Singapore Specials: Everything You Need To Know About This Unique Breed

Have you ever dreamed of having a big dog in your HDB flat? Good news — you actually can! 

Thanks to Project ADORE, Singapore Specials, our very own local mixed-breed dogs, can now be adopted into HDB homes. Once misunderstood, these pups have since won over countless families with their charm, loyalty, and resilience. 

In this article, we’ll dive into what makes Singapore Specials so unique, their personalities, and how you can care for them if you’re thinking of welcoming one into your home.

History and Origin

The Singapore Special, often called a mutt or mongrel, isn’t an official breed but a name for our local mixed-breed dogs. They trace their roots back to free-breeding kampong or farm dogs that lived close to people — scavenging for food around villages, farms, and construction sites, and sometimes serving as informal guard dogs.

As Singapore urbanised, the need for guard dogs faded, and many of these dogs were abandoned or left to roam. They adapted quickly, learning to survive in the city by scavenging and fending for themselves. Over time, interbreeding among these strays created the mix of traits and appearances we now see in Singapore Specials.

Some carry features from larger breeds like German Shepherds, Greyhounds, or even Alaskan Huskies, reflecting their diverse ancestry. But no matter how they look, all Singapore Specials are known for their resilience, hardiness, and sharp intelligence.

Once misunderstood, these dogs are now gaining recognition. Thanks to initiatives like Project ADORE and AVS’s Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) programme, thousands have been rescued and rehomed. Today, many who once roamed the streets are thriving as loyal, loving companions in family homes.

Physical Appearance of Singapore Specials

Despite their mixed heritage, Singapore Specials have distinct appearances that distinguish them from other breeds. They typically weigh 15 to 20 kg and stand up to 50 cm tall. They come in a variety of sizes, colors, and patterns. They have a slim build and short fur in a variety of colors, including brown, black, and white. Their ears are usually pointed and upright, and their tails are long and thin.

Behaviour and Temperament

There’s a common misconception that Singapore Specials are inherently aggressive and difficult to train. It's important to note that the behavior and temperament of Singapore Specials are not purely genetic, but rather shaped by their environment. 

Their fearful behavior is actually a survival instinct, developed to protect themselves in a harsh environment with limited resources. Many of these dogs have spent months or even years scavenging for food before being taken in by shelters or rescuers. Some have never experienced human affection or touch in their entire lives. 

This is why caring for a Singapore Special requires a great deal of patience and effort in building trust with your furry friend. It's important to keep in mind that every Special is unique and will require different amounts of time and patience to warm up to their human companions. But with consistent love and care, these dogs can become loyal and loving companions, rewarding you with their unwavering devotion.

Caring For Singapore Specials

Street dogs are accustomed to wandering around and exploring their surroundings, which means that a rehomed Singapore Special will require plenty of exercise. It's recommended that you take them on at least one 30-minute walk daily, and if your Special is particularly young or active, two walks may be necessary. For an extra challenge, consider taking them to a dog park or a local doggy pool for a refreshing swim.

It’s also equally important to provide mental stimulation for these highly intelligent dogs. In addition to physical exercise, Singapore Specials require mental exercise to keep their minds sharp and engaged. A bored dog is more likely to engage in destructive behaviors, so it's crucial to keep them mentally stimulated. 

Playing games, challenging them with puzzle toys, and making them work for treats are all great ways to engage their problem-solving skills and keep them mentally stimulated. By providing both physical and mental exercise, you'll ensure that your Singapore Special is healthy, happy, and well-rounded.

Proper Nutrition

To properly care for your Singapore Special, it’s important to provide them with appropriate nutrition. These dogs have a fast metabolism, which means their diet should include plenty of protein and healthy fats. 

A well-balanced diet for them should consist of nutritionally balanced kibble or home-made diets containing vegetables, protein from sources such as chicken, pork, beef, or fish, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. 

The amount and type of food your dog needs will depend on factors such as their age, size, activity level, and any unique dietary requirements they may have. 

Health

While the Singapore Special is generally a healthy breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some of the most common health problems include hip dysplasia, eye problems, and skin allergies. It's important to take your dog for regular check-ups with a veterinarian to ensure they are healthy and to catch any potential health problems early.

If your Singapore Special is skittish or anxious about vet visits, there are alternatives to make the experience less stressful. For minor concerns or follow-up advice, teleconsultations allow you to speak with a vet online without leaving your home. And if hands-on care is needed, housecall vets can examine and treat your dog in the comfort of familiar surroundings. These options help ensure your Singapore Special gets the care they need without unnecessary stress.

Recommended Grooming

Grooming is an important part of caring for a Singapore Special. While their short coats don’t need as much maintenance as some other breeds, regular grooming helps them stay clean, comfortable, and healthy. A simple weekly brushing is usually enough to remove loose fur, prevent matting, and keep their coat shiny. It also improves blood circulation and gives you a chance to bond with your dog.

Beyond brushing, your Singapore Special will need other basic grooming:

• Dental Care: Brushing their teeth twice a week with dog-safe toothpaste helps prevent tartar build-up and gum disease.

