Kuala Lumpur is a cosmopolitan city with a vibrant culture. There are many pet parents in Kuala Lumpur, and the city has much to offer your furry companions – dog-friendly restaurants and cafés, doggy parks, and much more. If you are planning to move to Kuala Lumpur, here’s what you need to know about living in the city with a dog.

Vaccinations and registration

All pet dogs living in Kuala Lumpur must be registered with the city authorities. You can apply for the dog license online; there is a separate online portal just for dog registrations in Kuala Lumpur. On approval of the application, you will receive a dog badge which is valid for one year.

Make sure your dog is microchipped and vaccinated. Remember to give your dog their booster shots when they are due to keep all vaccinations current.

Pet parents’ responsibilities

The number of households with pets in Kuala Lumpur is steadily increasing with many homes having more than one dog. There are several rules and regulations to follow if you are a pet parent in Kuala Lumpur.

• Your dog must be on a lead at all times in public spaces.
• If you are living in a high rise or a condominium, make sure your pet is well-behaved and does not cause inconvenience to other residents.
• Your dog must not display aggressive and destructive behaviour while out in public.
• Pick up after your pet always.

Find pet-friendly accommodation

It is not always easy to find pet-friendly housing in Kuala Lumpur. Not all high-rises and condominiums welcome pets, so it is important to find the right accommodation before you travel to Malaysia with your dog. Most high rises allow only small breeds to reside in the apartment. Approved small breeds are Bichon Frise, Chihuahua, Maltese, Pomeranian, Pekingese, Miniature Pinscher, Toy Poodle, Japanese Chin and Papillon.

If you are planning on living in an apartment, your dog license application will need a letter of agreement from your housing society, stating that your pet is allowed to reside in the flat. The rules allow only one dog per apartment; if you own more than one dog, it is best to look for landed property rather than a high rise.

Most apartment complexes require that your dog be secured at all times when out in the common areas. Make sure your dog doesn’t disturb your neighbours with incessant barking and does not damage the property.

Dog parks and gardens

The concept of dog parks is catching up fast in the city of Kuala Lumpur. With so many pet parents in the city, the number of safe and fun spaces for dogs to socialise is on the rise. Here are some doggy parks your pet will absolutely love in Kuala Lumpur:

• Pets Pavilion
• Central Park
• Desa Park City
• Bark-A-Bout
• Pets Repawblic

Dog-friendly dining

Pet parents love taking their cute canine companions everywhere with them. The idea of pet-friendly dining has caught the imagination of Malaysians, and the Kuala Lumpur boasts of several excellent dog-friendly establishments. Whether you want to grab a quick bite or sit down for a relaxed meal, the city has several options for your and favourite doggy. Try out these pet-friendly restaurants in Kuala Lumpur:

• Bow Wow
• Marmalade Café Publika
• The Red Beanbag
• Wuff & Wok Bistro
• Cubs and Cups
• The Pound Bar
• Clawset Café
• Petztopia Café

Banned and controlled dogs in Kuala Lumpur

Some dog breeds are prohibited in Malaysia, and you cannot care for them or bring these into the country. Banned breeds are Pit Bulls, Akita, Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, Japanese Tosa, Neapolitan Mastiff and American Bulldog.

Other aggressive breeds are considered controlled breeds and need special care to ensure safety and comfort. Controlled dog breeds are Rottweiler, Doberman, Bull Terrier, Bull Mastiff, Perro de Presa Canario and German Shepherd. If you own any of these breeds, you are obliged to follow the following rules:

• The pet parent must be an expert at taking care of big dogs and must pass a dog-handling course
• The dog must pass a Canine Good Citizen course from an authorised organisation
• The dog must be under constant supervision
• The dog must be on a lead and muzzled at all times in public
• The premise where the dog stays is secure and gated
• A beware of dog sign must be placed prominently at the gate

Travelling to Kuala Lumpur with your dog?

Malaysia is a beautiful country that has much to offer you and your dog in terms of activities, parks, gardens and more. Pet travel to Malaysia is a long process that involves health tests, vaccinations, documentation and more. If you are planning on travelling to Kuala Lumpur with your dog, get in touch with Petraveller for a detailed pet travel itinerary.