Why does the dog licence exist?
Dogs are part of everyday life. They encounter other dogs, walkers, cyclists and children. It is therefore important that owners can recognise their dog’s behaviour and respond appropriately. A Hundeführerschein does not only assess whether a dog knows certain commands, but also whether the owner has sufficient knowledge to handle the dog safely. A dog licence can help increase awareness of dog behaviour, socialisation and responsible dog ownership. However, it does not guarantee that a dog will never display unwanted behaviour.
Is the Hundeführerschein compulsory in Germany?
Germany does not have a general nationwide requirement for all dog owners to obtain a Hundeführerschein. The rules differ by federal state. Some federal states impose competence requirements on dog owners. This is often referred to as a Sachkundenachweis, which is proof that the owner has sufficient knowledge of dogs. This is not always the same as a full Hundeführerschein with both a theory examination and a practical examination.
Lower Saxony: compulsory proof of competence for many dog owners
In the federal state of Lower Saxony, many new dog owners are legally required to demonstrate their competence. This competence assessment consists of a theory examination and a practical examination. In principle, the theory examination must be taken before acquiring the dog. The practical examination must generally take place within the first year after acquiring the dog. There are exceptions, for example for people who can demonstrate that they previously kept a dog for a certain period.
North Rhine-Westphalia: rules for large and certain other dogs
North Rhine-Westphalia does not have a general requirement for every dog owner to obtain a full dog licence. For certain dogs, however, the owner must be able to provide a Sachkundenachweis. This applies to dogs that reach a height at the withers of at least 40 centimetres or a weight of at least 20 kilograms when fully grown, among others. Additional competence requirements may also apply to certain dog breeds designated by law and dogs classified as dangerous. Requirements may also be imposed regarding the owner’s reliability and the way the dog is kept.
Other German federal states
Specific competence requirements may also apply in other federal states, for example to certain dog breeds or dogs classified as dangerous. Voluntary dog licences are also offered by canine organisations and dog training schools. It is therefore important to distinguish between a voluntary training certificate and legally required proof of competence.
What does the Hundeführerschein examination involve?
The precise content of the examination differs by organisation and federal state.
A theory examination covers subjects such as dog behaviour, body language, training, welfare, health and the responsibilities of an owner.
During the practical examination, the owner is assessed on whether they can handle the dog safely. This may include walking on a lead, passing other dogs, dealing with traffic and responding to unexpected situations.
The emphasis is on acting responsibly and keeping the dog under control, rather than solely on performing obedience commands perfectly.
What is the difference between a Hundeführerschein, Sachkundenachweis and Wesenstest?
These German terms are regularly confused, but they do not mean the same thing.
- A Hundeführerschein is generally an examination or certificate that assesses a combination of the owner’s knowledge and their practical handling of the dog.
- A Sachkundenachweis is proof of competence. It demonstrates that the owner has sufficient knowledge. Depending on the scheme, this may consist solely of a theory examination or may also include a practical section.
- A Wesenstest is a behaviour test that assesses the dog’s behaviour in different situations. Such a test may play a role, for example, for dogs that are subject to specific legal rules.
The type of proof required depends on the applicable legislation.
Do you need a Hundeführerschein in Germany as a tourist?
If you travel to Germany on holiday with your dog, you do not automatically need to obtain a German Hundeführerschein.
Requirements for proof of competence are generally linked to keeping a dog under the rules of the relevant federal state. Different provisions may apply to tourists.
You must still take local regulations into account, such as requirements to use a lead, rules on muzzles and possible restrictions for certain dogs.
Check the rules at your destination in advance, particularly if you are staying in Germany for an extended period or travelling with a dog that may be subject to additional regulations.
Does the Netherlands also have a dog licence?
The Netherlands does not have a generally compulsory dog licence for every dog owner.
There are various courses and examinations that allow owners to improve their knowledge and skills. These include puppy courses, obedience training and certificates from canine associations or dog training schools. Local authorities can also impose measures in specific situations when a dog displays dangerous behaviour. However, there is no general nationwide requirement to take a dog examination in advance. A dog training course can be valuable even when it is not legally required. You learn to understand your dog’s behaviour better and practise how to act calmly and safely in everyday situations.
Is there anything comparable in other European countries?
Outside Germany, there are also schemes focused on the knowledge and responsibilities of dog owners. However, their implementation differs considerably by country.
