Are dogs actually allowed to run alongside bicycles?
Germany - In Austria, dogs are not allowed to run alongside a bicycle on a lead. But what is the legal situation in Germany? After all, many dog owners walk their animals like this. ..
It is not uncommon for drivers or walkers to see cyclists walking their dogs next to them. Sometimes this happens on a lead, sometimes off the lead.
In our neighboring country of Austria, cyclists have to pay a fine of up to 726 euros according to the Road Traffic Act (StVO).
"What we humans perceive as pleasant exercise can cause enormous stress for dogs and, in the worst case, can even lead to life-threatening situations in which not only the animal itself but also other road users are endangered," warns Eva Persy, Head of the Animal Welfare Ombudsman's Office in Vienna for the Austrian daily newspaper"Heute".
The expert is not wrong. Again and again, sometimes serious accidents happen with a pet next to a bicycle.
Dog next to bicycle is no problem in Germany
However, the German StVO does not consider four-legged friends to be a problem next to moving bicycles. There are therefore no penalties to fear.
Paragraph 28 of the StVO only stipulates that dogs are not allowed to run alongside cars or motorcycles. As long as a cyclist can exert sufficient influence and avoid a danger to traffic, animals are allowed next to them.
But there are exceptions: Short-legged breeds, as well as large, heavy dogs or even sick pets are not allowed to run alongside bicycles. The same applies to those where the breed does not allow it because the animals do not have an athletic disposition.
This must also be observed in municipalities where dogs must be kept on a lead.
The four-legged friends should also be trained so that they do not pose a risk in road traffic. A special leash holder is recommended so that cyclists are not too distracted or restricted when riding.
Important: The lead should not be attached to the neck of the sporty four-legged friend, but to a harness that sits firmly enough on the body. This prevents the animal from being strangled and still provides sufficient support.
If you take your dog for a walk in the dark, you should also think about lights or strong reflectors for your four-legged friend and not just attach them to the bike. Lights on dogs are particularly helpful for drivers and prevent collisions.