UAE Banned Dog Breeds 2025:Full List & Pet Owner Guidelines

Introduction

Hi, dog lovers! If you live in the UAE or want to move here with your dog, you need to know some important rules. The UAE has strict laws about owning pets to keep people and animals safe. In 2025, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, or MOCCAE, made a new list of dogs you can’t own and dogs that need special rules. These rules are for everyone—people living in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other emirates, and even visitors with pets.

This guide makes it super easy to understand the 2025 dog laws. We’ll tell you which dogs are banned, which ones need extra care, and why these rules are in place. Plus, we’ll share tips on picking a great pet for UAE life and fun places to take your dog. Whether you’re new to the UAE or just want a new furry friend, this guide will help you follow the rules and keep your dog happy.

Which Dogs Are Banned in the UAE?

The UAE says some dogs are too strong or might act mean, so they’re not allowed. As of 2025, you can’t own or bring these dogs to the UAE unless you have special permission, like for a helper dog:

Pit Bull Terrier (like American Pit Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, or American Bully)
Rottweiler
Doberman Pinscher
Tosa Inu
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro
American Staffordshire Terrier
Wolf Hybrids (dogs mixed with wolves)
Mastiff Breeds (like Boerboel or Neapolitan Mastiff)
Perro de Presa Canario
Boxer

Important: This ban includes mixed dogs. For example, if your dog is part Labrador and part Pit Bull, it’s still banned. If you’re not sure about your dog, ask MOCCAE or a vet before getting one. Breaking this rule can mean losing your dog or paying a big fine, so be careful!

The UAE has these rules because cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are full of people. A strong dog that’s not trained could scare or hurt someone in a park or building. The government wants to keep everyone safe, so they made this list. If you want a dog, check out the safe breeds we’ll talk about later to avoid any trouble.

Which Dogs Are Restricted But Okay?

Some dogs aren’t banned but have extra rules. You can own them if you get a permit and follow safety steps, like putting a muzzle on them in public. These dogs also need to be signed up with your city, like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Here’s the 2025 list of restricted dogs:

To have one of these dogs, you need to do some work. You’ll get a special license to show your dog is safe. You also need to train them to be nice and use a muzzle and leash when you go outside. For example, if you have a Husky, you’ll take it to dog school to learn commands like “sit” or “stay.” Then, you’ll always put a muzzle on when you walk in the park. It’s a bit of effort, but it keeps your dog safe and follows the law.

Why Are These Dogs Banned or Restricted?

Why does the UAE have these dog rules? Here’s why in simple words:

Safety: Dubai and Abu Dhabi are busy with lots of people. Strong dogs like Rottweilers could hurt someone if they’re not trained. The UAE wants to keep parks and streets safe.
Past Problems: Some studies, like one from the U.S. a long time ago, say breeds like Pit Bulls or Rottweilers have caused big fights or bites. Not all these dogs are bad, but the UAE wants to be extra safe.
World Rules: The UAE looks at lists from other countries, like the UK, to pick which dogs might be risky. These lists use facts about dog fights.
Hot Weather and Small Homes: The UAE is super hot, and many people live in apartments. Big or furry dogs, like Huskies, might get upset in the heat or small spaces, which can make them act out.

For example, think about a Chow Chow in a hot Dubai summer. They have thick fur and love cold places, so they might feel grumpy in 40°C weather. The UAE’s rules help make sure dogs are happy and don’t cause trouble.

What Happens If You Don’t Follow Dog Laws?

If you own a banned dog or break the rules, you could get in big trouble. The UAE has a law called Federal Law No. 22 of 2016 that says what happens. Here’s the list:

Your Dog Gets Taken: If your dog is banned, the government can take it away. They might send it to a shelter or another country. It’s sad, so don’t let this happen!
Pay Money: You could owe a fine from AED 10,000 to AED 500,000. That’s a lot of cash!
Go to Jail: If your dog hurts someone badly, you might go to jail for up to 7 years.
Leave the UAE: If you’re an expat and keep breaking rules, you might have to go back to your home country.

Let’s say you find a cute Pit Bull mix at a shelter and take it home without checking. If someone tells the government, they could take your dog and make you pay a fine. To stay safe, always ask MOCCAE or your city office before getting a dog. It’s way better to check first!

Can You Bring a Dog to the UAE in 2025?

Yes, you can bring your dog to the UAE if it’s not banned. But you need to do some things first. Here’s what you need:

Health Paper: A vet checks your dog and gives a paper saying it’s healthy with no bugs like fleas.
Shots: Your dog needs vaccines, especially for rabies. Keep the shot card with you.
MOCCAE Permit: Go to the MOCCAE website and get a permit. It’s good for 30 days and lets you bring up to two dogs a year.
Microchip: Your dog needs a tiny chip under its skin so it can be found if it runs away.
Quarantine: Some places, like Abu Dhabi, might keep your dog for a few days to check it’s healthy.

Your airline has rules, too. For example, Emirates might say your dog needs a special crate. If you have a restricted dog like a German Shepherd, you need extra papers to show it’s trained.

Here’s a story: Ahmed moved to Dubai with his Beagle, Bella. He got her health paper, rabies shot, and MOCCAE permit. Bella had a microchip, too. When they landed, Bella stayed in quarantine for a day, and now they love walks in Dubai parks. Doing the steps made it easy!

