How to Adopt a Dog in Singapore: SPCA, SOSD, ASD & More (2026)
Thinking about adopting a rescue dog? This guide covers every shelter in Singapore (SPCA, SOSD, ASD and more), adoption fees from SGD 70 to SGD 400, HDB eligibility and Project ADORE, plus how to prepare your home and help your new furry companion settle in.
Thinking about welcoming a rescue dog into your life? You're not alone — many dogs across Singapore's shelters and foster networks are waiting for a second chance, and the process to adopt a dog in Singapore is more straightforward than most pawrents expect.
Whether you live in an HDB flat, a condo, or landed property, this guide walks you through everything: which shelters to approach, what the process looks like, how much it really costs, and how to set your new furry companion up for a happy life at home.
Looking to adopt a cat instead? Check out our guide on how to adopt a cat in Singapore.
Why Adopt a Dog in Singapore?
At any given time, hundreds of dogs sit in Singapore's shelters and foster homes — from playful puppies to gentle seniors, purebreds to our beloved Singapore Specials. Every adoption frees up space for another dog in need.
Rescue dogs aren't "damaged goods." Many end up in shelters due to owner relocation, lifestyle changes, or simply being found as strays. Singapore Specials, in particular, are resilient, adaptable dogs shaped by natural selection to thrive in our tropical climate.
Here's what makes adoption a smart choice:
- Cost-effective: Adoption fees (SGD 80–400) typically include sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, and deworming — services that would cost significantly more if done separately at a vet.
- Health head-start: Most shelter dogs are already sterilised, vaccinated, and health-checked before going home with you.
- Temperament clarity: Adult rescue dogs have established personalities. Shelters and foster carers can tell you exactly how a dog behaves around children, other pets, and in an HDB flat.
- You save a life: It's that simple.
Can You Adopt a Dog If You Live in HDB?
This is the number one question for most Singaporeans — and the answer is yes, with some rules.
HDB flats allow one dog from the NParks-approved breed list, which currently includes 62 small breeds such as the Shih Tzu, Maltese, Pomeranian, and Miniature Schnauzer. You can find the full list in our HDB Approved Dogs guide.
Good to know: The old 15kg weight limit was removed in 2020. HDB dog eligibility is now based solely on whether the breed is on the approved list — not on weight alone.
But what if you want to adopt a mixed-breed dog or a Singapore Special that isn't on the approved list?
That's where Project ADORE comes in.
How Project ADORE Works (Step by Step)
Project ADORE (ADopt, Own, REdeem) is an NParks initiative that allows HDB residents to adopt mixed-breed dogs from approved Animal Welfare Groups (AWGs). Dogs adopted through ADORE must have a shoulder height of up to 55cm. Here's how the process works:
- Choose an approved AWG — Not all shelters participate. Approved AWGs include SPCA, SOSD, ASD, CAS, EML, and Mercylight, among others. The shelter will confirm if a specific dog is ADORE-eligible.
- Find a dog and apply — Browse available dogs through the AWG's website or social media, then submit your adoption application.
- Complete the home check and interview — The AWG assesses your living situation, household, and readiness for a dog.
- Attend the compulsory Responsible Pet Ownership course — This is a short course (usually online) covering responsible pet ownership basics. It's mandatory for all ADORE adoptions.
- AWG submits the ADORE application to NParks — The shelter handles the paperwork with AVS on your behalf.
- Approval and licensing — Once approved, you receive your dog license and can officially bring your furry friend home.
Pro tip for pawrents: ADORE dogs must remain sterilised, licensed, and microchipped at all times. If you move to a new HDB flat, you'll need to update your license — but the ADORE approval carries over.
For landed or private property, there are no breed restrictions — though you still need a valid dog license from AVS.
Where to Adopt a Dog in Singapore (All Major Shelters & Rescues)
Singapore has a strong network of animal welfare organisations. Here's a comprehensive look at where you can adopt a dog in Singapore.
🐕 Adoption fee: From SGD 70 (seniors) to SGD 350
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, deworming
🦮 Dog types: Mixed breeds (Singapore Specials), purebreds, puppies, adults, seniors
📋 ADORE approved: Yes
📝 Process: Online application → shelter visit → interview → home check → adoption
SPCA is Singapore's most established animal welfare organisation and often the first name pawrents think of. They run a physical shelter where you can visit and meet available dogs in person. The adoption process is thorough — expect detailed questionnaires about your lifestyle, work schedule, and housing. SPCA also offers reduced fees for senior dogs and special-needs animals.
