In Germany, certain dogs are classified as dangerous because of their breed or their aggressive behaviour and are recorded on what is known as dangerous dog list. As a measure to protect against dog attacks, the Dangerous Dog Control Act (also known as the Dog Movement and Import Restriction Act) was enacted in 2001. This regulates the import of dangerous dogs – colloquially known as fighting dogs.
Four breeds are banned in Germany: Pitbull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Bull Terrier. The nationwide import ban also applies to crosses with these dog breeds. The breed lists, which exist in most federal states, define the requirements and conditions for keeping potentially dangerous dogs.
Nearly 50 breeds comprise the lists: above all, Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Gull Terriers, as well as crosses of these breeds. These dogs are characterised by a strong physique, a broad head or a strong jaw. Solidly built dogs such as Bordeaux Mastiffs or Mastiffs and Bullmastiffs are also on the lists.
A distinction is also made as to whether the breed is dangerous or just aggressive – with different requirements – depending on the federal state.
Yes, we insure and cover all breeds, including listed dogs. We believe an animal is not aggressive because it is of a particular breed. Therefore, no blanket judgement should be made about the dog’s dangerousness. And the science is behind us – an animal’s aggressiveness is not innate; instead, it is upbringing and care that essentially determine its behaviour.