Apply for exemption from the special regulations for dangerous dogs

Do you own a dog that is classified as dangerous under the dog law? Here you can find information on how to apply for an exemption from the special regulations.

Detailed description

If your dog is classified as potentially dangerous under the dog law, you can apply for an exemption to be released from the special regulations for dangerous dogs. To be granted this exemption, you must provide formal proof in the form of a temperament test.



With this exemption, you no longer have to comply with certain strict requirements for dangerous dogs, such as the muzzle requirement or special leash rules, as long as your dog remains reliably controllable.

 

Information

Prerequisites

  • Your dog is classified as a potentially dangerous dog (Bullmastiff, Dogo Argentino, Dogue de Bordeaux, Fila Brasileiro, Kangal, Caucasian Shepherd, Mastiff, Spanish Mastiff, Neapolitan Mastiff, Rottweiler, Tosa Inu and their crossbreeds with each other or with other dogs.)
  • You have conducted and passed a recognized temperament test with your dog, or
  • You have successfully participated in a puppy training course with your young dog.

Documents required

  • Expert report on a successfully completed recognized temperament test or the completion of a recognized puppy training course
  • Proof of liability insurance coverage
  • Proof of your dog's tamper-proof identification using a microchip

Please note

Puppies and young dogs up to 15 months of age can only be granted temporary leave.

Deadlines

No

Procedure

  • You submit your application to the relevant authority.
  • The responsible authority will review your application in consultation with the official veterinary service.
  • The responsible authority will inform you of the decision regarding your application by means of a written notification.

Processing time

The processing time depends on the individual case.

Fees

Temporary leave of absence: EUR 192.00


Indefinite leave of absence: EUR 172.00


Issuance of a replacement document for a previously granted exemption: EUR 42.00

Legal remedies

Contradiction

Legal basis

§ 2 paragraph 3 Dog Act (HundeG)


https://www.landesrecht-hamburg.de/bsha/document/jlr-HuGHAV6P2


Section 18 of the Dog Act (HundeG)


https://www.landesrecht-hamburg.de/bsha/document/jlr-HuGHApP18


Annex to the fee schedule for public consumer protection


https://www.landesrecht-hamburg.de/bsha/document/jlr-VerbrSchGebOHAV3Anlage

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Keywords: Dangerous dogs, exemption Dogs, exemption for dangerous animals

Last updated: 08.02.2026