Legal Basis
Act on Precautions against Dangers Posed by Dogs (HundeG LSA) — since 1 March 2009, with amendments in 2016.
Dangerous Dogs
In Saxony-Anhalt, four breeds plus crossbreeds are considered dangerous by law:
- Pitbull Terrier
- American Staffordshire Terrier
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
- Bull Terrier
This list follows the nationwide HundVerbrEinfG. Additionally, individual case assessments for dogs with behavioural issues.
Ban on breeding, propagation, and trade for these four breeds — since March 2016. A tightening of regulations specific to Saxony-Anhalt.
What owners need
- Wesenstest (temperament test) is mandatory for the four listed breeds
- If the Wesenstest is passed: classification as dangerous is lifted, as are the special requirements
- If the Wesenstest is not passed: Haltungserlaubnis (keeping permit) required
- Sachkundenachweis (proof of competence)
- Dog liability insurance — minimum coverage €1 million for personal injury and property damage, €50,000 for financial loss
- Registration in the state dog register
- Microchip identification
Insurance
Mandatory for all dogs no later than three months after birth. Saxony-Anhalt is one of the seven Bundesländer (federal states) with a general requirement.
Everyday rules
- Since 2016, no general leash and muzzle requirement for listed dogs outside of private property
- After the Haltungserlaubnis is granted: exemption from leash and muzzle requirements
- Muzzle requirement for dogs classified as dangerous on a case-by-case basis
Hundesteuer (dog tax) examples
| City | First dog | Second dog | Dangerous dog |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magdeburg | 96 € | 144 € | 600 € |
| Halle (Saale) | 100 € | 180 € | 700 € |
| Dessau-Roßlau | 90 € | 180 € | 600 € |
| Tangermünde | 30 € | — | — |
Contacts
Local regulatory authority · Saxony-Anhalt State Dog Register · Saxony-Anhalt Veterinary Chamber