Question
In early November I'll be moving from Brazil to Stuttgart (Germany) because I've found a job there. All the documentation has already been taken care of and the dog will be allowed to enter the EU in November 2nd. Also, I'm already aware that it will be kinda hard to find an apartment to rent with a dog, even a small and quiet one as my 1 year old, 5.5kg Shih Tzu.
I've been told that Germans tend to be very annoyed by the smallest amount of barks, and I fully understand that. But I've been told that Germans find it "almost criminal" to leave a dog 8 hours a day alone at home. As I'll be working from 9-to-5, that's what will be happening.
Is this going to be an issue, considering that the dog is well used to this, because it already happens here in Brazil? I mean, do neighbors really care about how much time my dog spents alone at home as long as he doesn't bark?
Answer
There is no law forbidding you to leave your dog alone for any amount of time, as long as you care for it and provide food and water.
There are some common rules when owning dogs in Germany:
In some areas in Germany dogs must be leashed in public spaces. Please research the local rules (http://www.stadtwiki-stuttgart.de/wiki/Hundehalter if you understand German).
People walking their dogs have the great chance to get to know other people. It's more common for strangers to start small talk when there is a dog or a child involved.
You should take tiny garbage bags with you when walking your dog to dispose of your dog's turds. In some places there are public turd bag dispensers, but those are most often empty. Leaving your dog's turds lying around might result in angry reactions. You can buy turd bags in grocery stores or drug stores.
Excessive barking can be a reason to terminate the lease. But for that the barking must be truly excessive. Find more information at https://www.stuttgart.de/item/show/52190 (again in German).
Answered By - Elmy