The Guide To Choosing The Best Dog Breed In Nigeria

After the launch of Trojanpost, some of our readers asked us to recommend the best dog breed in Nigeria that could serve as a good pet as well as guard dog.

Their concerns were based on insecurity in some states and the housing arrangements that are common to some places in the country.

They wanted dogs that will:

Be aggressive enough to tackle any security challenge in their properties,
Behave well in apartment settings without disturbing neighbours through excessive barking and howling, and
Require less in grooming and maintenance

Although it was tempting to dish out straight answers to some of these questions, we were quick to tell them and anyone that's interested in keeping dog in Nigeria that, the choice of dog breed depends on the following:

The personality of the individual,
Their prior experience in keeping dogs,
Their level of income and occupation,
Their living condition and,
Their knowledge of some common dog breeds.

After telling them these, we realized that most of them were overwhelmed with the huge numbers of required criteria. But since our priority is to ensure that any dog that gets to every home in Nigeria is well taken care of, protected and loved, our response was telling them about the need for these requirements to be ironed out.

That is why we put down this post - to guide beginners and anyone who wants to choose the best dog breed in Nigeria.

We believe that you'll be able to choose the right dog breed that will suit your unique circumstances at the end of this post.

Let's begin with the grouping of the various dog breeds in accordance with the standard set by the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) otherwise called World Canine Organisation.

We'll only dwell more on some of the common dog breeds in Nigeria that are recognised by FCI. Therefore, don't be disappointed if your favourite breed isn't on our list. Every breed is unique but since Nigeria is an aspiring member of FCI and had gotten the go-ahead to export some of the locally bred dogs in 2019, there's need to follow their standards.

According to FCI, dog breeds are divided into ten distinct groups based on their roles or appearances. The groups include:

1. Sheepdog and Cattledog,

2. Pinscher, Schnauzer - Molossoid, Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs,

3. Terriers,

4. Dachshund,

5. Spitz and Primitive type,

6. Scenthound and related breeds,

7. Pointing Dogs,

8. Retriever,

9. Companion and Toy dogs, and

10. Sighthounds.

1. Sheepdog or Cattledog

The dogs in this group include breeds that were developed for raising and guarding of livestock. Notable among them is German Shepherd, which is among the most popular dog breeds in Nigeria.

German Shepherd Dog (GSD)

German Shepherd Dog image via Pixabay

If you're looking for an intelligent dog with superior aggressive and defensive behaviours, German Shepherd may be the right dog for you. This is because apart from being developed originally for herding, intelligence is another factor that is considered during the breeding of present-day German Shepherd.

Even though German Shepherd is a great dog breed that can thrive well in Nigeria, we can only recommend this dog to people living in a fenced yard with their families.

The reason is that they're high energy dogs that will require large space to burn out excess calories using exercise and also require people to be around them in order to avoid boredom.

If you attempt to keep this dog in a compound with many tenants, or lack a family that will be around when you're away from home, be ready for the complaints that will arise from excessive shedding of hairs, barking, and chewing of anything the dog finds appealing.

The reason this will happen is that, in the absence of enough space for exercise and in your bid to curtail the dog from barking when strangers enter the compound, you'll try to chain the dog. This will increase your dog's frustration and boredom leading to more problems.

People that like to keep a few friends will also enjoy this dog breeds in Nigeria and use them to scare away strangers. This is because this dog breed is naturally aloof towards visitors and will carry out the task of scaring away intruders with ease.

If your locality is prone to banditry, you can train this dog breed to be more aggressive while carrying out guard duty.

With its high sense of curiosity, protective and territorial ability coupled with a strong biting force of up to 1060 Newtown, intruders will get what they deserve.

Although this force is a little smaller than that of Rottweiler which measures up to 1460 Newtown, it is higher than that of humans with about 350 Newtown, and Labrador Retriever with about 1000 Newtown.

2. Pinscher & Schnauzer - Molossoid & Swiss Mountain & Cattle Dog

This group is made up of dogs that were originally bred to carry out different roles such as capturing of rats, guarding of livestock, messengers in wartime and even police dogs.

The dog breeds in Nigeria that are common to this group are Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, and Caucasian Shepherd.

Rottweiler

Rottweiler image via Pixabay

Banned in Ecuador, restricted in Singapore, Ireland, Portugal, Malaysia and Romania, rottweiler isn't a dog for beginners.

Whether this ban and ownership restriction is as a result of negative publicity, or due in part to the activities of unscrupulous breeders, we don't recommend this dog to those that are keeping dogs for the first time.