🐕 Adoption fee: SGD 250–350
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, deworming, basic training assessment
🦮 Dog types: Singapore Specials (primarily), all ages
📋 ADORE approved: Yes
📝 Process: Online application → foster home visit → trial period → adoption
SOSD specialises in rescuing and rehoming Singapore Specials through a foster-based model — dogs live in volunteer foster homes rather than a shelter. This means foster carers can give you detailed insights into each dog's behaviour, house-training status, and temperament in a home environment.
ASD (Action for Singapore Dogs)
🐕 Adoption fee: SGD 250–350
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, deworming
🦮 Dog types: Singapore Specials, ex-breeding dogs, all ages
📋 ADORE approved: Yes
📝 Process: Online application → shelter visit → interview → home check → trial period → adoption
ASD runs a shelter in Lim Chu Kang and rescues dogs from various situations, including former breeding facilities. They're known for being thorough with their screening — they genuinely want to match the right dog with the right family.
Causes for Animals Singapore (CAS)
🐕 Adoption fee: SGD 200–350
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, deworming
🦮 Dog types: Mixed breeds, some purebreds, various ages
📋 ADORE approved: Yes
📝 Process: Online application → foster home visit → adoption
CAS operates a foster-based rehoming network. Dogs are placed in foster homes where they're assessed for behaviour and compatibility. This is a great option if you want detailed behavioural insights before committing.
Exclusively Mongrels Limited (EML)
🐕 Adoption fee: SGD 200–300
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping
🦮 Dog types: Singapore Specials (exclusively)
📋 ADORE approved: Yes
📝 Process: Online application → meet and greet → home check → adoption
True to their name, EML focuses entirely on Singapore's local mixed-breed dogs. If you're specifically looking to adopt a Singapore Special, they're a dedicated choice.
OSCAS (Oasis Second Chance Animal Shelter)
🐕 Adoption fee: SGD 200–300
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping
🦮 Dog types: Mixed breeds, senior dogs, special-needs dogs
📋 ADORE approved: Yes
📝 Process: Online application → shelter visit → adoption
OSCAS has a particular focus on senior and special-needs dogs that are often overlooked. If you have the heart and home for an older or differently-abled dog, OSCAS is worth reaching out to.
🐕 Adoption fee: SGD 100
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping
🦮 Dog types: Mixed breeds, all ages
📋 ADORE approved: Check directly for latest status
📝 Process: Visit shelter → application → adoption
Metta is a Buddhist-run sanctuary with some of the lowest adoption fees in Singapore. Their SGD 100 fee still covers sterilisation, vaccination, and microchipping — making adoption accessible for more families.
🐕 Adoption fee: SGD 200–350
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, deworming
🦮 Dog types: Mixed breeds, rescued strays, various ages
📋 ADORE approved: Yes
📝 Process: Online application → meet and greet → home check → adoption
Mercylight focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating street dogs. Many of their dogs come from challenging backgrounds and have been lovingly rehabilitated by experienced foster carers.
🐕 Adoption fee: SGD 250–400
✅ Includes: Sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, deworming, import clearance (for overseas rescues)
🦮 Dog types: Local mixed breeds and some international rescues
📋 ADORE approved: Check directly
📝 Process: Online application → home check → adoption
Paws for Cause also brings rescue dogs from overseas (including South Korea), managing the import paperwork and quarantine requirements.
Pro tip for pawrents: Follow these shelters on Instagram and Facebook — many post available dogs daily, and popular pups get snapped up fast. Adoption drives by ASD, SOSD, and SPCA are also great opportunities to meet multiple dogs in one go.
The Dog Adoption Process in Singapore (Step by Step)
While every shelter has its own workflow, the general process to adopt a dog in Singapore follows a similar pattern:
- Browse available dogs online — Most shelters list their dogs on their websites, Instagram, or Facebook pages with photos, age, temperament notes, and HDB eligibility.
- Submit an adoption application — Expect a detailed form covering your housing type (HDB, condo, or landed), work schedule, household members, existing pets, previous pet experience, and why you want to adopt.
- Meet the dog — You'll be invited to visit the shelter or the foster home. Some shelters arrange multiple meet-and-greet sessions to ensure compatibility.
- Home check — Some organisations (SPCA, ASD, SOSD) conduct a home visit to check your living environment. They'll look for safety concerns like unsecured windows, balcony gaps, or potential hazards.
