Are you planning a trip to Germany but don’t want to go without your four-legged friend? Germany is a fabulously pet-friendly country and if you want to travel with your pet to Germany, all you need to do is plan ahead and know the rules. Learn about these important regulations and helpful travel tips for you and your pet.
Vaccination and documentation is required to bring your pet to Germany
Germany is part of the EU pet travel program. This allows pets to travel without limits within the EU, as each pet has a passport with a vaccination record. Passports are available through licensed veterinarians and must contain details of a valid rabies vaccination.
You must present the following documents when entering Germany from outside the EU pet regime with your pet:
- Valid rabies vaccination (at least 30 days but no more than 12 months before entering Germany)
- Bilingual veterinary certificate (English / German)
- Your pet must be identified by a microchip (standard: ISO 11784 or ISO11785); your vet can do this, and it is not painful for the animal.
The EU pet passport is for dogs, cats and ferrets only. Other pets should check the relevant national regulations on the entry and exit of animals from the country.
You can download the required documents and get up-to-date and detailed information on the official website of the German Embassy.
Air travel with pets
Many airlines allow small pets in the passenger cabin (dogs under 10 pounds), while the largest pets are “Live Cargo” and will be shipped in the cargo hold. Make sure you get an airline approved kennel or crate for your furry friend and take the time to get them comfortable in the crate before leaving.
Notify your airline in advance about your pet and ask about their pet policy; Some airlines require an international health certificate. Airlines generally charge a fee for shipping a pet that ranges from $ 200-600. If money is not an issue and the paperwork seems intimidating, you can hire a company to ship your pet to you.
Traveling with dogs in Germany
Germany is a very dog-friendly country. They are allowed almost everywhere (besides grocery stores) with just the rare erlaubt Kein Hund (“No Dogs Allowed”). This is possible because most German dogs are very well behaved. They bow perfectly, listen to all orders and even stop before crossing the street. It is amazing to see it.
However, dog owners should be aware that the following breeds are considered dangerous by the government as Class 1:
- Pitbulls
- Staffordshire Bull Terriers
- American Staffordshire Terriers
- Or any dog mixed with the previous breeds
The rules vary from one federal state to another, but in general, these breeds are not allowed to stay longer in Germany than four weeks and must be silenced when in public. If they are allowed to stay, you will need to apply to the local authorities for a license and supply Haftpflichtversicherung (personal liability insurance). There are also class 2 dogs that face more lenient standards, but still require registration. This includes Rottweilers, American Bulldogs, Mastiffs. Check with local authorities about prohibited or restricted breeds and registration requirements.
Even dogs without muzzles should not be pets without asking. This is not culturally acceptable and you may get a short response from the owner and the dog.
Train travel with pets in Germany
Small and medium-sized dogs, which can travel in a cage or basket, can be carried for free on German trains, U-Bahn, trams and buses.
For larger dogs, you must buy a ticket (half price); For safety reasons, larger dogs also have to be on a leash and wear a muzzle.
Dogs in restaurants and hotels in Germany
Dogs are allowed in most hotels and restaurants in Germany. ; some hotels may charge you an extra for your dog (between 5 and 20 euros).
Adopting a pet in Germany
If you don’t bring a furry friend, you can make one in Germany. Adopting a pet is fairly easy to do in Germany, and they come with a passport and vaccination book.
