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With the dog license, Bremen wants to increase the responsibility of dog owners. Can you answer some of the theory test questions?
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The reason for this, among other things, is the numerous cases of bites in recent years. From 2021 to 2023 alone, approximately 150 incidents were reported. In 2024 there were 87 of them, and in 2025 – already 61.
Their numbers are dwindling, but the Bremen administration still wants to improve safety with new rules. Knowledge about husbandry, training and responsibility should also prevent overwhelmed owners from abandoning their animals or returning them to an animal shelter.
Theory and practical exam
The dog license is valid for people who purchase a new dog from July 1, 2026. This generally does not apply to those who have owned their dog before. The exception is dogs that have already been classified as dangerous. In Bremen, dogs are considered dangerous if they have bitten people or other animals in the past.
A dog license should also improve the health of the animals.
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The proof consists of two parts: theoretical and practical verification. The theory concerns knowledge about behavior, care, health and learning. The exam includes 35 questions, of which at least 26 – about 75 percent – must be answered correctly.
In practice, owners must demonstrate that they can lead their dog safely. This includes basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” or “recall,” as well as relaxed on-leash behavior. The practical test must be passed no later than one year after the dog is adopted and is carried out individually for each dog.
High penalties for missing exams
Requirements for the practical test are that the dog is at least twelve months old, microchipped, vaccinated and has liability insurance. The required insurance amounts are €500,000 for bodily injury and €250,000 for property damage.
Anyone who fails to pass the required exams risks a serious fine of up to 50,000 euros. In extreme cases, dog ownership may even be prohibited.
Do you know about dogs? Selected exam questions here
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Is there anything you can do preventatively to keep your dog healthy?
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The practical test can be taken at institutions recognized by the State of Bremen. These usually include dog schools, which often also offer training courses.
Merlin Krasniqi from the Bremen Canine Center welcomes the new dog license: “The fact that potential dog owners acquire in-depth knowledge is always positive and brings great benefits for social coexistence.” However, it is important that the country provides sufficient administrative capacity to monitor the implementation of the law.
Those: but inside.
This topic in the program:
Butene inside, June 25, 2026, 7:30 p.m.