This is because beginners can give wrong training that may give rise to dogs that are vicious and dangerous, further spreading this negative reputation like a wildfire.

Beginners may also be unable to cope with Rottie's abundant strength. If this happens, you may be constantly bullied or bluffed by your dog which can make you use force in training. This will only lead to a more aggressive dog.

For the experienced keepers, always remember to walk or indulge your dog in play at least 10 to 20 minutes daily. This will act as an avenue for letting out excess energy.

Always be around or have people in your yard that can supervise this dog because they're strong and intense with a need for adequate training and care.

Early training, socialization and leadership are what Rottweiler puppies require if you don't want to have an overprotective and vicious adult dog.

Rottweiler can be unfriendly towards other dogs and animals except you train them to be friendly early in life.

You'll require a fenced compound for this dog, don't make the mistake of buying one to a shared apartment. This is because everyone in such a place may not be able to get along with this dog thereby leading to tension with your neighbours.

This dog breed can snore, so be prepared for it if it happens and also be ready to constantly brush the hair that it will shed most of the time.

All these will require money, ensure that you're financially capable of keeping this dog before you get one. This will shield you if you're unlucky to get a breed that is prone to some medical issues like Hip Dysplasia, Aortic Stenosis, Osteosarcoma, Bloat, Panosteitis, Hypothyroidism or other genetic defects.

Caucasian Shepherd

The Caucasian mountain region which this dog was originally bred to help in guarding livestock is known for its cold and harsh weather but, this dog breed has been wonderful in adapting to the hot temperature in Nigeria.

Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a large breed with a high territorial instinct.

If you have a family with little children, this large and intimidating dog may not be for you.

Unless you're ready to train this dog to be less aggressive and more acceptable of strangers, this fearless, self-reliant, confident and intelligent breed will not get along with other children and strangers that may want to play with your children.

People that exercise less will find this low energy dog more appealing and suitable to their lifestyle. But you should live in a house that has a large yard with a strong fence in order to enjoy this independent dog.

When your Caucasian Shepherd Dog barks, it can be very loud, although it will bark less than some dogs, be prepared for it.

This dog will also shed its hairs more than some dogs, so be prepared to spend money on its grooming.

Just like any other large dog breed that can be difficult to train, we don't recommend Caucasian Shepherd dog to beginners.

3. Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier image via Pixabay

Dogs in this group were originally developed to assist humans in hunting wild animals that were harmful to crops and livestock. They're still used today for finding, tracking and trailing animals pursued by hunters especially underground since they're good at digging. Example include Jack Russell Terrier, Cairn Terrier, etc.

Jack Russell Terrier

Even though this clever but little dog breed is not so popular in Nigeria, we don't always recommend it to beginners.

The reason is that digging and chasing after other smaller animals is hardwired in their DNA.

You may find them adoring but think twice before you bring one home. Jack Russell Terrier has a very high energy that will make it difficult for you to tame especially if you don't always have enough time to spend on dogs.

This dog sometimes requires up to 45 minutes of intense exercise daily that can be difficult for people with a less active lifestyle to cope with.

You shouldn't be lured into keeping Jack Russell Terrier in an apartment with other tenants because it will bark often, jump over them, and even dig their garden at will.

However, if you can give in your best to training this intelligent dog, you'll enjoy its lively, clever and loving disposition.

This dog can be friendly to strangers, kids and even other animals only if given adequate training and socialization early in life.

Jack Russell Terrier is easy to groom, easy to train but has a strong desire to hunt.

Yorkshire Terrier

Are Yorkies easy to handle by first time pet owners?

Also known as Yorkie, the Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog breed with long silky coat and perky topknot. They are friendly towards members of their households but suspicious towards strangers, strange dogs and squirrels.

If you're living in an apartment, this dog breed will make perfect companion. Endeavour to provide the needed care and attention to your Yorkie.

Are Yorkies easy to handle by first time pet owners? Yes, Yorkies are easy to handle by first time pet owner but you have to be careful while handling this dog breed so as not to inflict injuries to the small and delicate body. Small children and toddlers should not be allowed to handle Yorkies to avoid inflicting injuries on the dogs.

Yorkies are also great for first time dog owners because they are friendly. However, Yorkies can be difficult to housetrain. So, begin the training process as early as you can.

4. Dachshund

Dachshund image via Pixabay

Dogs in this group have short legs and long body and were bred to scent, chase and flush out animals that live in burrows such as mice, rabbits and sometimes foxes.

This is another dog breed in Nigeria that is not very popular. Whether this is due to their penchant for developing back problems, or their tendencies to eliminate waste indoors if not housetrained properly, one thing is certain - this is a dog for those living in an apartment.

