Hong Kong is largely a pet-friendly country with a sizeable pet parent community. Hong Kong has strict pet import policies in place primarily to protect the local flora and fauna from exotic diseases. If you are planning to relocate to Hong Kong with your pet dog or cat, make sure your pet fulfils all pet import criteria and most importantly, is not the on banned or prohibited breeds list.

Many countries around the world have banned the entry of certain dangerous breeds. These breeds were originally bred for fighting and protection and their aggressive traits were both accepted and necessary. However, in the present day, with the universal ban on dog fighting, these breeds are banned for the very trait they were once bred for.

Prohibited cat breeds in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is very welcoming of cats, and almost all kinds of cats are allowed for import into the country. However, if your pet is a Bengal cat, you will need to produce documentation certifying that the cat is of fifth or five generations removed. Bengal cats below five generations are not allowed to enter the country.

If you are bringing your Bengal cat into Hong Kong, get in touch with the team at Petraveller for information about the documentation that your cat will need and other critical travel advice.

Banned dog breeds in Hong Kong

According to Hong Kong’s pet import regulations, the introduction of fighting dogs or aggressive dog breeds into the country is prohibited. Breeds that are not permitted in Hong Kong are:

• Pit Bull Terrier
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• Fila Braziliero
• Crossbreeds of the above breeds

Staffordshire Bull Terriers (English) can enter the country only if it is accompanied by a statutory declaration that attests to the breed of the dog. Emotional support animals and service animals of these breeds are also subject to this ban.

Importing these dog breeds into Hong Kong is considered an offence that is punishable by a fine or prison sentence. Breeding these prohibited breeds is also considered an offence that can attract a fine and a prison sentence.

Dogs of these breeds that are already in the country have to be desexed to prevent breeding and must be kept on a lead and muzzled at all times in public.

Moving to Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is a beautiful country with a large population of pets and pet parents. If you are planning to move to Hong Kong with your pet dog or cat, and are unsure about the process and the documentation, get in touch with Petraveller for a complete travel solution.