Dog Sachkunde Detection: Mandatory from 2026 for all Austria!

Dog Sachkunde Detection: Mandatory from 2026 for all Austria!

In Austria, a comprehensive reform in dog keeping is imminent. From 2026, the certificate of expertise for dog owners is to become mandatory nationwide. The course, which has been mandatory in Vienna by then since 2019, already invites over 20,000 participants to familiarize themselves with the duties and rights around dog keeping. MeinDZIRDED reports that the course will last over four hours and led by authorized experts.

The goal of the initiative is clear: to convey sound knowledge about species -appropriate attitude and care in order to avoid misconceptions and potentially dangerous situations. From 2026 this will be a duty for everyone who wants to register a dog, especially if you have not kept a dog in the past two years.

Requirements for dog owners

An essential part of the course are also legal provisions that determine the responsibility of the owners. Registration takes place directly with the course providers, and the course fee is 40 euros. In order to ensure that new dog owners are well prepared, you must also submit a criminal register extract and take an examination before you can buy a dog, so orf .

The Minister of Animal Welfare Johannes Rauch had even promised a complete ban on how to sharpen dogs. These measures are part of a larger plan to reduce dangerous dog bites and attacks. A reform is absolutely necessary, especially after tragic incidents, such as the death of a jogger.

more knowledge for all dog owners

At the same time, the ÖTK dog certificate is still offered as an additional offer. This certificate promotes knowledge of perception and animal welfare -compliant dog keeping, even if it does not include a practical part of dog training. Content and further training on dogs are also managed by competent dog schools, especially through animal welfare qualified trainers. According to the platform animal protection conformity is voluntary, but does not replace the expected obligations that are created by the new certificate of material.

It remains to be seen what the implementation of the new regulations will look like in practice. The animal welfare associations are carefully optimistic and emphasize that these reforms can be the first step into responsible animal husbandry. What is certain is that the coming years will be decisive for dog owners and those interested in Austria.