Professional Dog Training in Thomson, Singapore

HDB approves 62 small dog breeds under Project ADORE. Popular choices include Pug, Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, Miniature Poodle, Maltese, and Chihuahua. These breeds are well-suited for apartment living due to their size and temperament.

All HDB dogs must be licensed with NParks, microchipped, and owners must complete responsible dog ownership courses. Our training programs are specifically designed for HDB-approved breeds, addressing common challenges like noise control and elevator behavior.

Dog training costs in Singapore vary based on program type and training method:

• • Group Classes: $80-120 per session (more economical)
• • Private Basic Obedience: $120-150 per session
• • Private Advanced Training: $180-200 per session
• • Behavioral Correction: $200-250 per session (specialized)
• • Puppy Training: $140 per session (6-week package)

Most programs require 6-12 sessions for lasting results. We offer package discounts for multiple sessions booked in advance.

Currently, there are no government-subsidized dog training programs in Singapore. However, NParks requires HDB dog owners to complete the mandatory Responsible Dog Ownership course (free), which covers basic dog care, Singapore regulations, and responsible ownership practices.

While not subsidized, we offer flexible payment plans and package discounts to make professional dog training more accessible to Singapore families. The investment in proper training often saves money long-term by preventing behavioral issues and potential fines from noise complaints.

Look for these qualities in a professional dog trainer:

• • Certifications: CPDT-KA, CCBC, or similar credentials from recognized bodies
• • Positive methods: Uses reward-based training, not punishment or fear
• • Experience: Proven track record with various breeds and behavioral issues
• • Transparency: Clear pricing, realistic timelines, honest about outcomes
• • Reviews: Positive testimonials from actual Singapore clients
• • Local knowledge: Understands HDB regulations, Singapore climate, local challenges
• • Ongoing support: Provides follow-up and guidance between sessions

Avoid trainers who guarantee instant results, use harsh corrections, or won’t explain their training method clearly.

The most common behavioral issues we address in Singapore include:

• • Excessive barking: #1 complaint in HDB flats, triggered by neighbors, deliveries, or isolation
• • Separation anxiety: Destructive behavior when owners are at work
• • Toilet training difficulties: House soiling challenges in apartment settings
• • Leash pulling: Dangerous in crowded Singapore streets and shopping areas
• • Dog aggression: Reactivity toward other dogs in elevators or common areas
• • Fear of sounds: Thunder, fireworks (National Day), construction noise

All these issues are addressable through proper behaviour modification techniques and consistent training tailored to your home environment.

For safe navigation of Singapore’s urban environment, every dog should master:

• • Heel: Walk calmly beside you in crowded areas (Orchard Road, markets)
• • Sit/Stay: Essential for waiting at traffic lights, elevators, and shops
• • Come (Recall): Critical safety command in dog parks or if leash breaks
• • Leave it: Ignore food on ground, prevent eating dangerous items
• • Quiet: Stop barking on command (crucial for HDB living)
• • Wait: Pause before exiting doors, elevators, or car

Our basic obedience program covers all these commands with real-world practice in Singapore environments.

Singapore’s year-round heat (average 32°C) requires constant vigilance:

• • Timing: Walk only during early morning (6-9AM) or evening (6-8PM)
• • Hydration: Always carry water, offer frequent drinking breaks
• • Surface temperature: Check pavement with your hand – if too hot for you, too hot for paws
• • Cooling breaks: Stop every 10-15 minutes in shaded areas
• • Warning signs: Excessive panting, drooling, weakness, bright red tongue/gums
• • High-risk breeds: Brachycephalic dogs (Pugs, Bulldogs, Shih Tzus) need extra care

Our training programmes include heat safety education. We schedule outdoor sessions during safe hours and provide indoor training alternatives.

Singapore has strict leash laws with limited off-leash areas:

• • General rule: Dogs MUST be leashed in all public areas (maximum 1.5m leash length)
• • Designated dog runs: Only areas where off-leash is permitted (Bishan-AMK Park, West Coast Park, etc.)
• • Fines: Up to $5,000 for unleashed dogs in prohibited areas
• • Requirements: Even in dog runs, dogs must be under effective voice control

Before using off-leash areas, your dog should have solid recall training. Our advanced training programme includes off-leash reliability training at designated dog parks.

