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Dog ownership, permission to keep a dangerous dog

If you want to keep a dog that is classified as dangerous, you need a permit.

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Detailed description

Keeping dangerous dogs is generally prohibited in Hamburg. Permits to keep them may be granted under strict conditions.


Breeds such as the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, and their crossbreeds are always considered dangerous dogs. You always require a permit to keep them.

 

Information

Prerequisites

  • Keeping dangerous dogs is generally prohibited in Hamburg.
  • In order to obtain permission, you must, in particular, demonstrate a special interest.
  • Please inquire about the specific requirements at your local consumer protection, trade and environmental department.

Documents required

  • Written application with details of your special interest in keeping the dangerous dog
  • Evidence that
  • the dog has been surgically neutered,
  • liability insurance exists,
  • the dog is identified in a way that prevents tampering,
  • that the dog has attended a suitable dog school recognized by the competent authority and
  • Evidence of your reliability.

For further details, please contact your local consumer protection, trade and environment department.

Please note

The irrefutably dangerous dogs under the Dog Act include: American Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, Bull Terriers, and their crossbreeds with each other and with other dogs. These are always considered dangerous dogs.

Deadlines

You need permission before you can keep a dog that is classified as dangerous.

Procedure

  • You apply for permission to keep a dangerous dog from the responsible authority and submit all necessary documents.
  • The responsible office will review your application and documents. If necessary, they will request additional documentation from you.
  • The responsible authority will decide on your application.
  • You will receive a written notification.

Processing time

The processing time depends on the administrative effort in each individual case.

Fees

Granting of permission: 597.00 EUR


For issuing a certificate of good conduct: 13.00 EUR

Legal remedies

Contradiction

Legal basis

§ 2 Hamburg Dog Law





§§ 14 - 17 Hamburg Dog Law





§ 19 Hamburg Dog Law





§ 21 Hamburg Dog Law




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Keywords: Permission to keep dangerous dogs Dogs, permission to keep dangerous animals Dangerous dogs, permission to keep

Last updated: 28.10.2025