Moved to Zurich With a Dog? What You Must Do in the First 10 Days
Before you book a random class, get the admin clear. In Canton Zurich, the first 10 days are mainly about registration, AMICUS, insurance and understanding which mandatory course applies to you.
You do not need to solve everything on day one. Avoid the classic expat mistake: waiting because the German admin papers feel confusing. Start with the essentials and ask early if your situation is unclear.
What to do first after moving to Zurich with a dog.
The safest order is simple: documents, municipality, AMICUS, then the right course. This keeps the process clean and prevents you from booking the wrong training.
Collect the basics
Find your dog's microchip number, pet passport, vaccination record, proof of ownership, Zurich address and liability insurance details.
Contact your Gemeinde
Register your dog with your municipality. If you live in the City of Zurich, use the city's dog registration process.
Check AMICUS
Your dog must be correctly linked to the registered holder. Imported dogs may need registration through a Swiss vet.
Choose the right course
Check whether you need theory, practical, or both before booking. Mandatory Zurich courses must be with an approved trainer.
Prepare this before contacting the municipality.
Having these details ready makes the conversation with your Gemeinde much easier. If something is missing, ask them what they need from you rather than guessing.
Important: In Canton Zurich, dog owners need liability insurance with coverage of at least CHF 1 million.
Helpful to have ready
- Dog's microchip number
- Pet passport
- Vaccination record
- Import or customs documents, if your dog came from abroad
- AMICUS information, if your dog is already registered
- Your Swiss address
- Insurance confirmation
- Proof of previous dog ownership, if relevant
- Previous training-course documents
- Breed information, especially if Zurich breed rules may apply
The two course questions to check immediately.
Since June 1, 2025, Canton Zurich has mandatory dog-training requirements for people who newly get a dog or move into the canton with a dog.
Do I need the theory course?
You usually need the theory course if you have never owned a dog, or if you have not owned one for more than 10 years. It can be completed no earlier than one year before and no later than two months after getting the dog or moving to Canton Zurich.
Previous ownership can matter, but keep proof ready. The municipality may ask for documentation.
View i-Dog Theory CourseDo I need the practical course?
The practical course is generally required if you live in a Zurich municipality and keep a dog for at least three months. It starts once the dog is at least six months old, includes at least six lessons, and is usually completed within 12 months after getting the dog or moving to the canton.
The course should be useful for real life: city walks, calm handling, focus around other dogs and everyday Zurich situations.
View Practical CourseWhat expats often get wrong in the first 10 days.
Waiting too long
It is easy to think, "I will sort it out later." But the first 10 days matter for registration, AMICUS and getting clear about your course obligations.
Assuming old ownership solves it
Previous dog ownership abroad may help with the theory requirement, but it does not automatically settle everything. Keep proof ready.
Booking the wrong course
A puppy class or a random dog school is not the same as a mandatory Zurich course. Check that the trainer is approved for the required course.
Contact i-Dog School when the rules are unclear or your dog needs more support.
The goal is to make the process clear and calm. First we check what is legally needed, then we train in a way that actually helps you and your dog live comfortably in Zurich.
Especially if...
- You moved to Zurich from abroad with a dog
- You are not sure whether you need theory, practical, or both
- Your dog is nervous, reactive, shy, or easily overwhelmed
- You want to complete the mandatory course in English
- You prefer private, flexible training instead of a weekly group class
- You want the course to be useful for real life, not just a legal requirement
Use these links to verify the admin details.
Your municipality has the final say for your registration. These official pages are useful starting points, especially if you live in the City of Zurich.
City of Zurich dog registration
City information about registering dogs, AMICUS and obligatory courses.
Canton Zurich dog rules
Cantonal guidance on dog ownership, insurance, training courses and approved trainers.
Animal registration in Canton Zurich
Information about municipal registration, AMICUS and imported dogs.
AMICUS dog database
The Swiss dog database where holder and dog details must be correct.
This guide is general information for dog owners moving to Zurich. For your individual legal situation, confirm details with your municipality or the Canton Zurich Veterinary Office.
Quick answers for new dog owners in Zurich.
What should I do first after moving to Zurich with a dog?
Start with admin: register your dog with your municipality, check AMICUS, prepare insurance details and collect the documents your Gemeinde may ask for.
Do expats in Zurich need the theory course?
You usually need the theory course if you have never owned a dog, or if you have not owned one for more than 10 years. Previous dog ownership may help, but keep proof ready.
Is the practical course mandatory in Canton Zurich?
It is generally required for people living in a Zurich municipality who keep a dog for at least three months. Some exemptions exist, so check your situation if your dog is older, imported, or you already completed similar training.
Can I complete the Zurich dog courses in English?
Yes. i-Dog School offers mandatory Canton Zurich dog courses in English and is designed with Zurich's international community in mind.
What if my dog is nervous, shy or reactive?
Ask before choosing a group format. Private training or a careful plan may be better if your dog is easily overwhelmed by dogs, traffic, people or new city routines.
Moved to Zurich and unsure what your dog needs next?
Tell us your municipality, your dog's age, where you moved from and whether you have owned a dog before. We will help you find the right next step in English.