Should Dog Owners Take a Test? What Germany's Dog Licence Shows Us
Updated: 4 days ago
Most of us need a test to drive a car, but anyone can bring home a dog. Some countries have started to ask whether that makes sense. Germany is the example people mention most, because several of its states ask new owners to prove they know the basics. So should dog owners have to pass a test before they get a dog? Here's how dog owner tests work, where they're used and what they could, and couldn't, fix.
THE SHORT ANSWER
A dog owner test, sometimes called a dog licence test or "Hundeführerschein" in German, checks that an owner understands dog behaviour, safety and welfare, and can handle their dog calmly in public. In Germany the rules vary by state. Lower Saxony, for example, asks most new owners to pass a theory test before getting a dog and a practical test within the first year, while other states only require tests for certain dogs. Similar ideas exist in parts of Austria and Switzerland. A test can't guarantee a well-behaved dog, but it can make sure new owners know the basics: body language, toilet training, socialisation, safe handling and when to ask for help. Good puppy training does the same job, with or without a law behind it.
What is a dog owner test?
A dog owner test is a short assessment that shows an owner understands how to care for and handle a dog. It isn't about advanced training. It checks everyday knowledge that keeps dogs, owners and the public safe.
Most versions have two parts. There's a theory test with questions on dog behaviour, body language, welfare and local rules. Then there's a practical test, where the owner walks their dog through everyday situations like passing people, crossing a road or waiting calmly outside a shop.
How the German dog licence works
Germany doesn't have one national rule. Each state makes its own laws, so the picture changes depending on where you live.
In Lower Saxony, anyone getting a dog for the first time needs a certificate of knowledge. The theory part is taken before the dog arrives, and the practical part with the dog follows later. Some other states only ask for proof of knowledge from owners of large dogs or dogs on a "listed" breed register. In others, passing a voluntary test can bring benefits, such as exemption from lead rules in some areas.
Other countries with similar ideas
Germany isn't alone. Parts of Austria, including Vienna, require a dog licence test for some dogs. Switzerland had a compulsory course for all new owners for several years before it was dropped nationally, though some cantons kept their own rules. Elsewhere, from the UK and Ireland to the US and Australia, the focus is usually on licensing, microchipping and dangerous dog laws rather than owner knowledge.
The case for a dog owner test
Supporters believe a test could prevent problems before they start. Their arguments are worth hearing. These are the benefits they mention:
new owners learn about body language and stress signals early
puppies get better socialisation in the weeks that matter most
fewer bites, as owners recognise warning signs sooner
fewer dogs handed to rescues because of avoidable behaviour problems
more owners know when to ask a trainer or vet for help
The case against
There are real concerns too. A test costs money and time, which could put off good homes or push people towards buying a dog without telling anyone. It's also hard to test for the things that matter most, like patience and consistency, in a short exam.
Some critics also point out that a test is a single moment. A new owner might pass in the first month, then struggle when their puppy hits adolescence. Ongoing support may do more than a one-off exam.
What a good test would cover
If a test is useful, it's because of what it teaches. Read the early body language signals for a good place to start. In my view, these are the topics every new owner benefits from, test or no test:
reading body language and early stress signals
toilet training, chewing and mouthing in puppies
safe socialisation, especially before vaccinations are complete
teaching a recall, loose lead walking and settling
safe handling around children and other dogs
knowing when a behaviour change could be pain or illness
Do you need a law to learn this?
You don't need a test to give your dog a good start. Many owners all over the world already do the learning through puppy classes, online courses and good books before their dog even comes home. Learning early is one of the kindest things you can do for your dog.
RENEE'S TIP
If you're thinking about getting a dog, give yourself your own owner test. Can you spot the signs your dog is uncomfortable? Do you know how you'll handle the first night, toilet training and biting? If not, that's your reading list before the puppy arrives.
QUICK CHECK
✓ A dog owner test checks basic knowledge and safe handling
✓ Germany's rules vary by state, with Lower Saxony one of the strictest
✓ Parts of Austria and Switzerland have used similar tests
✓ A test can't guarantee a well-behaved dog
✓ Learning the basics early helps every dog, law or no law
ONE-TO-ONE HELP
Getting ready for a new dog
If you're about to bring a dog home, or you've just started and feel unsure, I can help you plan the first weeks in an online Dog Behaviour Consultation from wherever you are.
Online on Teams, wherever you are. 30 or 60 minutes.
FAQs
Do you need a licence to own a dog in Germany?
It depends on the state. Some, like Lower Saxony, ask most new owners to pass a theory and practical test. Others only require it for certain dogs.
What is the Hundeführerschein?
It's the German name for a dog owner licence test, usually with a theory exam and a practical test with your dog.
What is on a dog owner test?
Questions on dog behaviour, body language, welfare and local rules, plus a practical walk through everyday situations.
Should dog owners have to take a test?
It's a real debate. A test can teach the basics, but ongoing support and good training matter just as much.
How can I prepare to own a dog?
Learn about body language, toilet training, socialisation and settling before your dog arrives, through classes, courses or books.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Renee Patience · National Dog Trainer of the Year 2025
Founder and head trainer of Paws Academy, with more than 30 years training dogs and a Level 6 Diploma in Applied Canine Behaviour. Renee has competed in agility, obedience and heelwork to music across the UK, including at Crufts and Olympia, has appeared on CBBC, and is the author of the Modern Training Guides and the Modern Breed Handbook series. Pictured with her boxer, Kookie.
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