Legal Definitions - footgeld

Definition: Footgeld (fuut-geld) is a historical term used in forest law to refer to a fine imposed on dog owners who did not make their dogs incapable of hunting. This was done by either cutting out the ball of the dog's paw or cutting off its claws. The process of cutting was known as "expeditating" the dog. If a dog owner was "free" or "quit" of footgeld, it meant they were relieved of the duty to expeditate their dog.

For example, if a dog owner was caught with an unexpeditated dog in a forest, they would be fined footgeld. The fine was meant to discourage people from allowing their dogs to hunt in the forest and disturb the wildlife. Another example is if a dog owner paid footgeld, they would be free from the obligation to expeditate their dog, which could be a costly and painful process for the animal.

These examples illustrate how footgeld was used as a means of enforcing forest law and protecting the wildlife. It also shows how the practice of expeditating dogs was seen as necessary to prevent them from hunting and causing damage to the forest ecosystem.