Germany's veterinary workforce continued to grow in 2025, with 46,089 veterinarians registered with regional veterinary chambers by the end of the year, an increase of 444 compared to 2024. Women now represent two-thirds of the profession and nearly three-quarters of veterinarians actively working in clinical practice. However, the latest statistics from the German Veterinary Chamber (BTK) reveal deeper structural trends that could affect future access to veterinary care. While overall numbers are rising, fewer vets are choosing practice ownership. The number of self-employed veterinarians fell slightly to 11,216, while employed positions increased to 12,125. This trend is reflected elsewhere in Europe, according to the 2023 FVE survey of the veterinary profession.
Regional practice shortages
The data also show a continuing decline in the number of veterinary practices across most regions, while the number of veterinary hospitals remained largely stable. Furthermore, the profession is ageing, with a growing proportion of veterinarians over 60 years of age, raising concerns about succession planning, emergency service provision and long-term workforce sustainability. According to BTK President Holger Vogel, ‘regional shortages might emerge if practices struggle to find successors, particularly in rural areas and farm animal medicine.’ The findings ‘underline the need for attractive working conditions, sustainable financing models and modern practice structures to secure veterinary services in the years ahead.’
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