#German pet owners forced to take dogs on 2 walks a day under new law

German dog owners are barking mad about a planned new law that would force them to take their pooches on at least two walks a day.

The country’s Agriculture Minister, Julia Kloeckner, announced this week she will introduce legislation requiring that man’s best friend get at least two 30-minute walks daily, according to the BBC.

“Pets are not cuddly toys — their needs have to be considered,” said Kloeckner, adding that it’s important for dogs to get exercise and not be left alone for too long.

But some Germans said it’s wrong-headed to think that all canines have the same exercise needs — and demanded that the government keep its paws out of their business.

“Compulsory Walkies for Dog Owners? Rubbish!” the Bild newspaper howled in an opinion piece about the rule.

Others stressed that a pup’s physical needs depend on its health, age and breed.

“One rule for all dogs is probably well meant but unrealistic,” said Udo Kopernik, a spokesman for the German Dog Association.

Kloeckner’s rule also includes a ban on leaving dogs alone for long periods of time and keeping them chained up for too long.

It also forbids breeders from having more than three litters at a time, and requires puppies to be in the company of a person for at least four hours a day, according to the outlet.

Kloeckner said the proposal is based on expert advice to ensure animal protection and welfare. A draft of the new rule has already been drawn up and could become law early next year.

It wasn’t immediately clear how it would be enforced, but a spokeswoman for the agriculture ministry said that private dog owners would not likely receive police visits.

With Post wires