13.7.2026

【FEHD Dedicated Team Log: Ongoing promotion of “Keeping dogs on a leash properly”】
Since customers were allowed to bring dogs into permitted food premises starting from last Thursday (9 July), the FEHD has deployed a dedicated team of 90 members to tirelessly visit each one of such premises every day to explain the statutory requirements so as to ensure the smooth implementation of and transition to the new measure. Over the past weekend, the dedicated team conducted approximately 2 300 inspections covering both permitted food premises and about 400 non-permitted ones. Finding that some of them have yet to fully grasp the requirements of the guidelines, we immediately provided them with further explanations and guidance. Most practitioners were able to make prompt improvements, and the overall operation was generally smooth.

【Strict enforcement action against non-permitted food premises】For food premises admitting dogs without valid permission, FEHD officers will continue gathering intelligence, and will commence strict enforcement action in the coming week! Should there be instances of persistent non-compliance despite repeated warnings, the FEHD will initiate prosecutions immediately with no tolerance!

During the visits, the dedicated team continued reminding restaurant operators and dog owners to always keep in mind that:
Dogs entering food premises must be properly kept on a leash of not more than 1.5m in length at all times.
Dogs placed in strollers or pet carriers must also be properly leashed at all times.
Leashes must be held by adults, not by minors!

Restaurant operators and staff should take note of the following:
Check if the dogs have been properly kept on a leash of not more than 1.5m in length when customers enter the restaurant.
If a dog is not properly leashed, please remind the customer that it is a statutory requirement to keep dogs on a leash and ask them to do so and ensure the dog is properly leashed by an adult before entering the restaurant.
Also, ensure that the customer keeps the dog on a leash and under proper control at all times while in the restaurant to prevent any non-compliance.
For on-site handling of situations such as dogs' barking, lunging at people, loss of control, hygiene issues and uncooperative dog owners, restaurant operators and staff could refer to the “Steps for On-Site Handling of an Incident” set out in the Code of Practice issued by the FEHD.

Comprehensive support and routine arrangements by the dedicated team
To strike a balance between maintaining public hygiene and meeting the needs of different diners, the FEHD dedicated team will continue to visit and inspect the first batch of more than 940 eligible food premises across the territory.

“Advice before enforcement”: During the first month of implementation of the new measure, the dedicated team will follow this principle, so as to assist the catering industry and the public in adapting to the new arrangements gradually and ensure the smooth functioning of a pet-inclusive environment. The FEHD will not tolerate serious non-compliance concerning safety and environmental hygiene, and will, depending on the circumstances, take appropriate enforcement action immediately.
Detailed explanations on statutory requirements: The dedicated team will explain the statutory requirements to persons-in-charge of the food premises so as to ensure the smooth implementation of and transition to the new measure.
Readily identifiable members: Members of the dedicated team, wearing the team uniform of white polo shirts and khaki pants, will provide professional guidance proactively.

Let's work together to create a win-win pet-inclusive environment
The long-term success of the new measure relies on the close collaboration among the Government, the trade and the public:
Persons-in-charge of the food premises: must strictly comply with the statutory requirements, streamline their daily operations, strengthen training for their frontline staff and proactively remind dog owners of the Code of Practice.
Pet owners: maintain good pet etiquette and show consideration for other diners who feel uneasy around animals by having their dogs (including those placed in a stroller) tightly held on a leash at all times.
Members of the public: embrace the new initiative with an open and understanding mindset and work together to build a harmonious community.

Let's work together to create a more inclusive and diverse dining environment while safeguarding public hygiene.