindness and expertise mean the world to us—thank you for helping us bring our new little one home!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Xinwen 
 
15 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Jared has been extremely helpful and caring from the very beginning when we welcomed our Pomeranian, Kai, into our family. Although I have had dogs before, having a puppy is a new experience for our children, and there were many things for us to learn and adjust to together.

Jared really went above and beyond. He even created a group chat to keep in touch with us, follow up on Kai’s daily progress, and make sure we were doing well and taking good care of him. Whenever we had questions or were unsure about something, he was always patient, responsive and ready to guide us.

What we appreciate most is that his care didn’t stop after we brought Kai home. You can really feel that he genuinely cares about the puppies and wants them to settle happily into their new families.

Thank you, Jared, for all your help, patience and care. You made welcoming Kai into our family such a smooth and reassuring experience. 🩵🐶 Highly recommended! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Verified by Trustindex  
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
 
 
 
 
 

Reasons Why You Should Adopt A Dog

A dog is a man’s best friend, and we strongly believe that, since their presence can greatly impact our lives for the better!

Save A Life

There are many reasons why a dog ends up in adoption centres, which are honestly saddening and, sometimes, heartbreaking. Many are local mixed-breed dogs, often a stray picked up and rehomed through shelters, and these are commonly known in Singapore as Singapore Specials. Dogs are innocent animals that deserve a chance to live a better life.

Even if they are treated well in sanitised shelters, the place they live is supposed to be temporary due to capacity restrictions. Singapore also has a network of animal welfare organisations, including the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, that rescue and rehome dogs. These animals deserve to live in forever homes where they can be loved, cared for, and given attention!

Plus, with therecent update on 8 pet businesses not getting their licenses renewed in The Animal Lodge, there will be plenty of dogs who will be looking for their forever homes. Pretty Pets Kennel is assisting in this rehoming process as well so reach out to us if you’re looking to adopt as well!

Spend Less Money

You can save more on costs when you adopt compared to buying a pet. When dogs are brought into animal welfare groups, they are usually already vaccinated, sterilised, and microchipped, with deworming often included too.

This also means they have received standard medical care early on. (Vaccination helps protect dogs from serious infectious diseases, while sterilisation can reduce the risk of certain diseases.) Whereas if you purchase a dog, you will cover those initial costs, along with license fees, and other inclusive fees.

Owning a dog is not exactly cheap, but when you adopt, the price is most likely cheaper. Adoption fees often range from S$25 to S$350, while standalone microchipping and basic vaccination can already cost about S$50 to S$100 each.

However, it’s important to note that you should also plan for the ongoing costs involved after adoption, including food, veterinary care, and keeping your dog licensed.

Choose A Dog Compatible With You

Adoption shelters help match adopters with a suitable dog based on lifestyle, space, and needs. You may find hdb-approved dogs, mixed breeds, and Singapore Specials! This review helps shelters assess the dog’s profile and the circumstances of potential adopters holistically for the best fit.

This is to ensure that they can be safely rehomed to potential pet owners. Once you choose a dog that you like, you can ask for the screening process guidelines and the adoption application form, which you need to complete before proceeding. This way you can get to know your dog beforehand before making your decision.

Save Time on Training 

If you’re considering adoption for dogs, chances are they are already trained and disciplined. It’ll give you an advantage, and it’ll be easier to manage your dog’s behaviour. Even if they’re not fully trained, it is still possible for older dogs to pick up on tricks and skills!

Some adoptions also require a mandatory obedience training program before or after placement, often using positive reinforcement. First-time dog owners in Singapore may also need to complete a mandatory pet ownership course.

Give Support Back To AWG (Animal Welfare Groups)

When you adopt a dog through AWGs, the fees also go to processing, essentials, and maintenance of the dogs in the shelters. Aside from the initial cost to process (vaccinating, microchipping, and sterilising), it typically also includes expenses to provide enough food and medical care to those with health issues. 

Receive Post-Adoption Support

Getting a dog, especially for beginners, can be both an exciting and scary experience. According to the National Parks Board (NParks)’s Pet Ownership Guidelines, AWGs should provide support, help, and information post-adoption to help the dog adjust to their new home.

Possible types of support include resources for behavioural or health issues and recommendations for trainers and veterinarians.

Things to Consider When Adopting a Dog for Your Home Environment

There are many responsibilities that come with owning a dog, which is why it is important that the owners are 100% certain of their decision. Adopters in Singapore are generally expected to be at least 21 years old.

