I remember the first day I stepped off the plane with my dog in this beautiful city. You might feel a mix of nerves and excitement when you plan a move or a long vacation here. First of all, I want to share that Germany is an extremely welcoming culture for pets. You will see dogs in places you might not expect back home. Pet Friendly Stuttgart is not just a catchphrase; it is a way of life for the locals here. I have spent a lot of time navigating the streets, parks, and cafes with my furry best friend. Additionally, I have learned all the rules you need to know to stay out of trouble. This guide will help you understand how to navigate life in this city with your canine companion.
Is Germany a Dog Friendly Country?
You might wonder, is germany dog friendly? My experience says a loud yes. The country has a high concentration of animal lovers and plenty of legislation to ensure pet welfare. Is germany a dog friendly country by international standards? It certainly is, though the rules are quite strict. Plus, you will find that a thrive-ing dog community exists here. Similarly, if you are asking is frankfurt dog friendly, you will find that most major German cities share this positive attitude toward animals.
However, you must be aware that Germans expect a high level of obedience training from pets. People often expect a dog to be as quiet and self-disciplined as a very well-behaved child. An out-of-control pet is looked down upon in this country. Therefore, you should ensure your dog is ready for public life. On top of that, there are specific laws about which breeds can enter the country. Certain breeds like Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers are completely banned from entering Germany. If you try to import them, you could face huge fines or even imprisonment.
Moving Your Dog to Stuttgart
The move process can be stressful if you do not prepare. First of all, your pet must be at least 15 weeks old to enter Germany. This age limit exists because a puppy needs a rabies vaccine at 12 weeks, and then you must wait 21 days for the immunity to build up. Additionally, your dog must have a microchip that conforms to ISO standards. I made sure my vet used the correct chip before we left. If your chip is not the right kind, you might have to bring your own reader to the airport.
Gradually, you will need to gather all the paperwork. If you are coming from a non-EU country, you need an Animal Health Certificate. This document is valid for only ten days after a vet signs it, so timing is everything. Later, you might also need a blood titer test depending on your country of origin. The whole process to move a dog can cost between 1,500 and 2,500 euros when you include the flight and documents. I once heard of a couple who paid 2,220 euros to bring their French Bulldog from Brazil.
Finding a Place to Stay
When you look for a home, you must be honest with landlords. Pet friendly apartments stuttgart germany can be found, but you need approval before you sign a lease. Some landlords even ask to meet your dog first. At that time, I used websites like Housing Anywhere or HOMES.mil to find vetted rentals.
Pet friendly houses for rent stuttgart ar are sometimes what people search for by mistake when they want Germany. Do not get confused with the city in Arkansas if you are looking for a European adventure. Similarly, pet friendly hotels in stuttgart arkansas will not help you if you land at the Stuttgart International Airport in Baden-Württemberg. For a real stuttgart pet hotel experience in Germany, I recommend the TOP VCH Hotel Wartburg. They allow dogs for an extra charge of 15 euros per night. However, they only welcome dogs up to 11 lbs and you cannot leave them unattended in the room. Another great option is the Vienna House Easy, which offers apartments with fully equipped kitchens.
Navigating the City Streets
You will love how easy it is to get around with a dog. Dog friendly stuttgart means your pup can join you on the U-Bahn, S-Bahn, and buses. Small pets in a carrier usually ride for free. On the contrary, if your dog is larger than a house cat, you must buy a child’s ticket for them. I always keep a muzzle in my bag because some transport providers require them for larger dogs.
Additionally, you must follow the leash laws. In Stuttgart, you must use a leash in pedestrian zones, crowds, and at public transport stops. Though you can let dogs off the leash in some residential areas or woods, they must obey your commands instantly. Plus, you must always pick up after your pet. If you fail to scoop the poop, you might face a very large fine. Most parks have stands with free plastic bags, but I always carry my own just in case.
Dining Out with Your Dog
One of my favorite things about this city is the restaurant culture. Most restaurants and cafes allow well-behaved dogs inside. If a place does not allow dogs, they will usually have a sign that says, “Wir müssen leider draussen warten”. This translates to “Unfortunately, we must wait outside.” I have visited several spots where the staff immediately brought a bowl of water for my dog.
Gradually, you will find your favorite spots. The Café Gottlieb in Bad Cannstatt is famous for being super dog-friendly and often has treats ready. If you want a more fancy experience, Wielandshöhe and Speisemeisterei are top-rated restaurants that allow dogs. Similarly, Der Zauberlehrling offers a gourmet menu and a magic atmosphere where your pup is welcome. Finally, for a rustic vibe, you can try Spelunkerei, which serves local Swabian classics like Maultaschen.
Shopping with Your Furry Friend
You can take your dog to many pet friendly stores and malls like the Milaneo. However, you must remember one major rule. Dogs are strictly forbidden in grocery stores, bakeries, and butcher shops where fresh food is sold. I usually plan my grocery trips when my dog can stay at home.
On top of that, you should visit the Kölle Zoo. It is a huge shop in Stuttgart where you can find all your pet supply needs and even see some animals. If you need a new leash or a specific type of food, this is the place to go. Therefore, you do not have to worry about finding high-quality supplies for your best friend.
Exploring Parks and Nature
Stuttgart is a very green city with a lot of space for exercise. According to the DogPack app, there are 238 dog-friendly parks in the city. I was amazed to find that there are 223 dog-friendly hiking trails as well. If you want your dog to run free, there are 17 off-leash parks and 8 fenced dog parks across the area.
