Guten Tag! If you’re a dog lover traveling to Germany or simply learning the German language, knowing how to say “walkies” in German can come in handy when you want to take your furry friend out for a stroll. In this guide, we’ll explore the formal and informal ways to express this phrase, highlighting tips, examples, and even regional variations.
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Formal Expressions for Walkies in German
When it comes to speaking formally, especially in professional settings or with strangers, it’s important to use proper and polite language. Although some Germans might use informal expressions with their pets, using the formal versions is always a safe choice. Here are a few formal ways to say “walkies” in German:
1. Gassi gehen
The most common and widely recognized formal expression for “walkies” in German is “Gassi gehen.” This phrase is a shortened form of “Gassi spazieren gehen,” which means going for a walk specifically with a dog. It’s polite and appropriate to use in almost any situation.
Example: “Ich gehe mit meinem Hund Gassi.” (I’m going for a walk with my dog.)
2. Spazieren gehen
Another formal way to convey the idea of “walkies” is by using the phrase “spazieren gehen,” which translates to “to go for a walk.” While it is more general than “Gassi gehen,” it can still be used when taking your dog out for a walk.
Example: “Ich möchte mit meinem Hund spazieren gehen.” (I would like to go for a walk with my dog.)
Informal Expressions for Walkies in German
When speaking casually or with close friends and family members, Germans often use more informal expressions. These options tend to be less proper but are commonly used in daily conversations. Here are a few informal ways to say “walkies” in German:
1. Gassi
In a relaxed setting, you can use the shortened version “Gassi” to convey the idea of going for a walk with your dog. This term is commonly used in casual conversations, particularly among pet owners.
Example: “Komm, wir gehen Gassi.” (Come on, let’s go for a walk.)
2. Runde drehen
Another informal expression is “Runde drehen,” which literally means “to take a spin.” Although it’s not specific to walking a dog, it is widely understood in casual contexts when referring to going for a walk.
Example: “Lass uns eine Runde drehen.” (Let’s take a spin.)
Regional Variations
German is spoken in various regions, and just like any language, there might be slight regional variations in expressions. However, for the concept of “walkies,” there aren’t significant regional differences within the German language. The previously mentioned formal and informal expressions are widely understood throughout Germany.
Conclusion
Now that you have this comprehensive guide on how to say “walkies” in German, you’ll be able to confidently communicate with fellow dog owners and enjoy a pleasant stroll with your furry friend while visiting or living in Germany. Remember to adapt your choice of expression based on the formality of the situation, and don’t be afraid to embrace the local culture by using more informal expressions with friends and family. Gute Reise! (Have a good trip!)
