Pet Owner's Guide to
Living in Vietnam 2026

Choosing a Veterinarian in Vietnam

Finding a trusted vet is one of the first priorities for pet owners relocating to Vietnam. While veterinary care has improved dramatically in recent years, the quality and availability of services varies significantly between major cities and smaller towns — so knowing what to look for matters.

What to look for in a Vietnamese veterinary clinic

In Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, a growing number of clinics cater specifically to expat pet owners, with English-speaking staff, modern diagnostic equipment, and familiarity with international vaccination records and health certificates. Look for clinics that are transparent about pricing, maintain clean facilities, and are willing to share their qualifications. Online expat communities on Facebook and local forums are often the best source of up-to-date recommendations.

Veterinary costs in Vietnam

Veterinary care in Vietnam is generally more affordable than in Western countries, though clinics in expat-heavy districts may charge a premium for English-language service and imported medications. It's worth asking about pricing upfront, particularly for routine procedures, and checking whether your pet insurance policy covers treatment in Vietnam.

Core vaccinations and preventative care

Vietnam's tropical climate creates year-round risk for parasites, heartworm, and tick-borne diseases. A good local vet will advise on a preventative care schedule suited to Vietnam's conditions, which may differ from what your pet received at home. Rabies vaccination is particularly important and legally required for dogs.

Keeping records in order

Maintain a complete and up-to-date health record for your pet throughout your time in Vietnam. This should include vaccination history, any treatments received, and microchip details. These records will be essential when it comes time to apply for an export health certificate if you're eventually moving your pet out of the country.

When to seek specialist care

General practitioners in major Vietnamese cities can handle most routine and emergency needs, but specialist care — orthopedics, oncology, advanced diagnostics — is limited. For complex conditions, some expats choose to travel to Bangkok or Singapore, where specialist veterinary facilities are more established. Discuss this possibility with your vet early if your pet has a known health condition.

Pet-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants in Vietnam

Vietnam's café culture is legendary — and increasingly, that culture extends a warm welcome to four-legged visitors. From dedicated pet cafés where animals are part of the experience to outdoor terraces where dogs lounge under the tables, pet-friendly dining is a growing and vibrant part of urban life in Vietnam.

Pet-friendly cafés in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City leads the way when it comes to pet-welcoming venues. Districts 2, 3, and 7 — all popular with expats — are home to a variety of cafés that actively encourage owners to bring their dogs. Many feature outdoor seating, water bowls, and even pet menus with dog-safe treats. Animal cafés, where visitors can interact with resident cats, rabbits, or other animals, have also become popular attractions for locals and tourists alike.

Pet-friendly cafés in Hanoi

Hanoi's café scene is equally vibrant, with the city's French-colonial architecture lending itself naturally to shaded courtyard settings where pets are welcome. The Tay Ho (West Lake) district is particularly well-regarded among expat pet owners, with a cluster of relaxed, dog-friendly venues along the lakeside. As with Ho Chi Minh City, it's always worth confirming pet policies before visiting, as rules can change.

What to expect at pet-friendly venues in Vietnam

Standards vary from place to place. Some venues welcome all pets freely, while others may require dogs to be leashed or kept to outdoor areas only. Cats are generally more restricted to dedicated cat cafés rather than standard dining venues. It's good practice to bring a portable water bowl, keep your pet calm in busy environments, and always clean up after them — attitudes toward pets in public spaces are still evolving in Vietnam, and responsible pet ownership goes a long way.

Pet café etiquette in Vietnam

Vietnamese café culture is relaxed, but a few courtesies help ensure everyone has a good experience. Keep dogs on a lead unless the venue explicitly allows them to roam, be mindful of other diners who may not be comfortable around animals, and avoid bringing pets during peak hours when spaces are crowded. A well-socialised, calm pet will always be more welcome than one prone to anxiety in busy environments.

