Banned and Restricted Dog Breeds in Qatar

Important disclaimer: The restricted breed list is maintained by the Qatar Department of Animal Resources and is subject to change without notice. The breeds listed below are commonly restricted at the time of writing. Always verify the current list with the Department of Animal Resources or Parkview Pet Center before making relocation arrangements.

Pit Bull Terrier (American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier)

This list is not exhaustive and may not reflect the most current regulations. Additional breeds may be restricted. Contact Parkview Pet Center or the Department of Animal Resources to confirm the current status of your dog's breed before making any travel arrangements.

Mixed-breed dogs that visually resemble restricted breeds may be flagged during the import permit application or at customs. Breed determination in Qatar is often based on physical appearance rather than DNA testing — there is no standard genetic testing requirement. If your mixed-breed dog has physical characteristics of a restricted breed — a broad head, muscular build, or features associated with the breeds listed above — discuss this with Parkview before beginning the relocation process. Early identification of potential breed concerns prevents costly surprises at the airport.

If your dog's breed appears on Qatar's restricted list, options are limited. The import permit will likely be denied, and the pet will be refused entry at customs. There is no standard exemption process for restricted breeds, though regulations can change. Attempting to import a restricted breed without prior clearance can result in the pet being held at the airport, quarantined, or returned to the origin country at the owner's expense. Parkview Pet Center can advise on the current status of specific breeds and whether any alternative arrangements exist. Contact the clinic before making any travel plans or airline bookings.

Note about cats: Qatar's restricted breed list applies to dogs only. No cat breeds are banned or restricted from entering Qatar. Cats of all breeds — including Persians, Siamese, and mixed breeds — are eligible for import provided standard documentation (import permit, health certificate, microchip, vaccinations) is in order.

Breeds That Face Airline Restrictions (Different from Banned)

It is important to distinguish between breeds banned by the Qatar government and breeds restricted by airlines for safety reasons. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds — French Bulldogs, Pugs, English Bulldogs, Persian cats — are not banned from entering Qatar, but many airlines restrict or refuse to transport them due to respiratory risks during air travel. These are entirely separate issues: a French Bulldog is legally welcome in Qatar but may struggle to find an airline willing to fly it, particularly during summer months.