North Rhine-Westphalia distinguishes between dangerous dogs under § 3 LHundG NRW and dogs of specific breeds under § 10 LHundG NRW—both categories list designated breeds by name. Additionally, the state enforces the 20/40 rule: any dog measuring at least 40 cm at the withers or weighing 20 kg or more requires a certificate of competence, regardless of its breed. For listed breeds, owners must also secure an official keeping permit, pass a temperament test, and meet strict handling requirements. This guide breaks down what applies to each category and what costs you can expect.
Breed-Specific Legislation in North Rhine-Westphalia at a Glance
- Dangerous dogs (§ 3 LHundG NRW): American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier
- Dogs of specific breeds (§ 10 LHundG NRW): Alano Español, American Bulldog, Bullmastiff, English Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, Rottweiler, Tosa Inu
- Large dogs (§ 11, the 20/40 rule): From 40 cm shoulder height or 20 kg weight, regardless of breed
- Mandatory requirements for § 3 and § 10: Keeping permit, certificate of competence, temperament test, pet liability insurance, leash and muzzle mandates, microchipping
- Insurance: Minimum coverage of €500,000 for personal injury and €250,000 for property damage
- Dog tax: €96 to €174 for a standard first dog; €174 to €852 for dangerous or restricted breeds
Legal Basis
State Dog Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (LHundG NRW). NRW maintains one of Germany's most detailed legal frameworks, dividing regulated canines into three distinct groups.
Three Regulated Groups
Dangerous dogs (§ 3 LHundG NRW): American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier—including their crossbreeds.
Dogs of specific breeds (§ 10 LHundG NRW): Alano Español, American Bulldog, Bullmastiff, English Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Fila Brasileiro, Dogo Argentino, Rottweiler, Tosa Inu—including their crossbreeds.
Large dogs—the 20/40 rule (§ 11 LHundG NRW): Any dog reaching at least 40 cm at the withers or weighing 20 kg or more once fully grown. This rule applies entirely independent of breed.
Owner Requirements
Dangerous dogs (§ 3):
- Official keeping permit
- Certificate of competence issued by the local Veterinary and Food Inspection Authority
- Temperament test
- Pet liability insurance
- Certificate of good conduct (extended criminal record check)
- Microchip identification
- Mandatory muzzle and leash in public
Dogs of specific breeds (§ 10):
- Official keeping permit (§ 10 para. 1 in conjunction with § 4 LHundG NRW)
- Certificate of competence issued by an authorized practicing veterinarian or certified expert
- Behavioral assessment / temperament test (to obtain an exemption from muzzle and leash requirements)
- Pet liability insurance
- Mandatory muzzle and leash in public
- Microchip identification
Large dogs / the 20/40 rule (§ 11):
- Mandatory notification/registration with the local authority
- Certificate of competence (multiple-choice test taken through an authorized practicing veterinarian)—online testing is available
- Pet liability insurance
- Microchip identification
- Leash requirement within built-up areas
Liability Insurance
Mandatory for dangerous dogs, dogs of specific breeds, and large dogs under the 20/40 rule. Policies must provide minimum coverage of €500,000 for bodily injury and €250,000 for property damage.
Everyday Rules and Penalties
- General leash mandate throughout built-up, residential areas
- Mandatory muzzling for Category 1 and Category 2 dogs
- Criminal offense: up to 2 years imprisonment or a heavy fine for setting or inciting dogs against humans
- Administrative fines: up to €100,000 for serious regulatory violations
Dog Tax Examples
| City | First Standard Dog | Dangerous / Restricted Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Düsseldorf | €96 | €600 |
| Cologne (as of 2026) | €174 | €174 (no separate surcharge for listed breeds) |
| Essen | €156 | €852 |
| Dortmund | €156 | €852 |
| Bonn | €174 | €696 |
Administrative fee schedule for Düsseldorf (official processing costs for keeping permits):
- Keeping permit: €100
- Competence test by an official veterinary officer: €40
- Temperament test by an official veterinary officer: €50
- Exemption from leash or muzzle requirement: €25
Key Contacts
Local Public Order Office (Ordnungsamt) · North Rhine Chamber of Veterinarians · Ministry for Agriculture and Consumer Protection NRW
Frequently Asked Questions About Regulated Dogs in NRW
Is the American Pit Bull Terrier a regulated breed in NRW?
Yes. Under § 3 LHundG NRW, the American Pit Bull Terrier is classified as an inherently dangerous dog, alongside the American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Bull Terrier. Keeping one requires an official permit, a competence test, a temperament evaluation, and strict compliance with muzzle rules.
Is the Rottweiler considered a restricted breed in NRW?
Yes, though it falls under the slightly less restrictive tier. Under § 10 LHundG NRW, the Rottweiler is classified as a dog of a specific breed, alongside breeds like the Dogo Argentino and Tosa Inu. Owners need an official keeping permit, a certificate of competence, pet liability insurance, and must comply with muzzle and leash rules until granted an exemption.
What requirements apply under the 20/40 rule?
Any dog that stands at least 40 cm tall or weighs at least 20 kg must be registered with the local public order office. Owners must pass a multiple-choice competence test with a certified veterinarian, microchip the dog, hold pet liability insurance, and keep the dog leashed in built-up areas.
How much is the dog tax for a restricted breed in NRW?
Annual rates vary widely: €852 in Essen and Dortmund, €600 in Düsseldorf, and €696 in Bonn. In contrast, Cologne charges €174 with no special surcharge for restricted breeds. A standard first dog generally costs between €96 (Düsseldorf) and €174 (Cologne and Bonn).
Can I contest or overturn my dog's dangerous classification?
For dangerous dogs governed by § 3 LHundG NRW, a formal temperament test forms an integral part of the permit conditions, enabling authorities to assess your dog's individual behavior under controlled conditions.
Conclusion
The North Rhine-Westphalia State Dog Act enforces clear, strict regulations for restricted breeds as well as for all large dogs covered by the 20/40 rule. Whether you're caring for a dangerous dog under § 3 or a restricted breed under § 10, securing a formal keeping permit from your local public order office is non-negotiable. Before bringing a dog home, check with your local municipal office regarding exact fee schedules and test requirements so you can keep your companion fully compliant from day one.