Dog Tax in Berlin
In Berlin, dog owners are required to pay a dog tax as a local expenditure tax. The tax liability arises from keeping dogs for private purposes. The tax rate is €120 for the first dog and €180 for each additional dog in the household. There are exemptions available, including for guide dogs for the blind, assistance dogs for people in need, and dogs that come from animal shelters or are owned by individuals receiving certain social benefits.
The registration must be submitted to the tax office within one month of acquiring a dog. Changes such as the loss or death of the dog must also be reported. The dog tax is assessed annually and is due quarterly, with the option for advance payment.
The law also regulates the data transmission between the central dog register and the tax office to ensure compliance with tax obligations. The Dog Tax Law in Berlin aims to secure the regulated taxation of dogs and contributes to public safety.
Additional forms and information about the dog tax can be found on the City of Berlin's website.
Warning About Poisoned Bait
Unfortunately, as a pet owner, you may find that there are individuals who intentionally want to harm your beloved four-legged friends. Poisoned bait is maliciously placed in popular dog areas in Berlin, which can have fatal consequences for the animals. However, as a responsible dog owner, you can take measures to minimize the risk:
In the past, the Berlin police operated a poisoned bait radar on Facebook, but it has not been updated since 2022. To stay informed, it's a good idea to join WhatsApp groups that share location-specific information for dog owners. The next time you're out walking your dog, ask other dog owners if they know of any such groups. Often, you can quickly get this information through a small talk.
Additionally, we came across a website that publishes current reports about poisoned bait. This site seems to provide timely updates, so we highly recommend it:
There are dog trainers in Berlin who specialize in the topic of poisoned bait. Especially in early dog training, it’s advisable to start this type of training early so that your dog doesn’t view everything on the ground as interesting. If you’re looking for a dog school or trainer to help protect your dog from picking up poisoned bait, then “Anti-Poison Bait Training” is the right keyword for you.
The signs of poisoning in a dog can vary and depend on the type of poison that was ingested. It is important to act quickly if you suspect your dog has eaten poisoned bait. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for:
- Vomiting and Diarrhea: Common and early signs that may sometimes be mixed with blood.
- Increased Salivation: Some poisons can lead to excessive drooling.
- Tremors or Seizures: Neurotoxins can cause muscle twitching, tremors, or even severe seizures.
- Lethargy or Weakness: A poisoned dog may appear unusually weak or have difficulty standing up.
- Breathing Problems: Difficulty breathing, rapid breathing, or even shortness of breath are serious symptoms.
- Behavioral Changes: Changes in behavior, such as aggression, anxiety, or confusion, may also indicate poisoning.
- Loss of Coordination: Stumbling or difficulty walking can signal neurological issues.
- Excessive Drinking or Urination: Some poisons can affect kidney function, leading to changes in drinking and urination habits.
- Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes (Jaundice): A sign of liver involvement.
Bleeding: Unusual bleeding or blood in urine/stool can occur, especially with rat poisons.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it is crucial to seek immediate help from a veterinarian or emergency clinic. Early detection and treatment are vital for your dog’s survival. Provide the vet with as much information as possible about the potential ingestion of poison and observed symptoms to facilitate quick and targeted treatment.
The Veterinary Chamber has provided a comprehensive list of emergency clinics, including those with a 24-hour emergency service. It is recommended to save the following link so that you can quickly access it in case of a life-threatening situation for your dog:
Emergency Veterinary Clinics – Veterinary Chamber Berlin
This direct access to important contact information can be crucial in an emergency and save valuable time.
The Public Order Office
Berlin has many beautiful green spaces that practically beg for your dog to have some off-leash fun. However, caution is advised! If these areas are not officially designated as off-leash zones, you risk a fine from the Public Order Office. The fine for violating the leash requirement can be up to €80, depending on the district. Therefore, it's wise to always pay attention to signs indicating an off-leash area. This way, you can ensure that you and your four-legged friend stay within legal boundaries and avoid unpleasant encounters with the Public Order Office.
