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State capital Stuttgart

Public order office

Keeping a fighting dog - apply for a behavior test

If you keep or want to keep a fighting dog, you need a  permit to keep a fighting dog (opens in a new tab).

You do not need a permit if the fighting dog status of your dog has been refuted.

To disprove  the fighting dog status (opens in a new tab), you must submit proof that you have passed a behavior test.

In the behavior test, your dog's basic obedience and behavior in various situations are tested. In addition, the proper requirements for keeping the dog, such as a leash or muzzle, are assessed.

The dog's behavior is decisive for passing the test.

Please note the following information:

  • If your dog passes the behavior test, the certificate to be issued is limited to the statement that your dog is highly unlikely to be a fighting dog based on the behavior shown in the test at the time of the test.
  • If your dog is less than 15 months old at the time of the successfully passed behavior test, a repeat test is required between the ages of 15 and 18 months.
  • If your dog proves to be increasingly aggressive and dangerous at a later date despite having passed a behavior test, it is irrefutably considered a fighting dog.
  • If your dog has already successfully passed a test in another country and the fighting dog status has been officially refuted, you can have your dog exempted from the behavior test. For details and the requirements for exemption, please contact your local authority.

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You have questions? Call us: from any network, without an area code. Authorities number 115: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can usually reach the authorities number 115 at fixed network tariffs and thus free of charge via flat rates. Sign language telephone: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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