Nigerian dog owners are increasingly unable to keep their pets as rising inflation and a deepening cost of living crisis force families to prioritise basic human needs over animal care.

The crisis, now in its second year, has made pet ownership unaffordable for many Nigerians who once viewed dogs as both companions and a form of home security. The price of imported dog food has nearly doubled in the past six months, with a 15-kilogram bag now costing ₦70,000—the equivalent of the national minimum wage.

In cities like Lagos and Ibadan, pet owners are turning to makeshift feeding options such as rice, noodles, and fish scraps. Some are reducing their pets’ food portions while others are giving away their animals.

Peter Anthony, a student in Ibadan, who spoke to Reuters said his family used to feed their German Shepherd without concern, but now struggles to maintain her diet. He said they now serve her smaller portions mixed with affordable human food.

Sarah Mokelu, a Lagos-based dog breeder who previously imported up to 20 dogs from Russia every month, said demand has plummeted and she now imports fewer dogs quarterly. She noted that most prospective buyers can no longer afford imported dogs or the food needed to care for them.

Several breeders and pet businesses report declining sales and interest from the general public. Akindele Olunloyo, who runs Pet Lovers Nigeria, said most visitors to his online platform now seek dogs priced between ₦20,000 and ₦100,000, far below the typical cost of imported breeds. He said his company now caters only to high-income clients who can afford private orders.

The economic situation has had unintended effects on the local pet industry. Some domestic pet food producers are seeing increased demand as people abandon imported brands. Theresa Iwhewhe, who owns a pet clinic and manufactures pet food in Ibadan, said more people are now turning to her products.

The economic crisis began in May 2023 after the removal of a fuel subsidy and the devaluation of the naira. Inflation peaked at 34.8 percent in December before easing slightly to 23.7 percent in April. According to the World Bank, 31 percent of Nigerians live below the international extreme poverty line of $2.15 per day.

There is little formal data on dog ownership in Nigeria, but a 2023 survey by TGM Statbox estimated that 42 percent of Nigerians own pets. Breeders and owners now say many of those pets may be at risk as financial conditions worsen.