Everything You Need to Know About Dog Licensing in Singapore (2026)
Planning to bring home a puppy? Before you do, it’s important to know that all dog owners in Singapore are required to apply for a valid license under Animal & Veterinary Service – AVS (formerly handled by Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore (AVA))— even for puppies.
Dog owners must comply with the Animals and Birds Act, which sets out dog licensing requirements in Singapore. This Act mandates that all dogs must be licensed, and failure to do so can result in penalties.
If you are buying your first dog or want to learn about pet licensing in Singapore, this guide is for you. It explains the steps, licensing costs of owning a dog in Singapore, and documents you need to comply with dog licensing requirements under the Animals and Birds Act.
We’ll also discuss the AVS/AVA/Nparks Dog License. There is a common misconception, so dog parents, pay attention!
Psst! If you are still searching for a puppy, all our puppies come microchipped and AVS-ready with verified health documentation for HDB-approved puppies. We also provide Health Documentations to give you peace of mind!
That being said, let’s move on!
What Is a Dog License in Singapore?
It is a permit from the AVS. It officially registers your dog to you as the owner. It includes his/her’s microchip number, sterilisation status, and health documentation.
The licensing system is managed by the authorities to ensure public safety and compliance. As part of the process, authorities require all dogs to be vaccinated, which helps protect public health and confirms your dog is safe for the community.
This system is managed by the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS), which was once called PALS AVA. It helps AVS track pet ownership, find lost or sick animals, and keep public safety standards.
Licensing is mandatory for all dogs over 3 months old and must be renewed unless a lifetime license applies. It’s not just a formality — it’s proof that your dog is safe, legal, and part of a responsible home.
This happy Maltipom lounges inside Pretty Pets Kennel Shop — one of the many dog breeds we offer in Singapore, a gentle mix of Maltese and Pomeranian, full of fluff and affection.
Why You Shouldn’t Skip The Dog Licensing Process
1. It Is Legally Required by AVS
All dogs that are 3 months old or older must be licensed. This is required by the Animals and Birds (Licensing and Control of Cats and Dogs) Rules. You can get the license from AVS.
This includes first-time owners and breeders. Licences are issued through the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS) — Singapore’s official pet license portal.
Failure to comply with licensing regulations can result in penalties, including fines or other legal actions.
2. Avoid Fines of Up to S$5,000
Owning an unlicensed dog is a criminal offence. The penalty for non-compliance can go up to S$5,000. Compared to the standard licensing fee of S$15 for sterilised dogs, this is a small price. It offers peace of mind and ensures you follow the law.
3. Supports Rabies Control & Public Safety
Licensing enables the AVS to trace animals quickly in the event of disease outbreaks like rabies. The licensing system helps keep it that way. It also promotes Responsible Ownership in Singapore.
This is done through clear medical tracking and easy contact, which supports better protection for pets and the wider community. These efforts are part of the public health services provided by the authorities to ensure community safety.
4. Microchip Is Mandatory Before Licensing
All dogs must be microchipped by a licensed veterinarian before you can apply for a license. The microchip acts as your dog’s unique ID, helping AVS identify and recover lost pets if they go missing or are abandoned.
(At Pretty Pets Kennel, all our puppies come microchipped and ready for registration with PALS.)
5. Lifetime Savings for Sterilised Dogs
If your dog is sterilised, sterilised pets can qualify for a lifetime licence with a reduced licence fee, which lowers the overall cost and is the most cost-effective option over time.
For non-sterilised dogs, yearly or three year licences are still available, and a three-year licence costs S$230 compared with S$35 for sterilised dogs.
Need help applying for yours in Singapore?
Sweet moments with a Pomeranian — ethically bred and raised with care at Pretty Pets Kennel, Singapore.
How to Apply for a Dog License in Singapore in 2026
Getting a dog license in Singapore is easy. You can do it all online using the PALS system (Pet Animal Licensing System), which is run by AVS under NParks.
Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide:
- Prepare your supporting documents, such as your dog’s vaccination records and sterilisation certificate, as these are required for approval.
- If you are a first-time applicant, you may need to complete an online pet ownership course before applying for a license.
- Log in to the PALS system and fill in the application form with your details and your dog’s information.
- Upload the required supporting documents as part of your application.
- Make payment for the license fee. If you choose GIRO as your payment method, you may need to download the GIRO application form and submit it to the address stated on the form. ($15 / dog for first three dogs. $90 if not sterilised!)
- Complete your application and wait for approval from AVS.You will receive confirmation once your license has been approved.
The PALS system also allows you to manage renewal and transfer of dog licenses online!
New Dog License Application:
- Microchip your dog (mandatory) and prepare records for mandatory vaccinations.
- Visit the PALS AVS website.
- Log in with your SingPass on the PALS Portal.
