The mandatory dog course in Canton Zürich

The course requirement is part of the cantonal dog legislation and is meant to ensure that owners know the basics of behaviour, law and appropriate keeping, and can handle their dog safely in everyday life. The theory part conveys this knowledge, the practical part applies it to working with your own dog.

The order in which you complete the parts, and the timeframe, depend on the school and your situation. If you have just taken on a dog, arrange a course place early, popular slots book up quickly. When in doubt, check directly with the school which deadlines apply to you and whether any exemptions are possible.

Several criteria help you compare providers: canton approval, course type (theory, practical, or both), lesson format, language, location and price. The directory below shows canton-approved dog schools you can filter by these criteria. If you first want to know whether and which course is mandatory for you, the compliance quiz can help.

On costs: the price depends on the provider, course type and scope, and theory and practice are sometimes billed separately. Before you register, clarify which deadlines apply to you and whether an exemption is possible in your case, for example if you have already completed equivalent training. This avoids duplicate courses and unnecessary costs, and you know from the start what lies ahead for you and your dog.