Spain Animal Welfare Law 2023: A Complete Guide for Dog Owners

Spain's Ley 7/2023, de 28 de marzo, de protección de los derechos y el bienestar de los animales (Animal Welfare and Rights Protection Law) is the country's most significant reform for pet owners in decades. Passed on 28 March 2023 and in force from September 2023, it introduces new obligations for every dog owner in Spain — and the single most urgent action you need to take right now is getting mandatory civil liability insurance for your dog.

Whether you're a Spanish national, a long-term expat, or a recent arrival in Spain, this guide explains the five key changes, the fines you could face, and exactly what you need to do to stay on the right side of the law.

What Is Spain's Animal Welfare Law and When Did It Come Into Effect?

The Ley 7/2023 was passed by the Spanish Parliament on 28 March 2023 and published in the BOE (Official State Gazette). It came into force in stages from September 2023. The law applies across the whole of Spain, though autonomous communities (regions) have certain powers to adapt or extend its requirements.

The law's stated aims are to guarantee the welfare of companion animals, combat abandonment, and promote responsible ownership. It covers dogs, cats, rabbits, and other domestic species — but the five most concrete changes for dog owners are the ones you need to know.

The 5 Most Important Changes for Dog Owners in Spain

1. Mandatory civil liability insurance — All dog owners in Spain must hold a valid civil liability insurance policy for their dog. This applies to every breed, with no exceptions. It is one of the most immediate practical obligations introduced by the law.

2. Responsible ownership course — Dog owners will be required to complete an accredited responsible ownership course before registering their animal. Rollout is gradual and depends on each autonomous community; as of 2026, many regions have not yet fully implemented the system. Check with your local ayuntamiento (town hall) for the current status in your area.

3. RIVIA — National Animal Identification Registry — A unified national database for companion animals. Microchipping was already mandatory before this law; RIVIA standardises the data across all regions, making it easier to track lost or abandoned animals.

4. Ban on selling pets in pet shops — Pet shops can no longer sell dogs, cats, or rabbits. Animals must be acquired from registered breeders or adoption centres. This provision is being phased in progressively.

5. Abandonment is now a criminal offence — Abandoning a pet has been elevated from an administrative infraction to a criminal offence. Combined with administrative fines of up to €200,000, this represents a major toughening of the law.

Mandatory Dog Insurance in Spain: What It Covers, What It Costs, and How to Get It

Civil liability insurance (seguro de responsabilidad civil) for dogs is compulsory for all dog owners in Spain under the Ley 7/2023. The policy covers damage or injury your dog may cause to other people or their property.

How much does it cost?

Premiums vary depending on the insurer, breed, and level of coverage, but typically range between €30 and €80 per year for standard breeds. Dogs on the PPP (Perros Potencialmente Peligrosos — Potentially Dangerous Dogs) list may attract higher premiums and additional requirements.

How to get it:

• Through your existing home or pet insurer — many Spanish insurers now include dog liability as an add-on.

• Through specialist pet insurance providers.

• Via comparison websites (Rastreator, Acierto, Helpmycash) to find the best rate.

We've collected the options — liability cover, plus accident and illness policies — on our pet insurance page, so you can compare what's available without trawling a dozen sites.

Practical tip for expats: If your home country insurance includes pet liability coverage that extends to Spain, check whether it meets the requirements under Spanish law. When in doubt, take out a Spanish policy — it's inexpensive and removes any ambiguity.

Keep a digital and physical copy of your policy. You may be asked to show proof in case of an incident or inspection.

The Responsible Ownership Course: Who Needs It and When

The Ley 7/2023 requires dog owners to complete a responsible ownership course (curso de tenencia responsable) in order to register their animal. The course covers animal behaviour basics, welfare standards, first aid, and current legislation.

Is it mandatory right now?

The short answer: not yet in most places. Implementation is being rolled out gradually by autonomous communities. As of 2026, many regions are still developing or finalising their training systems. However, some municipalities already run their own courses — some free of charge.

What should you do now?

• Contact your local ayuntamiento or check their website for updates.

• Explore voluntary training options — many veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and online platforms already offer relevant courses.

• Monitor announcements from the Ministerio de Derechos Sociales, which coordinates national implementation.

