It's been a hot few months for dogs in Beijing – in more ways than one. Starting in June, the Beijing government began cracking down on illegal dogs (dogs who exceed the 35cm height limit and/or dogs who are unregistered) throughout the city, enforcing a longstanding ban on large dogs that many thought had become obsolete long ago. Although dog owners have found solutions to the roundup, ranging from hiding their dogs to, of course, getting them legally registered, it’s been a stressful time for everyone involved. So once you make sure your dog is set up legally (see ‘Protecting your pup’), why not help them unwind from all the stress with a little canine comfort?

Best for VIP treatment

We’ve all seen them – the precious little poodles prancing around with hot pink ears and pom-pom tails. And we’ve all had the same thought: how can my dog look that good? Luckily for the vain among you – and unluckily for basic canine dignity – Beijing is a hotspot for doggy salons. Among the most famous of these is Ruowen Pet Spa in Chaowai SOHO, which several years ago attracted a flurry of international press coverage for leading the (somewhat ill-advised) trend of dyeing dogs to make them look like pandas. While several vets have come out against the practice, claiming that the dyes used may be harmful to dogs, Ruowen offers a host of other services, including bathing, haircutting, manicures and even massages. ICVS will also be opening a new pet salon this month that, in addition to grooming, also performs physical examinations for skin irritations and parasites. If you’re on a budget, however, head to one of Beijing’s grooming academies, which offer free services performed by students, with oversight by teachers. Beijing Jianwen Pet Grooming Academy near the East Third Ring Road offers grooming and healthcare at no cost. Reservations are recommended at all of the above.

Ruowen Pet Spa

Address: Chaoyangmen Outer Street Building A, Suite 101 SOHO East Section B6 Chaoyang