- Approval and adoption agreement — Once approved, you sign an adoption contract. This typically includes clauses about not rehoming the dog without the shelter's consent, keeping up with vaccinations, and allowing follow-up visits.
- Pay the adoption fee and bring your dog home — Most shelters accept bank transfer or PayNow.
Typical timeline: 1–4 weeks from application to bringing your dog home. Puppies and popular breeds may have longer wait times due to higher demand.
Documents you'll typically need:
- NRIC or FIN (for foreigners)
- Proof of address
- Landlord consent letter (for private rental properties)
- HDB lease or proof of residence (for ADORE applications)
Dog Adoption Fees in Singapore (2026 Comparison)
One of the best things about adoption? The fees are a fraction of breeder prices — and they cover essential medical procedures that would cost significantly more on their own.
Here's what you can expect across the major organisations:
🐕 SPCA: From SGD 70 (seniors) to SGD 350
🐕 SOSD: SGD 250–350
🐕 ASD: SGD 250–350
🐕 CAS: SGD 200–350
🐕 EML: SGD 200–300
🐕 OSCAS: SGD 200–300
🐕 Metta: SGD 100
🐕 Mercylight: SGD 200–350
🐕 Paws for Cause: SGD 250–400
Fees typically include sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, and deworming. Some shelters charge more for puppies (higher demand) or less for senior dogs to encourage adoption.
Your First-Month Cost Breakdown
Beyond the adoption fee, here's a realistic estimate of what your first month with a new dog will cost:
- 🏷️ Adoption fee: SGD 100–350 (typical range)
- 🛒 Supplies (crate, bed, bowls, leash, collar, pee pads, toys): SGD 200–400
- 🏥 First vet visit (health check, any additional vaccinations): SGD 50–150
- 🍖 Food (one month's supply of quality kibble or fresh food): SGD 80–320
- 📋 Dog license (AVS — SGD 15/year for sterilised dogs, or SGD 35 for a lifetime license)
Total first-month estimate: SGD 445–1,255
Pro tip for pawrents: Most adopted dogs are already sterilised, which means you qualify for the reduced license fee. The SGD 35 lifetime license for sterilised dogs is a one-time payment that covers your dog for life — great value.
For a full breakdown of ongoing monthly costs, check out our cost of owning a dog in Singapore guide.
Preparing Your Home for an Adopted Dog
Before your new furry companion arrives, a little preparation goes a long way — especially in a Singapore flat.
Essential Supplies Checklist
- Crate or playpen (for safe space and house-training)
- Dog bed or mat
- Food and water bowls (stainless steel recommended for our humid climate)
- Collar, harness, and leash
- Pee pads (especially important for the first few weeks)
- Age-appropriate dog food
- Basic grooming supplies (brush, nail clipper)
- A few chew toys and enrichment puzzles
HDB & Condo Safety-Proofing
- Install a gate at the front door — this prevents escape when the door opens for delivery riders or visitors
- Check that window grilles are secure with no gaps a dog can squeeze through
- Balcony safety: Ensure railings have no gaps and add mesh barriers if needed
- Tidy away electrical cables, small objects, and toxic plants (lilies, aloe vera, and sago palms are common in Singapore homes and toxic to dogs)
- Set up a designated quiet space — a corner with the crate, bed, and water bowl where your dog can retreat when feeling overwhelmed
The 3-3-3 Rule for Rescue Dogs (Singapore Edition)
Rescue dogs need time to adjust. The 3-3-3 rule is a helpful framework — here's how it applies in our local context:
First 3 days — Decompression
Your dog may be overwhelmed, shut down, or overly excited. Keep things calm and quiet. If your dog came from an air-conditioned shelter, let them gradually adjust to your home's temperature — Singapore's heat and humidity can be a real shock. Keep walks short and during cooler hours (before 8am or after 6pm).
First 3 weeks — Learning the routine
Your dog starts to settle and learn the household rhythm. This is when you can introduce lift etiquette (wait for an empty lift if your dog is nervous), corridor walks, and void deck socialisation. Be mindful of neighbours — not everyone is comfortable around dogs, so keep your pup leashed and close.
First 3 months — Truly feeling at home
By now, your dog has bonded with you and feels secure. Consistent routines are key. If you're a working pawrent with long office hours, consider a dog walker or doggy daycare to break up the day. Exploring dog runs and off-leash areas together is also a great way to bond and burn energy.
