Could France take inspiration from Germany by taxing dog owners? With an annual tax of 120 euros per dog, the question deserves to be asked while our northern neighbors are raking in millions thanks to this dog tax.
Since Michel Barnier’s announcement concerning his desire to increase taxes, the French have been worried. And for good reason, when it comes to taxation, France is never left behind. But this time, the news comes from across the Rhine. The German government to me in place a tax on dogs which breaks records, as explained Les Echos.
And with more 421 million euros in revenue last year, It is not surprising that this idea is starting to give French politicians pause. With Michel Barnier in the lead, the idea of introducing a similar tax in France is slowly gaining momentum. So, what would be the consequences if this tax were to be introduced?
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A tax already implemented in Germany
In Germany, dog owners have to pay a fee that varies depending on the city, and for some, this could become quite a budget. In Berlin, for example, the amount is set at 120 euros per year, while in Frankfurt dog owners have to pay 102 euros. For the lucky owners of several doggies, prepare to pay: the tax can reach 180 euros for a second dog in Berlin. An original way to deter abandonment? Who knows!
The German administration is not taking half measures. From three months of age, each dog must be registered in the municipality’s dog register. And when we say recorded, we don’t mean it lightly! We’re talking about providing details such as the dog’s age, sex, coat color and tax number. And depending on the breed, prices can skyrocket. In Nuremberg, a fighting dog can cost up to 1,056 euros per year! In Frankfurt, a rottweiler will cost you a whopping 900 euros. Guide dogs or rescue animals are exempt, as are some low-income owners.
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Dog tax soon in France?
In France, the idea of taxing dog owners is not new. It had already been set up by Napoleon III in 1855 to fight against rabies, but this tax disappeared in 1971. Today, with approximately 7.6 million dogs in France, the question is whether this new tax could really one day appear.
Indeed, the rumor has been growing for several days and the subject was even discussed by Cyril Hanouna on Europe 1. “I’ll give you some information, it’s already in the files, and even for cats!” assured a listener. But would the French accept such a measure? Between the freedom to walk your dog without constraints and the idea of having to pay a tax, the debate could be tense. To be continued…
Passionate about women’s news, Agathe has been deciphering the latest trends for aufeminin since 2022. Her favorite areas? Psychology, nutrition and well-being advice, without forgetting the tips…
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