Finding pet-friendly venues near you

The best way to discover pet-friendly spots in your area is through local expat Facebook groups, Google Maps reviews, and apps like Foody or DiDi Food which sometimes flag pet-friendly attributes. Word of mouth from other pet-owning expats remains the most reliable guide — communities in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are active and happy to share recommendations.

Dog Parks and Green Spaces in Vietnam

Green space is one of the first things pet owners scope out when settling into a new city — and while Vietnam's urban density means dedicated dog parks are still a relatively new concept, the landscape is improving quickly. Major cities offer a growing number of parks, lakeside paths, and open spaces where dogs can stretch their legs, socialize, and enjoy the outdoors alongside their owners.

Dog parks in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City has seen a noticeable rise in pet-friendly green spaces in recent years. Tao Dan Park in District 3 is one of the most popular spots for dog owners, offering shaded walking paths and a relaxed atmosphere most mornings. 23/9 Park is another well-used option in the city center. While neither has a formal fenced dog run, both are widely used by the local pet-owning community — particularly in the early morning and early evening when temperatures are cooler.

Green spaces for dogs in Hanoi

Hanoi's network of lakes and tree-lined boulevards makes it a surprisingly walkable city for dogs. Hoan Kiem Lake and the surrounding pedestrian zones are popular with dog walkers in the early hours before traffic picks up. West Lake (Ho Tay) offers a longer lakeside path and a more spacious environment, making it a favorite among expats in the Tay Ho district. Lenin Park (Thong Nhat Park) is one of the city's largest green spaces and a reliable option for a longer walk.

What to know before visiting parks in Vietnam

Leash rules in Vietnamese parks are inconsistently enforced, but bringing a lead is always advisable — both for your dog's safety and out of consideration for other park users. Waste bags are not typically provided at parks, so always carry your own. Some parks have signs restricting dogs during peak hours, so early morning visits tend to be the most hassle-free. Be aware that not all visitors will be comfortable around dogs, and a calm, controlled pet makes a positive impression in spaces that are still adapting to the growing pet-owning culture.

Beyond the city: nature walks and outdoor escapes

For pet owners willing to venture further afield, Vietnam's countryside offers spectacular walking opportunities. The hills around Dalat are particularly well-suited to hiking with dogs, with cooler temperatures and open trails. Phu Quoc Island and the northern highlands around Sapa also offer expansive outdoor spaces, though logistics around traveling with pets domestically should be planned in advance — see our guide on traveling within Vietnam with pets for more detail.

Connecting with other dog owners in Vietnam

Some of the best green space discoveries come through the local expat pet community. Groups such as Saigon Paws and various city-specific Facebook groups regularly organize dog-friendly meetups and can point you toward lesser-known parks and trails that don't always make it onto tourist maps. These communities are also a valuable resource for navigating the practicalities of pet ownership in Vietnam more broadly.

Pet Supply Stores in Vietnam

Keeping your pet well-stocked with food, accessories, and healthcare essentials is straightforward in Vietnam's major cities, where the pet retail market has grown rapidly alongside rising rates of pet ownership. From large-format pet superstores to small neighborhood shops and online delivery platforms, pet owners in Vietnam have more options than ever before.

Pet stores in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City has the most developed pet retail scene in the country. Petmart Vietnam is one of the most established chains, with multiple branches across the city stocking a wide range of food, grooming products, accessories, and medications. Pet City is another well-regarded option, popular with expats for its range of imported brands and knowledgeable staff. For those in District 2 and Thu Duc, a number of independent pet boutiques carry premium international food brands that can be harder to find elsewhere.

Pet stores in Hanoi

Hanoi's pet retail options are concentrated in expat-friendly areas, particularly around Tay Ho and Cau Giay. Hanoi Pet Shop is a long-standing local option with a broad product range, while several newer stores in the Tay Ho district specifically cater to expat pet owners with imported food and English-speaking staff. As with Ho Chi Minh City, local expat Facebook groups are a reliable source of current recommendations, as the market evolves quickly and new stores open regularly.