Pro tip for pawrents: Don't rush introductions. Let your rescue dog observe the HDB environment — lifts, corridors, other dogs in the void deck — at their own pace. Forcing interactions too early can set back their confidence.
For the full preparation guide, see our First-Time Dog Owner Checklist.
Legal Requirements After Adopting a Dog in Singapore
Once your dog is home, there are a few legal obligations every pawrent must fulfil:
✅ Dog license from AVS — Mandatory for all dogs. Must be obtained within one month of getting your dog. Costs SGD 15/year for sterilised dogs (or SGD 35 for a one-time lifetime license). Unsterilised dogs pay SGD 90/year. Apply through the AVS dog licensing process.
✅ Microchipping — Mandatory for all dogs in Singapore. Most shelter dogs are already microchipped, but verify the chip is registered to your name. Read our microchipping guide for details.
✅ Rabies vaccination — Required for dog licensing. Shelters typically include this in the adoption package.
✅ Sterilisation — Mandatory for all ADORE-adopted dogs. Strongly recommended for all dogs to prevent unwanted litters and reduce health risks.
✅ Leash law — Dogs must be on a leash in all public areas in Singapore. Fines for off-leash dogs can reach up to SGD 5,000 for a first offence and SGD 10,000 for subsequent offences.
✅ HDB one-dog rule — HDB residents can only keep one dog. If you already have a dog, you cannot adopt a second one in an HDB flat.
Penalties for non-compliance: Keeping an unlicensed dog can result in fines of up to SGD 5,000. HDB residents who keep non-approved dogs without ADORE clearance risk having the dog rehomed by authorities — so always make sure your paperwork is in order.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Adoption in Singapore
How much does it cost to adopt a dog in Singapore?
Adoption fees range from SGD 70 to SGD 400, with most organisations charging SGD 200–350. Fees typically include sterilisation, vaccination, microchipping, and deworming. Some shelters offer reduced fees for senior dogs and special-needs animals.
Can I adopt a dog if I live in HDB?
Yes. You can adopt a dog from the NParks-approved breed list (62 small breeds), or adopt a mixed-breed dog through Project ADORE via an approved Animal Welfare Group. ADORE dogs must have a shoulder height of up to 55cm.
How long does the adoption process take?
Typically 1–4 weeks from application to bringing your dog home. This includes the application review, meet-and-greet, home check (if required), and approval.
What is Project ADORE?
Project ADORE (ADopt, Own, REdeem) is an NParks initiative that allows HDB residents to adopt mixed-breed dogs from approved AWGs, even if the dog isn't on the standard HDB-approved breed list. You must attend a Responsible Pet Ownership course and comply with licensing and sterilisation requirements.
Where can I adopt a Singapore Special?
Several organisations specialise in Singapore Specials: SOSD, ASD, EML, and CAS all regularly have local mixed-breed dogs available. Check out our Singapore Specials guide to learn more about these resilient, loveable dogs.
Can I adopt a puppy in Singapore?
Yes, but availability is limited. Most shelter dogs are adults (1 year and older), which is actually an advantage — adult dogs have established temperaments, are often already house-trained, and tend to settle into new homes faster than puppies.
What if my adoption application is rejected?
Common reasons include unsuitable housing (e.g., no gate, unsecured windows), long working hours with no plan for the dog during the day, or landlord restrictions. If rejected, ask the shelter for specific feedback, address the concerns, and reapply. Showing willingness to attend training classes or adjust your setup can make a real difference.
Ready to Open Your Heart (and Your Door)?
Adopting a dog in Singapore is one of the most rewarding decisions you'll make — and the process is more accessible than you might think.
Here's a quick recap of the key steps:
- Check your eligibility — HDB residents can adopt approved breeds or go through Project ADORE for mixed breeds (up to 55cm shoulder height)
- Browse shelters — SPCA, SOSD, ASD, and others all have dogs looking for fur-ever homes
- Apply and meet your match — most processes take 1–4 weeks
- Budget SGD 445–1,255 for the first month — adoption fee, supplies, vet visit, food, and licensing
- Give your dog time — follow the 3-3-3 rule and let your rescue settle at their own pace
Every dog adopted from a shelter opens up space for another rescue. You're not just gaining a furry companion — you're making room for the next dog to be saved.
Ready to start your adoption journey? Browse the shelter websites linked above, attend an adoption drive, or visit your nearest shelter to meet the dogs in person.
Have questions about adopting? Drop us a message — we love hearing from fellow pawrents.
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