A new rule forcing Germans to take their dog for a walk twice a day has unleashed a discussion on whether the state may decide what is best for the nation's 9.4 million pet canines.
Agriculture Minister Julia Kloeckner declared this week she'd taken specialist guidance and was introducing a law to ensure puppies go for a walk or run in the backyard at least two times per day for a total of an hour.
"Pets are not cuddly toys - their needs have to be considered," said Kloeckner, adding pets must acquire sufficient exercise rather than be left alone for a long time.
With almost one in five German houses possessing a hound, the brand new"Animal Welfare Dog Legislation", which also places limitations on the transport of farm animals in hot weather, affects a significant proportion of the population.
"Compulsory Walkies for Dog Owners? Rubbish!" Composed the top-selling Bild paper in an opinion piece about the new decree.
A spokesman for the VDH German Dog Association stated most owners were laughing at the new rule since they already spent time walking their friend.
"One rule for dogs is probably well meant but unrealistic," said VDH spokesman Udo Kopernik.
Dog trainer Anja Striegel explained the amount of exercise a puppy needs depended upon the health, age and breed of dog.
"For a young, fit Labrador, two hours of walkies are healthier compared to an arthritic pug with heart issues," she told the Sueddeutsche Zeitung newspaper.
Then there's the question of enforcement. The ministry has stated the 16 federal states will be responsible for enforcing the rule but it's unclear how.
Agriculture Minister Julia Kloeckner declared this week she'd taken specialist guidance and was introducing a law to ensure puppies go for a walk or run in the backyard at least two times per day for a total of an hour.
"Pets are not cuddly toys - their needs have to be considered," said Kloeckner, adding pets must acquire sufficient exercise rather than be left alone for a long time.
With almost one in five German houses possessing a hound, the brand new"Animal Welfare Dog Legislation", which also places limitations on the transport of farm animals in hot weather, affects a significant proportion of the population.
"Compulsory Walkies for Dog Owners? Rubbish!" Composed the top-selling Bild paper in an opinion piece about the new decree.
A spokesman for the VDH German Dog Association stated most owners were laughing at the new rule since they already spent time walking their friend.
"One rule for dogs is probably well meant but unrealistic," said VDH spokesman Udo Kopernik.
Dog trainer Anja Striegel explained the amount of exercise a puppy needs depended upon the health, age and breed of dog.
"For a young, fit Labrador, two hours of walkies are healthier compared to an arthritic pug with heart issues," she told the Sueddeutsche Zeitung newspaper.
Then there's the question of enforcement. The ministry has stated the 16 federal states will be responsible for enforcing the rule but it's unclear how.