Assistance Dog & Tenants 2025 – Tenants in Germany

Tenant Rights for Assistance Dogs

Many tenants wonder when an assistance dog must be allowed in the rental property and what obligations landlords have. In Germany, general tenancy duties and anti-discrimination principles govern each individual case; it is important to distinguish between legitimate landlord safety concerns and a tenant's claim to participation. Practically this means: ask for clear written decisions and document conversations and proofs so that your rights are traceable in case of dispute.^[1]

How to request approval from the landlord

Proceed in a structured way: collect medical certificates, descriptions of the concrete assistance provided by the dog and, if applicable, documents on training or certifications. Send the request in writing and propose concrete house rules (leash requirement, liability insurance).

• Written request to the landlord with medical proof and a short explanation of the need.
• Attach a signed data release form if necessary so that private health data can be transmitted correctly.
• Set a clear deadline for a response, e.g. 14 days, and confirm the dispatch in writing.

Financing options for students

Students often have a tight budget; check different ways of cost coverage. Possible sponsors are health insurers, integration assistance or foundations. Each option has its own requirements and application procedures.

• Application for cost coverage at the health insurance for aids or special services if the assistance dog is recognized as medically necessary.
• Application for integration assistance at the responsible authority if participation in studies is at risk.
• Check local foundations or university hardship funds for students in need.

Forms and practical examples

Important forms and applications tenants should know:

• Application for determination of a disability (e.g. application at the responsible compensation office). Example: If you have a long-term limiting illness, apply for the degree of disability, attach certificates and describe the tasks the assistance dog performs.
• Application for integration assistance: use this form if help is needed to participate in studies; add cost estimates and justifications.
• Application to the health insurance for aids/cost coverage: submit medical prescriptions and justifications; document rejections in writing.

If the landlord refuses

Remain factual: request the reasons in writing and check whether the refusal is based on genuine safety or allergy concerns. Submit additional evidence or propose compromises (e.g. additional liability insurance, certified dog training).

If it leads to litigation, local courts are competent; observe the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure and relevant BGH decisions for deadlines and legal questions.^[2]

Common problems and practical tips

• In case of damages: take photos immediately, inform neighbours and send damage reports to the property management.
• Seek legal advice from a tenants' association or legal counselling early if deadlines are looming.
• Documentation: keep a logbook with incidents, training proofs and invoices.

FAQ

Does the landlord have to allow an assistance dog?

Not automatically, but with proven need there may be a prohibition of refusal due to discrimination or violation of participation rights. Check individual reasons and provide evidence.^[1]

Who is responsible in a dispute?

In first instance the local court decides; the Code of Civil Procedure applies and higher BGH rulings may be precedent-setting.^[2]

How can students finance an assistance dog?

Options include health insurance, integration assistance or foundations; check applications early and provide medical evidence.

How-To

1. Collect medical records and a description of the specific support needs.
2. Draft a written request to the landlord with a deadline and attach proofs.
3. Contact the health insurer and responsible authorities early to clarify possible cost coverage.
4. If necessary, prepare litigation and get advice on jurisdiction and deadlines at the local court.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB (Tenancy law and duties)
• Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs – Information on participation and integration assistance
• Federal Ministry of Health – Aids provision and health insurance

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions and information