What you should know as a dog owner: New Zurich Dog Law 2025 - Züripets® makes it easy for you

A new dog law has been in force in the canton of Zurich since June 1, 2025. At its heart is the comprehensively reformed training requirement for dog owners. The aim is to create more safety, consideration and harmony in everyday life. For you as an owner, this means new obligations - but with Züripets® at your side, implementation will be exclusive, simple and worry-free.

The new obligations at a glance

Theory course for first-time and returning students

If you are a first-time dog owner or haven't had a dog for over ten years, the theory course is compulsory. It lasts around two hours, includes a short test and is officially recorded in the dog database AMICUS database. The course can be completed at the earliest one year before and at the latest two months after you start keeping a dog or move in.

Practical course for all dogs

The practical course is now compulsory for all dogs under the age of 10 - regardless of size or breed. It comprises at least six lessons of 60 minutes each, starts at the earliest from the age of 6 months and must be completed within 12 months. Among other things, the course covers leash training, everyday situations, social behavior and a secure bond between dog and owner.

Exceptions - when a course is not necessary

The Zurich Veterinary Office provides for clear exceptions. These only apply if they are officially confirmed or approved.

Examples from practice:

• Dog is older than 10 years when acquired or moves to Zurich
  The Müller family moves to Zurich with their 11-year-old Labrador. As the dog is older than 10 years, the obligation for the practical course does not apply.

• Recognized equivalent training is already available
  Ms Steiner has already completed the SKN practical test with her German shepherd in another canton. The Zurich Veterinary Office recognizes this certificate as equivalent - no additional course required.

• Adoption from spouse/life partner (dog in household for at least 6 months)
  Mr. Keller moves in with his partner and officially adopts her dog, which has been living in their household for 2 years. As the dog has already been registered for more than 6 months, the practical course requirement does not apply.

• Assistance, police, military or guard dogs
  Ms Weber lives with a recognized guide dog. Police dogs or guard dogs are also exempt from the requirement.

• Cases of hardship (health or behavioral reasons, at the request of the veterinary office)
  A vet confirms that a 7-year-old dog with severe osteoarthritis can no longer complete training sessions. Or a traumatized animal welfare dog shows behaviour that makes group courses impossible. The veterinary office can approve an exception with an application.

Authorized course instructors

The courses may only be conducted by trainers who have an official authorization from the official authorization from the Zurich Veterinary Office have. The content and learning objectives are clearly defined by the canton.

Züripets® - your exclusive partner for training & care

At Züripets® you get everything from a single source - and far beyond the legal requirements:

• Authorized trainers: Our trainers are officially certified and meet the cantonal requirements.

• Exclusive infrastructure: training on our fenced-in dog meadow in Glattpark, modern rooms and a central location near Zurich Airport.

• All-round service: We take care of registration, organization and implementation - you don't have to worry about a thing.

• Premium experience: small groups, personal support and the highest quality - for you and your four-legged friend.

Conclusion

The new dog law brings responsibility, but also many opportunities: more knowledge for you, more safety for your dog and a harmonious coexistence in everyday life. With Züripets®, getting there is not only easy, but also an exclusive experience with all-round care.

The courses can be booked exclusively with Züripets® from spring 2026. Book your meet & greet now and find out how Züripets® can guide you and your dog safely through the new requirements.

Züripets® GmbH
Headquater
Boulevard Lilienthal 5
CH-8152 Glattpark (Opfikon)
info@zueripets.ch
+41 44 810 80 00