Choosing the right dog is a major decision, and understanding the common dog breeds in Nigeria helps future owners make confident and informed choices. Because many Nigerians now see pets as family, there is a growing demand for reliable information about breed personality, behavior, health needs, and realistic pricing. Therefore, this guide provides a detailed breakdown of traits and costs while also highlighting ethical breeding practices to help you pick the ideal companion. Moreover, platforms like Mygotovet make responsible pet care easier by offering expert guidance for owners who want the best for their dogs.
Understanding the Nigerian Dog Landscape
Nigeria’s pet community has expanded rapidly, and dog ownership is now influenced by lifestyle, security needs, family size, and living environment. Consequently, selecting the right breed requires looking beyond appearance. Although some people love protective dogs, many others prefer small indoor breeds that easily adapt to apartments. Because the pet industry is evolving, there is more awareness of health screening, ethical breeding, and proper socialization.
Common Dog breeds available in Nigeria
I. The Guardians and Working Breeds
These breeds are favored for protection, strength, and loyalty. Since security is a top priority for many households, working dogs remain highly sought-after.
1. German Shepherd
Intelligent, loyal, and versatile, German Shepherds adapt well to family life when trained early. Prices range from ₦150,000–₦400,000.
2. Rottweiler
Strong, protective, and confident, Rottweilers react quickly to threats and require proper exercise. They cost ₦200,000–₦600,000, and pedigrees may reach ₦1,000,000+.
3. Caucasian Shepherd
Massive and fearless, this breed is popular for estate security. Expect to spend ₦200,000–₦300,000 for pure breeds.
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4. Boerboel
Calm but protective, Boerboels are family-friendly and muscular. Typical prices fall between ₦180,000–₦450,000.
5. Bullmastiff
Loyal and powerful, they make excellent guard dogs and patient companions. Prices start around ₦600,000.
6. Doberman Pinscher
Elegant, intelligent, and energetic, Dobermans suit active homes. Prices start at ₦400,000.
7. American Pitbull
Confident and affectionate with families, Pitbulls remain popular despite mixed public opinion. Prices begin from ₦250,000.
8. Belgian Malinois
Highly driven and extremely intelligent, Malinois dogs excel in police and military roles. Prices start at ₦400,000.
9. Alaskan Malamute
Known for strength and endurance, Malamutes adapt better to cooler climates but can still thrive with proper care. Prices start at ₦400,000.
II. The Companions and Urban Favorites
These breeds suit busy households, apartments, and families looking for affectionate and manageable pets.
10. Golden Retriever
Friendly, intelligent, and gentle, Golden Retrievers are great for families. Expect to pay ₦600,000+.
11. Labrador Retriever
Energetic, affectionate, and easy to train, Labs are excellent family dogs. Prices range from ₦150,000–₦300,000.
12. Lhasa Apso
Alert, charming, and suited for apartment living, Lhasas cost ₦100,000–₦250,000.
13. Shih Tzu
Loving and social, Shih Tzus thrive indoors. Prices start around ₦500,000.
14. Maltese
Small and elegant, the Maltese appeals to urban dwellers. Prices range from ₦120,000–₦280,000.
15. French Bulldog
Compact and playful, Frenchies are trendy in Nigerian cities but require respiratory care. Expect ₦350,000–₦600,000.
16. Siberian Husky
Known for striking eyes and high energy, Huskies are popular but require commitment to exercise. Prices start at ₦400,000.
17. Chow Chow
Bold and lion-like, Chow Chows make unique companions. Prices range from ₦300,000–₦600,000.
18. Chihuahua
Small, expressive, and confident, Chihuahuas are ideal for indoor living. Prices usually begin at ₦500,000.
19. English Bulldog
Calm and affectionate, this breed requires special care due to heat sensitivity. Expect ₦700,000+.
20. Bichon Frise
Cheerful and hypoallergenic, the Bichon Frise is perfect for families needing a gentle companion. Prices start at ₦400,000.
The Nigerian Local Dog
The local breed, often called “Ekuke,” remains one of the most resilient dogs in the country. Although they cost as little as ₦10,000, they offer remarkable alertness, disease resistance, strong hunting instincts, and unmatched adaptability. Their loyalty and intelligence make them excellent household protectors when properly trained.
