New Dog in Zurich? Here is What to Know About the Mandatory Theory Course.
If you recently got a dog or moved to Canton Zurich with your dog, you may need to complete the mandatory dog theory course and exam under the rules introduced on 1 June 2025.
You may need the theory course if dog ownership is new for you.
Canton Zurich requires the theory course for people who need the legal foundation before or shortly after getting a dog.
- You have never owned a dog before
- You have not owned a dog within the last 10 years
- You moved to Canton Zurich and do not qualify for an exemption
- You are planning to get or import a dog and want to prepare properly
Some dog owners may not need the theory course.
You may be exempt if you held a dog for at least six months within the last 10 years. This can also matter if you moved to Zurich from another canton or another country with a dog you already owned.
Your municipality may ask for proof of previous dog ownership. If you are unsure, check with your municipality directly, because they decide whether your proof is accepted.
Important: being exempt from the theory course does not automatically remove the practical course requirement for your dog in Canton Zurich.
The theory course is not just an exam box to tick. It is the foundation that helps owners make better decisions from day one.
Many behaviour problems start because owners care, but simply do not yet know what to expect.
When do you need to complete the theory course?
Do not leave this too late. New owners are often already busy with registration, insurance, AMICUS, the municipality, vet visits and settling the dog into a new routine.
Up to one year before
You can complete the theory course before getting your dog, which is often the calmest option.
Within two months
If you already have the dog, the theory course must be completed within the required deadline.
Within two months of moving
If you move to Canton Zurich with your dog and are not exempt, the same timing applies.
From six months old
The practical mandatory dog course starts when the dog is old enough and must be completed separately.
The theory course gives you the basics of responsible dog ownership.
The official Canton Zurich theory material is available in English, and the course helps turn the rules into practical understanding.
Legal duties
Understand the responsibilities that come with owning a dog in Canton Zurich.
Dog needs
Learn about welfare, daily care, suitable routines and what dogs need to live well.
Social behaviour
Build a better understanding of dog communication, stress and safe handling.
How dogs learn
Know the basics of learning, reward, boundaries and avoiding common training mistakes.
Training tools
Recognise suitable and unsuitable tools for dog handling and training.
Time & cost
Prepare for the practical, financial and daily-life commitment of dog ownership.
Yes, you still need the practical course.
The theory course and practical course are two different requirements. The theory course is for the owner. The practical course is for the owner and dog together.
The practical mandatory dog course in Canton Zurich consists of at least six lessons. It begins once the dog is old enough and must be completed within the official deadline after getting the dog or moving to the canton.
After the theory course and exam, i-Dog School can also help you continue with the practical mandatory dog course in Zurich.
If English is your preferred language, take the course in English.
Understanding legal rules and exam topics is much easier when you can ask questions clearly. This is especially helpful for expats, international dog owners and people who recently moved to Zurich.
At i-Dog School, the mandatory theory course is available in English. If the scheduled group theory course does not fit your calendar, a private theory option can also be arranged.
Private theory courses can be held in English or Russian, giving you more flexibility and making it easier to understand the requirements clearly.
Mandatory dog theory course in Zurich in English.
The i-Dog School theory course helps you understand the requirements, prepare for the exam and continue confidently toward the practical course.
Theory Course
Online learning from home, with an offline exam held at the training location.
Private Theory Support
For schedule flexibility or extra language support in English or Russian.
Practical Course
The separate mandatory practical dog course for owner and dog together.
Unsure?
Send a message with your situation and we can point you toward the right next step.
Common questions about the mandatory dog theory course in Zurich.
Who needs the mandatory dog theory course in Zurich?
It is generally required for people who have never owned a dog, have not owned a dog within the last 10 years, or moved to Canton Zurich and do not qualify for an exemption.
Can I be exempt from the theory course?
You may be exempt if you held a dog for at least six months within the last 10 years. Your municipality can tell you whether your proof is accepted.
When must I complete the theory course?
You can complete it up to one year before getting a dog. If you already have the dog or moved to Zurich with the dog, complete it within the required two-month deadline unless you are exempt.
Do I still need the practical course?
Yes. The theory course is for the owner. The practical course is for the owner and dog together, and it is a separate requirement for dogs in Canton Zurich.
Can I take the theory course in English?
Yes. i-Dog School offers the mandatory theory course in English. Private theory support can also be arranged in English or Russian.
Next steps for dog owners in Zurich.
Theory & rules
- Theory Course - Canton Zurich Book the i-Dog School theory course in English.
- Official Canton Zurich Dog Information Official information about Zurich dog ownership rules.
- Dog Training Theory Booklet Official Canton Zurich theory booklet in English.
Mandatory courses
- 6x Mandatory Practical Course Group practical training for Canton Zurich.
- Mandatory Practical Course Single practical course option for dog owners in Zurich.
- Private Dog Training & Home Visits Personal help if your dog needs more individual support.
More training
- Puppy Socialisation Playgroup Early socialisation and puppy foundations.
- Social Walk Structured city training for real-life behaviour.
- All Training Services View the full i-Dog School service overview.
Helpful reading
- Puppy Training in Zurich Why it helps to start before six months.
- Moved to Zurich With a Dog? A first-10-days checklist for new Zurich dog owners.
- Get in Touch Ask which requirement applies to your situation.