International comparisons of dog taxes: a look across borders

For many people, dogs are not just pets, but loyal companions and family members. However, the costs for your four-legged friend can vary considerably depending on where you live - especially when it comes to dog tax. If you are planning to travel the world with your beloved pooch or even move abroad, the question arises: How do other countries handle dog tax? Let's delve into the exciting world of international dog taxes.

What is the dog tax and why does it exist?

Before we turn to the international comparisons, let's take a brief look at the purpose of the Dog tax. It was originally introduced to regulate the number of dogs in urban areas and to finance municipal expenses such as the removal of dog faeces. Today, in many countries it is also used to fund dog parks, animal shelters and other charitable purposes.

Europe: A patchwork of dog taxes

In Europe, the differences in dog tax could not be greater. While some nations have long since abolished the tax, it is still firmly established in other countries.

• Germany: In Germany, the dog tax varies considerably depending on the municipality. It is usually between 30 and 150 euros per year for the first dog. If another four-legged friend joins the household, the fee often increases.
• France: Interestingly, France abolished the dog tax back in 1979. The French decided to dispense with the bureaucratic hurdle in favour of love for their four-legged friends.
• Great Britain: Dog tax has also been a thing of the past in the United Kingdom since 1990. Instead, the focus is on strict regulations for dealing with dangerous dog breeds.
• Sweden: Here, the French example was followed in 1995 and the dog tax was cancelled. Instead, other methods of financing and regulation are used.

North America: Less taxes, more guidelines

If we look across the Atlantic, we see a completely different tax approach. In North America, dog taxes play a subordinate role, and instead other measures are used to control and promote responsible pet ownership.

• USA: The dog tax varies greatly from state to state and from city to city. Many local authorities do not levy a tax, but require dog owners to licence their pet.
• Canada: Similar to the USA, a licence fee is also mainly charged here - this can vary depending on the province and municipality. Guide dogs or other therapy dogs are often exempt from the tax.

Asia: Diverse approaches

Asia also offers a kaleidoscope of different approaches to dog tax, with cultural and economic differences playing a major role.

• Japan: There is no nationwide dog tax in Japan, but there are certain regulations and fees for registering dogs, which can vary from region to region.
• China: If you own a dog in an urban area, registration is mandatory and involves a certain fee. In rural areas, however, the situation can be quite different.

Australia and Oceania: Strict rules instead of high taxes

In Australia and its neighbouring island states, the focus is also less on taxes and more on strict regulations.

• Australia: No traditional tax is levied on dogs here, but a registration fee is charged, which varies from state to state. These fees are often used to finance containment measures for stray dogs.
• New Zealand: Similar to Australia, there is no standardised dog tax rate and the regulation of pet ownership is a top priority.

Africa: Different challenges

In many African countries, dog tax is not an issue, as the focus is often on combating rabies and other animal diseases. Nevertheless, efforts are being made to promote animal welfare through voluntary contributions and programmes.

A bundle of colourful comparisons

The „International Comparison of Dog Taxes“ shows that there is no standardised regulation worldwide, but rather a varied mosaic of laws and guidelines. It is therefore essential for dog lovers who like to travel to familiarise themselves with the local regulations before moving or going on a longer trip. Let's remember that man's best friend not only affects our hearts, but also our wallets. Speaking of which, pack your lead, because the world awaits - with or without dog tax!

FAQs

In which country is there no dog tax?

Dog tax has been abolished in several European countries. In Denmark, there has been no dog tax since 1972. It was also abolished in France in 1979, in England in spring 1990 and in Sweden in 1995. Other countries such as Belgium, Spain, Italy, Greece, Hungary and Croatia followed suit in the years that followed.

Where is the highest dog tax?

Within Germany, dog tax is particularly high in some cities. The city of Hagen in North Rhine-Westphalia currently levies the highest dog tax at 180 euros per year for the first dog from 2024, followed directly behind by Bochum at 168 euros. The top ten cities with the highest dog tax also include Mülheim (160 euros) as well as Dortmund, Essen and Oberhausen (156 euros each).

Is the dog tax the same everywhere?

No, dog tax is not standardised. In Germany, for example, dog tax varies from state to state and even from city to city. Each municipality has the right to determine the amount of dog tax individually and to levy a higher tax rate for certain animals, such as so-called fighting dogs.