01/04/2026
Thinking of getting a dog in Switzerland? In some places, your first step is not the pet shop, it is a classroom.
In the canton of Zurich, training is now required for people who get a dog from June 1, 2025. The idea is simple: better prepared owners means safer, happier dogs.
New owners (or anyone who has not owned a dog in more than 10 years) must take a theory course and pass a test. It covers basics like dog behavior, care, responsibility, and everyday safety.
Then comes the hands-on part. Owners must also complete a practical course with their dog, with at least six lessons.
Supporters say this helps prevent problems before they start. Things like stress, fear, pulling on the leash, and bad encounters with people or other dogs often come from confusion, not “bad dogs.”
A course can also teach small but life-saving skills. Reading body language, handling greetings, and knowing when to give space can stop many scary moments.
It can even help people decide if they are truly ready. Dogs need time, money, patience, and steady routines, not just love.
Rules can differ by canton, so it is smart to check where you live. But the message behind these laws is clear: owning a dog is a commitment, and learning matters.
Reference list
Dog Training Theory (Booklet) - Canton of Zurich, Department of Health, Veterinary Office
‘Hundegesetz’: Zurich to reinstate mandatory dog-training classes from June - The Local Switzerland
Swiss cantons struggle to regulate rise in dog biting cases - SWI swissinfo .ch
No more obligatory courses for dog owners - SWI swissinfo .ch
Note: The images used in this post have been created using AI for illustration purposes only.
