Boppard. In spring, dogs must be kept on a leash in forests and fields. This requirement for dogs to be kept on a leash does not apply uniformly across the country in Germany, but is regulated differently in the individual federal states. In addition, municipalities and cities can issue their own regulations, which are often stricter. Dogs must always be on a leash in the open countryside, including forests, meadows, fields and bodies of water, during the specified period.
Leash requirement – why?
The leash requirement for dogs is a seasonal regulation in many regions of Germany, which usually lasts from March 1st to July 15th. This time is a particularly sensitive phase for many wild animals. They give birth to their offspring, and they are particularly in need of protection in the first few weeks. Free-roaming dogs can pose a significant danger to young animals and breeding birds as they can scare them away or even injure them.
Where does the regulation apply?
- In Lower Saxony There is a leash requirement in the open countryside from April 1st to July 15th.
- In Bremen During the closed season from March 15th to July 15th, leashes are required outside the built-up urban area.
- In Schleswig-Holstein There is a leash requirement in many urban communities and areas. In the forests, dogs must be kept on a leash all year round. There is also a ban on dogs on public beaches outside of designated dog beaches from April 1st to September 30th.
- In Saxony-Anhalt Dogs must be kept on a leash in forests, fields and adjacent public streets from March 1st to July 15th.
- From March 1st to June 30th, dogs must be kept inside Saarland must be kept on a leash in the wild unless he reliably does not leave the area of the path.
It is important to note that additional local regulations may be enacted by cities and municipalities. It is therefore advisable for dog owners to find out about the regulations on site. A violation can sometimes be punished with a fine of up to 5,000 euros. In their own interest and especially for the well-being of wild animals and birds, dog owners should observe this regulation and keep their dog on a leash or choose paths on which the dog is allowed to run freely. Even where the regulation is not mandatory, you should be considerate and keep your dog on a leash and make sure that it does not run into wooded areas and wild meadows. (Stefan Richter)