24/10/2025
Dawaki Dog Market: Nigeria’s 300-Year-Old Canine Trade Hub in Plateau State
Tucked away in Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State, the Dawaki Dog Market stands as one of Nigeria’s oldest and most unique marketplaces — a cultural and economic powerhouse that has thrived for over three centuries.
Held every Thursday, this market isn’t your typical livestock trading point. It is Nigeria’s largest and oldest dog market, drawing traders, buyers, and tourists from across the country and neighboring nations like Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.
Dogs are sold here for various reasons —
🔹 Meat consumption, especially in parts of northern Nigeria and neighboring cultures
🔹 Hunting purposes, where specific breeds are prized for their strength and agility
🔹 Pets and companionship, especially among younger buyers
🔹 Traditional and spiritual uses, embedded in the heritage of the Ngas people
One unique feature is the active involvement of women, who play key roles in the trade — as breeders, sellers, and negotiators. Business booms in the dry season, and prices range from ₦7,000 to ₦15,000, depending on size, breed, and purpose.
Despite generating *millions of naira weekly*, the market *lacks basic infrastructure* — no organized kennels, limited veterinary care, and exposure to *health risks like rabies*. This poses serious concerns not just for animal welfare, but also for public health and hygiene.
Yet, the Dawaki Dog Market remains a vital symbol of indigenous enterprise, showcasing how centuries-old traditions still influence modern trade. It connects local culture with national and regional economies, proving that Nigeria’s informal markets are more powerful than many recognize — even if largely undocumented.
Improving the market’s structure and enforcing health regulations could transform it from a rural curiosity into a global example of traditional commerce meeting modern standards.