Potential pet owners may check with NParks’ Pet Ownership Checklist to help further on their decision to adopt, as well as help the AWGs determine if the person is a good pet owner that is capable of providing the necessary care that the dog needs. Reputable shelters may also conduct interviews and home checks, including house visits, as part of assessing readiness.

The pre-adoption assessment checklist in summary:

• Is the pet accepted by the entire household?
• Can you take care of your pet their whole life?
• Are you able to pay for the necessary costs and expenses your dog needs?
• Can you ensure you will not let your dog walk without a leash when outside and avoid potential harm to others?
• Can your dog live comfortably in your home, with a safe home environment, enough space to rest, and a dedicated bed area?
• Will you give your dog the time and attention it needs, including a stable routine, daily exercise, suitable toys, and companionship?
• Will you look after your dog properly?

All household members should attend at least one visit before adoption.

If you answer agree to these, you can become a good, responsible pet owner. Otherwise, if you don’t, you may wish to reconsider your decision to adopt.

General Adoption Process for Dogs in Singapore

If you’re deciding to adopt, there is a general process that pet owners will have to go through. 

1. Choose an adoption centre you would like to visit and adopt from. You also have an option to choose from their available dogs up for adoption.
2. Book an appointment and the organisation will confirm your meeting date
3. Visit the centre to meet your new pet and confirm the dog you’d like to adopt
4. Go through the required pre-adoption assessment 
5. Take the dog home with you for a one week home-stay 
6. Spend time with your chosen dog to see if you are compatible with one another; let them get acquainted with the house along with the family members
7. Report any issues to the organisation if there is any
8. Finalise the ownership of your new pet by signing the adoption papers
9. The adoption centre will check up on you subsequently for any updates, offer support, and provide recommendations.

Do note that adoption shelters and centres’ processes are not the same, as they might alter some steps in the adoption process and ask for additional requirements from potential pet owners. You may contact them for more information.

Adoption Centres for Dogs in Singapore

There are several AWGs in Singapore that lets you adopt pets of any kind. If you are looking for specific shelters or centres that offer dogs up for adoption, you may browse through the list below.

If you live in HDB flats and want to adopt Singapore Specials, check Project ADORE first. This scheme lets HDB residents adopt local mixed-breed dogs, was piloted in April 2012, and became permanent in May 2014 so more families can adore and responsibly rehome them.

Under HDB rules, only one dog is allowed per flat, toy breeds must be 40cm or less at the shoulder unless they are an approved Project ADORE mixed-breed dog, and Project ADORE dogs can be up to 55cm tall.

HDB also allows 63 approved dog breeds, and all dogs must be licensed, fitted with a microchip, and sterilised.

1. Action for Singapore Dogs

Website: http://www.asdsingapore.com/Contact: Send a message here

2. Animal Lovers League

Website: https://www.animalloversleague.com/

3. Causes for Animals Singapore

Website: https://www.causesforanimals.com/ Contact: adoption@causesforanimals.com | 9793 7162 / 9697 3491

4. Exclusively Mongrels

Website: https://www.exclusivelymongrels.org/Contact: Send a message here

5. Mercylight Animal Rescue and Sanctuary

Website: https://mercylight.wixsite.com/mercylight/Contact: Send a message here

6. Noahs Ark Cares

Website: [https://www.noahsarkcares.com/] Contact: noahsarkcares@gmail.com

7.Oasis Second Chance Animal Shelter (OSCAS)

Website: https://www.oscas.sg/  Contact: Send a message here

8. Purely Adoptions

Website: https://www.purelyadoptions.com/Contact: hello@purelyadoptions.com | Whatsapp: +65 9001 8848

9. SOSD

Website: https://sosd.org.sg/ Contact: Send a message here

Once you’ve found the organisation you are interested in, you may contact them and book an appointment with them to start your adoption process. Aside from adoption, you may also show support to these groups by donating, sponsoring, or volunteering!

