Adopting a dog in Luxembourg: administrative procedures
- Lux-Assurances
- Aug 26
- 2 min read
Adopting a dog is a decision that brings a lot of happiness, but also a lot of responsibility. In Luxembourg, before you can go on long walks in the forest, you must comply with specific legal requirements, particularly in terms of registering with the local authority and civil liability.
Ready to welcome a dog into your life? Between the long-term commitment, daily needs and budget requirements, you've already weighed up the pros and cons. Now let's move on to the practical information: administrative formalities and insurance.
Please note: if you adopt a dog from abroad, certain health formalities (rabies vaccination, European pet passport) are mandatory.
Registering your dog with the local authority
Luxembourg law requires all owners to register their dogs with their local authority within one month of acquisition.
For example, residents of Luxembourg City can register their dogs using a form available on the local authority's website.
The documents required are often:
The dog's identification certificate (microchip mandatory)
A valid rabies vaccination certificate
Proof of civil liability insurance covering damage caused by the animal
Proof of payment of the municipal dog tax (amount varies depending on the municipality)
Tip : remember to renew the registration if you move house or change municipalities.
2. Civil liability: why it is essential
Even a well-trained dog can cause property damage or injury to others.
Civil liability protects you financially in the event of damage caused by your pet. It can cover, for example:
✓ Bites a person or another animal
✓ Property damage (furniture, clothing, etc.)
✓ Accidents caused by your dog (e.g. a cyclist falling while trying to avoid it)
In some municipalities, you are required to provide proof of civil liability insurance when registering your dog. Even when this is not mandatory, this protection is still highly recommended.
Good to know : most home insurance policies in Luxembourg already include civil liability cover for pets. However, it is advisable to check that your policy does indeed include this cover, particularly for large dogs or dogs considered potentially dangerous.
3. Penalties for failure to declare
Not declaring your dog to the local authority may result in:
An administrative fine
The obligation to pay the municipal tax late
Complications in the event of an incident involving the animal (lack of insurance cover)
It is therefore advisable to comply with the regulations as soon as you adopt a dog.
By complying with these rules, you not only guarantee the safety and comfort of your pet, but also your peace of mind with regard to legal and financial obligations.