20 restaurants prosecuted for allowing dogs without permits since scheme launched

Hong Kong authorities have prosecuted 20 restaurants for unlawfully allowing dogs onto their premises since the city’s dog-friendly dining scheme launched in July.

The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department said on Sunday that seven people had also been prosecuted for bringing dogs into eateries without permission, while four others were prosecuted for failing to keep their pets securely leashed in permitted restaurants.

A department spokesman said it had adopted a “pragmatic and flexible” enforcement approach following the initial one-month adaptation period, balancing pet inclusivity with food safety and public hygiene.

“The department will take decisive enforcement action against any violations,” the spokesman said, adding that both restaurant operators and dog owners were responsible for complying with the rules.