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Dogs in the canton of Zurich
Breed banCanton ZH · Overview of the main dog rules · As of August 2026
💰 Dog tax
City CHF 160
canton 70–200 per municipality · per year, 1st dog.
🛡️ Liability insurance
MandatoryMandatory, min. CHF 1 million.
🐕 Breed rules (listed dogs)
Breed banBreed type list II (pitbull types) banned; Rottweiler acquisition banned since 1.1.2025.
🎓 Mandatory course
Mandatory courseTheory (first-time owners) + practical for ALL — since 1.6.2025.
🌲 Leash requirement (breeding season)
Forest & 50 m: 1 Apr–31 Jul. Municipal leash zones also apply (roads, public transport, parks, nature reserves).
The dog tax in the canton of Zurich 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). The canton of Zurich maintains a breed list: certain dog breeds are banned or allowed only with a permit. 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 — Zurich ↗ · BLV · AMICUS. Information without guarantee – check municipal details and the current status with the competent authority.