Please be aware that authorities may classify a dog on a long leash as being off-leash.
Dogs Prohibited on Playgrounds
End of Off-Leash Area
Follow the Rules for Off-Leash Areas
Dogs on Public Transportation
Dogs are allowed on vehicles operated by the Berliner Verkehrsbetriebe (BVG) as long as they do not endanger the safety of other passengers. Small dogs, no larger than a house cat, can be transported for free on buses and trains if they are kept in enclosed carriers. Larger dogs must be on a leash and wear a muzzle, and a reduced-fare ticket is required for them. Holders of day tickets or small group day tickets can bring one dog at no additional cost. Guide dogs for the blind and assistance dogs for the disabled are always permitted, regardless of their size or whether they are in a carrier. The BVG reserves the right to decide on a case-by-case basis whether animals can be transported, to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers. Animals are not allowed on the seats.
Off-Leash Dog Walking in the Forest
In addition to numerous dog parks within the city, Berlin also offers many beautiful forest areas where dogs can run freely. Forest walks are not only beneficial for your dog but also a great way to give them ample exercise while enjoying nature.
We present to you some of the most popular forest areas in Berlin where you can let your dog run freely:
Located in the heart of Grunewald, this area offers many different forest paths and varied landscapes.
Highlights:
- Various difficulty levels of hiking trails
- Ideal for dogs who love to run and fetch
- Several lakes in the surrounding area
Directions:
By car: Take the A115 exit Wannsee, then head towards Grunewald. Parking is available at Hundekehlesee or Jagdschloss Grunewald.
By public transport: S-Bahn line 7, stop Grunewald
To preserve the quality of Grunewaldsee, it is advisable to familiarize yourself with the applicable rules for staying.
With its 73 hectares, it is the second largest dog run area in Berlin, offering plenty of space for your dog to run and play.
Highlights:
- The area features various forest paths, meadows, and a small lake.
- There are separate areas for large and small dogs.
- It is well connected by public transport (U-Bahn Line 7, Jungfernheide Station).
Directions:
- By car: Take A100 to the Spandau exit, then head towards Hakenfelde/Jungfernheide. Parking is available at Forsthaus Jungfernheide.
- By public transport: Take U-Bahn Line 7 to Jungfernheide Station.
Covering an area of 40 hectares, this area by Lake Stößensee invites dogs to run and swim.
Highlights:
- Large grassy areas, some lined with trees
- Several swimming options for dogs
- Cool and pleasant even in summer due to its location by the water
Directions:
- By car: A115 exit Spandau, then head towards Gatow/Pichelswerder, parking available at Stößensee
- By public transport: Bus 134, stop at Pichelswerder
Located in Pankow, this area offers open meadows and forest areas for your dog to romp around.
Highlights:
- Enclosed area for puppies and small dogs
- Agility course for exercise
- Quiet location, ideal for anxious dogs
Directions:
- By car: B109 exit Pankow, then direction Arkenberge, parking at the S-Bahn station Pankow-Heinersdorf
- By public transport: S-Bahn line 2, stop Pankow-Heinersdorf
With views of Lake Groß Glienicke, this area offers: Mixed forests and meadow areas
Highlights:
- There are separate areas for large and small dogs.
- Opportunity for swimming in the lake
- Beautiful location by the water
Directions:
- By Car: Take A115 exit Kladow, then head towards Groß Glienicke. Parking is available at Kladower See.
- By Public Transport: Take Bus 237 to the stop Kladower See.
- Teufelsbruch (Köpenick): A vast nature area with mixed forests and open spaces, ideal for letting your dog run freely and explore.
- Müggelberge (Köpenick): A scenic region with rolling hills and meadows, offering plenty of space for dogs to enjoy off-leash activities.
- Wuhlheide (Marzahn-Hellersdorf): A large park featuring diverse landscapes, including wooded areas and open meadows, perfect for energetic dogs.
- Dahlewitz (Teltow-Fläming): A spacious off-leash area with a mix of meadows and woodlands, providing an excellent environment for dogs to play and socialize.