- Fill in your dog’s details (breed, age, sterilisation status, microchip ID).
- Upload required documents (vaccination proof, photo, etc.). If your dog is sterilised, you must upload a sterilisation certificate to update your dog’s sterilisation status and qualify for reduced licensing fees. ($15 / dog for first three dogs. $90 if not sterilised!) Some AVS compliance resources or required courses may be free, where applicable.
- Select your preferred license duration (1-year, 2-year, 3-year, or one-time).
- Pay online — GIRO and AXS are supported; cash/cheque is not accepted.
Renewing Your Dog License:
- Dog licenses in Singapore must be renewed annually before the licence expires to remain valid and compliant.
- Renew online via PALS or conveniently at any AXS station/app.
- You’ll need your license number or payment notice.
Keep Your Records Updated:
You must update AVS if:
- Ownership changes (When ownership changes, the new licensee must be registered in the PALS system with their mobile number to receive notifications or complete approval steps for the transfer.)
- Your address changes
- Your dog is lost, exported, or has passed away. (in which case, our condolences.)
Fees for Dog License Singapore
Here’s a breakdown of the latest dog license fees in Singapore (as of 23 February 2026) from AVS/NParks:
| Category | 1-Year | 2-Year | 3-Year | One-Time License |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puppies ≤ 5 months | $15 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Sterilised Dogs (First 3) | $15 | $25 | N/A | $35 |
| Non-Sterilised Dogs (First 3) | $90 | $165 | $230 | N/A |
| Fourth & Subsequent Dogs | $180 | $325 | $460 | N/A |
| Fourth Dog (Sterilised with Rebate) | $15 | $25 | N/A | $35 |
Pet owners who have adopted dogs from an Animal Welfare Rehoming Partner may be eligible for different fee structures or reduced licensing fees.
These special licensing arrangements can help lower the overall Cost of keeping your dog properly licensed. If you have adopted a dog, check whether you qualify for reduced fees or special licensing arrangements with AVS. (here’s a quick link to an article written by Project ADORE on this!)
Additional Dog Licensing Conditions for Specified Breeds in Singapore
Planning to own one of the “Specified Dogs” in Singapore? It’s important to know that the licensing requirements are stricter and there are additional conditions for specified breeds beyond the standard dog license rules.
Under the Animals and Birds (Licensing and Control of Cats and Dogs) Rules 2024 – these animals have additional control measures imposed on owners. These rules are meant to keep both the public and the owners safe.
Here are the main rules for “Specified Dogs” in Singapore. This includes breeds like Pit Bull, Rottweiler, and German Shepherd, along with their mixes:
- The dog must be muzzled and leashed in public at all times.
- If the dog is above six months old, it must be sterilised.
- You must have a third-party liability insurance policy of at least S$100,000. This policy should cover injuries to people or animals and any property damage caused by the dog.
- You must provide a banker’s guarantee:
- For Part 1 of Specified Dogs: S$5,000.
- For Part 2 of Specified Dogs: S$2,000.
- Owners may keep only one Specified Dog in non‑HDB private premises under normal rules. For an hdb flat, hdb residents can keep one dog from an approved list under local dog ownership rules, and that list covers 62 specific dog breeds.
- Failure to license the dog may also trigger scrutiny over whether it complies with housing rules.
- Authorities may impose a fine of up to S$5,000 for owners who fail to comply with these conditions or other licence violations.
Required Documents for Dog Licensing
To get a dog license in Singapore, use AVS’s Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS). Make sure you have these documents ready:
- NRIC or FIN of the applicant
- Dog’s microchip certificate
- Dog’s photograph (clear and recent)
- Health certificate (especially for imported dogs)
- Import permit (if applicable)
- Proof of sterilisation (to qualify for one-time or discounted licensing)
- Banker’s guarantee & insurance policy (for specified breeds)
Having these documents on hand will speed up your application and reduce back-and-forth with AVS.
Certain forms or documents, such as GIRO application forms, must be submitted to the address stated on the application form.
Cat Licence Application in Singapore (2026)
Thinking of adding a feline friend to your family? From September 2024, Singapore’s Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) has made it mandatory for all cat owners to apply for a cat licence—just like for dogs.
This new rule is part of Singapore’s push for responsible ownership in cat and dog licensing, helping to protect both cats and the wider public, similar to how HDB-approved dog breeds and rules guide responsible canine ownership in flats.
Meet the team behind Singapore’s trusted AVS-licensed puppy breeder — Pretty Pets Kennel in Singapore
Need Help? Speak to Our Team
Still unsure how to license your puppy in Singapore, or whether your home qualifies for certain breeds?
Our team at Pretty Pets Kennel is always ready to assist. As an AVS-licensed breeder, we don’t just sell puppies — we guide you through everything from legal compliance to long-term care.
