Many Singaporeans living in HDB flats assume their only options for a dog are the small breeds on HDB’s approved list. Project ADORE changes that. The scheme lets HDB households adopt certain local mixed-breed dogs, often called “Singapore Specials”, through participating animal welfare groups. If you have been thinking about giving a rescued local dog a home, this guide to Project ADORE in Singapore explains how the scheme works, the usual adoption journey, and what to think about before you apply.
This is general information, not legal advice. Scheme criteria and procedures are set by the Animal and Veterinary Service (AVS), part of the National Parks Board (NParks), and can be updated. Always confirm the current rules on the AVS website and with the shelter you are working with.
What Project ADORE Is and Why It Exists
ADORE stands for ADOption and REhoming of dogs. It was set up as a partnership between the authorities and animal welfare groups to help local mixed-breed dogs, many of them rescued from the streets, industrial sites or abandoned, find homes.
Under normal HDB rules, flat owners may keep one dog from a list of approved breeds, which are mostly small. Our separate guide to HDB-approved dog breeds in Singapore lists them. Many local mixed-breed dogs do not fit any named breed, so without a special route they could not legally live in a flat. Project ADORE provides that route for dogs that meet the scheme’s criteria, which typically cover size, health and temperament.
The goals are practical: reduce the number of dogs living in shelters, give suitable local dogs a stable home, and make sure the dogs placed in high-density housing are ones likely to live well alongside neighbours.
How Adoption Through the Scheme Works
You do not apply to AVS directly as a first step. Instead, you adopt through one of the animal welfare groups that participate in the scheme. The general journey looks like this.
- Find a participating shelter. AVS publishes information about Project ADORE and its partner organisations. Visit their websites and social media to see dogs available for adoption.
- Meet the dogs. Shelters usually arrange visits so you can spend time with a dog and see how it responds to you and your family.
- Application and screening. The shelter will ask about your household, home, working hours, experience with dogs and plans for care. Some do a home visit.
- Confirming eligibility. The shelter checks that the chosen dog meets the scheme’s requirements, which usually include being sterilised, microchipped and vaccinated, and fitting the size and temperament criteria set by AVS.
- Adoption agreement. You sign the shelter’s agreement, which commonly covers care standards and what happens if you can no longer keep the dog.
- Licensing. Every dog in Singapore must be licensed with AVS. The shelter will explain how the licence is applied for under the scheme, and you must keep it valid.
- Settling in and follow-up. Many shelters check in after adoption and may recommend or require training.
Requirements such as adoption fees, training obligations and the exact size criteria vary or change over time. Ask the shelter for the current details in writing.
Project ADORE vs Other Ways to Get a Dog in an HDB Flat
| Route | Which dogs | Who handles it | Key points |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDB-approved breed (buy or adopt) | Dogs of breeds on HDB’s approved list | Owner applies for an AVS licence | One dog per flat; breed must be on the list |
| Project ADORE | Eligible local mixed-breed dogs meeting AVS criteria | Participating animal welfare group, then AVS licensing | Dog must meet size, health and temperament requirements |
| Adopting an ex-breeding or rescue pedigree | Approved breeds released by breeders or rescued | Rescue group or seller, then AVS licensing | Breed still needs to be HDB-approved |
| Private property | Wider range of breeds, subject to AVS rules | Owner applies for AVS licence | Different limits on number of dogs; some breeds are restricted |
For the wider choice between adopting and buying, see our guide on adopting vs buying a pet in Singapore.
Is a Local Mixed-Breed Dog Right for You?
Singapore Specials are often hardy, well adapted to the climate and intelligent. But every dog is an individual, and rescued dogs may come with history.
- Temperament varies. Some local dogs are confident and social; others are shy with strangers or wary of loud noises after life outdoors. Shelters usually know their dogs well, so ask honest questions.
- Time to settle. A dog that has lived in a shelter or on the street may need weeks or months to adjust to lifts, corridors, traffic noise and being alone at home.
- Exercise needs. Many local dogs are active and need daily walks and mental stimulation, especially medium-sized ones.
- Long-term commitment. Dogs can live well into their teens. Think about who will care for the dog if you travel, move, or have a change in family circumstances.
- Costs. Budget for food, vet check-ups, vaccinations, grooming, licensing, and unexpected medical bills. Ask a vet for an idea of typical costs rather than relying on rough online figures.
If you have adopted a rescue before or are curious about what to expect, our guide on adopting a rescue or ex-breeding dog has more on the first weeks at home.
Living Well With Your ADORE Dog in an HDB Estate
Bringing a dog into a high-rise neighbourhood works best when you plan for your neighbours as well as your dog.
- Leash and control. Keep your dog leashed in common areas and public spaces, and follow AVS and NParks rules on where dogs may go.
- Clean up. Always pick up after your dog in corridors, void decks, lifts and parks.
- Noise. Work on reducing barking with training and enough exercise. Persistent noise is one of the most common sources of complaints in flats.
- Lifts and corridors. Let others go first if they seem nervous of dogs, and keep your dog close in lifts.
- Heat safety. Walk in the early morning or evening, carry water, and avoid hot pavements that can burn paws.
- Training. Positive reinforcement training helps a rescued dog build confidence. Shelters can often recommend trainers or classes.
Questions to Ask Before You Commit
Before signing anything, it helps to go through these with the shelter.
- Does this dog meet the current Project ADORE criteria, and how was that confirmed?
- What is the dog’s known history, health record and behaviour with people, children and other animals?
- What fees apply, and what do they cover?
- Are there training or follow-up requirements after adoption?
- What support does the shelter offer if problems arise?
- How is the AVS licence handled, and what do I need to renew it?
Project ADORE has helped many local dogs move from shelters into family homes. If you go in with realistic expectations, patience and a good relationship with your shelter, a Singapore Special can be a loyal, easy-going companion in an HDB flat for many years.
Official sources: HDB · Animal & Veterinary Service
Further reading: The AVS Approved Pet List Explained