Germany is considering a law under which dog owners would be required to take their pets outside for walks twice a day.
The proposal has sparked a debate on dogs’ rights in Germany. Critics question whether the state can decide what is right or wrong for the care of the country’s 9.4 million pet dogs.
Germany’s Minister of Agriculture, Julia Klöckner, announced earlier this week that she is introducing a new law on dog rights based on expert opinions. According to her, the new law would make it mandatory for dog owners to take their pets outside twice a day for half-hour walks each time.
She stated that pets are not just for entertainment—they have needs that must be met. She added that pets require exercise and should not be left alone for long periods.
Currently, one in every five households in Germany owns a dog. If the proposed Animal Welfare Dog Regulation is implemented, it could affect a large portion of the population.
The proposed law also includes some restrictions on the movement of farm animals during hot weather.
A major German newspaper criticized the proposed law in its editorial, calling it inappropriate.
Meanwhile, Udo Kapernick, spokesperson for the German Dog Association, said people are mocking the proposal because they already spend several hours taking their pets outside. He added that while the law seems well-intentioned, it is unrealistic.