• Bathing: Monthly baths (or as needed) are ideal. Avoid overbathing as it can dry out their coat and always use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo.

• Ear Cleaning & Nail Clipping: Regular ear checks help prevent infections, while keeping nails trimmed avoids discomfort and injury.

Some Singapore Specials can be skittish or fearful, especially if they’re not used to grooming or have had rough experiences in the past. If bringing them to a grooming salon feels too stressful, you can consider engaging a housecall groomer. These professionals come directly to your home, where your dog feels most secure, making the process much calmer and more comfortable. It’s a great option for dogs who need a little extra patience and a familiar environment to feel at ease.

Training

There's a common misunderstanding that Singapore Specials are untrainable because they're too wild or not as smart as purebred dogs. But that's not true at all. These dogs are actually very  smart and quick learners. They had to be sharp to survive on the streets and fend for themselves. Plus, they're independent thinkers who can figure out how to navigate on their own.

The key to training a Singapore Special is building trust between you and your dog. That can take some work because these dogs can be nervous and anxious. But if you're patient and willing to put in the effort, you'll be rewarded with a loyal, loving companion. With the right approach, you can train your dog to behave well and be your furry best friend.

Why You Should Adopt Singapore Specials

Adopting a Singapore Special may be the best decision you can make. Here are the reasons why:

• Better Overall Health and Resilience: While most dogs available for purchase in Singapore come from puppy mills with poor breeding practices that lead to serious health problems, Singapore Specials tend to be healthier and hardier. This makes them a great choice for a family pet that will provide years of love and companionship.

• Longer Lifespan. As Singapore Specials lived their life on the streets, they have stronger immune systems. They often live a long life, up to 15 years or more as they have fewer health problems. This means you'll have more time to enjoy your pet's companionship.

• Increased Intelligence and Trainability: Mixed-breed dogs inherit the best qualities from their genetic ancestors, including higher intelligence and common sense. They are more trainable, making them great family pets. Although Singapore Specials may have a reputation for being difficult or aggressive, providing love and a consistent home environment can turn them into wonderful and loyal companions.

• You'll Be Saving a Life. Sadly, Singapore Specials have a tougher time finding homes than purebred dogs. Adopting a shelter dog gives them a second chance at life, and your family will gain a loyal and loving companion.

• Cost-Effective: Adopting a Singapore Special puppy is more affordable than purchasing a purebred dog. The adoption fee typically only covers basic expenses like food, sterilisation and care for other dogs. In contrast, importing a purebred dog can cost thousands of dollars, while purchasing a dog from a local puppy mill can cost over $1,000. Mixed-breed dogs tend to be healthier and have lower vet bills over their lifetime, making them a smart financial choice.

Where To Adopt Singapore Specials

So where can you find Singapore Specials? Singapore Specials are available for adoption at many animal shelters and rescues. These organisations work tirelessly to rescue these street dogs that are frequently overlooked in favor of purebreds. 

You can currently adopt Singapore Special from one of the six participating dog shelters listed below under Project ADORE:

1. Exclusively Mongrels (EM)

2. Save Our Street Dogs (SOSD)

3. Action for Singapore Dogs (ASD)

4. Causes for Animals Singapore (CAS)

5. Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA)

6. Mercylight Animal Rescue & Sanctuary Limited (MARS)

The Singapore Special may not be a pedigreed breed, but that’s exactly what makes them so special. Shaped by resilience, adaptability, and their close connection to Singapore’s history, these dogs have gone from being misunderstood strays to beloved family companions. With the help of rescue groups, adoption programmes like Project ADORE, and a growing community of supporters, more Singapore Specials are finding safe, loving homes than ever before.

If you’re considering bringing a dog into your life, don’t overlook these incredible companions. With patience, love, and care, a Singapore Special will reward you with unwavering loyalty, affection, and plenty of unforgettable moments. 

FAQs About Singapore Specials

Are Singapore Specials good family pets?

Yes, absolutely. Once they settle into a home, Singapore Specials are known to be loyal, affectionate, and intelligent companions. Some may be shy or cautious at first — especially if they’ve had a rough start — but with patience, love, and training, they often form deep bonds with their families.

Can I adopt a Singapore Special if I live in an HDB flat?

Yes, you can! Thanks to Project ADORE, HDB residents can now adopt Singapore Specials under certain conditions. This initiative has helped many families welcome these dogs into their homes while giving rescued strays a second chance at life.

How big do Singapore Specials usually grow?

Most Singapore Specials are medium to large dogs, typically weighing between 15kg to 30kg. Their size can vary a lot since they come from mixed ancestry — some may stay smaller, while others can grow larger depending on their genetic background.

Why are Singapore Specials often misunderstood?

For a long time, they were seen as “stray dogs” and overlooked in favour of pedigrees. But that perception is changing as more people discover their resilience, loyalty, and loving nature. Today, many rehomed Singapore Specials are thriving as family pets.

How can I support Singapore Specials if I can’t adopt?

There are plenty of ways to help! You can foster a dog temporarily, volunteer with shelters, sponsor a dog’s care, or make a donation to local rescue groups. Every bit of support goes a long way in helping these dogs find loving homes.