What The Pug: Singapore’s First Pug Petting Cafe Is Now Open, Tix Include Free Drink & Polaroid Photo

By Rachel Yohannan on 23 Dec 2021

Senior Digital Editor

Crazy cat lady who loves afternoon tea, kawaii Japanese fashion, and all things Sanrio.

For the longest time, Living Room in Kyoto was the only permanent pug-centric dog cafe in the world - but that’s since changed with the inception of What The Pug, Singapore’s very own pug petting cafe. Recently opened at Haji Lane, this doggy haven is sure to excite fans of the endearingly wrinkled, flat-faced canine breed.

P.S.: If you're more of a cat person, check out Paws Claws Cat Cafe which has the fluffiest ragamuffin kittens!

Read on to find out more about What The Pug dog cafe in Singapore!

Photo from @cnht_ via Instagram

What The Pug is located in a Haji Lane shophouse that’s painted a deep royal purple - you’ll likely spot its large black and white signage that has a cartoon image of a pug’s face on it, and glass doors full of paw print decals. If you’re still having trouble finding it, try looking out for the colourful facade of German gummy bear specialty store Bears & Friends - they’re neighbours.

Photo from @danbo_tan via Instagram

We’re not sure how many pugs there are exactly, but we counted at least 10! The pugs will first be kept behind a gated partition, eagerly waiting to welcome you, and the excitement starts once it’s released and the pudgy creatures come running out all at once - similar to the experience at Bangkok’s famed True Love Cafe which specialises in huskies.

Photo from @saphixpang via Instagram

All you need to do is sit back and brace yourself for a smothering of fur and wet kisses! According to reviewers, the dogs are extremely friendly, don’t bite, and will go over to you for a nuzzle even if you don’t bribe them with treats. In fact, there’s a high chance that they will climb onto your lap for cuddles!

Photo from @prettymomomo via Instagram

There’s no need to worry about getting your feet or socks dirty, as disposable foot covers will be provided for your hygiene as well as that of the dogs. We recommend bringing along an extra face mask and some wet wipes though, just in case you get attacked with an onslaught of pug drool!

Photo from @danbo_tan via Instagram

The pugs are of different ages and sizes - some are still tiny and aged slightly over 1 year old, essentially still puppies. And then there are the larger, older ones, who are more nua in demeanour with deeper face folds. We heard that there’s one that’s around 12 years old!

Photo from @cnht_ via Instagram

Do note that What The Pug is purely a dog petting cafe as opposed to being a pet-friendly cafe, so kindly leave your own furkids at home. They do not serve food for humans either, but that just means less distractions so you can better-focus your attention onto all the cute doggos!

Photo from @malcolmyeoxy via Instagram

Sounds like the perfect outing idea for animal lovers! This would also be a suitable activity for a first date, as the playful pups and their comical shenanigans are sure to help break the ice and successfully diffuse any initial awkwardness.

Photo from @terribletristan via Instagram

Each ticket costs $20 per person and entitles you to a 45-minute session, with a free drink and polaroid photo as a keepsake. Time slots are limited and only 8 to 10 patrons are allowed at any one time to avoid overwhelming the dogs, so do make a phone reservation, or book your tickets online in advance here.

What The Pug dog cafe
Address: 80 Haji Lane, Singapore 189271
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 12pm - 8pm (Closed on Monday)
Telephone: 6293 3350
Website