But you must get permission from your neighbours before keeping one because they bark very loud just like some big dogs and can chase other animals and birds.

The smooth Dachshund dog breed can easily be maintained and groomed. This makes it suitable for people with a tight monthly budget.

Dachshund can tolerate the hot weather condition in some parts of Nigeria. It can also be kept by beginners because they're easy to train.

They come in different sizes, colours, coat types and temperament. This makes this dog breed to be suitable for almost everyone.

In fact, if you're living in a city and not yet married, you'll enjoy keeping Dachshund because of their small size, ability to bond easily and adaptability to an indoor lifestyle.

5. Spitz

The dogs in Spitz group were originally bred to help humans in herding, hunting and pulling sleds.

They're dogs with long, thick fur as well as pointed muzzles and ears. Notable members of this group include Akita Inu, Chow chow, Pomeranian, Siberian Husky, etc.

Siberian Husky

Siberian Husky image via Pixabay

If you hate aggressive dogs and can't tolerate annoying barking noise, Siberian Husky may be the breed for you.

This beautiful dog with a wolf-like look will welcome intruders, befriend your neighbours, and play with your children.

You can even keep other pets along with a Siberian Husky without thinking of fights breaking out in the pack.

Even if your budget is tight, a Siberian Husky can still get along with you. This is because the dog breed requires less grooming and can do well on a low-calorie diet.

This dog breed also tends to be healthy, intelligent and energetic and wouldn't require much in pet care.

Don't be carried away by these good qualities just yet.

Siberian Husky isn't a dog for everyone. In fact, those with experience in keeping dogs will still find this dog breed challenging.

This dog hardly remains in one place for too long but will dig, climb or even jump out of the tall fence in your yard.

You need a home with a tall fence that goes deep into the ground. If not, a day will come when your Siberian Husky will jump or dig its way out of your yard.

Even when you're on a walk, don't make the mistake of letting this dog breed off your leash because this may be the last time you'll see this beautiful four-legged friend of yours.

Siberian Husky would have been one of the most beautiful dog breeds to keep in Nigeria if not for the challenging security situations and their tendencies to escape from their homes.

It's better to keep a dog that will alert you to dangers than the type that will dance to the tune of thieves or even look for an escape route when trouble arises.

6. Scenthound

Dogs in this group are known for their abilities to track game animals using their sense of smell. Example include Beagle, Coonhound, Bloodhound, etc.

Beagle

Beagle image via Pixabay

If you're looking for a small dog with a gentle temperament, the beagle is the dog breed for you.

Keeping this dog breed in Nigeria entails living in a secured environment and having an active lifestyle. This is because Beagles are friendly to all and will need plenty of exercises in order not to display destructive behaviours.

Beagle is a good pet and can be kept by those living in an apartment.

Beagles are not dangerous and will not be aggressive towards your visitors, neighbours and children. This is the reason they're sometimes stolen.

Even though this dog breed is gentle, it can be stubborn if not properly trained in basic obedience.

Since Beagles are difficult to housetrain, beginners may find it difficult to keep up with its excessive search for scents. This search most times end in trash bins and can be irritating to some beginners.

7. Pointing Dog

The dogs in this group were originally developed to help humans in finding animals hunted for meat or sport.

These dogs are good at pointing using their muzzles by stopping and aiming at hunted animals. When they do this, they alert the hunters about the location of their hunted animals thus enabling them to get closer to the gun range. Example include English Pointer, English Setter, etc.

English Pointer

English Pointer image via Pixabay

English Pointer needs less grooming and is one of the dog breeds in Nigeria that can tolerate the hot weather in some states.

We recommend this dog breed to people with an active lifestyle who must have kept dogs before.

But you must live in a house that has a fenced yard which this dog will use for exercise.

An English Pointer is an intelligent dog that will be at peace with every member of your family, play with your children, and welcome your visitors.

This dog breed will only bark when things aren't just right but its large size will scare away intruders.

English Pointer is not aggressive and will not be your perfect guard dog.

Its size may intimidate intruders but its friendly nature will give him away.

English Pointer is also good for people with families who may be keeping other pets but you have to watch your birds in order to avoid story that touches the heart.

8. Retriever

These dogs are known for their good nature, patience and willingness to please. They're great dogs for families.

These dogs were bred to help hunters in trailing and bringing hunted animals to them without damage. They're excellent dog breeds because of their abilities to learn, obey, and eager to please their owners. Example include Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, etc.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever image via Pixabay

To be the most popular dog in America according to American Kennel Club's ranking isn't an easy feat, but Labrador Retriever has topped this position for a long time now.

