I recently returned from a massive journey through one of the most welcoming places for four-legged friends. You might wonder, is germany a dog friendly country? The answer is a loud and happy yes. Dogs are a normal part of life here. I saw them in shops, on trains, and even at work with their owners. It is truly a dream for anyone who loves to travel with a pet.
Germany combines order and freedom in a way that makes dog friendly european cities seem easy to find. However, you must know that the locals expect very high standards of behavior. Most people take their dogs to behavior classes. If you plan a trip, your pup should be well-behaved and calm.
First of all, I want to talk about how you can get there. You might ask, can i take my dog to germany from far away? Yes, you can, but you must follow strict rules. If you come from a country outside the European Union, like the United States, you need an ISO-compatible microchip.
You also need a valid rabies vaccination that was given after the microchip was put in. Additionally, you must get a trilingual EU health certificate within ten days of your departure. For travelers from within the EU, the process is simpler with a pet passport. Just remember that no more than five animals can come with you at once.
Traveling Across the Country
Public transportation is where this country shines. I believe it is the easiest european country to bring a dog because of the trains. The Deutsche Bahn dog policy is very clear and fair. Small pets, about the size of a domestic cat, can travel for free if they stay in a carrier. Larger dogs are a bit different. They must be on a leash and wear a muzzle at all times on the train.
On top of that, you must buy a Deutsche Bahn dog ticket for larger pups. They usually charge half the price of a regular adult ticket. When you book your ticket online or at a machine, do not look for a “dog” button. You should enter the German word “Hund” instead of a passenger name.
Similarly, local transport like the U-Bahn and S-Bahn in cities like Berlin is very accommodating. In Berlin, if you buy a day ticket for yourself, you can often bring your dog for free. However, if you only have a single trip ticket, you might need a reduced-fare ticket for a large dog. Do not let your dog sit on the seats. This is a big rule for etiquette.
The Best Dog Friendly Cities in Germany
I spent weeks exploring various urban centers to find the most dog friendly cities in germany. Each city has its own vibe and specific rules.
1. Berlin: The Dog Capital
Berlin is massive and full of green spaces. It is easily one of the best dog friendly cities in germany. I loved taking my pup to Tiergarten, which is a huge historic park in the center of the city. There are wide paths and plenty of room to walk. Additionally, the Grunewald Forest has a special lake where dogs can swim and off-leash zones for running.
If you get hungry, finding dog-friendly restaurants Berlin is a breeze. I visited Café Einstein Stammhaus, where they let dogs sit both inside and outside. It is quite rare to find a place that says no, except for grocery stores and bakeries. Speaking of which, most German bakeries have a sign that says, “I must remain outside”.
You might even find a museum with dog berlin if your pup is small enough to be carried. Some smaller museums allow this during quiet times. For a place to stay, I recommend the 25hours Hotel Bikini Berlin. It is very hip and warmly welcomes canine guests. Do not forget that Berlin has a dog tax of 120 Euro per year for residents.
2. Munich: Bavarian Beauty
Munich is located in the south and offers a very high quality of life for pets. The English Garden is one of the largest urban parks in the world. Dogs are welcome there on a leash. I saw so many locals enjoying the sun with their pets.
On top of that, the famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall is dog-friendly. They even brought a water bowl for a dog at the next table. Similarly, Prinz Myshkin is an elegant vegetarian spot that has plenty of room for pets. If you need a hotel, the Vienna House Easy by Wyndham München is great. They even provide amenities like a sauna and fitness room for the humans.
Munich is strict about “fighting dogs,” though. The dog tax for a regular dog is 100 Euro, but dangerous breeds can cost up to 800 Euro. Always check the local breed list before you visit.
3. Hamburg: Maritime Charm
Hamburg is a fantastic city for pet lovers. It is very green and has many parks. I highly recommend a visit to the Elbstrand, which is a beach along the Elbe River. It is a favorite spot for local dog owners. Most restaurants and cafes allow you to bring your furry friend inside so you do not have to freeze.
