A guide for dog owners in Frankfurt am Main (as of 2024)

Dog tax in Frankfurt am Main

How high is the dog tax?

In Frankfurt am Main, an annual dog tax is levied for keeping a dog. The current tax rates are as follows:

• First dog: 102 euros per year
• Second dog and each additional dog: 204 euros per year per dog

This graduated tax structure is primarily intended to encourage multi-dog owners to keep the population of dogs in the city within a controlled framework.

Why is there a dog tax?

The dog tax is levied by the city council to fund public projects that benefit infrastructure and cleanliness in the city, including the provision of dog waste bags and the maintenance of dog exercise areas.

Registering your dog

Where and how do I register my dog?

Registering your dog is mandatory in Frankfurt and should be done as soon as possible after you have acquired the animal. There are several ways to do this:

1. Online registration: you can register your dog conveniently online via the City of Frankfurt's service portal.
2. Personal registration: Alternatively, you can also visit the City of Frankfurt's citizens' offices in person. The main locations are Bürgeramt Mitte and Bürgeramt Höchst.
3. Registration by post: It is also possible to register in writing by post. You can find the relevant forms on the City of Frankfurt website.

Required documents

When registering, you must submit a number of documents, including

• Your identity card or passport
• Proof of the dog's origin (e.g. purchase contract, adoption documents)
• A valid vaccination certificate for the dog

Observe deadlines

You must register your dog within two weeks of acquiring it or moving to Frankfurt. If you move within the city, no new registration is required.

Leash requirement in Frankfurt

Is there a general leash requirement?

Yes, in Frankfurt am Main, dogs must be kept on a lead in most public areas in order to ensure the safety of people and animals. Leashes are mandatory in the following areas in particular:

• Pedestrian zones and shopping streets
• Parks and green spaces (except designated dog exercise areas)
• Public transportation
• Near schools and kindergartens

Dog exercise areas

There are special dog exercise areas in the city where your four-legged friend can run around off the lead. Some of the most popular dog walking areas in Frankfurt are

• Grüneburgpark: A spacious park with plenty of room for dogs to let off steam.
• Niddapark: There is a large area here where dogs are allowed to run free.
• Ostpark: Another popular destination for dog owners with special free-range areas.

Compulsory muzzling and listed dogs

Which dog breeds are muzzled?

In Frankfurt, so-called "dangerous dogs" must be muzzled and kept on a lead. This regulation applies to certain dog breeds that are classified as potentially dangerous. The breeds concerned are

• American Staffordshire Terrier
• bull terrier
• Pit bull terrier
• Staffordshire bull terrier
• Other breeds or mixed breeds that are classified as dangerous on the basis of an individual assessment

Requirements and conditions

There are additional requirements for owners of listed dogs:

• Muzzle and lead requirement: dogs must be kept on a lead and muzzled at all times in public.
• Character test: Owners of these dogs often have to pass a character test with the animal to prove that the dog is not a danger to the general public.
• Insurance: Special liability insurance is required to cover possible damage.

Further important information

Dog waste disposal

Frankfurt attaches great importance to cleanliness in the city. It is therefore important that you dispose of your dog's excrement in public areas immediately. The city provides numerous dog waste bag dispensers and waste garbage cans to make this easier.

Dog meadows and leisure facilities

In addition to the official dog exercise areas, Frankfurt offers many dog-friendly parks and green spaces where both dogs and humans can enjoy themselves. Some popular places are:

• Palmengarten: one of the largest botanical gardens in Germany with special dog areas.
• Mainufer: A perfect place for long walks along the Main.
• Waldspielpark Goetheturm: A large wooded area with many hiking trails and dog meadows.

Frankfurt am Main is a cosmopolitan city that offers numerous opportunities for both dog owners and their four-legged friends. By complying with city regulations and treating your dog responsibly, you are making an important contribution to harmonious coexistence. Enjoy your time with your dog in this beautiful city and take advantage of the many opportunities that Frankfurt has to offer.