September 30, 2025, 12:05 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Many dog owners underestimate the requirements of the dog handler’s license—both in theory and practice. Dog trainer and examiner Katharina Marioth explains in a PETBOOK interview what really matters—and why professional support is often indispensable.
After Lower Saxony, Bremen also plans to introduce the mandatory proficiency certificate, better known as the “dog handler’s license,” starting in July 2026—this is being debated in other states such as Berlin. While owners can relatively easily prepare for the theoretical questions, many underestimate the difficulty of the practical test for the dog handler’s license. But what exactly do the dog and the owner need to be able to do? PETBOOK spoke with dog trainer Katharina Marioth. She is an expert in the state of Berlin, the dog handler’s license, and the temperament test, and knows where the pitfalls lie.
“The Dog Must Be Recallable Even With Distractions”
PETBOOK: Katharina, what do the dog and the owner need to do to pass the practical test for the dog handler’s license?
Katharina Marioth: “The dog must be recallable—even with distractions, such as being called back from a group of dogs. It should be able to walk on a leash and be calmly led through the city. In a group of pedestrians, it must not bother or jump on anyone but should walk through calmly. Additionally, it must be able to maintain a set perimeter—such as 15 to 25 meters—even without a leash. This is the biggest challenge for many, especially when another dog runs by.”
Is it enough to prepare alone, or should one attend a dog school?
“I would say: 90 percent of dogs in Berlin would not currently pass the dog handler’s license—if they had to take it. The requirements come in quick succession, which is demanding. Therefore, I clearly recommend seeking support from a dog school or trainer.”
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What happens if you fail the practical test?
“Don’t worry—your dog will not be taken away. The test can be repeated as often as needed. After a failure, I usually give targeted training tips on where there are still issues. Most often, it’s the off-leash sequences that cause problems.”
You also administer the theoretical test for the dog handler’s license. Are there questions where many fail?
“There are classics—for example: ‘Which law does not apply to dog ownership?’ The options are then the Animal Welfare Act, Road Traffic Regulations, Forestry Act—and the Animal Transport Act. The latter is, of course, incorrect, but many don’t know that.
What I find more surprising is how little basic biological knowledge is present: How long is a female dog in heat? How long does the puppy phase last? These are basics that should be part of general education—especially in a country with such a high level of education and dog density.”
What Dog and Owner Need to Know for the Dog Handler’s License Test
- Recallability: even with distractions (e.g., from groups of dogs)
- Leash Walking: calm walking on a loose leash
- Calmness in the City: no jumping on or bothering pedestrians
- Off-Leash Control: dog stays within a specified perimeter (e.g., 15–25 m)
- Social Behavior: controlled interaction with other dogs
- Owner’s Knowledge Base: basic knowledge of dog behavior, law & care