However, Hamburg has a mandatory leash law. You can only let your dog off the leash in marked areas called “Hundeauslaufzonen”. The city is very kind and provides free waste bags tied to trees and fences. You can also ask for them at drugstores like Budnikowsky’s.
If you are looking for a hotel, the Mövenpick Hotel is situated right in the middle of Schanzenpark. This makes morning walks incredibly easy. The dog tax here is 90 Euro for the first dog.
4. Wolfsburg and the Unexpected Gems
When I checked the dog friendly cities in germany reddit threads, I was surprised to see Wolfsburg at the top of some lists. Statistics show that Wolfsburg is actually the most pet-friendly city for renters. About 26 percent of all apartment ads there explicitly allow pets.
On the contrary, major metropolises like Hamburg and Munich are much harder for finding a home. Only 5 percent of ads in Hamburg and 7 percent in Munich say pets are allowed. Other friendly cities include Halle at 22 percent and Ulm at 20 percent.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
Germany is not just about cities. The nature here is breathtaking. I believe the Black Forest is a paradise for dog owners. There are so many well-marked trails with shady forests and refreshing streams.
Hiking in the Black Forest
First of all, you should try the Todtnau Waterfall Circular Trail. It is only 4.5 kilometers long and very easy for most dogs. It has 4.5 out of 5 stars for being dog-friendly. Later, you might want a bigger challenge like the Wutach Gorge. This hike is 14 kilometers long and has wet, slippery ground. It feels like a natural air conditioner on hot days.
Additionally, dogs can swim in certain parts of Lake Titisee and Schluchsee. The south bank of Titisee is perfect for a cool-down after a long hike. Plus, many hotels in the region, like the Waldhotel am Notschreipass, offer special dog wellness packages.
The Rhine River and Castles
I also took a cruise along the Rhine River. We used KD Cruises for a trip between St. Goar and Bingen. They allow dogs on their scheduled trips for a small fee of 3.90 Euro. It was so relaxing to see the castles and vineyards from the water.
Speaking of castles, you must visit Neuschwanstein in Bavaria. Though dogs cannot go inside for the guided tours, they are allowed on the grounds. The view from Marienbrücke is iconic and perfect for a photo with your pup. Similarly, Sanssouci Park in Potsdam allows dogs to wander the beautiful gardens for hours.
Understanding the Rules and Taxes
Germany is very structured. You must follow the rules to avoid big fines.
The Dog Tax (Hundesteuer) Every resident owner must pay an annual dog tax. This money helps keep the cities clean and regulates the number of dogs.
- Berlin: 120 Euro.
- Hamburg: 90 Euro.
- Munich: 100 Euro.
- Cologne: 156 Euro. You must register your dog at the local tax office within two to four weeks of moving or getting the dog.
Leash and Muzzle Rules Most states have strict laws about where dogs must be leashed. In North Rhine-Westphalia, for example, you must use a leash in pedestrian zones, public buildings, and parks. Large dogs (over 40 cm tall or 20 kg) have even more rules. They must be leashed in all built-up areas.
Dangerous Breeds Germany has a federal ban on importing certain breeds like Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers. Some states have their own lists of “dangerous” dogs. For example, Baden-Württemberg includes the Bullmastiff and Mastiff. If you own one of these breeds, you might need a special permit, liability insurance, and a muzzle for the dog in public.
Daily Life with Your Dog
I found that daily errands are much more fun with a pet here.
Shopping Most shopping malls allow dogs. I saw people walking through department stores with their pups all the time. However, stay away from supermarkets. They have a very clear “no dogs” sign at the door. You will often see a “Hundeparkplatz” outside where dogs can wait on a leash.
Dining Is germany dog friendly in restaurants? Absolutely. Most cafes and traditional beer halls welcome dogs inside. They might even offer your pet a treat or a bowl of water. I always look for a sign at the door first. If you are not sure, just ask politely.
Veterinary Care The vet system here is very professional. Many vets speak English, especially in big cities. If you have an emergency, look for the “Notdienst” or an on-call vet. I suggest keeping your pet’s vaccination booklet, known as the “Impfpass,” with you at all times.