Visiting Cafés in Berlin with Your Dog
If you’ve ever stayed in another European metropolis outside Berlin, you’ll appreciate how dog-friendly our city is. It’s rare for your beloved four-legged friend to not be welcome here.
Visiting Cafés with Your Dog:
In Berlin, you can generally expect that bringing your dog into a café is not a problem. In many cafés, dogs are even greeted with a water bowl at the entrance.
Tips for Visiting a Café with Your Dog:
- Choose a café with enough space for your dog to move around comfortably.
- Make sure your dog is kept on a leash and doesn't disturb other guests.
- Bring some treats to reward your dog.
- Ensure your dog has plenty of water.
Our Recommendations:
1st Never Ending Love Story (Bleibtreustr.)
- Cozy café with delicious breakfast and cakes, located at Savignyplatz. Dogs are welcome and even get their own water bowl.
- Opening hours: Monday to Sunday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Directions: S-Bahn Savignyplatz
2. time for bread
- Popular bakery with a large selection of breads, rolls, and cakes. Dogs are also welcome here.
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Saturday from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Sunday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Directions: U-Bahn Adenauerplatz (U7), Bus M19, M29
3rd Impala Café
- Hip café with excellent coffee and cakes. Dogs are welcome here.
- Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Saturday from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Sunday from 8:30 AM to 9:00 PM
- Directions: U-Bahn Nollendorfplatz (U1, U2, U3, U4), Bus M19
Other dog-friendly cafés in Berlin:
- Spreegold at Bikini Berlin
- The Future Breakfast in Neukölln
Tips from our community for dog services:
FAQ for Dog Owners in Berlin
The Grunewald offers not only an excellent dog exercise area but also houses the Grunewaldsee. With a surface area of around 175,000 m², the lake is the only official swimming spot for dogs in Berlin. On the southern shore of the lake, you will find the historic Grunewald Hunting Lodge, and nearby, a charming café invites you to relax.
In Berlin, certain dog breeds and their crossbreeds are classified as so-called list dogs, also known as dangerous dogs. This classification is based on the assumption that these breeds are potentially more dangerous than others. Regulations on listed dogs are subject to change, so it is important to check with the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date list. Traditionally, these lists include breeds such as:
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Pitbull Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Bull terrier
These regulations aim to ensure responsible ownership and manage the risks associated with these breeds.
If you do not promptly remove your dog's waste from public paths or green spaces, you are committing a regulatory offense. The responsible public order offices can impose a fine of €35 for this violation. In certain cases or for repeated offenses, a higher penalty may be imposed. It is important to be aware of your responsibilities as a dog owner and to contribute to cleanliness and hygiene in public spaces.
In Berlin, while the dog owner’s license is not mandatory, it offers an attractive option for dog owners. By voluntarily completing this exam, you can be exempted from the general leash requirement that has been in effect since January 1, 2019. This means you can walk your dog off-leash in Berlin's city areas, provided you can prove your expertise. This expertise is certified by the dog owner’s license. Long-time dog owners also have the option to apply for a certificate of competence without having to take the exam.
If you're looking for reliable dog care in Berlin, there are numerous ways to find the perfect dog sitter for your four-legged friend. One of the best places to start is the platform Petbnb. Here you can search for dog sitters in your area using your zip code and choose from a large number of experienced and certified dog sitters.
Petbnb offers you:
- Individual search filtersSearch specifically for dog sitters who meet your particular needs, e.g. types of care such as day care or overnight care.
- Testimonials and ratingsRead reviews from other dog owners to make sure your dog is in good hands.
- Veterinary costs guarantee: Petbnb offers a Veterinary costs guaranteewhich covers the veterinary costs incurred in an emergency if something happens to your dog during care. So you can take advantage of the care with a good feeling and know that your dog is covered even in unexpected situations.
- Direct bookingContact dog sitters easily and book care directly via the platform.
Whether for a short day trip or a longer journey - at Petbnb you are guaranteed to find the right care solution for your dog in Berlin.
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