Breed lists: Everything you need to know about classifying dogs by breed
In Germany, there are a wide range of regulations governing the lives of dog owners. One of the most hotly debated and often misunderstood areas is the so-called ‘breed list’. These lists include dog breeds that are considered particularly dangerous and are therefore subject to special restrictions. But what is the story behind these lists? Are all dogs of these breeds really dangerous, or is there perhaps more to these classifications? In this article, we delve deep into the world of breed lists and look at what dog owners need to know about their legal obligations and responsibilities.
The origins of the breed lists
Breed-specific lists did not come about out of nowhere. In fact, they were drawn up in response to public safety concerns, often after incidents involving dogs of certain breeds had received widespread media attention. Although the intention behind maintaining such lists is usually to protect the public, the methods and scientific basis on which they are founded are frequently the subject of debate.
These lists also vary considerably from state to state. Some states classify certain breeds as dangerous, which means there are additional restrictions or a higher Dog tax for their owners. Other countries do not maintain such lists at all, or instead place greater emphasis on the individual training and behaviour of a dog.
Which breeds are on the list?
One of the main concerns for dog owners, or those hoping to become dog owners, is finding out which breeds appear on these lists. The names that crop up time and again include:
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Pitbull Terrier
- Bull Terrier
- Rottweiler (in some federal states)
- Dogo Argentino
- Fila Brasileiro
These breeds are often categorically labelled as dangerous, although many experts argue that a dog’s behaviour depends largely on its training and socialisation. The owner therefore plays a crucial role in shaping the dog’s behaviour.
The legal situation and its implications
Every list of designated breeds entails specific legal obligations. These can range from the requirement to muzzle the dog and keep it on a lead in certain public areas to higher tax charges. In some places, you may even need to obtain a special owner’s licence, which involves a behaviour test for the dog. Here is an overview of possible requirements:
- Dogs must be kept on a lead in public
- Muzzle requirement
- Increase in dog licence fees
- Compulsory liability insurance
- Behavioural assessments or temperament tests for dogs
Understanding these regulations can be crucial in avoiding legal penalties and raising awareness of the responsibilities of dog owners.
Criticism of the 'Rasselisten'
Quite a few experts are critical of the existence and implementation of breed-specific lists. A common criticism is that these lists make sweeping generalisations about dogs of certain breeds and fail to address the real problem – namely, improper care and training.
Research suggests that individual behaviour in dogs is often more closely linked to environmental factors and training than to genetic predisposition. A Golden Retriever could become just as aggressive in an abusive environment as a dog of a breed classified as dangerous. So is it fair to stigmatise entire breeds?
Many animal welfare organisations and experts argue that greater responsibility should be placed on pet owners and that efforts should focus on training and educating dog owners to promote an understanding of animal-friendly care.
The owner’s responsibility and alternatives to the list of dangerous breeds
There are certainly alternative approaches that could prove more effective in practice than blanket breed-based lists. One suggestion is the increased use of temperament tests, which assess a dog’s behaviour on an individual basis. This would allow risk assessments to be based on more reliable grounds than simply the dog’s breed.
As a responsible dog owner, you should not only comply with legal requirements, but also look after your dog’s social and psychological well-being. The key responsibilities of a dog owner include:
- Regular exercise and socialisation
- Sufficient physical and mental stimulation
- Empathetic parenting methods
- Taking the dog’s individual needs into account
A well-socialised dog that is trained with loving consistency can be an integral part of society, regardless of its breed.
Looking ahead
The debate surrounding breed-specific regulations is likely to continue to evolve as our views on dogs and their role in society change. More and more people and organisations are realising that it is not a dog’s breed that determines its character, but its upbringing and environment. Hopefully, future regulations will take this understanding into account and help to promote the welfare of both people and dogs.
In the meantime, it remains crucial for prospective dog owners to be well-informed and prepared to take on the responsibility that comes with owning a dog, particularly one classified as a ‘dangerous breed’. After all – and many dog lovers would agree – there is nothing better than a well-trained, loving pet that contributes to a harmonious life together.
FAQs on breed lists
When will the breed list be abolished?
On 1 January 2016, the Act on the Prevention and Control of Risks Posed by Dogs (GefHG) was replaced by the Act on the Keeping of Dogs (HundeG). Breed-specific bans were abolished.
Which breeds are classified as high-risk dogs?
This applies to the following breeds: Alano, Bullmastiff, Cane Corso, Dobermann, Dogo Argentino, Dogo Canario (Perro de Presa Canario), Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Mastiff, Mastín Español, Mastino Napoletano, Perro de Presa Mallorquin and Rottweiler.
Which federal states do not have a list of breeds?
Only four states do not have lists of dangerous breeds: Schleswig-Holstein, Thuringia, Lower Saxony and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
How can I challenge my dog’s risk classification?
If your dog is classified as dangerous on the basis of its breed, in some federal states you have the option of challenging this decision by means of a temperament test. Such a test assesses your dog’s behaviour on an individual basis to determine whether special conditions are justified.
Do I need to take out additional insurance for a dog on the list?
In most federal states, it is compulsory to take out liability insurance for dogs classified as dangerous. This insurance covers any potential damage your dog might cause.
