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The Dutch government has introduced new regulations for pet owners that affect both cats and dogs. Starting in 2028, microchipping cats will be mandatory. Owners of certain high-risk dog breeds may also be required to complete a behaviour course or face stricter penalties if their dog bites someone. These measures were announced by State Secretary for Agriculture Silvio Erkens (VVD).
Chipping cats
The cat microchipping rule addresses the high number of missing cats in the Netherlands, estimated at 62,500 annually. Currently, only about 10 percent are recovered by animal welfare organisations such as the Dierenbescherming; most remain on the street. In contrast, since microchipping became mandatory for dogs, approximately 90 percent of found dogs are reunited with their owners.
A microchip is a small transponder implanted under the skin that lets a scanner read a unique registration number. From 1 January 2028, newborn cats must be microchipped, with owners responsible for the procedure and veterinarians handling registration. The government will reimburse the cost, estimated at 25 to 55 euros. This measure aligns with upcoming European regulations on pet welfare and traceability, and supports the EU’s plan for a cross-border pet database by 2031.
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Courses for dog owners
The new dog regulations aim to reduce biting incidents. Erkens proposes a mandatory course for owners of high-risk breeds to ensure they can keep their dogs “safe,” stating that “holders of this group of dogs have an extra responsibility.” The specific breeds or characteristics covered will be determined in a proposal expected in early 2027, based on data from previous bite incidents. The Netherlands has maintained a list of high-risk dogs since 2017.
Owners who do not complete the course may face higher penalties if their dog bites a person or another animal. The legal framework and enforcement methods are still under consideration, and veterinarians may be involved. Additionally, Erkens plans to introduce a “voluntary, low-threshold” theory course in 2027 for all new and current dog owners to promote basic knowledge. A campaign this autumn will help prospective owners select suitable dogs. Owners will pay for the course.
A note of caution
Comprehensive data on serious bite incidents is lacking. Erkens has acknowledged this gap, which led to the establishment of a national reporting point for dog bites in January. International research indicates that owner-related factors are more significant than breed in determining risk, and breed bans in other countries have not clearly reduced incidents. This evidence, along with concerns that mandatory courses may primarily affect responsible owners rather than negligent ones, will likely influence the ongoing debate.
These plans follow recent serious incidents, including a case in Zoetermeer where police shot a dog after it attacked its owners. For pet owners, the immediate requirements are clear: from 2028, new kittens must be microchipped, and dog ownership regulations will become stricter.