For expats: the course content will almost certainly be available in Spanish only in most regions. If you're still learning the language, this is a good reason to start now.

What Are the Fines? Penalties Under the Animal Welfare Law

The Ley 7/2023 sets out a three-tier penalty system:

The most common infractions dog owners may face include:

• No civil liability insurance: classified as a serious infraction — fines from €10,001.

• Unregistered/unchipped animal: serious infraction.

• Abandonment: can be classified as very serious (up to €200,000) plus potential criminal charges.

• Failure to register in RIVIA: serious infraction.

Enforcement falls to the Policía Local (Municipal Police), Guardia Civil, and local animal control services. Inspections can occur in public spaces, at vets, and following reported incidents.

What Has NOT Changed: Separating Fact From Social Media Rumour

There has been considerable confusion — and some misinformation — circulating about this law. Here is what remains unchanged:

The PPP list still exists. The Ley 7/2023 indicated a future review of the Potentially Dangerous Dogs breed list, but as of 2026 the list has not been abolished or modified. Breeds on the PPP list still require a municipal licence, specific insurance, and a muzzle in public spaces.

Local ordinances still apply. The national law sets minimum standards. Your ayuntamiento may have additional rules — on access to parks, beaches, restaurants, and public transport. These are not overridden by the national law. In Barcelona, for example, leash length and beach access are governed locally — see our guide to dogs in Barcelona: parks and rules.

Autonomous community variation. Spain's regional structure means implementation varies. Catalonia, the Basque Country, and other communities with their own animal welfare laws may apply different rules. Always check your region's specific regulations.

Leaving your dog home alone during working hours is not illegal. The law addresses neglect and abandonment — not normal daily separations. What is prohibited: permanent chaining, prolonged isolation without adequate care, or keeping animals in conditions that do not meet basic welfare standards.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spain's Dog Law 2023

Is dog insurance mandatory in Spain?

Yes. Under the Ley 7/2023, civil liability insurance is mandatory for all dog owners in Spain, regardless of breed. The average cost is €30–80 per year. Not having it is a serious infraction with fines starting at €10,001. Compare cover on our pet insurance page.

What fines can I get under Spain's Animal Welfare Law?

Fines range from up to €10,000 for minor infractions to €200,000 for very serious ones. Abandoning your dog can also result in criminal charges in addition to administrative fines.

Do I need a licence or course to own a dog in Spain?

A responsible ownership course will be required under the new law, but implementation is still underway in most regions as of 2026. There is no traditional "dog ownership licence" — but do check the current status with your local ayuntamiento.

Can pet shops still sell puppies in Spain?

No. The Ley 7/2023 bans pet shops from selling dogs, cats, and rabbits. Puppies must come from registered breeders or adoption centres. This is being phased in, but buying from pet shops is now against the law.

Does the law apply to foreign nationals living in Spain?

Yes, fully. The law applies to all residents of Spain regardless of nationality. If you own a dog and live in Spain — whether you hold a Spanish NIE, an EU residency card, or a long-term visa — you are subject to the same obligations as Spanish nationals.

How much does all of this add to the cost of owning a dog?

Less than most people expect — liability insurance works out at €3–7 per month. For the complete picture, see our breakdown of the real cost of owning a dog in Spain.

Your Next Steps as a Dog Owner in Spain

Spain's Animal Welfare Law 2023 is a significant step forward for animal rights — and for most responsible dog owners, compliance is straightforward. The priority right now:

1. Get civil liability insurance for your dog — this is already mandatory and the most immediate obligation. Compare options here.

2. Check your dog is microchipped and registered — RIVIA standardises registration, so make sure your data is up to date with your vet.

3. Monitor updates on the responsible ownership course — follow your ayuntamiento's announcements.

Part of responsible dog ownership is also making sure your dog is well cared for when you're not available. On My Tails, you'll find verified pet sitters in Madrid, Barcelona, and Valencia who share the values behind the new law — professional, caring, and committed to animal welfare. Not sure how to vet one? Start with our 10 questions to ask before booking a sitter.

Last updated: July 2026. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific situations, consult a legal professional or the relevant authorities in your autonomous community.