When so many people and families adore a dog breed like this, there's something special about it.

Why don't you join the majority of Americans in keeping this dog breed in Nigeria?

The ball is really in your court. And we'll let you see the reasons this dog will be a good breed for your home.

Labrador Retriever is a dog for beginners but you should be living in a house with a large yard. This is because the dog breed is very energetic and will require enough space for exercise.

Labrador Retriever is also a dog that will be suitable for you if you have a family. This dog breed is friendly with children of all ages, calm with strangers and will be devoted to you.

This is a very intelligent dog although Labrador Retriever isn't as intelligent as the German Shepherd according to Stanley Coren's ranking.

Because of its intelligence, this dog breed is easy to train but will require a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise a day in order not to develop destructive behaviours.

Even though you can assign many tasks to this dog, be careful not to entrust your property in its care as a guard dog. If you do, be ready for a surprise when your Labrador Retriever dances to the tune of an intruder.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever image via Pixabay

There are some dog lovers that prefer dog breeds that can act like a puppy for a very long time. If you're one of them, the Golden Retriever is a dog for you.

If you're to keep this dog breed in Nigeria, ensure that your environment is secured because this large dog isn't a good guard dog.

Golden Retriever is a dog breed that is suitable for people with families because they're friendly with kids, strangers, and other dogs.

Just like any other large dog, apartment living is unsuitable for this breed. You'll need a home with a fenced yard that can be used for daily exercise that can last for 60 minutes if destructive behaviours are to be prevented.

The only thing that is bad about a Golden Retriever is its excessive shedding. This makes this dog breed unsuitable for people that are allergic to dog fur.

You'll have to groom your Golden Retriever daily if you want to retain its beautiful look. This will require money. Ensure that you're financially stable.

You'll also need a vacuum cleaner that can take care of the furs when they're shed, make sure that you get one.

If you're not too good at dog training, Golden Retriever will still do well in carrying out some of your tasks.

This popular dog is more intelligent than Labrador Retriever but less intelligent than the German Shepherd.

9. Toy Dogs

This group comprises of very small dogs. Example are French Bulldog, Lhasa Apso, Maltese, Poodle, Boston Terrier, Chihuahua, etc.

Chihuahua

Chihuahua image via Pixabay

This small but mighty dog breed is unsuitable for people with children under eight years of age.

This is because they can be handled roughly and in the process get injured or cause injuries to your child.

You can keep this wonderful guard dog breed in Nigeria if you're living in an apartment with less security. But ensure that you're living in a fenced apartment to prevent your Chihuahua from escaping.

Also, make sure that birds of prey and other large dogs don't come close to your home to inflict injuries on this fearless dog who won't consider its small size but will stand and fight.

Even though Chihuahua doesn't have high energy, giving your dog moderate daily exercise that can last up to thirty minutes wouldn't be bad for your health and that of your dog.

If you're about to keep a dog for the first time, Chihuahua can be a loving dog, to begin with, because it demands moderate grooming, training and maintenance.

Avoid keeping a Chihuahua if you're not always comfortable with dogs that bark and howl at strangers. This dog breed is known for being unfriendly to strangers and can live up to 18 years with you.

10. Sighthound

The dogs in this group were bred to hunt by using sight and speed instead of scent and endurance. Example are Greyhound, Azawakh, etc.

Greyhound

Greyhound image via Pixabay

The Greyhound is not a very popular dog breed in Nigeria but some local dog enthusiasts have always been touting it as a possible dog breed that gave rise to the Nigerian local dogs.

Because of Greyhound's ability to tolerate hot weather condition and its suitability for apartment living, this dog can make excellent pets for those living in homes with other tenants.

You'll find out that this dog is friendly and easy-going when you get one, but it may be indifferent to strangers in your home.

Because Greyhound barks less, your neighbours may not be disturbed by it but its high prey drive can lead to little squabbles if it eventually goes after your cotenant's small pets.

This dog breed is easy to train and will require less exercise and grooming, thus saving you money.

Greyhound is generally not an aggressive dog and may not be very good as a guard dog for people living in places with less security.

Conclusion

Choosing the right dog breed in Nigeria can be daunting especially for beginners.

But since there are different dog breeds, getting the one that will suit your lifestyle will be easy when you follow this guide.

Although this guide couldn't go into details in discussing all the dog breeds in Nigeria, we are optimistic that it will still be of help to you in some ways.

Always remember that no matter how good a particular dog breed may be, getting it from a reputable breeder and giving early training still remains the key in developing the desired traits in your dog.

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