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Pit Bulls and other prohibited dog breeds
Pit Bull types, Akita, Boerboel, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Neapolitan Mastiff, Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario and their crosses cannot be imported into Singapore.
- Status
- Banned
- Country
- Singapore
- Category
- Activities & Laws
- Last checked
- 01/11/2026
Pit Bulls and seven other dog breeds are banned in Singapore. They cannot be imported, and crosses of these breeds are banned too. The list, set by the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) under the National Parks Board, also includes the Akita, Boerboel, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Neapolitan Mastiff, Tosa and Perro de Presa Canario.
Key facts
- Status: banned from import, including crosses
- Pit Bull types: American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Bulldog
- Current rules: Animals and Birds (Licensing and Control of Cats and Dogs) Rules 2024
- Restricted breeds: Bull Terrier, Doberman, Rottweiler, German Shepherd and Mastiff-type dogs can be kept only with extra conditions
Why are these breeds banned?
Most of the banned breeds were developed for guarding, hunting or dog fighting and are large and powerful. Singapore applies breed-specific rules to reduce the risk of serious attacks in a densely populated city. The Perro de Presa Canario was moved from the restricted list to the banned list on 15 November 2010; at the time, 22 licensed dogs of that breed were already in Singapore.
Can I bring my Pit Bull to Singapore if it is well trained?
No. There is no exception for temperament, training or documents. Mixed-breed dogs with any of the banned breeds in their lineage are also prohibited, so a Labrador–Pit Bull cross cannot be imported either.
What are “specified” or restricted dogs?
A second group of breeds, including the Bull Terrier, Doberman Pinscher, Rottweiler, German Shepherd and its related breeds, and Mastiffs such as the Bull Mastiff, Cane Corso and Dogue de Bordeaux, can be kept with conditions. Owners must leash and muzzle them in public, complete obedience training, take out liability insurance and post a banker’s guarantee. These dogs cannot be licensed at an HDB flat.
Are cats affected too?
Yes. Singapore also bans early-generation Bengal and Savannah cats.
Other countries have taken similar action; the UK now restricts XL Bully dogs. See all Singapore rules on the Singapore bans page.
General information, not legal advice. Check AVS rules before moving with a pet.
Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Pit Bulls banned in Singapore?
Yes. Pit Bull types, including the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and American Bulldog, and their crosses cannot be imported.
Which dog breeds are banned in Singapore?
Pit Bull types, Akita, Boerboel, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, Neapolitan Mastiff, Tosa, Perro de Presa Canario and crosses of these breeds.
Can I keep a Rottweiler or German Shepherd in Singapore?
Yes, with conditions. They are restricted breeds that must be leashed and muzzled in public, need insurance and a banker's guarantee, and cannot live in HDB flats.