Kuwait Warns Dog Owners of Jail, Fines for Violations

09/10/2026

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 9: The Ministry of Interior has issued guidelines regulating dog ownership and care in Kuwait, warning that violators face imprisonment for up to one month, a fine exceeding KD 30, or both.

The guidelines, issued in coordination with the relevant authorities, aim to enhance public safety, protect animal welfare and maintain public hygiene in residential areas and public spaces.

Under the regulations, dog owners must obtain official ownership licences and ensure their dogs wear collars fitted with metal identification tags bearing their identification numbers. Dogs must also undergo health examinations at authorized veterinary centres and receive mandatory rabies vaccinations, including annual booster shots.

Owners are required to keep their dogs on a leash and fit them with muzzles when walking them on public roads, sidewalks and other public spaces.

The guidelines also require owners to immediately report any confirmed or suspected rabies case to a veterinary centre. Improper disposal of carcasses of animals infected with or suspected of having rabies is prohibited.

The ministry urged dog owners to comply with all licensing, identification and veterinary requirements, stressing the importance of responsible ownership in protecting public health, ensuring community safety and safeguarding animal welfare.