Is dog liability insurance mandatory in Spain in 2026? Law 7/2023 on the protection of animal rights and welfare states that all dogs — not just those classed as potentially dangerous — must have third-party civil liability insurance. Here’s a clear explainer of what the law says, where its rollout stands in 2026, and how to comply.
What exactly does the law say?
Law 7/2023 introduced the obligation to take out and maintain third-party civil liability insurance for every dog, regardless of breed or size. That’s a significant change: until then, this national obligation applied only to potentially dangerous dogs (known in Spain as PPP).
The 2026 picture: the small print you should know
The law took effect on 29 September 2023, but the insurance requirement for all dogs was left pending a regulation to set the specific conditions (for example, the minimum sum insured). As of mid-2026 that national regulation is still being finalised, though there has been progress and clarifications from the Government.
In the meantime, the situation is uneven across regions: in territories such as Madrid, the Basque Country, Catalonia, Navarre or Asturias the requirement for all dogs was already in force or contemplated in local rules; in other regions it remains, for now, limited to PPP dogs. So it’s worth checking your region’s rules — and in practice the advice is simple: take it out now.
What happens if I don’t have it? Penalties
Not holding the mandatory insurance is treated as an infringement that can carry a fine of between €500 and €10,000. Beyond the fine, the underlying reason is what matters: if your dog causes harm to a person, another animal or property, you are financially liable. A bite, a traffic accident caused by your loose dog, or a fall can cost thousands of euros.
Doesn’t my home insurance already cover this?
Many home policies include pet civil liability… but not all, and almost never for PPP dogs. They also tend to have limits and exclusions (low amounts, or no cover for damage away from home). Before relying on it, check your home policy; if it doesn’t cover your dog with enough capital, a dedicated civil liability policy for your dog is the safest route — and it’s usually cheap.
How to comply in 3 steps
- 1. Check your home insurance: see whether it includes pet liability, with what limit, and whether it excludes your dog.
- 2. If it doesn’t cover you (or you own a PPP): take out a dedicated dog civil liability policy.
- 3. Keep proof: have the active policy to hand in case it’s requested.
FAQ
Is dog liability insurance mandatory in 2026?
Law 7/2023 requires it for all dogs. Its national regulation is still pending as of mid-2026, but several regions already require it. The prudent move is to take it out now.
Does it apply to all dogs or only dangerous ones?
The law extends it to all dogs, not just potentially dangerous ones (PPP), which already had it mandatory.
What’s the fine for not having it?
Between €500 and €10,000, depending on the infringement.
How much does dog liability insurance cost?
It’s one of the cheapest covers around; a dedicated policy usually costs very little per year — far less than a single incident would.
General information updated for 2026; not legal advice. Actual application depends on the national regulation and each region’s rules. Sources: Law 7/2023 and specialist press (El Español, CaixaBank, Aon, animalshealth.es).
