Comment on cycling with dog – what is allowed and what should you pay attention to? From with the dog in the running step: cycling correct

Spring is there, the temperatures rise, and many dog ​​owners want to enjoy their sporting activities together with the four -legged friend. Cycling is particularly popular – but can you even take the dog on the bike? And if so, under what conditions? In this guide we clarify the legal situation in Austria and Germany, give practical tips for equipment and training and show how a safe bike tour with a dog succeeds.

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Legal provisions in Austria

In Austria, the leash of animals on vehicles – and thus also on bicycles – is legally prohibited. The Road traffic regulations (StVO) §99 paragraph 3 lit. f said:

“Anyone who stops animals on a leash while driving or attaches to vehicles to let them run along, (…) commits administrative exceeding and is to be fined up to 726 euros.”

So -called “Dogrunner” – brackets with suspension, in which the dog runs next to the bike – are also under this ban.

🐶 Observe animal welfare

Regardless of the legal situation, animal welfare experts warn against binding dogs to moving bikes. The dog cannot determine its pace itself, has no way of sniffing or loosening. The even locomotion does not correspond to the natural behavior of a dog.

Conclusion cycling with dog in Ederchreich:

In Austria, driving a dog on the bike is not permitted by law. If you still want to be traveling together, you should fall back on safe alternatives such as bicycle trailers or hikes.

Legal regulation in Germany

In Germany, driving a dog on the bike is generally allowed. Loud Section 28 (1) StVO:

“Only dogs can be managed from bicycles.”

The prerequisite is that the dog is not dangerous to traffic and that you can safely control it at any time. If the THE Hund-Rad becomes a risk, legal consequences threaten-for example by the Animal Welfare Act or due to traffic disabilities.

🚴‍♂️ Tips for safe and animal -friendly cycling with dog in Germany

In order for the joint cycling to become a pleasure for both, preparation, training and suitable equipment are essential:

🛠️ 1. The right equipment

  • Breast harness instead of a collar: Prevents injuries and distributes the tensile force evenly.
  • Reflectors or warning vests: For better visibility – especially at dusk.
  • Side spacer: Keeps a safe distance between dog and bike.
  • Bicycle trailer: Ideal for small, old or tired dogs on longer distances.
  • Pfot care & paw protection: Dog shoes can protect on a rough surface.
  • Water & first aid set: Always have it with you – a folding bowl and a small supply of water are mandatory.

🗺️ 2. Plan the ideal route

  • Low -traffic paths prefer – e.g. B. forest and dirt roads.
  • Shady routes Select – asphalt saves heat and stresses the paws.
  • Plan water points – Small streams or lakes offer a welcome refreshment.
  • Use apps with dog filters – z. B. Komoot or Outdooractive offer dog -friendly route suggestions.

🧠 3. Training and getting used to

  • Slowly: First push the bike next to the leashed dog.
  • Security exercises: If the wheel stops, the dog should sit down. Only when that works will it go on the bike.
  • Practice linen guidance: The dog always runs on the side facing away from the traffic.

🐕 4. Check the dog's health and fitness

  • Only healthy, adult dogs may run along.
  • Never feed before the tour – This can lead to dangerous stomachs.
  • Slowly increase: Gradually increase route and speed.
  • Watch body language: If the tongue hangs out wide or if the dog runs unevenly, a break is necessary immediately.

🌞 5. Heat is taboo

  • Over 20 ° C? Then the dog stays better at home.
  • In the morning or in the evening Drive – not in the plump midday sun.
  • Warmth close to the ground – Dogs suffer faster from overheating than we do.

🔟 The 10 golden rules for cycling with dog

  1. Take many breaks, always keep an eye on dogs
  2. Take not too young, sick or old dogs
  3. Slowly increase mileage
  4. Do not drive in heat – dogs overheat quickly
  5. Offer water regularly or take breaks on the stream
  6. Avoid asphalt route
  7. Leave exhausted zones quickly
  8. Avoid heavily frequented bike paths
  9. Never wrap the steering wheel
  10. Dog never feed before the tour

📑 Legal addition: dog liability insurance

In Germany, dog liability insurance is mandatory in most federal states – but: Not all policies cover incidents when cycling. It is therefore necessary to clarify with your insurance before starting whether the protection also applies to bike tours with a dog.

✅ Conclusion: Cycling together – with responsibility for pleasure

While cycling with dogs in Germany is allowed under certain conditions, it generally prohibits the legal situation in Austria. But the following also applies to allowed cycling: Your dog's health and security have priority. With the right equipment, a well -trained dog and a sensible route plan, the next bike tour is in the way.