How to Own a Dog the Right Way in the UAE

Want a dog in the UAE? You can do it if you follow these steps, even for restricted dogs:

Get a Permit: Go to your city office, like Dubai Municipality, and sign up for a dog permit. You can do it online or at a vet.
Check Your Home: Ask if your apartment or house allows dogs. Some places in Dubai say no pets, so check with your landlord.
License for Special Dogs: Restricted dogs like Bull Terriers need a special license. You show proof they’re trained.
Train Your Dog: Teach restricted dogs to be good with commands like “sit.” Dog schools can help.
Use a Muzzle and Leash: All dogs need a leash outside. Restricted dogs need a muzzle, too.
Get Shots Every Year: Take your dog to the vet for vaccines and sign them up with the city each year.

For example, if you get a Great Dane, you train it to be calm, get a license, and use a muzzle on walks. It’s work, but it keeps your dog safe and happy.

Best Dogs for UAE Life

Want a dog that’s okay in the UAE and easy to care for? Here are some great ones:

Labrador Retriever: They love people and kids. They’re good in apartments or big houses.
Golden Retriever: Super nice and happy in cities like Dubai.
Poodle: Smart and don’t shed much fur. Great for small homes.
Shih Tzu: Small and loves warm weather. Perfect for UAE summers.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Tiny and cuddly. Fits in any home.
Maltese: Easy to take care of, even for new dog owners.
Beagle: Fun and loves to play. Great for active families.

These dogs are okay in the UAE and handle the hot weather. A Shih Tzu, for example, is awesome for a Dubai apartment because it stays cool and doesn’t need long walks. Ask your vet how to keep your dog healthy in the heat.

Fun Places for Dogs in the UAE

Owning a dog in the UAE is fun because there are cool places to go with your pup in 2025. Here’s where you can take your dog:

Dubai Parks: The Greens Dog Park and Burj Park let dogs play, but they need a leash. Restricted dogs need a muzzle.
Abu Dhabi Beaches: Al Bateen Beach has a spot for dogs to swim. Keep them on a leash.
Pet Cafes: Doggy Bag Cafe in Dubai and Paws & Relax in Abu Dhabi welcome dogs. They have treats for your pup!
Dog Daycare: My Second Home in Dubai has play areas and training for dogs when you’re at work.

Check the rules before you go. Some parks want to see your dog’s vaccine card, and restricted dogs always need a muzzle. These places are great for fun with your dog!

Wrong Ideas About Dog Bans in the UAE

Want a dog that’s okay in the UAE and easy to care for? Here are some great ones:

Labrador Retriever: They love people and kids. They’re good in apartments or big houses.
Golden Retriever: Super nice and happy in cities like Dubai.
Poodle: Smart and don’t shed much fur. Great for small homes.
Shih Tzu: Small and loves warm weather. Perfect for UAE summers.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Tiny and cuddly. Fits in any home.
Maltese: Easy to take care of, even for new dog owners.
Beagle: Fun and loves to play. Great for active families.

Tips for New Dog Owners in the UAE

New to dogs in the UAE? Here’s how to make it fun and easy:

Stay Cool: Walk your dog early or late to avoid hot sun. Use dog booties to protect their paws.
Find a Vet: Modern Veterinary Clinic in Dubai or Al Barsha Veterinary Clinic in Abu Dhabi can do shots and permits.
Meet Dog Friends: Join groups like Dubai Pet Lovers online to find playdates and tips.
Buy Dog Stuff: Pet Corner in Dubai or Abu Dhabi has leashes, food, and cooling mats for hot days.
Plan Trips: If you leave the UAE, book a dog sitter at American Veterinary Clinic or get travel papers ready.

These tips help you and your dog love UAE life. My friend in Dubai uses a cooling mat for her Poodle, and it keeps her happy all summer!

FAQs

Answers to Your Questions

What dogs are banned in Dubai in 2025?

Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, Doberman Pinscher, Tosa Inu, Dogo Argentino, Fila Brasileiro, American Staffordshire Terrier, Wolf Hybrids, Mastiff breeds, Perro de Presa Canario, and Boxer.

Is a Rottweiler against the law in the UAE?

Yes, unless it’s a helper dog with MOCCAE okay.

How do I check if my dog is banned?

Look at the MOCCAE website or call them for the 2025 list.

What’s the fine for a banned dog?

You could pay AED 10,000 to AED 500,000 or go to jail if it’s bad.

Can I adopt a restricted dog from a shelter?

Yes, with a license and training. Try K9 Friends in Dubai.

What are new dog rules in Abu Dhabi and Dubai for 2025?

All dogs need a chip, shots, and sign-up. Restricted dogs need muzzles, and fines are bigger.

Are mixed dogs banned?

If they’re part banned breed, like Pit Bull, they’re not allowed.

Can visitors bring dogs to the UAE in 2025?

Yes, with a permit, health paper, and shots for okay breeds.

Are there dog parks for restricted dogs?

Yes, like The Greens Dog Park, but they need muzzles and leashes.

How do I get a dog license?

Go to your city office or vet with shot proof, chip, and training papers.

Conclusion

The UAE’s 2025 dog rules keep people and pets safe in a hot, busy place. If you’re moving to Dubai or adopting a dog in Abu Dhabi, know which dogs are banned or need extra rules. Pick a fun breed like a Labrador, Shih Tzu, or Beagle, follow MOCCAE’s steps, and take your pup to cool parks or cafes. With some planning, you and your dog will have a blast in the UAE. Happy tails!