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Dogs in the canton of Ticino
Permit requiredCanton TI · Overview of the main dog rules · As of August 2026
💰 Dog tax
Bellinzona CHF 70
cheapest major city · per year, 1st dog.
🛡️ Liability insurance
MandatoryMandatory, min. CHF 3 million.
🐕 Breed rules (listed dogs)
Permit requiredBroad list: 32 breeds require a permit (incl. shepherds).
🎓 Mandatory course
Mandatory courseTheory course ≥6 h for new owners — from 1.9.2026 (unless a dog in the last 10 yrs).
🌲 Leash requirement (breeding season)
Forest: 1 Apr–15 Jul. Municipal leash zones also apply (roads, public transport, parks, nature reserves).
The dog tax in the canton of Ticino is due annually and is usually set by the municipality of residence — the exact amount can therefore vary from municipality to municipality (guide value above; the dog-tax calculator gives the amount for your place of residence). In Ticino, certain breeds require a permit – check the cantonal list before getting a dog. Dog liability insurance is mandatory.
New dog owners must complete a mandatory course. As everywhere in Switzerland, the dog must be microchipped and registered in the AMICUS database. All information is indicative (as of 2026) — the current rules of the canton and municipality are decisive.
📋 Tier im Recht — Ticino ↗ · BLV · AMICUS. Information without guarantee – check municipal details and the current status with the competent authority.