Essential Ethical Breeding Tips
Ethical breeding ensures healthy puppies and responsible dog ownership.
1. Genetic Health
Breeding dogs should undergo screening for hereditary conditions. Because inbreeding leads to deformities and weak puppies, responsible breeders maintain diverse bloodlines.
2. Vaccination and Health Care
Puppies require vaccinations from 6–8 weeks, along with consistent deworming. Preventive care costs far less than treating advanced diseases. For convenient checkups, owners can consult professionals on Mygotovet, which provides remote veterinary guidance.
3. Kennel Management
Clean kennels reduce infection risk. Proper ventilation, drainage, and routine disinfection are critical. Record keeping also helps breeders track lineage, health, and expenses.
4. Early Socialization
Introducing puppies to humans, sounds, and experiences builds confidence. Well-socialized dogs are less aggressive and adapt better to families.
How to Choose the Right Dog Breed
Your ideal breed depends on:
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Lifestyle
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Space
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Budget
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Experience with dogs
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Security needs
For example, Huskies and Malinois suit active individuals, while Lhasa Apsos and Chihuahuas fit apartment life. When in doubt, owners can reach out to Mygotovet for breed guidance, wellness advice, and ongoing telemedicine support.
Choosing from the common dog breeds in Nigeria becomes much easier when you understand the personality, pricing, and care needs of each breed. Because responsible ownership goes beyond buying a popular dog, combining ethical breeding with proper training and consistent care ensures a healthy and well-adjusted companion. For expert support, Mygotovet remains a dependable partner for virtual consultations, health guidance, and long-term pet welfare.
Ready to give your dog the best care? Connect with Mygotovet today for expert veterinary support, reliable health advice, and instant telemedicine access for every stage of your pet’s life.
Frequently Asked Questions on Common Dog breeds available in Nigeria
1. Which dog breeds are most common in Nigeria?
The most common breeds include the German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Boerboel, Caucasian Shepherd, Lhasa Apso, Samoyed, American Pit Bull Terrier, and Labrador Retriever. These breeds are popular due to their suitability for security, companionship, and adaptability to Nigeria’s climate.
2. How much do popular dog breeds cost in Nigeria?
Prices vary based on breed, lineage, age, and breeder reputation.
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Small breeds (e.g., Lhasa Apso): ₦80,000–₦250,000
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Medium breeds (e.g., Labrador): ₦150,000–₦400,000
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Large security breeds (e.g., Boerboel, Rottweiler, Caucasian): ₦200,000–₦600,000+
Show-quality or imported-lineage puppies cost significantly higher.
3. Are these popular dog breeds suitable for Nigeria’s weather?
Yes, most commonly owned breeds (Boerboel, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, etc.) adapt well. Breeds like Samoyeds and Huskies tolerate heat but require strict temperature management, shade, and hydration to stay healthy.
4. How do I choose the right breed for my lifestyle?
Consider:
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Security? Rottweiler, Boerboel, Caucasian Shepherd
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Companionship? Lhasa Apso, Pomeranian, Samoyed
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Active families? German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever
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First-time owners? Labrador, Lhasa Apso, Samoyed
Always match energy level, grooming needs, and training commitment with your lifestyle.
5. How do I know a breeder is ethical?
Look for breeders who:
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Allow you to meet both parents.
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Provide vaccination/deworming records.
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Keep dogs in clean, humane environments.
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Avoid selling puppies before 8 weeks.
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Don’t breed females excessively.
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Answer all health and lineage questions honestly.
Avoid breeders who rush you, refuse visitation, or offer unusually low prices.
6. What are common health issues in dog breeds in Nigeria?
Depending on the breed:
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Large breeds: hip dysplasia, arthritis, bloat
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Flat-faced breeds: breathing difficulty
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Heavy-coated breeds: heat stress
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Small breeds: dental issues
Buying from ethical breeders reduces inherited health problems significantly.
7. Are mixed-breed dogs good options?
Absolutely! Mixed breeds tend to be healthier, more adaptable, and less expensive. Many offer excellent security and companionship. Adoption of mixed breeds is also more ethical and reduces overbreeding problems.
