Am I allowed to keep this dog in Denmark?
Yes, but it depends on the breed and the rules. 13 dog breeds are banned in Denmark since 2010, including the pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, Tosa Inu, Fila Brasileiro and Dogo Argentino — it is forbidden to breed, keep and import them. All dogs must be ID-marked and registered in the Danish Dog Register and have mandatory liability insurance (which cannot be taken out on a banned breed). Dogs must be on a lead in built-up areas and on the beach in season (1 April–30 September). Dogs lawfully acquired before the 2010 ban may be kept with a muzzle and lead.
📋 The rules
- 13 dog breeds are banned (since 2010)
- Forbidden to breed, keep and import them
- All dogs must be ID-marked and registered
- Mandatory liability insurance for all dogs
- On a lead in built-up areas and on the beach in season
🔓 Exceptions
- Dogs lawfully acquired before the 2010 ban may be kept with a muzzle and lead
- Certain hunting and service dogs have their own allowances
- Off-lead is allowed in designated dog forests
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Fines for missing insurance or registration. Dangerous or banned dogs can be ordered euthanised by the authorities.
📎 Official sources
❓ Frequently asked
Can I keep any dog?
No. 13 dog breeds are banned in Denmark, including the pit bull and Tosa Inu.
Which dogs are banned?
13 breeds since 2010, including the pit bull terrier, American Staffordshire terrier, Tosa Inu, Fila Brasileiro and Dogo Argentino.
Must my dog have insurance?
Yes. All dogs must have mandatory liability insurance, and it cannot be taken out on a banned breed.
Must the dog be registered?
Yes. All dogs must be ID-marked and registered in the Danish Dog Register.
Must the dog be on a lead?
Yes, in built-up areas and on the beach in season from 1 April to 30 September. Off-lead is allowed in dog forests.
🔎 Common searches
What people search to land here:
- “can I keep this dog denmark”
- “banned dog breeds 13”
- “pit bull banned denmark”
- “dog liability insurance”
- “danish dog register”
- “dog lead beach season”