List of dog breeds with tax rate: everything dog owners need to know
Dogs are man's best friend - almost every dog owner will agree. But how much does it actually cost to have such a furry friend by your side? One of the less pleasant aspects of dog ownership is the dog tax. This varies not only from region to region, but also depending on the breed of dog. Yes, you read that right. In some cases, the amount you have to pay actually depends on the breed of dog. Sounds confusing? Don't worry, we'll guide you through the list of dog breeds with tax rates. So, unleash and let's go!
The basics of dog tax: Why is it levied?
Before we delve into the finer points of breed lists, let's take a brief excursion into the world of Dog tax make. The dog tax is a municipal levy and is primarily used to finance the maintenance of public facilities. These include animal shelters, dog toilets and the removal of dog faeces in parks. The dog tax also has a regulatory function to counteract the overpopulation of dogs in urban areas.
List of dog breeds with tax rate: a necessary overview
In Germany, there are different regional regulations regarding dog tax. Some regions have special dog breed lists as they categorise certain breeds as more dangerous. These lists are also known colloquially as breed lists, and dogs on these lists can be subject to higher tax rates.
- Listed dogs: These dogs are included on official lists of breeds that are considered potentially dangerous.
- Non-listed breeds: All other breeds that are not on these lists are therefore generally taxed at a lower rate.
The role of the federal states and municipalities
A not insignificant point is that the regulations are not standardised throughout Germany. Each federal state may have its own list, and in some cases there are even differences between municipalities within a federal state. This can lead to considerable differences in dog tax. For example, a pit bull may be taxed differently in Hamburg than in Munich.
Why are there breed lists at all?
Breed lists are drawn up by the authorities to categorise dog breeds that are considered dangerous due to their genetic disposition. This list is often based on regulations made for safety policy reasons. Hearsay or unconfirmed media reports of biting incidents can also influence the inclusion of a breed on such lists.
Tax rates: A look at the figures
Now that we have clarified the background, let's get down to the essentials: How much does it cost? Unfortunately, there is no standardised scheme, but here are some examples to give you a feel for the differences:
- Pitbull TerrierOften highly taxed, often over 600 euros per year, depending on the region.
- Staffordshire Bull TerrierSimilar to the pit bull, this breed is often at the top of the list.
- RottweilerAlso represented on many breed lists, with a medium to high tax rate of around 300 to 600 euros.
- Golden RetrieverThese are rarely on breed lists and usually only cost around 100 euros a year.
Interesting facts and myths about breed lists
Oh, this is where it gets exciting! There are stories and myths about many breed lists, some of which are quite curious:
- There are breeds that are assessed differently depending on the federal state. A dog that is considered a list dog in Bavaria may be considered harmless in another federal state.
- There are reports of dog owners who have tried to re-baptise their dogs into another breed to avoid the higher tax, but mostly unsuccessfully.
- There are even exemptions in some regions. Owners can reduce the tax burden for listed dogs through special tests and assessments.
Conclusion: What should you do as a dog owner?
Ultimately, it is important to find out about the dog tax regulations that apply in your region before getting a dog. The list of dog breeds with tax rates will give you a clear overview of the costs you may incur. Don't ignore the small print and take the local regulations seriously to avoid unpleasant surprises. Whether your beloved family member is a lively poodle or a majestic Rottweiler, knowledge is always the best prevention against potential cost traps!
With this in mind, keep your head up and your eyes open when choosing a dog - your little friend will be grateful for a lifetime!
FAQs
Which dog breeds are tax-free?
In many municipalities, certain working and assistance dogs are exempt from dog tax. These include
- Guide dogs
- Companion dogs
- Therapy dogs
- Herding dogs
- Rescue dogs
- Sometimes also certain assistance dogs
Which dogs are taxable?
In general, most pet dogs are taxable. There are exceptions, as described above, for special working dogs. However, guide dogs for the blind, therapy dogs, herding dogs, rescue dogs, service dogs such as police dogs and drug detection dogs as well as hunting dogs must provide high-quality proof of their qualifications in order to be exempt from tax liability.
How much does a listed dog cost in taxes?
The tax rates for listed dogs can be quite high, depending on the municipality and federal state, and often range from 500 to 1,200 euros per year. The principle is that the tax may be higher, but it should not be prohibitive, making it impossible to keep such a dog.
Can I avoid the dog tax?
Be aware that dog taxes are a mandatory levy, and non-payment can result in fines. However, there are legitimate tax exemption options for certain dog breeds and purposes. Make sure you check with your local municipality about any regulations and proof requirements.
Will the tax change when my dog gets bigger?
The dog tax is not usually calculated according to the size or weight of the dog, but rather depends on the breed or the purpose of use, such as in the case of listed dogs. Nevertheless, you should always keep an eye on the specific regulations of your municipality.
