Since 1 July 2026, it is compulsory in Vienna to obtain a certificate of competence (theory and practical components). The theory component must be completed before acquiring the dog. The practical component must be completed within 12 months of the dog moving in.

The aim of the Vienna Sachkundenachweis is to provide future dog owners with the necessary knowledge about dogs, their behaviour, training and dog care. It also aims to help them learn important methods for handling their own dog during the practical sessions.

The theory module covers important information on the legal framework, dog ownership, equipment, everyday life with a dog, social behaviour and communication, body language, safe handling to avoid hazards, and much more.

The theory course must be completed BEFORE the new dog arrives. During a lecture lasting at least 4 hours, participants will learn important information on topics such as keeping and caring for dogs, the development from puppy to adult dog, social behaviour and communication in dogs, safe handling of dogs, force free dog training and much more.
Dogs may NOT be brought to this event.

The practical sessions must be completed within 12 months of the dog moving in. The dog must be at least 6 months old when attending the practical sessions. The practical sessions can be undertaken either as one-to-one training or as part of a group course. The practical sessions cover topics such as learning to read and understand dog behaviour, dog training that complies with animal welfare standards, establishing good communication with the dog, problem-solving, setting boundaries and building a trusting relationship.

Anyone wishing to keep a dog for the first time must complete the Sachkundenachweis.

The Sachkundenachweis is not required only if…

• you already own a dog and this can be proven by registration in a database in accordance with §24a TSchG.
• you have owned a dog for at least two years within the last two years and this can be proven by registration in a database in accordance with §24a TSchG.
• you have kept a dog for at least two years within the last seven years, and this can be verified by a registration in a database in accordance with §24a TSchG, AND you can provide evidence that you have successfully completed a training course covering specific knowledge of keeping and handling dogs.

BUT further training never does any harm, does it? 😊
Anyone who is not required to obtain the new Sachkundenachweis is also welcome to take part at any time, simply out of interest.