Introducing Bremen's Dog License: A Guide for Future Pet Owners 🐾🦮
Senate of Bremen enacts a novel regulation for pet dogs' custody
Gear up, pet lovers! Bremen is stepping up its game when it comes to dog safety and responsible pet keeping. As of July 1, 2026, a new dog license requirement is set to be introduced, ensuring our faithful canine companions receive the love and care they deserve.
Interior Senator Ulrich Maurer spoke on the matter, emphasizing that while dogs make wonderful companions, they also bring a significant responsibility. "In most cases, dog owners fulfill this responsibility responsibly. However, there are instances where dogs aren't kept or trained properly, which can pose a risk to humans and animals." Indeed, between 2021 and 2023, Bremen registered a total of 150 dog biting incidents resulting in injuries.
What's the Deal with the Dog License? 🎓🦮
Currently, Bremen's law on dog keeping simply states that the local police authority may require a proficiency certificate if they suspect a owner lacks the necessary skills (§ 4: Restriction and prohibition of dog keeping). Starting July 1, 2026, this proficiency test will become mandatory for all future dog owners – both theory and practice.
The theoretical examination should be taken before you bring home your new furry friend, while the practical examination will need to be completed within a year of bringing the dog home. However, if you've already owned at least two dogs for a combined total of two years in the past five years and have already passed the theoretical proficiency test, you'll only need to take the practical examination with your new dog.
Dangerous Dogs and the Two-Year Transition Period 🐺🔒
For dog owners who currently own dangerous dogs, a two-year transition period will be granted. These owners will need to complete the proficiency test (both theory and practice) within this period. All other dog owners who already own a pet need not worry; you will not need to take the test again. This exemption applies to veterinarians, individuals who have taken a test for hunting dogs, and guide dog keepers.
More Than Just a Test: Regulatory Innovations in Bremen 📜🦮
Along with the dog license requirement, the amendment to the law brings other regulatory innovations:
- Identification and Registration Obligation: In the future, all dogs will need to be clearly identified by a microchip and registered in a permanent register.
- Liability Insurance Obligation: Dog owners will be required to take out liability insurance for their pets, covering at least 500,000 euros for personal injury and 250,000 euros for property damage.
- Permit Requirement for Dangerous Dogs: Dogs classified as dangerous can only be kept with official permission.
Controversial Breed Lists and the Path Forward 🐶💪
The law was developed in collaboration with various institutions, including animal welfare organizations, the Bremen Chamber of Veterinarians, and the German Kennel Club. While most changes gained widespread support, the retention of the breed list was a contentious issue. Scientific research suggests that a dog's potential danger isn't solely determined by its breed.
Maurer provides a differentiated solution: "The breed list will initially remain in place, but we will continuously review its effectiveness. Our goal is to create a practical and scientifically sound regulatory framework." The Bremen Parliament is expected to discuss the dog law amendment in its next session.
So there you have it! With clear rules for responsible dog keeping and the new proficiency test to ensure future dog owners are well-prepared, it's an exciting time for pet lovers in Bremen. Embrace the change, and let's take the first step towards safer, happier coexistence with our beloved canine companions! 🐾❤️🦮
- The new policy-and-legislation in Bremen, concerning dog keeping, includes a dog license requirement, which will be mandatory for all future pet owners starting July 1, 2026 (policy-and-legislation, politics).
- The amended law in Bremen also introduces a general-news obligation for dog owners to take out liability insurance, covering at least 500,000 euros for personal injury and 250,000 euros for property damage (general-news).
