Like most cities in Germany, Hamburg is extremely pet-friendly, and dogs are welcome in most public places, including cafés and restaurants, buses and trains, and beaches. Take your doggy to one of the numerous dog-friendly gardens to exercise and socialise with other dogs, or head up a hiking trail and explore the beautiful outdoors of Hamburg with your favourite four-legged companion.

International pet travel to Hamburg is easy, as long as you follow all pet import requirements. If you are planning to move to Hamburg with your pet dog, here’s all you need to know about living in the German city with a dog:

Pet parent responsibilities in Hamburg

As a pet parent, you are responsible for the health and well-being of your dog. Your dog must be well-cared for and receive veterinary attention whenever necessary. In addition, dogs must be well-behaved and should not cause a nuisance by barking excessively and attacking other dogs and people. A pet parent in Hamburg must follow these animal laws in the city:

• Your dog must be microchipped with an ISO-compatible 15-digit microchip.
• All dogs must be registered with the city upon arrival. You can register your dog online or at the nearest customer service centre in Hamburg. You will need the microchip number, your German ID card or passport, liability insurance certificate, your pet’s details such as age, breed, etc., and the registration fees to register your pet dog.
• All dogs must be walked on a short lead in Hamburg. Dogs that have passed the obedience test with an authorised expert are exempt from the rule. However, all dogs must be on a lead in shopping malls and other pedestrian areas.
• Always remember to pick up after your dog. There are doggy refuse bag dispensers all over the city, and you can also find them in several supermarkets and chemist stores for free.

Dangerous dogs in Hamburg

The city of Hamburg recognises some dogs as dangerous dog breeds and has certain restrictions on the ownership and import of these breeds. Dangerous dog breeds that are banned from import in Hamburg are:

• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Bull Terrier
• Pitbull Terrier
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier

These breeds and their crossbreeds are not allowed to be imported into Hamburg.

If you own a dangerous breed in the city of Hamburg, as a responsible pet parent, your dog must be on a lead and muzzled at all times in public places.

Dogs on public transport in Hamburg

Dogs are allowed on public transport in Hamburg. Small breeds can travel free of cost as long as they are in a travelling crate. Large breeds must be on a lead and muzzled. Dogs are not allowed to occupy the seats on public transport.

Pet-friendly hotels in Hamburg

Dogs are welcome in many top establishments in Hamburg. Most pet-friendly hotels offer various amenities for your dog, such as dog bowls, treats, beds, pet concierge, etc. Some dog-friendly hotels in the city are:

• Holiday Inn, Hamburg
• Crowne Plaza, Hamburg
• Grand Elysee Hotel, Hamburg
• NH Collection, Hamburg City
• Scandic Hamburg Emporio

Pet-friendly activities in Hamburg

Embark on a beautiful journey of discovery with your beloved four-legged pal in Hamburg with these dog-friendly activities:

• Planten und Blomen – Take your dog on one of the beautiful nature trails in this large and lovely garden.
• Elbstrand – Take your doggy to Hamburg’s most loved dog beach for a day in the water and sand.
• Visit a dog-friendly restaurant – Hamburg has several dog-friendly cafés and restaurants. Some of the best ones are Genusshelden, Spezzagrano, Alles Elbe, Comida Taqueria Mexicana and Café Seepavillon.

International pet transport to Hamburg

Travelling to Hamburg with your dog is easy if you partner with an experienced pet transport company that can manage all the small details of the journey. An IATA-accredited agent can help with door-to-door service and make sure your pet has a pleasant pet travel experience and reach their destination safely and comfortably.

If you are planning to move to Hamburg, Germany with your pet dog, reach out to Petraveller for more information on pet import regulations in Germany and a free pet travel quote.