The House of Representatives passed the Dogs (Amendment) Law 2026 in March of this year, resulting in many changes affecting dog owners (including assistance dogs) as well as regarding stray dog management.
Dogs over two months old must be microchipped, vaccinated against rabies, and registered with the local municipality. The cost is roughly €15 – €30 with a possible fine up to €1,000.00 for failure to register. Dogs must wear a collar with a tag showing your licence number and phone number at all times with a fine of €100 for failure to comply.
In the case the death of a dog, a signed declaration and a death certificate (from a registered private vet) must be submitted within seven working days. In the case of a missing or stolen dog you must notify the relevant authority within two working days — and notify them again within two working days if you find the dog.
Walking a dog without a lead attached to its collar is now a criminal offence, and you must carry a bag and clean up after your dog, with fines set at €100. Hunting dogs are only exempt from the lead rule in designated hunting areas. Refusing to hand over your dog to the authority when ordered to do so also carries a fine of €100. Failing to notify the authority of your dog’s loss, theft or recovery within the required two working days is also a criminal offence under the new law.
You should note that annual ownership fees have increased, as have breeding fees per litter. Current ownership fees are approximately €20.50/year.
Euthanasia is now only permitted where a dog is found to be dangerous to people or other animals. Stray dogs must instead be taken to a shelter and can only be rehomed if microchipped, sterilised and registered.
The definition of a dangerous dog has also been revised. A dog is now considered dangerous only if, while outside its owner’s property or roaming free, it displays unprovoked and unjustified aggression towards people or animals.
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