Germany Dog Restrictions

If you are PCS'ing to Germany, a dangerous dog ordinance has been instituted. Dangerous dogs include those that have bitten or otherwise shown aggressive behavior towards people, those that chase game, or those that display an abnormal readiness to fight or attack other dogs. Breeds prohibited under all circumstances include: Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the Bull Terrier.

For the most current list of dogs considered dangerous by Germany for import, visit Germany Restrictions on Dangerous Dogs web site. American service members moving to Germany must comply with this new ordinance and should be aware of the following requirements:

• The owner must register the dog with the community military Veterinary Treatment Facility (VTF) within two weeks of arriving in country. The VTF will report the arrival of the dog to German authorities.
• The dog may be required to take a temperament test administered by German authorities at the owner's expense (currently DM 300, approximately $150).
• The dog must be on a leash at all times and must be walked by a trustworthy person who is at least 18 years old.
• The dog must be muzzled outside the owner's property unless it is on a closed U.S. military installation. The muzzle requirement will be waived if the dog passes the temperament test (except in the city of Mannheim).
• The owner will receive a certificate stating the dog has passed the temperament test. This certificate must be in the possession of the adult who is walking the dog in public.
• Americans PCS'ing to Germany should seriously consider these requirements and consequences of bringing a dangerous dog into the country.