How to apply for the exemption examination for large dogs held by Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department?

A dog owner should hold his/her large dog (weighted over 20kg) on a leash not more than 2 metres in length when in public places. This requirement does not apply to dogs in any country parks or while swimming at sea.

If a dog owner wants to exercise his/her dog off leash, he/she may participate in "Exemption Examination for Large Dogs" held by Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD). If the dog demonstrates that it can be controlled off leash in the exemption examination, exemption will be offered to the dog owner. Please click here for the protocol of how the examination will be conducted.

AFCD will hold examination sessions every year. Applications are accepted on a first-come-first-served basis. For the registration quota of every examination, please refer to www.pets.gov.hk.. Please note that participation in the examination is voluntary. Owners of large dogs who are content to exercise their dogs on leash in public places and outdoor areas need not apply to sit for this examination.

Application Details