Dog owners across Catalonia could face fines of up to €10,000 if they do not have civil liability insurance for their pets, under the new Animal Welfare Law. The rule applies across the region and has prompted confusion among some owners.
Until now, this type of insurance was mainly required for dogs classed as potentially dangerous. The new law extends the obligation to all dogs, regardless of breed, size or temperament, according to officials. The policy must stay active for the dog’s entire life and cover the owner’s civil liability.
The aim is to cover damage a dog may cause to other people, other animals or property. That can include bites, injuries, accidents in public or private spaces, and other incidents. Some home insurance policies may include this cover, but owners should check the wording carefully.
Penalties for non-compliance
Not having the required insurance could be treated as a minor offence, with fines ranging from €500 to €10,000. However, the full regulatory details, including minimum cover levels and exact sums in specific cases, are still being finalised.
This has left some uncertainty for owners, insurers and public administrations. The law has been approved, but some parts still need clarification for consistent application across Spain. For wider coverage of local public policy and consumer rules, see our news page.
What owners should do now
Dog owners should contact their insurer to check whether their home insurance already covers damage caused by a dog. If it does not, they should arrange a specific policy. It is also sensible to keep policy documents, make sure the dog is microchipped, and keep registration details up to date.