One of the most unexpected culture shocks Nigerians encounter in the United Kingdom has four legs and sometimes sleeps on the sofa. Pets, especially dogs and cats, are not just animals here, they are companions and often, for many Nigerians coming from a culture where animals are kept outdoors for practical purposes, this level of affection can be surprising, confusing, and at times amusing.
In the UK, pets are deeply integrated into everyday life. Dogs are walked daily, sometimes multiple times a day, regardless of the weather. Cats roam freely or curl up indoors, treated with the same care given to children. Nigerians often notice how people speak affectionately to their pets, celebrate their birthdays, and refer to themselves as “pet parents.” At first, it can feel excessive, especially for those who grew up seeing dogs as guards or cats as pest control.
One of the earliest shocks for many Nigerians is discovering that pets live indoors in the UK. Dogs sleep on beds, sit on couches, and share living spaces without restrictions. For someone raised in Nigeria, where animals are usually kept outside the house, this can feel uncomfortable. It raises questions about hygiene, boundaries, and cultural norms. Over time, however, many Nigerians in the UK begin to understand that indoor pets are carefully trained, groomed, and treated as companions rather than animals.
Pet-friendly infrastructure is another eye-opener. Parks often have designated dog-walking areas. Some cafés and shops welcome dogs, offering water bowls and treats. Public spaces include waste bins specifically for pet mess, and owners are expected to clean up after their animals. Failure to do so attracts fines and public disapproval. This level of responsibility reinforces how seriously pet ownership is taken here.
The financial aspect of pet ownership is also significant. Pet insurance is common and sometimes essential. Vet visits can be expensive, so many owners insure their pets the same way they insure their cars or homes. Grooming appointments, training classes, special food, and accessories add to the cost. Nigerians are often surprised to see how much people are willing to invest in their pets, sometimes prioritising their wellbeing in the same way they would a family member.
Beyond the practicalities, pets play a big role emotionally in British life. For many people, especially the elderly or those living alone, pets provide companionship and emotional support. Nigerians gradually notice how pets help combat loneliness, offer routine, and create a sense of purpose. Walking a dog becomes a social activity, opening doors to conversations with neighbours and strangers alike. And it can also offer a paid employment or volunteering opportunity to job seekers.
That said, adjustment takes time. Some Nigerians remain uncomfortable around pets, particularly dogs. Others slowly warm up, learning to appreciate their role in family life. Children raised in the UK adapt more quickly to pet culture, and sometimes creating humorous moments when Nigerian parents try to enforce traditional views that their children no longer understand.
Living in the UK teaches Nigerians that pet culture is not about replacing human relationships, but about companionship. It reflects a society that values care, routine, and emotional wellbeing. While it may feel strange at first, many immigrants eventually develop respect for the system, even if they never fully embrace indoor pets.
In the end, pets offer another lesson in cultural adaptation. They remind Nigerians in the diaspora that settling into a new country involves understanding not just people and systems, but the values that shape everyday life, even when those values come with paws, fur and wagging tails.
