Listed dogs in Hesse

Breed list in Hesse

Special rules apply to these breeds in Hesse. That says something about the breed, not about your dog.

What applies in Hesse

Law

Gefahrenabwehrverordnung über das Halten und Führen von Hunden (HundeVO) vom 22. Januar 2003 ↗

Crossbreeds and mixed breeds

Crossbreeds with each other or with other dogs are also presumed to be dangerous (§ 2 para. 1). From the second generation onwards, according to the Verwaltungsvorschrift (administrative regulation), the authority must prove the defining characteristics.

Temperament test

A positive temperament test is a requirement for the permit, mandatory only from 15 months (§ 4 para. 4). It exempts the dog from the lead requirement (§ 9). Exemption from the permit requirement possible after passing the Begleithundprüfung (companion dog test) (§ 3a para. 2).

Permit

Yes, permit from the örtliche Ordnungsbehörde (local public order authority) (§ 1), limited to no more than four years; for listed breeds, according to the information sheet, initially two years.

Proof of competence

Yes, certificate of competence from a designated body, only valid for the tested dog (§ 6).

For all dog owners

No general dog licence (dog owner's certificate) in the HundeVO (dog ordinance); proof of competence only for keepers of dangerous dogs.

Reliability and age

Minimum age 18, reliability with Führungszeugnis (certificate of good conduct) (§§ 3, 5).

Liability insurance

For dangerous dogs, a requirement for the permit (§ 3 para. 1), according to a municipal information sheet at least €500,000 cover. The HundeVO does not contain a requirement for all dogs.

Lead

Outside enclosed private property, a lead of no more than 2 m; dogs with a positive temperament test are exempt (§ 9). The authority can still order a lead.

Muzzle

No general muzzle requirement found in the HundeVO; the authority can order bite protection even after a positive temperament test (§ 9 para. 3).

Out and about, banned places

All dogs on a lead at public gatherings, markets, events, in restaurants and pubs and on public transport (§ 9 para. 2). Dangerous dogs outside the property or flat on a lead of no more than 2 m, except after a positive temperament test.

Who may walk the dog

Only persons aged 18 or over with competence, reliability and physical and mental suitability. Walk dangerous dogs only one at a time. Carry the permit; anyone who is not the keeper must also carry the certificate of competence (§ 8).

Reporting duties

Report within one week: acquisition, handing over or giving up keeping with names and addresses, moving into or out of the area, moving house, loss or death (§ 15 para. 4). Report suspected dangerousness without delay; inform acquirers of the dog's dangerousness.

Moving, holidays and visits

Applies to dogs kept in Hesse (§ 17). Proof of competence from other states can be recognised. For stays of up to four weeks, no proof of competence is required if the dog wears bite protection (§ 4 para. 5). Report moving there within one week.

Marking on the dog

Outside, all dogs wear a collar or chest harness with the keeper's name and address (§ 1 para. 2). Dangerous dogs additionally a chip and the warning sign „Vorsicht Hund!“ (Beware of the dog!) at all entrances, except after a positive temperament test (§§ 10, 12).

Microchip and register

Electronically readable chip for dangerous dogs, implanted by a vet (§ 12); the chip number is stated in the permit. Register: unknown, no information found online.

Bans

Reproduction, trade, acquisition and handing over of dangerous dogs without a positive temperament test are prohibited, animal shelters excepted (§ 13). The HundeVO does not contain a neutering requirement.

Tax

Proof of paid dog tax is a requirement for the permit (§ 3 HundeVO).

Notes

Hesse has only one list with nine breeds and no categories. Without a positive temperament test, there is no permit.

Dog tax in Hesse

• Frankfurt am Main€900 listed dog
• Wiesbadennot higher
• Kasselnot higher
• Darmstadt€600 listed dog

All states compared →

Frequently asked questions