When looking for a puppy in Singapore, ensure the breeder/pet shop:

• • Has valid AVS pet shop/farm license (check NParks database)
• • Provides health certificates and vaccination records
• • Allows you to see the puppy’s living conditions
• • Offers health guarantees and after-sales support
• • Breeds responsibly with proper genetic health testing

Alternative: Consider adopting a Singapore Special from SPCA, ASD, or SOSD. These rescue organizations often have wonderful dogs needing homes. We provide specialized training for adopted dogs to help them integrate into Singapore families.

Singapore has many dog-friendly establishments, popular ones include:

• • Sun Ray Cafe (Thomson area) – Pet-friendly outdoor seating
• • The Animal Project (Jalan Besar) – Dog cafe with indoor/outdoor areas
• • Boris & Horton (Dempsey) – Dedicated dog-friendly space
• • Wag & Wild (East Coast) – Beach-side dog cafe
• • Sunday Folks (Chip Bee Gardens) – Outdoor dog-friendly seating

Before visiting dog-friendly spaces, ensure your dog has basic obedience training and good socialization. Our training programme includes “cafe manners” – teaching dogs to settle calmly in public spaces without jumping, begging, or reacting to other dogs.

Proper socialization is crucial for Singapore dogs to navigate our dense urban environment. Key strategies:

• • Puppy classes: Enroll early (8-16 weeks) for controlled socialization with other puppies
• • Dog parks: Visit designated dog runs during off-peak hours, start with quieter parks
• • Controlled encounters: Arrange meetups with known, friendly dogs
• • Urban exposure: Gradually introduce to MRT sounds, crowds, markets, different flooring
• • HDB/condo socialization: Practice elevator rides, meeting neighbors, corridor navigation

Our puppy training and group classes provide structured socialization opportunities essential for raising a well-adjusted dog in Singapore.

Bringing a dog to Singapore requires compliance with AVS regulations:

• • Import permit: Apply via AVS at least 2 weeks before arrival
• • Microchip: ISO-compliant microchip for identification
• • Rabies vaccination: Current vaccination (not within 30 days of travel)
• • Health certificate: From veterinarian in country of origin
• • Quarantine: May be required depending on origin country (up to 30 days)
• • Restricted breeds: Pit Bulls, Akitas, and other restricted breeds are prohibited

Once your dog arrives in Singapore, we recommend behavioral assessment and training to help them adjust to the new environment, climate, and urban lifestyle.

Condo dog ownership in Singapore involves different rules than HDB:

• • Check MCST rules: Each condo has unique pet policies (size limits, breed restrictions)
• • No HDB restrictions: Can keep larger breeds not approved for HDB
• • Common courtesy: Clean up after your dog, use service elevators where required
• • Noise management: Still must manage barking to avoid complaints
• • Shared facilities: Some condos have dog runs or pet-friendly amenities

We provide specialized condo training focusing on elevator etiquette, lobby manners, and behavior in shared spaces to ensure your dog is a good condo citizen.

24-hour emergency veterinary services in Singapore:

• • Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) Emergency – Call 1800-476-1600
• • Mount Pleasant Vet Group (24hr) – Multiple locations
• • VET Emergency Center – Jalan Bukit Merah
• • Animal Recovery Veterinary Centre – Balestier (open till late)
• • The Veterinary Practice – Multiple branches

Save these numbers in your phone. While we specialize in behavior training, not medical care, we can help train your dog to cooperate with veterinary handling, making vet visits less stressful.

Connect with other Singapore dog owners through these communities:

• • Singapore Dog Lovers – Large Facebook group with 30K+ members
• • HDB Dog Owners Singapore – Specific to HDB living challenges
• • SG Dog Parents Community – Active discussions and meetups
• • Reddit r/singaporepets – Reddit community for Singapore pet owners
• • Singapore Kennel Club – Official organization, events and dog shows

These communities are great for asking questions, arranging playdates, and sharing experiences. However, for professional training advice, consult a certified dog trainer rather than relying solely on online forums.