Moved to Zurich With a Dog? What to Do in the First 10 Days
Welcome to Zurich - and to Swiss dog rules
Zurich is one of the most dog-friendly cities in Switzerland: forest walks, lakeside promenades and dedicated dog areas are never far away. But if you have just moved to the canton of Zurich with your dog, a few official steps are required - and some have deadlines. Here is what really matters in your first 10 days.
1. Register your dog with your municipality
Every dog older than three months must be registered with your local municipality (Gemeinde) within 10 days of moving. You will receive a dog tag, and your dog is recorded in the cantonal database. Tip: bring your dog's vaccination records and, if available, the registration papers from your previous canton or country.
2. Check the AMICUS database entry
The AMICUS database is Switzerland's national pet register, linked to your dog's microchip. Make sure your address in AMICUS is up to date, otherwise your dog's entry may not match your new municipality. Your vet can update it in a few minutes.
3. Dog liability insurance
Dog liability insurance is not mandatory everywhere in Switzerland, but it is strongly recommended - and some municipalities expect proof. Accidents happen faster than you think, and personal injury caused by dogs can be expensive.
4. The mandatory dog courses in Canton Zurich
Since the revision of the Zurich dog law, courses are a central part of responsible dog ownership in the canton:
Theory course and exam: First-time dog owners must complete an official theory course and pass the theory exam.
Practical course: The practical basic course consists of six lessons and builds the foundation for everyday life with your dog in the city.
If your dog is still a puppy, the practical course starts at around six months of age - but training and socialisation should begin much earlier.
5. Find your English-speaking dog school
Most official information is published in German. If you prefer to train in English, you are in the right place: Swiss Dog School offers the official theory course, practical courses, our Puppy Playgroup and private training in English - with a team that has helped more than 2,700 dog owners since 2017.
Checklist: your first 10 days with a dog in Zurich
Register your dog with the municipality (deadline: 10 days)
Update your address in the AMICUS database
Check or arrange dog liability insurance
Book the mandatory theory course (first-time owners)
Plan the practical course - or, for puppies, early socialisation
Questions about the rules, the right course for your dog or life with a dog in Zurich? Book a course online or write to us - we are happy to help.
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