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Serene Tham 
 
0 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
It's been 1.5 months since we got our Japanese Spitz puppy and she has been an absolute joy. Much thanks to Yvonne for answering all our questions and being so helpful in sharing information on caring for our little pup. She had a clean bill of health and came home healthy, energetic and quite well adjusted. After purchasing this little one, we still keep in touch with Yvonne and are grateful for the after sales support indeed. :)
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ivan Cheng 
 
2 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Amazing experience with Pretty Pets Kennel!! Special shoutout to Branden who took the effort and patience to explain to us about the cavapoo. Really love at first sight. Initially wanted to have a second thought but with the professional explanation. It left us with only 1 choice. Guess what? We got a new family member now…☺️🎊🎉
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Su Chew 
 
3 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
I got my family’s dream dog, a Papillion-Japanese spitz mix at Pretty Pet’s Kennel! I’m very grateful to Yvonne who introduced me to the designer mix dog. According to Google, it has better tolerance with Singapore’s humid heat vs Pomsky (or pure Japanese spitz). Pretty Pets Kennel designer mixes can be rare and have high visibility, so it’s important to secure them quickly if you really desire them. I’m lucky Yvonne kept me up to date on the sale this litter. ❤️

After I brought him back, Yvonne checked in daily for about 3 days to make sure the puppy was settling well and I was doing all the right things. I’m lucky that he is about 50% toilet trained from the moment I brought him in. Perhaps it’s also part of Pretty Pets structure that he is partly toilet trained. They also ethically check on some viruses before they release the pup.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Dionis Soh 
 
3 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Went down to pretty pets kennel with no intention of getting a puppy there but Yvonne was really assuring and helpful. She also checked in with us on how our Ryo was adapting.
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Jermaine Huang 
 
5 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We had a wonderful experience with Branden, who gave us thoughtful recommendations and helped us find a suitable dog for our family. He was patient with all our questions, took the time to understand our needs, and guided us throughout the entire process.

Branden was professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful. His excellent service made the whole journey smooth and reassuring. We really appreciate his patience and support, and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a furry addition to their family!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Shirley Wee 
 
5 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
After 5 years, we came back to get our 2nd puppy, this time round to accompany our little boy. Thanks Branden for the great advice and care for our little puppy 🙏🏻
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Rae Lim 
 
6 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
We’ve had such a lovely experience with them, from the very first time we met Yvonne to even after Pebbles came home.

We actually chanced upon this place quite randomly and very much on a whim. Our boy had very recently left us, and at the time we were simply looking around — not even specifically for another puppy.

Yvonne was extremely warm and took the time to get to know us. When she found out that we had previously had a Japanese Spitz, she asked if we would like to have a look at the puppies. I don’t think we need to say much more after that. ❤️ Our puppy girl came home with us the following week.

What really impressed us was seeing how well the furkids/babies were cared for. We know that, unfortunately, the conditions in these situations are not always ideal, so it was reassuring to see the care and attention given to the puppies. We were even able to interact with our puppy’s birth parents, which was something really special for us.

The aftercare has been just as lovely. Yvonne continues to check in with us and follows up to make sure everything is alright, and she has always been there when we have questions or concerns. We really appreciate that the care didn’t simply stop once our puppy went home.

There is probably never a “right” time to welcome another furkid after losing one. We certainly weren’t looking to replace our boy, and we know our hearts weren’t really prepared for another puppy so soon. But we are incredibly grateful for that one simple question that led us to meet our little puppy girl.

Thank you, Yvonne, for bringing our little puppy girl into our lives. ❤️🐾
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Ng Si En 
 
8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Yvonne was (and still is) helpful and patient in answering our queries about our bichon puppy and providing timely advice, even after more than a month of taking our puppy home! She’s healthy and doing well
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Rex Chan 
 
8 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
​We wanted to send a huge thank you to Yvonne for all help and guidance. Taking the time to patiently explain everything to us made us feel so comfortable and confident in choosing our lovely furkid. Your kindness and expertise mean the world to us—thank you for helping us bring our new little one home!
  
 
 
 
 
 
 Posted on Google  
 
  
 
 
 Xinwen 
 
15 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
Jared has been extremely helpful and caring from the very beginning when we welcomed our Pomeranian, Kai, into our family. Although I have had dogs before, having a puppy is a new experience for our children, and there were many things for us to learn and adjust to together.

Jared really went above and beyond. He even created a group chat to keep in touch with us, follow up on Kai’s daily progress, and make sure we were doing well and taking good care of him. Whenever we had questions or were unsure about something, he was always patient, responsive and ready to guide us.

What we appreciate most is that his care didn’t stop after we brought Kai home. You can really feel that he genuinely cares about the puppies and wants them to settle happily into their new families.

Thank you, Jared, for all your help, patience and care. You made welcoming Kai into our family such a smooth and reassuring experience. 🩵🐶 Highly recommended! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Verified by Trustindex  
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more