Listed dogs in Canton of Zurich

Breed list in Canton of Zurich

Special rules apply to these breeds in Canton of Zurich. That says something about the breed, not about your dog.

What applies in Canton of Zurich

Law

Hundegesetz (HuG, LS 554.5) und Hundeverordnung (HuV, LS 554.51), Rassetypenliste II in § 5 HuV ↗

Crossbreeds and mixed breeds

Prohibited from a blood share of at least 10 percent of a listed breed (Rottweiler: more than 10 percent). If ancestry is unclear, the Veterinäramt (cantonal veterinary office) assesses the appearance.

Temperament test

No way to keep prohibited breeds. Only for existing dogs (Rottweilers registered before 1.1.2025) a keeping permit with temperament assessment, application by 30.6.2025.

Permit

Rassetypenliste II: keeping, acquisition, moving in with and breeding are prohibited. Keeping permit only as a transitional arrangement for existing dogs; fee CHF 1200.

Proof of competence

No breed-specific proof of competence, as these breeds are prohibited. For old Rottweiler permits, the keepers' suitability is examined (§ 25 HuV).

For all dog owners

Since 1.6.2025 for everyone keeping a dog for at least 3 months: theory course with test (up to 2 months after keeping begins) and 6 practical lessons of 60 minutes each (within 12 months). Exceptions possible.

Reliability and age

For a permit for existing dogs, the keepers' suitability is examined under § 25 HuV (dog ordinance); details: unknown, no information found online.

Liability insurance

Mandatory for all dogs: at least CHF 1 million, regardless of size and breed.

Lead

Lead requirement in public buildings, on public transport, at stations, on busy streets and at signposted places, among others; 1 April to 31 July in the forest and up to 50 m from the forest edge.

Muzzle

No general muzzle requirement. Dogs on Rassetypenliste II (e.g. visiting) with lead and muzzle in public spaces.

Out and about, banned places

Dogs on Rassetypenliste II always with lead and muzzle in public spaces. All dogs: lead in public buildings, on public transport, at stations, stops and busy roads. Prohibited in school playgrounds, on play and sports fields, in cemeteries and swimming pools.

Who may walk the dog

No minimum age and no alcohol limit in the Hundegesetz (dog act). Keeping a list II dog (only existing dogs with a permit) from age 18. Whoever walks the dog must supervise it and intervene in case of attacks. Requirement to carry documents: unknown, no information found online.

Reporting duties

Register a dog from 3 months with the municipality of residence within 10 days and in AMICUS. Report change of keeper, change of address and death within 10 days. Biting incidents must be reported to the Veterinäramt (cantonal veterinary office) by doctors, vets, trainers, police and animal shelters, among others.

Moving, holidays and visits

Moving there with a dog on Rassetypenliste II is prohibited. Keepers from elsewhere: no more than 30 days per year in the canton, lead and muzzle. When moving there with another dog, training requirement (exceptions include dogs over 10 years). No dog levy for stays under 3 months.

Marking on the dog

A dog tag is not regulated in the cantonal dog act. Microchip and registration in AMICUS under federal law.

Microchip and register

Microchip and registration in AMICUS (Swiss dog database); register the dog to the new keeper within 10 days and notify the municipality.

Bans

Rassetypenliste II prohibited. Keepers from outside the canton: lead and muzzle, no more than 30 days per year in the canton, care there only temporarily. Starting protection dog training must be reported.

Tax

Annual dog levy to the municipality of residence, CHF 70 to 200 per dog.

Notes

According to the canton, the list is not exhaustive. Fine of up to CHF 2000 for missing training. Without a permit, administrative measures.

Dog tax in Canton of Zurich

• Zurichlisted dog: unknown

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