When traveling with a dog in a motorhoem in Germany, you must comply with two main categories of rules: general EU pet entry requirements and German road traffic regulations for transporting animals. For entry into Germany and travel within the European Union, your dog must meet several requirements. They must be identified by a microchip and possess a European pet passport issued by an authorized veterinarian. This passport serves as a mandatory travel document and contains details about the dog and their vaccinations. A valid rabies vaccination is compulsory; the dog must be at least 12 weeks old for the first vaccination, and travel can only commence after a minimum of 21 full days following the primary vaccination. Booster vaccinations must be kept current within their validity period to avoid the 21-day waiting period. You are generally restricted to traveling with a maximum of five pets, unless you have written proof of participation in an event like a competition or show, and the animals are over six months old. Germany also has specific import restrictions and conditions for certain breeds considered dangerous, such as Pit Bull Terriers and American Staffordshire Terriers; for short visits of up to four weeks, there may be exceptions, but you must carry all necessary documentation like proof of ancestry and vaccination certificates. Leash and muzzle requirements in public areas, including public transport and busy areas, are not uniform across Germany and can vary significantly by state and even municipality, so it is necessary to check the local rules for your destination. The German Road Traffic Regulations consider a dog in a vehicle as “cargo,” and as such, it must be properly secured to prevent distraction to the driver and to protect the dog and other occupants in the event of sudden movements or an accident. Failure to secure your dog can result in a fine. The dog must not restrict the driver’s view or freedom of movement. Acceptable methods for securing your dog include using a securely fastened car crate, a transport box, a special harness attached to the seat belt (always attached to a chest harness, never a collar), or a safety net or partition barrier separating the dog from the driver and passengers. The transport solution you choose should be appropriate for the dog’s size and weight. Beyond the legal obligations, several recommendations can help ensure a safe and comfortable journey. For long trips, it is strongly advised to acquaint your dog with the travel situation and their chosen restraint method beforehand. Before your vacation, a vet visit is recommended to ensure your dog is fit for travel and to discuss travel precautions. It is generally advised to avoid administering sedatives for travel unless specifically directed by a veterinarian.