Helpful Tips for Your Journey
If you are planning to visit the dog friendly places in germany, here is a quick list of things to remember:
- Pack Poop Bags: You must pick up after your dog or face a fine. Many cities provide them for free, but it is better to have your own.
- Get Insurance: Many states require Hundehaftpflichtversicherung (liability insurance). It covers damage your dog might cause.
- Microchip and Register: Your dog must be microchipped and registered with the local town hall.
- Carry Water: Always bring fresh water on hikes so your dog does not drink salt water or dirty puddles.
- Respect Others: Not everyone loves dogs, so keep your pup under control in crowded areas like Christmas markets.
Germany is a place where dogs are truly part of the family. Whether you are wandering the streets of Dresden or hiking through the Hainich Forest, your pup will have a great time. The infrastructure is built to support a life with pets.
Finally, I want to say that a trip here requires a bit of planning but offers a massive reward. You get to see beautiful history and nature without leaving your best friend behind. The sight of a well-trained dog sitting calmly under a table in a busy cafe is the perfect image of German pet culture.
Traveling with a dog in Germany is like having a VIP pass to the heart of Europe. It opens doors to conversations with locals and forces you to find the most beautiful green corners of every city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most dog-friendly city in Germany?
The answer depends on what you need. If you are looking for a place to rent, Wolfsburg is the winner. Statistical data shows that 26 percent of apartment ads there allow pets. However, for travelers, Berlin is often called the dog capital because it is so welcoming in public life. On top of that, Halle and Ulm are also very high on the list for friendly landlords.
Where to visit in Germany with a dog?
You have so many amazing choices. First of all, you should visit Sanssouci Park in Potsdam for beautiful gardens. Similarly, a cruise along the Rhine River between St. Goar and Bingen is a great treat for you and your pup. Later, you can see the famous East Side Gallery in Berlin to look at street art. If you love history, the medieval streets of Quedlinburg are perfect for a long walk.
Is Germany a dog-friendly country?
Yes, it is definitely one of the most dog friendly cities in germany and Europe. Dogs are a normal part of society and even go to work with their owners sometimes. People here have a deep respect for animal welfare. Additionally, the infrastructure for public transport makes travel very easy.
Is Munich pet friendly?
Munich is very welcoming. In fact, 71 percent of hotels in Munich allow pets. You can walk your dog in the famous English Garden, which is one of the largest parks in the world. Plus, iconic spots like the Hofbräuhaus beer hall will often bring your dog a bowl of water.
Is Berlin dog friendly?
Berlin is a paradise for pups. About 64 percent of its hotels are pet-friendly. The city has massive green spaces like Tiergarten and the Grunewald Forest, which even has a dog swimming lake. You can also take your dog on the U-Bahn and S-Bahn easily.
How to avoid dog tax in Germany?
You cannot simply ignore the tax, but some dogs are exempt. Assistance dogs, such as guide dogs or therapy dogs, are often tax-free. Service dogs for the police and some shelter dogs might also get a pass. Additionally, some people register a second residence in a town where the tax is lower or does not exist, but you must follow local laws.
Can I bring my dog if I move to Germany?
Yes, you can bring your dog when you relocate. You must ensure the dog is microchipped and has a valid rabies vaccination. You will also need a trilingual EU health certificate if you come from outside the EU. Once you arrive, you must register your dog at the local town hall and pay the Hundesteuer.
Are dogs allowed to bark in Germany?
The law says you must supervise your dog so they do not cause a danger to others. If a dog barks too much in a rental home, a judge might have to decide who has the bigger need: the owner who wants the dog or the neighbor who wants peace. High standards of behavior are expected from every pet.
Concluding Words
Germany is a top destination for anyone who wants to travel with a pet. From the rental-friendly streets of Wolfsburg to the park-filled landscape of Berlin, the country offers a high quality of life for animals. You must follow the rules for Deutsche Bahn, pay your dog tax, and keep your pup well-trained.
Whether you are hiking in the Black Forest or visiting a beer hall in Munich, your dog is seen as a member of the family. It is truly a place where structure and freedom meet for four-legged friends.
