Walking your dog in Egypt: the law and staying safe

The walk is the best part of a dog's day, and also where you can get a fine or fall out with the neighbours. A little preparation keeps it easy for you, your dog and everyone around you.

What the law says

Under Law 29 of 2023, a dog outside the home must be:

• wearing a muzzle, on a suitable collar and leash;
• with someone 18 or older;
• licensed, wearing the ID tag with its serial number. Not licensed yet? Read how to license your dog.

The law sets fines from EGP 10,000 for violations. Keep the licence card with you, or a photo of it on your phone.

A muzzle your dog accepts

• Choose a roomy basket muzzle: your dog can open its mouth, pant and drink.
• Get your dog used to it at home: let it sniff, put a treat inside, then wear it for a few seconds and add time each day.
• Avoid tight fabric muzzles in the heat: they stop panting, and your dog overheats fast.

Collar and leash

• A collar fits when two fingers just slide under it. A harness is more comfortable for dogs that pull.
• A 1.5–2 m leash works best on the street. Retractable leashes make control hard around cars. If your dog pulls, see leash training your dog.

Walking in an Egyptian summer

• Walk early in the morning or after sunset. Midday in summer is dangerous.
• Put your hand on the asphalt for 5 seconds: if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for paws.
• Bring water on longer walks.
• If your dog pants hard or can't keep going, stop in the shade and offer water. If it doesn't recover quickly, go to the nearest vet.
• In Ramadan, walks move to the evening. Read safe night walks in Ramadan.

Street dogs

• Stay calm, don't run, and avoid streets with a pack.
• Keep your dog close on a short leash; don't let it run at them.
• If you or your dog get bitten, wash the wound with soap and water for 15 minutes and see a doctor or vet the same day because of rabies.

Neighbours and buildings

• Always carry bags and clean up. It's what annoys people most.
• In lifts and on stairs, keep your dog close and ask if children or nervous people are around.
• A dog that barks a lot at night usually needs a longer walk and more play during the day. See barking and the neighbours.