Dogs must be kept on a leash during the summer in Norway

In a press release, the Norwegian government reminds that dogs must be kept on a leash at all times

At the start of the summer holidays, the Norwegian government issued a press release reminding people that dogs must be kept on a leash from April 1 to August 20 every year - in the entire country. Municipalities with a particularly large number of grazing livestock, i.e. especially in rural areas, may extend the leash period. It is therefore advisable to find out which regulations apply in the municipalities that will be visited.

Dogs chasing livestock, reindeer or game can cause damage, even if they do not bite. Pursuit can lead to exhaustion and heatstroke in the pursued animals. “It is important that all dog owners follow the rules and take responsibility for their dogs so that it will be a good summer for dogs, wildlife and grazing animals,” says Minister of Agriculture and Food Geir Pollestad.
it is forbidden to leave dogs right outside the entrance to buildings open for the public, as well as any playground. In these cases, there must be sufficient distance to avoid unintended contact with other people or animals when passing the dog.

A breach of these rules and in the event of damage, the pet owner can be fined and held liable for the damage. In the worst case, the dog can also be put down.

A ban on certain dog breeds

The following dog breeds are classified as dangerous in Norway. This means that it is not permitted to own, import or breed such dogs in Norway. The ban also applies to crossbreeds in which one or more of the breeds listed below are present in any proportion.

Pit Bull Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier
Fila Brasileiro
Toso Inu
Dogo Argentino
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog

Furthermore, it is forbidden to hold, import or breed dogs that are trained to attack or defend themselves or their owners against people, or to attack other dogs.

Click here to read the full press release.
More on the requirements on taking dogs from EU countries and third countries to Norway.