Imported pet food brands in Vietnam

Availability of international pet food brands has improved considerably in recent years. Premium brands such as Royal Canin, Hill's Science Diet, and Orijen are stocked in larger pet stores and some veterinary clinics across both cities. However, supply can be inconsistent, and some expats choose to order in bulk when stock is available. If your pet is on a specific prescription diet, it is worth consulting your vet shortly after arrival to identify a reliable local supplier or explore online ordering options.

Online pet supply shopping in Vietnam

E-commerce has transformed pet supply shopping in Vietnam. Shopee and Lazada Vietnam both have extensive pet categories covering food, accessories, grooming tools, and healthcare products, with next-day delivery available in major cities. Tiki is another popular platform with a strong pet section and reliable logistics. For specialty or imported items, dedicated online pet retailers such as PetXinh offer a curated range with delivery nationwide.

What to bring from home

If your pet has specific dietary requirements or is accustomed to a particular brand that may not be available in Vietnam, it is worth bringing a supply to cover the first few weeks while you source a local alternative. This is particularly relevant for prescription medications, specialist veterinary diets, and niche supplement brands. For a broader overview of what to prepare before your move, see our guide on relocating to Vietnam with pets.

Grooming supplies and accessories

Vietnam's pet grooming industry has grown alongside pet ownership rates, and most mid-to-large pet stores carry a solid range of grooming tools, shampoos, and accessories. Given the tropical climate, products suited to high humidity — anti-fungal shampoos, flea and tick treatments, and cooling mats — are widely available and worth prioritizing over products designed for temperate climates.

Final Thoughts About Pet Life in Vietnam

Relocating to Vietnam with a pet is an adventure that comes with its own unique set of rewards and challenges. The country has changed enormously in its attitude toward animal companionship over the past decade, and for pet owners willing to do their homework, life in Vietnam can be deeply fulfilling — for both you and your four-legged family members.

Vietnam is more pet-friendly than you might expect

Many expats arrive in Vietnam bracing for difficulty and are pleasantly surprised. Major cities, particularly Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, have developed genuine pet-friendly infrastructure — from welcoming cafés and green spaces to well-stocked pet stores and quality veterinary care. The expat community is tight-knit and generous with advice, and finding your footing as a pet owner rarely takes long once you connect with others who have made the same journey.

Preparation makes all the difference

The biggest challenge of pet life in Vietnam is rarely the day-to-day — it's the logistics of getting there and eventually leaving. Import and export requirements are detailed and time-sensitive, and the consequences of incomplete paperwork can be significant. Working with an experienced pet relocation specialist from the outset removes the guesswork and ensures your pet's move is handled correctly from the very first step. For a full breakdown of what the process involves, see our guide on relocating your pet to Vietnam.

Climate and lifestyle adjustments

Vietnam's heat and humidity require a genuine adjustment, especially for pets coming from cooler climates. But with sensible routines — early morning walks, climate-controlled indoor spaces, and regular vet check-ups — most pets adapt well and thrive. Dogs and cats that are well-socialised tend to settle quickly into the rhythms of Vietnamese city life, which, for all its energy, has a warmth and community feel that many expat families come to love.

The expat pet community is your greatest resource

Throughout this guide, we have pointed to expat Facebook groups, local forums, and community recommendations — and that is no accident. The collective knowledge of pet owners who have navigated Vietnam before you is invaluable. Whether you need a vet recommendation, a pet-friendly landlord, or advice on the best parks in your neighborhood, the community is there and genuinely willing to help.

Ready to make the move?

If you are planning to relocate to Vietnam with your pet — or are preparing to move on to your next destination — Starwood Pet Travel is here to guide you through every step of the process. From import permits and health certificates to airline coordination and door-to-door logistics, we handle the complexity so you can focus on the excitement of what comes next.

Get a quote for your pet's move to Vietnam to start planning today.