It's August in Zurich, the thermometer is touching 30°C, and your dog has been panting since the moment you stepped outside. You know a swim would help — but where are dogs actually allowed in the water? Not everywhere, as it turns out. Here's what you need to know before you load up the car.
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Start quiz →Leash Rules at the Lake — What Applies in August?
Leash rules in Canton Zurich are both seasonal and location-specific. What applies on a forest trail in May can look different in August, and the rules at one lake may differ entirely from the lake twenty minutes away.
The one rule that never changes: nature reserves (Naturschutzgebiete) across Canton Zurich are closed to dogs year-round, regardless of the season. If your target swimming spot — or part of its shoreline — falls inside a protected area, your dog isn't allowed there at all.
For current, location-specific rules, check the Veterinäramt of Canton Zurich and the Hundekontrolle Stadt Zürich before you go. Rules can change between seasons.
For the full picture on leash laws in Zurich, see our leash law guide for Zurich and Switzerland — note that the comprehensive German-language version is also available there.
The 3 Most Cited Dog Swimming Spots in Canton Zurich
These three spots come up consistently as dog-friendly swimming locations in Canton Zurich. Before you head out, verify the current rules and access conditions directly with the relevant authority or operator — access restrictions can and do change.
1. Katzensee (Regensdorf / City of Zurich)
Katzensee is one of the most well-known officially designated dog bathing spots in the city of Zurich. It's reachable by public transport or car, and it's genuinely designated for dogs — not just tolerated. Early morning visits beat the crowds.
Before you go: check current access rules via the Hundekontrolle Stadt Zürich.
2. Türlersee (Aeugst am Albis)
A quieter, smaller lake in the municipality of Aeugst am Albis, south of Zurich. Less busy than the city spots, good for dogs that prefer swimming without a crowd. Best reached by car.
Before you go: check with the Gemeindeverwaltung Aeugst am Albis or the Veterinäramt for current dog access rules.
3. Greifensee (Maur)
Access via Parkplatz Murholz in Maur. A large, nature-close lake with space for active dogs. Parts of the shoreline are protected — stick to the areas signposted as open to dogs.
Before you go: check the Veterinäramt of Canton Zurich for protected area regulations.
For a broader list of dog-friendly places across Zurich, see our guide to dog-friendly places in Zurich.
Your August Packing List
Save this as a screenshot or print it out. Everything you need for a relaxed lake day with your dog:
Water and food
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre per hour outdoors in heat)
- Collapsible dog bowl
- Enough snacks for the journey
Safety in the water
- Dog life jacket (for strong swimmers in unfamiliar water, or uncertain dogs)
- Lead and long training line for the shore area
- Towel for drying off
Health and protection
- Tick prevention applied (lake spots are often near forest edges — tick risk is high in August)
- Sun protection for sensitive areas (nose, belly on short-coated dogs)
- Ear drops for after the swim? Only after checking with your vet first
On the go
- Poo bags (several)
- Basic first aid kit
- Dog ID / registration documentation
3 Things to Keep in Mind at the Lake
1. Avoid cold shock after overheating
Going straight from blazing sun into cold water is hard on dogs. Give yours a few minutes in the shade first, then walk in slowly. Cold shock can cause muscle cramps — especially in smaller or older dogs.
2. Don't let them swim too long
Dogs push themselves in water, particularly in the heat. After 15 to 20 minutes of active swimming, pull them out for a break. A dog drifting passively instead of paddling actively is one that's too tired to get out on its own. Help them before it reaches that point.
3. Check the ears after swimming
Water trapped in the ear canal encourages infections. Pat the ears gently dry after swimming. If you notice redness, an odd smell, or your dog shaking their head repeatedly in the days after, get them seen at the vet.
Quick Questions, Short Answers
Can my dog swim anywhere along Lake Zurich?
No. Lake Zurich has no general permission for dogs. At official bathing beaches and lidos, dogs are typically banned. Look specifically for designated Hundebadestellen, or check the rules at each individual spot before arriving.
What happens if my dog swims somewhere they're not allowed?
You can be fined. The Hundekontrolle Stadt Zürich is active during the summer season. Stay in the areas that are clearly marked as open to dogs.
Do I need to keep my dog on a leash while they're swimming?
It depends on the location. Some spots require a lead even at the water's edge or in the water itself. Check the rules on-site and before you go. Our leash law guide for Zurich has the full breakdown.
Any other day-trip ideas with a dog near Zurich?
If you want a spot that combines swimming with a barbecue and a relaxed atmosphere, our Klöntalersee day trip with dog is worth reading — a well-tested option outside the city.
