The new dog law will soon come into force. Unfortunately, the exact date is still uncertain!

However, we would like to offer you the theory course for new dog owners now. 
We give you the opportunity to complete the course online.

You can expect an online presentation of various important dog topics specified by the canton:

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1. Dog Law
- The most important provisions of the dog and animal laws 
- Code of conduct for dog owners 
- Requirements for traveling with dogs or importing a dog acquired abroad

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2. Needs, Social Behavior, Learning Theory
- Needs of a dog (animal-friendly occupation, breed-specific behavior, signs and causes of over- and underchallenge) 
- Knowledge of social behavior (way of life and integration into the social network, communication and expressive behavior of the dog) 
- Learning behavior of the dog, taking into account the learning methods (classical and instrumental conditioning, learning via positive reinforcement)

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3. Tools for Dog Training
- Permitted aids for dog training such as collar, leash or muzzle (management tools)
- Permitted aids such as clickers, dog whistles, rewards with food or toys
- Information about prohibited aids such as choke collars and aids that punish the dog mentally and physically and the legal consequences of using them

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4. Time and financial Costs of owning a dog

- Costs for dog training courses
- Insurance
- Medical costs, also depending on the dog breed and potential illnesses
- Dog food and equipment
- Time required for supervision & exercise, as well as any resulting costs for dog care

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5. Breed-typical Uses of a Dog
- Basic knowledge about the intended use of a dog, as well as the resulting information about the amount of work involved or any undesirable behavior
- Support in choosing a suitable dog breed based on typical breed characteristics and not on appearance 

 

“The theory course should be attended no earlier than one year before the start of dog ownership. (...) Conversely, the training course should be attended no later than two months after the start of ownership or moving into the canton. (...) Ideally, the theory course should be attended shortly before adopting a dog.”

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