Hong Kong Allows Dogs in Over 900 Restaurants

Hong Kong has relaxed a decades-old rule, allowing dogs in over 900 approved restaurants. The policy change took effect Thursday and marks the first phase of a broader effort to promote a pet-friendly culture. Since 1994, only guide dogs and those performing statutory duties were allowed in restaurants under the city's food business regulation.

Officials said the updated measure applies to more than 900 establishments that meet government standards.

Dogs must be kept on a leash not exceeding 1.5 meters that is held by an adult or tied to a fixture. The animals must stay off tables and may not eat from reusable human utensils. Dogs classified as fighting breeds by government standards remain barred from the establishments.

Restaurants cannot cook food for dogs but may offer prepackaged pet food. Some eateries have installed air purifiers, added partitions, and purchased cleaning supplies to accommodate the new customers.

Kong already allows pets on certain ferry routes and some metro trains serving rural areas. Public hospitals have begun permitting pet visits for palliative care patients. Government data show more than 240,000 households keep over 400,000 pet cats and dogs, representing about 9 percent of households.

Some dog owners have attended etiquette workshops to prepare pets for restaurant settings. Trainers have conducted sessions that simulate dining environments and teach basic commands to keep animals calm. One dim sum restaurant spent more than 10,000 Hong Kong dollars on preparations including partitions and pet strollers.

Operators there said they hope the change could increase business by up to 15 percent.