Assistance Dog and Tenants' Rights in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the question of how to obtain an assistance dog with funding while avoiding problems with the landlord. This text explains in practical terms which rights and obligations tenants have, which medical documents and evidence are required, which authorities can be asked for funding and which forms are relevant. I also explain how to inform the landlord, which deadlines are important and when a court (local court) becomes responsible. The language is deliberately simple; step-by-step instructions and an FAQ help to plan the next steps securely and avoid conflicts. Good documentation and timely application to social or integration offices are particularly important; examples show which forms are necessary and what a formal application can look like.

When is an assistance dog allowed?

An assistance dog can be considered a necessary aid if it is medically justified and required for daily participation. Landlords must often show reasonable accommodation, especially when a disability is documented or a benefit under SGB IX applies. At the same time, general tenancy contract obligations remain; conflicts between apartment use and community interests are often resolved on a case-by-case basis. Legal bases for the tenancy contract and the duties of landlord and tenant can be found in the Civil Code (BGB).^[1]

Funding options and responsible authorities

Funding for assistance dogs can be provided through integration assistance benefits, rehabilitation providers or municipal social benefits. Responsible bodies often include integration offices, social welfare offices or benefit providers under SGB IX; exact responsibility depends on the individual case. In case of imminent eviction or a dispute over use, civil procedure law (ZPO) may become relevant because court proceedings require deadlines and formal steps.^[2]

Who can help with questions?

• Contact the local integration office or social welfare office and name the responsible caseworker.
• Ask your general practitioner or a specialist for a written medical statement.
• Seek legal advice early if deadlines threaten.

Which documents and forms do you need?

Typical items are medical certificates, an expert opinion on the necessity of the dog, proof of previous aids and an informal application to the responsible benefits provider. Specific forms vary regionally; often there is an "application for participation benefits" or a form for integration assistance. Keep copies of all proofs and a short file overview with dates and contacts.

• Medical certificate with diagnosis and description of the required help.
• Expert opinion or statement from a specialist doctor or therapist.
• Informal application or regional form for integration assistance.
• Proofs about housing situation, rental agreement and possible allergy or hygiene requirements in the building.

How do you inform the landlord?

Inform the landlord in writing about the medical necessity, attach the medical certificate and explain which restrictions or adjustments are necessary. Ask for confirmation of receipt and offer to clarify questions in person. If the landlord refuses, document the refusal in writing and check whether mediation or legal review is advisable.

FAQ

Can the landlord generally prohibit an assistance dog?

A general ban is not necessarily permissible if a medical necessity exists; it depends on the balancing of interests and possibly on a court decision.

Who pays for purchase and training?

Funding can be provided via integration assistance, rehabilitation providers or social benefits; check regional funding programs and file an application with the responsible provider in good time.

What happens in case of violations of house rules or damages?

Contractual obligations remain: damages or repeated disturbances can lead to warnings, therefore clear rules and insurance are important.

How-To

1. collect medical documents: certificates, expert opinions and previous evidence.
2. inform the landlord in writing and request confirmation of receipt.
3. file an application with the responsible integration or social office (integration assistance).
4. if rejected, consider objection or seek legal advice.
5. in disputes about eviction or use the local court may be competent; observe deadlines.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – Civil Code (BGB)
• Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (SGB IX information)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Gesetze im Internet – Sozialgesetzbuch IX (SGB IX)