Germany is one of the most pet-friendly countries in Europe. With over 34 million pets living in German households, including around 15 million cats and 10 million dogs, animals play an important role in everyday life here. But if you're renting an apartment, you might wonder: can I actually keep a pet? What are my rights, and what can a landlord legally say no to?

This guide covers everything you need to know about pet laws in Germany, what landlords can and cannot refuse, and how to find a pet-friendly apartment.

Introduction to Pet Ownership in Germany

Germany has a long history of responsible pet ownership. The country has strong animal welfare laws, including protections written directly into the constitution. Article 20a of the German Basic Law says that the state protects animals as part of its responsibility to future generations. This legal basis shapes how pets are treated in public life and in rental housing.

Unlike in some countries where landlords have almost unlimited power to ban pets, German law takes a more balanced approach. Tenants have rights, and blanket bans on all pets are not automatically valid. That said, the rules can vary, and the type of pet you have matters a lot.

Whether you're moving to Germany with your dog or thinking about adopting a cat after settling in, understanding how the rental market treats pets will help you make good decisions and avoid problems with your landlord.

Can Landlords Refuse Pets in Germany?

The short answer is: it depends on the pet.

German courts have ruled many times that landlords cannot impose a blanket ban on all pets. A clause in a rental contract that says "no pets allowed" (Tierhaltung verboten) is usually considered invalid if it's too broad. However, landlords do have some control, especially when it comes to larger animals.

Small animals: Almost always allowed

Small animals that are kept in cages, tanks, or enclosures and do not disturb neighbors are usually allowed without the landlord's permission. This includes:

• Hamsters, guinea pigs, and rabbits
• Fish and aquarium animals
• Birds (such as budgies or canaries)
• Small reptiles and turtles

These animals are seen as part of normal use of the apartment ("vertragsgemäßer Gebrauch"). Your landlord cannot legally ban them, even if the rental contract says otherwise.

Dogs and cats: Permission usually required

When it comes to dogs and cats, things are more complex. Landlords can require tenants to ask for permission before bringing in a dog or cat. This is because these animals can cause more problems through noise, allergies, or damage.

However, landlords cannot refuse permission without a valid reason. German courts have ruled that each case must be looked at on its own. If a tenant wants to keep a calm, well-trained dog and there's no sign of potential problems, the landlord may have to grant permission.

A key ruling by the Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof) in 2013 confirmed that clauses requiring case-by-case approval are valid, but those banning dogs and cats completely are not.

Exotic and dangerous animals

For exotic or dangerous animals like large snakes, spiders, or certain dog breeds listed as dangerous, landlords have more room to refuse. Local rules (Gefahrtierverordnungen) also apply, and some states have strict laws about keeping such animals in apartment buildings.

Always check your local laws and tell your landlord before bringing in any unusual pet.

What Are the Pet Laws in Germany?

Germany's pet laws come from a mix of federal laws, court rulings, and state rules. Here are the key legal points that apply to renters with pets:

Tierschutzgesetz (Animal Welfare Act)

Germany's Animal Welfare Act sets minimum standards for how animals must be treated. It requires that pet owners provide proper food, shelter, care, and space for their animals. This law applies whether you own or rent your home.

Mietrecht (Tenancy Law)

Under German tenancy law, tenants have the right to reasonable use of their apartment. Keeping pets, especially small ones, is seen as part of this reasonable use. However, the law also says that some animals may affect other tenants or the property, which is why landlords can set rules for larger pets.

Court rulings

German courts have made many rulings about tenant and landlord rights with pets. Some key points include:

• Blanket pet bans are not valid
• Landlords can require prior approval for dogs and cats
• Approval cannot be refused without a good reason
• Tenants are responsible for any damage caused by their pets
• Neighbor complaints about noise or mess can be grounds for requiring a pet to be removed

Local rules

Some cities and states have extra rules, especially for dogs. In Berlin, for example, some dog breeds require a special permit (Hundeführerschein). Many towns also charge a dog tax (Hundesteuer), which is a yearly fee that varies by location.

Can I Have a Pet in My Flat?

If you're renting an apartment in Germany and want to have a pet, here's what you should do:

1. Check your rental contract

Look for clauses about pets (Tierhaltung). If it says pets are completely forbidden, remember that this clause may not be valid, but it's still best to check with your landlord before bringing in a pet.

2. Ask your landlord in writing

For dogs and cats, always request permission in writing. Explain what kind of animal you have, its size, behavior, and how you plan to care for it. A polite, detailed request helps your chances of approval.

3. Be a responsible pet owner

Even if your landlord approves your pet, you need to make sure it doesn't cause problems. Keep noise low, clean up after your pet in shared areas, and deal with any neighbor complaints quickly. Good behavior helps keep a good relationship with your landlord and protects your tenancy.

4. Know your rights

If your landlord refuses permission without a good reason, you may be able to challenge the decision. Tenant groups (Mieterschutzbund) can give advice and support if you think your rights are being ignored.

Finding a Pet-Friendly Apartment

While Germany is generally pet-friendly, finding an apartment where pets are openly welcome can still be hard, especially in busy rental markets like Berlin or Munich.

Here are some tips:

• Filter by pet-friendly listings: Platforms like Immobilienscout24 let you search for pet-friendly apartments.
• Be upfront in your application: Mention your pet early to avoid surprises later.
• Offer a pet deposit: Some landlords may feel better if you offer to pay an extra deposit for possible pet damage.
• Get references: A letter from a past landlord saying your pet behaved well can help.

Conclusion

Germany is one of the most pet-friendly countries in Europe, with strong legal protections for both animals and tenants. While landlords have some say over larger pets like dogs and cats, the law stops them from imposing blanket bans and makes sure each case is judged fairly. Small animals like hamsters, fish, and birds can usually be kept without any permission at all.

If you're a pet owner looking for an apartment in Germany, the key is to understand your rights, talk openly with your landlord, and be a responsible tenant. With the right approach, you and your pet can find a happy home together.

For more tips on the German rental market, check out our guides on how to find a flat in Germany as a foreigner and what documents you need to rent an apartment.