Tag Archives: Germany

Walkies could become the law for German dog owners

Taking your dog for walks twice a day for at least an hour in total could soon become the law in Germany.

Image from GETTY. “Dachshunds would be among those benefiting from the legislation”
(Not sure why Dachshunds specifically will benefit but always good to see a sausage in the snow!)

There could also be a ban on keeping dogs chained for long periods.

Rules are also being devised to crack down on “puppy farms” by banning breeders from looking after more than three litters at any one time.

“Pets are not cuddly toys, their needs have to be taken into account,” Agriculture Minister Julia Klöckner said about the planned changes.

Under the planned rules, dog owners:

  • will have to take their dogs for walks twice a day for a minimum of one hour in total
  • will not be allowed to keep their dogs chained for long periods of time
  • will not be allowed to leave dogs alone the whole day

Breeders will be restricted to looking after a maximum of three litters and puppies will have to spend a minimum of four hours a day in human company to ensure they get socialised.

Ms Klöckner said the changes were based on expert advice to ensure animal protection and welfare.

For the full article click here to go to the BBC News website.