Are you looking for the list of banned dog breeds in Lower Saxony? It simply doesn't exist: Lower Saxony evaluates dogs based on their individual behavior rather than their breed. Here is how the Lower Saxony model works:
Lower Saxony does not use a breed-specific list. The Lower Saxony Dog Act (NHundG) assesses dogs entirely by their behavior, not their breed. The central requirement is proof of theoretical and practical competence, which generally applies to all first-time dog owners, not just those keeping dangerous dogs. This guide outlines what the Lower Saxony model requires of you.
Lower Saxony Dog Laws at a Glance
- Breed-specific list: None. The NHundG relies on breed neutrality instead of blanket bans
- Deemed dangerous on a case-by-case basis: Under Section 7 NHundG, if a dog has bitten humans or animals, shows aggressive readiness, exhibits a tendency to hunt or tear game/livestock, or was specifically trained to increase aggression
- Mandatory requirements for owners: Theoretical and practical competence exam (unless an exemption applies under Section 3 NHundG, such as having kept a dog continuously for at least two years within the past ten years), dog liability insurance from 6 months of age, microchipping, and registration in the central Lower Saxony dog register
- Requirements for dogs classified as dangerous: Keeping permit, enhanced competence requirements, behavioral temperament test
- Insurance: Minimum coverage of €500,000 for personal injury and €250,000 for property damage under Section 5 NHundG
- Dog tax: €84 to €150 for the first dog, €600 to €720 for dogs classified as dangerous
Legal Basis
The Lower Saxony Dog Act (NHundG) is widely considered one of Germany's most progressive dog laws—it focuses consistently on breed neutrality rather than blanket prohibitions.
Dangerous Dogs Instead of Breed-Specific Lists
There is no breed list. Your dog is only deemed dangerous under Section 7 NHundG if they display specific problematic behaviors:
- They have bitten humans or animals or exhibit heightened readiness to attack
- They show an uncontrolled tendency to chase, hunt, or tear into prey
- They have been intentionally trained to increase their aggression
What Dog Owners Need (The Lower Saxony Model)
Lower Saxony requires more upfront responsibility from you than most other German federal states—which is precisely why the system works without a breed list:
Before getting a dog:
- Theoretical competence test — often referred to as the Lower Saxony dog owner's license (Hundeführerschein). It is administered by officially recognized examiners (such as certified dog schools or veterinarians) and accredited examination bodies, and can also be completed online or computer-based at authorized testing centers. Important exemption under Section 3 NHundG: Anyone who can prove they have kept a dog continuously for at least two years within the past ten years is legally deemed competent. Exemptions also apply to veterinarians and licensed hunters, among others.
Within the first year of getting your dog:
- Practical competence test taken together with your dog (unless a statutory exemption or presumption of competence applies)
For every dog from 6 months of age:
- Dog liability insurance — minimum coverage of €500,000 for personal injury and €250,000 for property damage
- Microchip identification
- Registration in the central Lower Saxony dog register
If a dog is officially classified as dangerous, additional rules apply:
- Official keeping permit
- Enhanced competence requirements
- Behavioral temperament assessment (Wesenstest)
Insurance
Dog liability insurance is mandatory from 6 months of age — for every single dog, regardless of breed. Lower Saxony is one of the federal states with a universal insurance obligation under Section 5 NHundG.
Everyday Rules and Leash Laws
- Mandatory leash requirement in open countryside and forests during the breeding and nesting season (April 1 to July 15) pursuant to Section 33 NWaldLG
- Local leash mandates may apply in city centers, pedestrian zones, parks, and selected green spaces
- Muzzle requirements apply only to dogs officially classified as dangerous
Dog Tax Examples
Dog tax rates are set independently by each municipality. Here is an overview (first dog / second dog / dangerous dog):
- Hanover: €150 / €276 / €720
- Braunschweig: €120 / €204 / €720
- Oldenburg: €84 / €168 / €720
- Göttingen: €96 / €240 / €600
- Osnabrück: €120 / €240 / €720
Authorities and Official Contacts
The legal foundation and statutory rules are established in the Lower Saxony Dog Act (NHundG) and the Lower Saxony Forest and Landscape Act (NWaldLG). Questions regarding competence certificates and examiner accreditation can be directed to the Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (LAVES) or the Lower Saxony Chamber of Veterinarians. For registration matters, consult the central Lower Saxony Dog Register, and for local bylaws or tax rates, reach out to your municipal public order office (Ordnungsamt).
Breeds such as the Rottweiler may be restricted in other states — at HonestDog, you'll find thoroughly vetted breeders with complete health documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Banned Breeds in Lower Saxony
Is the Rottweiler considered a banned or restricted breed in Lower Saxony?
No. Lower Saxony has no breed list, meaning the Rottweiler is treated exactly like any other dog. While the breed may face restrictions in other federal states, HonestDog connects you with verified breeders who provide transparent health screening.
Which competence test do I need in Lower Saxony?
First-time dog owners must complete a theoretical competence test before acquiring a dog, which can be taken on a computer at recognized testing centers. Within the first year of getting your dog, you must pass a practical exam together with your pet. Owners who have demonstrably kept a dog continuously for at least two years within the previous ten years, as well as veterinarians and licensed hunters, are legally exempt under Section 3 NHundG.
Is dog liability insurance mandatory in Lower Saxony?
Yes. Once a dog reaches 6 months of age, liability insurance is compulsory regardless of breed, requiring minimum coverage of €500,000 for personal injury and €250,000 for property damage under Section 5 NHundG.
How much is the dog tax for a dangerous dog in Lower Saxony?
In cities like Hanover, Braunschweig, Oldenburg, and Osnabrück, the annual tax for a dog classified as dangerous is typically €720, while Göttingen charges €600. For an unclassified first dog, the standard rate ranges between €84 and €150 depending on the municipality.
Can I appeal or overturn a dangerous dog classification?
Passing an official behavioral temperament test (Wesenstest) is a mandatory statutory prerequisite for dogs deemed dangerous after an incident under Section 7 NHundG, allowing owners to prove the conditions required to obtain a formal keeping permit.