First of all, you should check out the military installations. If you have access, Patch Barracks has a large wooded enclosure, though it can get quite muddy. Kelley Barracks offers a grassy area with nice shade trees. Later, you might want to venture outside the city. I highly recommend a hike up to Fortress Hohenurach in Bad Urach. It is about a 45-minute drive from Stuttgart. The hike is only about 1.3 miles long one way, but it is very steep. The view from the ruins at the top is worth the effort for both humans and dogs. Plus, you can find a beautiful waterfall only a mile away from the ruins.
Caring for Your Pet’s Health
Finding a good vet is simple here. The city has many high-quality clinics, and many German veterinarians speak English. You can recognize a vet office by a sign with a snake wrapped around a staff inside a large “V”. For routine exams, I have used the Kleintierpraxis Möhringen. Similarly, if you have an emergency on the weekend, the local clinics rotate being on-call. You can call a central number to find out which one is open.
Gradually, you might need a pet sitter. If you go on a trip where you cannot bring your dog, Pawshake is a great resource. You can find over 1,000 trusted sitters in Germany. I found several sitters in Stuttgart like Anna, who charges about 30 euros per day, or Emily, who charges 15 euros. These sitters often provide home-style care, which is much less stressful than a large stuttgart pet hotel. They will even send you photo updates of your dog’s adventures.
Understanding Local Responsibilities
You must handle some bureaucracy if you live here. All dog owners must pay a special tax called “Hundesteuer”. As of 2019, this tax in Stuttgart was 108 euros for the first dog and 216 euros for each additional dog. Service animals or rescue dogs might get a lower rate. Additionally, you should get pet liability insurance. In Germany, you are fully responsible for any damage your dog causes, even if it is an accident like causing a cyclist to crash. This insurance usually costs about 80 euros a year and is a very smart investment.
Finally, you should register your dog with TASSO. It is a free service that helps find lost pets through their microchip number. If you reside off-post, you must also register your pet at the local city hall or Rathaus. These steps might seem like a lot of work. However, they ensure that you and your dog can enjoy everything the city has to offer without any stress.
Daily Life and Habits
You will find that life with a dog in Stuttgart follows a nice rhythm. Most people walk their dogs early in the morning and late in the evening. Though the city is busy, there is always a quiet corner or a park nearby. I have noticed that the standard for dog behavior is very high. Dogs are expected to stay calm even when children or other animals pass by. If your dog has a barking problem, you might want to hire a trainer, as excessive barking can lead to fines.
Gradually, you will become a part of the local dog community. There are several groups like Pups of Stuttgart where you can connect with other owners. Similarly, you can join a local dog club for obedience training. These clubs are a great way to meet people and help your dog adjust to the high standards of German life. Plus, many club members speak English, so you will feel right at home.
Preparing to Leave
If your time in Germany comes to an end, you need to plan your departure months in advance. First of all, do not let your dog’s rabies vaccine expire. You will need a health certificate signed within ten days of your arrival in the U.S. or your next destination. Additionally, you must clear your account with the local vet and ensure all records are in order.
Gradually, you will need to book a pet-friendly flight. Each airline has different rules about crate sizes and whether dogs can fly in the cabin. I always recommend using a sturdy, leak-proof crate that is large enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in. Later, make sure you have all the tags with your emergency contact info attached to your dog’s collar. Finally, give your dog a light meal about six hours before the flight to avoid any tummy troubles on the plane.
FAQ
Is Stuttgart dog-friendly?
Yes, Stuttgart is very dog-friendly because it offers over 238 dog-friendly parks and 223 hiking trails for you to enjoy with your pet. Most local businesses and restaurants also allow well-behaved dogs inside their buildings.
Where to go in Germany with dogs?
You can take your dog to many cities like Berlin, Düsseldorf, and Frankfurt, which have a high number of pet-welcoming cafes and parks. For a nature trip, the ruins of Fortress Hohenurach near Stuttgart provide a great steep hike for active dogs.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Germany?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in restaurants and cafes by default unless a sign specifically says they must wait outside. You will find that many servers will even offer your dog a bowl of water.
Are trains in Germany dog friendly?
Yes, dogs are allowed on all forms of public transport, including S-Bahn, U-Bahn, and long-distance trains. Small dogs in carriers usually ride for free, while larger dogs require a child’s ticket and must be leashed.
Where can I take my dog in Germany?
You can take your dog to most stores, malls, restaurants, and public parks. However, dogs are strictly forbidden in grocery stores, bakeries, and butcher shops.
How long can you leave dogs alone in Germany?
In Germany, it is technically illegal to leave a dog alone for more than five hours. You should plan for a dog sitter if you work a full eight-hour day.
Why are dogs in Germany so well behaved?
Dogs in Germany are well-behaved because owners put them through extensive obedience training. German society expects pets to be as quiet and self-disciplined as a well-behaved child.
Concluding words
Stuttgart is a premier destination for pet owners who want to travel or live with their dogs. The city provides hundreds of parks and trails, easy access to public transport, and a culture that welcomes dogs into most public spaces.
To succeed here, you must follow strict rules regarding taxes, insurance, and high standards of behavior. By preparing your documents and training your dog well, you can enjoy a rewarding and stress-free experience in this beautiful German city.
