In this article you are going to know whether you are allowed to walk your doggie without a muzzle abroad. Take notes and bite on that!
USA
In the USA, the rules for dog walking are established by the authorities of each state separately. Still there is no certain requirement for a muzzle usage in any of them (unless a dog is transported in public transport). The only general rule for the whole country is that a dog must be on a leash outside. However, if the local authorities consider your dog to be dangerous for others, then you may be obliged to walk your dog in a muzzle.
Germany
In Germany, according to European dog breeders, the most stringent rules in Europe have been established in respect to the safety of dogs. Across the country, it is strictly forbidden to transport dogs on trains without muzzles, regardless of their size and breed. And each federal state additionally cracks down on local dog lovers. For example, in Bavaria, according to the local law “On Dangerous Dogs”, 14 breeds of dogs and their half-breeds are forbidden to walk in public places without a muzzle. Among them are: Rottweiler, Italian Mastiff, Bullmastiff and others. In addition, “dangerous dogs” cannot be walked by owners younger than 18 years old. Even a lap-dog can be muzzled there if it previously showd some signs of aggression. Here are four breeds prohibited for keeping and breeding in Germany: Tosa Inu (Japanese Mastiff), American Staffordshire Terrier, Pit Bull.
Italy
Until recently, in Italy there was a ban on walking dogs in public places without a muzzle. However, dog owners and the authorities viewed the law with skepticism. Several years ago, Italian administration legalized the prohibition on walking of “naturally aggressive breeds” without a muzzle. Among them are Pit Bulls, Bullmastiffs, Dobermans, German Shepherds, Rottweilers and even Newfoundlands and St. Bernards without a leash and muzzle. By the way, until recently there was a ban on transporting dogs weighing more than 6 kg on trains. Even so under public pressure, it was canceled. Still a dog must be muzzled in any public transport in Italy though.
Great Britain
Great Britain - perhaps the most dog-friendly country in the world, there is no direct law obliging dog owners to walk their pets in muzzles. Some hazardous fighting breeds are banned there and must be sterilized. At the same time, a dog without a muzzle in the parks is not rare in the UK. The British law prescribes a hefty fine (up to 20 thousand pounds) for a dog owner, if their dog hurts anyone.
Spain
Spanish “dog” legislation, according to the Internet portals of local dog owners, is the most complicated in the world. The recently adopted law “On Dangerous Dogs” classifies dogs not only by breed, but also by exterior and weight and size characteristics. So, all pets weighing more than 20 kg get under restrictions on walking in public without wearing a muzzle.
France
In France, there are about 17 dogs per 100 people. The country has one of the world's largest four-legged population. About 100 thousand dogs are classified as dangerous there. The law divides such dogs into two categories: “attacking” and “guard”. Among them are Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Pit Bull, Mastiff, Rottweiler. Walking such dogs in public places without a muzzle and leash is prohibited. In addition, the owner of a dog must have a special license. In public transport it is allowed to carry only small dogs in carriages, while on trains a dog must be muzzled.
Hope this information was useful for you. Next time taking your furry compamion with you on holidays you will be aware of some more rules and laws abroad.