Raising Pets in Germany

LEE SOOYEON

             Many of you might know that there are strict rules for pet raisers in some countries. In Korea, many people argue that Korea has no strict rules to be responsible of their pets, which ends up with people who treat their pets as something they can throw away anytime. The most well-known country with good and strict strong rules for raising pets is Germany, and I would like to share them today.

Regardless of the breed, there are some rules every dog owner must follow:

1. Register your dog at the local Bürgeramt and pay the mandatory dog tax (“Hundesteuer”). You can calculate how much here.
2. Pick up their poop and follow local leash laws. For the latter there is some flexibility if you get the dog handler’s license (Hundeführerschein), which is the closest thing to a “TüV” for dog ownership.
3. Every owner is responsible for damages to persons or objects by their dog. It makes sense to get liability insurance (Hundehaftpflichtversicherung) to cover potential costs. You can sign-up for a dog liability insurance with Coya or Getsafe, all digital and 100% in English.

             In addition, there are strict regulations for importing Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Bull Terriers, and in some places Rottweilers. These breeds are considered SoKa “Sogenannter Kampfhund” or fighting dogs. Plus, always check if there is a sign at the front door of an establishment prohibiting dogs. They’re not allowed in supermarkets and many public buildings, but most restaurants, hotels, and cafes allow dogs.