Under Hong Kong law, all dogs aged 5 months or above must be licensed, microchipped, and vaccinated against rabies . Keeping an unlicensed dog over 5 months old is illegal and may result in a fine of up to HK$10,000 . Rabies vaccination and licence renewal are required every three years . Owners should also ensure their dogs are properly controlled in public and comply with housing regulations, as some public housing estates prohibit dog ownership.

If this is your first time owning a dog, it's recommended to prepare some essential items in advance to help your dog adjust to its new environment.

One-time purchase:

• Collar & ID Tag
• Bedding
• Food & Water Bowls
• Grooming Brush & Nail Clippers
• Leash
• Toys 
• Crates
• Gates

Regular replenishment supplies:

• Dog Food
• Shampoo
• Flea and Tick Control Products
• Heartworm Medidogions
• Treats

Before welcoming a new puppy, prepare both your home and family. Assign caregiving responsibilities, teach children gentle interaction, and arrange vaccinations, deworming, and spaying/neutering while establishing a regular feeding routine. Set aside daily time for walks and companionship to prevent boredom-related behavior issues. Ensure home safety by securing cords, removing toxic plants, confirming pet policies, and installing window or balcony barriers.

Explore beginner dog-owner tips for more helpful guidance.

Vet visit frequency depends on your dog’s age. Puppies (under 1 year) require regular visits for vaccinations and boosters. Adult dogs (1–7 years) should have a comprehensive checkup at least once a year, while senior dogs (7+ years) are recommended to visit every six months, including bloodwork and other screenings to detect age-related issues early.

Regardless of age, seek veterinary care immediately if your dog shows signs such as loss of appetite, lethargy, vomiting, or sudden behavior changes. Download a veterinary checklist to stay on top of your dog’s health needs.

Depending on their lifestage, you will want to adjust your dog’s food accordingly.

Puppies (Under Age 1)

It's crucial to get puppies on the right puppy food to encourage proper development and growth. Make sure to speak to your veterinarian about a puppy food that provides adequate nutrients for their age based on their potential adult size.

Adult Dogs (1-7 Years)

Healthy dogs in their prime years need an adult dog food with a balance of high-quality ingredients, plus antioxidants and omega-6 fatty acids to help support their everyday needs.

Older Dogs (Age 7+)

Older dogs don’t require the same levels of protein and phosphorus, so your senior friend will likely need to support more specific needs for mobility and brain function, such as phytonutrients and L-carnitine. Look for a senior dog food that will support your older friend’s needs throughout the golden years.

Contrary to popular belief, regularly feeding your new dog human food can lead to obesity, dental issues, GI upset and finicky eating habits. It’s also important to know which types of foods are toxic to dogs before you feed them anything from the dinner table. Rather than feeding people food as treats, ask your veterinarian about a healthier alternative designed for dogs.

The cost of owning a dog varies by size, breed, and lifestyle. According to a 2024 Ipsos Hong Kong survey, over 53% of dog owners spend HK$1,000–4,999 per month, 16% spend HK$5,000–9,999, and 7.4% spend more than HK$10,000 monthly. Over a dog’s lifetime, total expenses can reach HK$680,000, with major costs including food, veterinary care, health checkups, dental care, and insurance.

It’s wise to set aside emergency funds, as a single surgery can cost tens of thousands of dollars. With an average lifespan of 10–15 years, owning a dog is a long-term financial and personal commitment.

Chewing is a natural behavior, often caused by teething, excess energy, boredom, or separation anxiety. Increase daily exercise and provide durable chew toys or dental treats to redirect the behavior. Keep shoes, cords, and other tempting items out of reach, and use positive reinforcement to teach boundaries. If chewing persists, consult a professional trainer for guidance.

Playtime depends on your dog’s age, size, and breed. Most dogs need 30–60 minutes of daily interactive activity, split into multiple sessions. High-energy breeds may require 90 minutes or more, while small breeds often need around 30 minutes. Puppies should have short 10–15 minute sessions to protect developing joints, and senior dogs benefit from gentle walks and light enrichment activities.