When most people in Uganda think of a dog, the first breeds that probably come to mind are German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Labradors, Boerboels, Maltese or the many wonderful local mixed-breed dogs we see around Kampala.
But Uganda’s exotic dog population is becoming increasingly diverse. This is witnessed on dog shows where people show off different amazing dogs.
Over the years, working as a veterinarian in Kampala, I have had the opportunity to examine dogs that are rarely seen in Uganda. Some have arrived with expatriate families relocating to the country, while others have been brought in by Ugandan dog lovers who specifically wanted a particular breed.
In fact, some of these dogs are so uncommon that seeing one at the clinic can be a memorable experience for the veterinary team.
From my own experience, most of the rare breeds I have encountered have been associated with expatriate families who relocated to Uganda with their pets. A smaller number have been owned by Ugandan families who went through the considerable expense and paperwork involved in importing a dog.
Why Are Some Dog Breeds Rare in Uganda?
There are several reasons why you don’t see certain breeds very often in Uganda.
The first is availability. Some breeds are simply not commonly bred locally, meaning anyone who wants one may have to look outside Uganda.
The second is the cost of importing a dog. Depending on the country of origin, airline, crate requirements, veterinary procedures, permits and other expenses, bringing a dog into Uganda can become a significant investment. In some cases, the total cost can reach several million shillings.
There are also veterinary and administrative requirements to consider, including vaccinations, health certificates, identification and pet travel documentation.
Climate can be another consideration.
A breed that evolved in a cold environment may require considerably more care in Uganda’s warm climate. This doesn’t necessarily mean such dogs cannot live comfortably here, but their owners need to understand their particular needs.
With that in mind, here are five breeds that I have personally found to be particularly uncommon in Uganda.
1. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the rarest breeds I have personally encountered in Uganda.
So far, I have seen only two.
One was a seven-month-old male in Kololo, while the other was a five-year-old male from Munyonyo. Interestingly, both were neutered and had exceptionally gentle personalities.
If you have never seen a Bernese Mountain Dog in person, the first thing you notice is its size.
These are large dogs with thick, beautiful coats, but despite their impressive size, the two I encountered were remarkably calm.
They had the kind of temperament that makes you forget for a moment that you are standing next to a very large dog.
2. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is another breed that is extremely uncommon in Uganda.
I have personally encountered only one.
He was a three-year-old silver-gray male belonging to an expatriate family. The owner brought him to the clinic for veterinary documentation associated with pet travel.
And honestly, this is one of those dogs that is difficult to ignore.
The Weimaraner’s distinctive silver-gray coat, athletic body and elegant appearance make it stand out immediately.
This is a breed originally developed as a hunting dog, so they tend to be energetic, intelligent and highly active.
The particular dog I encountered was friendly and athletic, but his energy level was immediately obvious.
3. Corgi
The Corgi is probably one of the most recognisable small dog breeds on the internet, thanks to its short legs, long body and expressive face.
But seeing one in Uganda is a completely different story.
I encountered one belonging to a Ugandan woman in Makindye who had spent more than 15 years in the United Kingdom before returning home.
She brought her nine-year-old female Corgi with her when she returned to Uganda.
The dog was small, initially shy and somewhat reserved around unfamiliar people. Once she became comfortable, however, she was very friendly.
This is one of those cases that demonstrates something important about pet ownership.
When people relocate internationally, their pets often relocate with them.
So while a particular breed may be extremely uncommon in Uganda, it may still appear in Kampala because an owner has brought the dog from another country.
4. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is another unusual sight in Uganda.
I encountered three Chow Chow siblings in Kigo/Munyonyo, belonging to a large Chinese family.
The first thing that struck me was their coats.
They were incredibly fluffy.
In fact, their coats were so thick that it was difficult to see their eyes clearly.
Chow Chows have a distinctive appearance, including their dense coats, broad faces and characteristic blue-black tongues.
But their personality can be quite different from what people expect when they see such a fluffy dog.
The three I encountered were timid and preferred keeping their distance from unfamiliar people.
That is an important point for anyone considering a Chow Chow.
They are not necessarily the type of dog that wants every stranger to come over and start rubbing its head.
5. English Bulldog
The English Bulldog may not be as rare as the first four breeds on this list, but it is still far less common in Uganda than breeds such as German Shepherds, Rottweilers and local mixed breeds.
I have encountered seven so far:
- 3 in Ntinda
- 2 in Makindye
- 1 in Bunga
- 1 in Lubowa
And there is something I noticed almost immediately.
They love attention.
Every Bulldog I encountered was friendly and seemed perfectly happy receiving attention from people.
But if you have never seen an English Bulldog in person, the first encounter can be slightly surprising.
Their distinctive flat faces can look intimidating, and their breathing can be surprisingly loud.
However, that breathing should not simply be dismissed as “normal Bulldog noise.”
How Superior Animal Clinic Can Help With Exotic Dog Breeds in Uganda
Owning an exotic or rare dog breed in Uganda comes with responsibilities that go beyond simply finding a breeder and bringing the dog home. From international travel requirements to adapting to Kampala’s climate, these dogs may need specialised veterinary attention before, during and after their arrival.
At Superior Animal Clinic, we support pet owners who are importing dogs into Uganda and those who already own rare or exotic breeds.
Assistance With Pet Importation
If you are planning to bring a dog into Uganda from the UK, USA, Europe, South Africa, Asia or another country, proper preparation is essential.
Our veterinary team can help you understand and prepare for the veterinary requirements involved in international pet travel, including:
- Pre-travel veterinary examinations
- Vaccination assessment and updates
- Rabies vaccination requirements
- Microchip verification
- Health documentation
- Health certificates and veterinary documentation
- Travel preparation and advice
- Assessment of whether your dog is fit to travel
- Post-arrival veterinary examination
International pet travel can involve several requirements, and these may depend on the country your dog is coming from, the airline and the current regulations. We therefore recommend starting the process early rather than waiting until the travel date is approaching.
Veterinary Care for Rare and Exotic Dog Breeds
Different breeds come with different veterinary considerations.
A Bernese Mountain Dog may require particular attention to heat management because of its heavy coat. A Bulldog may need careful monitoring of breathing and heat tolerance. A Chow Chow requires appropriate coat and skin care, while an energetic breed such as a Weimaraner may need advice on exercise and general health management.
At Superior Animal Clinic, we can provide veterinary assessment and ongoing care tailored to your dog’s breed, age and individual needs.
Services can include:
- General health examinations
- Vaccinations
- Deworming and parasite control
- Skin and coat assessment
- Nutritional advice
- Dental care
- Reproductive health services
- Neutering and spaying
- Diagnostic investigations
- Treatment of illnesses and injuries
- Preventive healthcare
- Pet travel consultations
Superior Animal Clinic: Veterinary care for dogs of every breed, from the familiar to the exceptionally rare.
