🏡 Pet Sitting in Germany (2026): Finding a Safe Home for Your Little Friends
You've finally booked that long-awaited trip home. Or maybe a spontaneous weekend in the Alps. The suitcase is out, the to-do list is shrinking... and then you feel it. Those big eyes. Watching you from the sofa. Judging you. Just a little.
For expats in Germany, finding trustworthy pet care is often more stressful than the actual move. You don't just want someone to feed your dog; you want someone who won't accidentally teach them bad habits or, worse, misunderstand a vet emergency because of a language barrier.
1. The Three Ways to Settle Your Pet
The Apps
Pawshake, Rover, Cat in a Flat.
- ✅ Insured usually
- ✅ Reviews visible
- ❌ Quality varies widely
Professional Pensions
"Hundepensionen" or "Katzenhotels".
- ✅ Pros handle it
- ✅ Reliable 24/7
- ❌ Expensive & Kennel-like
Community Swap
TrustedHousesitters or FB Groups.
- ✅ Free / Low Cost
- ✅ Home environment
- ❌ Hard to find availability
Which one is right for you?
If you have an anxious dog, a loud "Hundepension" with 20 other barking dogs is probably hell on earth for them. Look for a 1-on-1 sitter on Rover or Pawshake.
If you have a cat, never move them to a pension unless absolutely necessary. Cats are territorial. Use Cat in a Flat or a neighbor check-in service.
2. What Does Pet Sitting Cost in 2026?
Prices have risen significantly in major cities like Berlin and Munich. Here are the realistic averages you should budget for:
- Dog Day Care (Gassigehen)€15 - €25 / walk
- Overnight Dog Sitting (Sitter's Home)€35 - €60 / night
- Cat Visit (1x daily, 30 min)€15 - €20 / visit
- Professional Hundepension€40 - €80 / night
3. Legal & Insurance (Don't Skip)
German liability law (§ 833 BGB) states that YOU, the owner, are liable for damages caused by your animal, even if you are not there.
Scenario:
Your dog pulls the leash out of the sitter's hand and causes a cyclist to fall. The cyclist breaks an arm. Your "Hundehaftpflichtversicherung" (Dog Liability Insurance) must cover this.
Crucial Step: Call your insurance provider and ask: "Is 'Fremdhütung' (care by a third party) covered particularly if it is a paid service?" Some basic policies exclude paid sitting!
4. The Ultimate Sitter Checklist
Before you hand over the keys, print this out for your peace of mind:
- Emergency Vet Contact: Provide name, address, and Google Maps link.
- Payment Authorization: Tell your vet you are away and authorize the sitter to make medical decisions up to €500 (or your limit).
- Dietary Rules: "No table scraps" isn't enough. Be specific: "He is allergic to Chicken."
- Behavioral Triggers: "He hates postmen" or "Do not touch his tail."
- Passport: Leave the EU Pet Passport visible on the table.
Need a Vet while you're away?
Make sure your sitter knows where to go. Find a verified English-speaking vet near you.
Search Vet Directory📚 More Guides for Expats
The EU Pet Passport Guide
Why you need one, how to get it, and how much it costs. The golden ticket for travel within Europe.
💉 Vaccination Schedule & Costs
The StIKo Vet puppy and kitten schedules, why rabies is now a travel vaccine, and what every jab costs under the GOT.
Pet-Friendly Apartments in Berlin
Official Berlin listings, WBS guidance, search steps, landlord consent, lease checks and a practical pet resume.
Moving to Germany With a Dog or Cat
Choose the correct EU or non-EU route, then check microchip, rabies, certificate, owner-travel and breed requirements.