Is a robot dog legal in Europe?

Yes, owning and using a robot dog is legal in Italy and across the EU: no licence is needed to buy one or use it at home. The points to watch concern how and where you use it — in particular if it carries cameras and microphones and you take it into public spaces — because that is where the rules on privacy and filming come into play. Let's look at the practical points, without alarmism but with clarity.

ℹ️ This article is for information purposes and is not legal advice. For particular uses (commercial, in public, professional) always check the current regulations in your country or consult an expert.

Buying it and using it at home: no problem

From a regulatory point of view, a robot dog is an electronic/robotic device. Buying it and using it privately — at home, in the garden — is perfectly lawful. Police forces themselves use them: the bomb-disposal unit of the Italian Carabinieri in Rome has deployed a Boston Dynamics Spot ("Saetta") since December 2023 for reconnaissance in dangerous environments and explosive ordnance disposal.

Cameras and microphones: mind privacy

Many models have cameras, sensors and microphones. As long as you film your own private spaces, no problem. Things change if:

• You film shared or other people's spaces (landings, streets, neighbours' property): the rules on privacy and video surveillance apply.
• You record identifiable people in public places and publish the videos: consent and data processing (GDPR) need attention.

Practical rule: treat a robot dog with a camera as you would a drone or a surveillance camera — common sense and respect for other people's privacy.

Use in public spaces

Taking a robot dog to a park or onto the street is not forbidden in itself, but:

• Avoid creating an obstruction or danger for people.
• In commercial contexts (events, promotions, professional filming) you may need permission from the venue manager or the local authority.
• Respect any local regulations, as you would with any device or equipment.

Importing: the regulatory part not to underestimate

If you import the robot from outside the EU, beyond customs, VAT and duties, CE compliance matters: the product must meet European market rules (CE marking, declaration of conformity, manual in your language). When you import, responsibility for compliance falls on you. We cover all of it in the guide to importing from China.

In summary

• ✅ Buying and using it at home: free.
• ⚠️ Cameras/microphones pointed at others: respect privacy and the GDPR.
• ⚠️ Public/commercial use: check permissions and regulations.
• ⚠️ Importing: make sure it is CE compliant.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a licence to own a robot dog? No, for private use no licence or permit is needed.

Can I use a robot dog with a camera in public? You can, but you must respect the rules on privacy and on filming identifiable people, especially if you publish the videos.

Are robot dogs banned in Europe? No, they are not banned. They are used by police forces too (Italian Carabinieri, since 2023).

What do I risk importing a non-compliant one? A product without CE compliance can be held at customs, and non-compliant importing can lead to penalties.

All clear on the rules? Then move on to the fun part: find out which model is right for you with Robolero's advisor, and compare new and used prices on the market.