I have traveled the world with my furry best friend for years. I have seen many places, but few compare to the beauty of the Swiss Alps. If you want to know how dog friendly is switzerland, the answer is simple. It is a true paradise for dogs in switzerland. I want to share my personal Guide to Dog Friendly Accommodations in Switzerland so you can plan the perfect trip.
First of all, let us talk about the journey. Pet travel to switzerland requires some homework before you leave your house. Your dog must have a microchip. You must provide proof of a valid rabies vaccine that was given at least 21 days before you enter the country. If you come from a place with a high risk of rabies, you need a rabies titre test. Additionally, you will need an animal health certificate switzerland or a pet passport. I always carry these papers in a safe folder.
The flight is another big step. You might look into swiss air pet cargo for larger dogs or swiss air pet in cabin form pdf for small ones. I make sure to check the rules for my specific airline months in advance. However, once you land, the real fun begins. Switzerland has a culture that loves animals. You will see them in cafes, shops, and even fancy restaurants.
How to Find the Best Dog Friendly Places to Stay
I use a few tricks when I look for a place to stay. First of all, I check the number of pets on my search app. This ensures that I only see places that welcome my dog. I do not stop there. I always double check the description to make sure there are no hidden rules. Some hosts only allow small dogs or just one pet. Gradually, I have learned to message the owner directly. I tell them about my well-behaved dog. I mention his name and how he has good reviews from past stays.
You should consider if you want a whole house or just a room. I often pick a whole home if my dog is tired or needs a quiet space. A fenced yard is a huge plus for me. Additionally, I check if the owner has their own pets. My dog is friendly, but not every dog likes a strange cat or a big dog in their yard.
I always bring everything my pet needs. I pack his own bed, his bowls, and his favorite towel. I do not assume the host will provide these things. I want my dog to feel at home. Also, I make sure to follow every rule the host sets. I do not let him on the furniture if the rules say no. I clean up every bit of hair before I leave. This helps me get great reviews for my dog. These reviews make it easy for us to find the next place to stay.
Luxury Stays and Castle Hotels
Switzerland has some of the most amazing hotels I have ever seen. If you want a special treat, look at the castle hotels. Château Gütsch in Lucerne is like a fairytale. It sits on a hill with a view of the city and the lake. The hotel has its own funicular so you can get to the city in minutes. On top of that, the rooms are very elegant.
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel in St. Moritz is another legendary spot. It was built in the late 19th century and has a very grand style. Every room has a view of the mountains or the lake. Similarly, the Dolder Grand in Zurich is an iconic building. It has a huge spa and a great art collection. You can see original paintings by Andy Warhol right above the reception desk.
I also love the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina. It is a neo-Baroque castle with views of the glaciers. The service there is perfect. Therefore, it is a great choice if you want to feel pampered.
For a more intimate stay, I suggest Château de Mathod. It is a historical monument that has been in the same family for seven generations. They rent out a cute suite that used to be an artist’s studio. It has a modern kitchen and its own entrance. You can even pick your own berries in their gardens.
Top Dog Friendly Hotels for Your Stay
Many hotels go the extra mile for your fur baby. Le Crans Hotel in Crans-Montana is very peaceful. They provide a cozy bed and bowls when you arrive. Additionally, the staff leaves a sweet note for your dog. The restaurant will even cook a meal for your pup if you ask.
Bürgenstock Resort is famous for its spa, but it is also a haven for dogs. They have a special dog package. It includes a VIP welcome with a dog cake and a dog room service menu. They even offer dog-walking services. This lets you enjoy the spa while your dog has fun.
Villars Palace is a historic hotel that reopened in 2022. They welcome pets in their restaurants, which is a rare perk. You can take your dog for a walk through the beautiful hotel grounds.
In Zermatt, the Cervo Hotel is a fantastic choice. It has 54 rooms with views of the Matterhorn. They welcome dogs, cats, and even deer, as long as they weigh under 100kg! Your pet gets a cozy bed and can join you for a meal at the restaurant.
HUUS Hotel in Gstaad is great for families. They provide food and water bowls and a little gift for your dog. They also offer pet-sitting if you want to go out for a while.
Budget and Regional Options
You do not have to spend a fortune to enjoy swiss dog travel. There are many 3-star hotels where dogs stay for free. Hotel Arte Spreitenbach in Aargau is one example. B&B Les Biolleys in Valais has excellent reviews and is very affordable. I also like Hotel la Rotonde in Verbier.
If you prefer the outdoors, JungfrauCamp in Interlaken is a wonderful place. The region is very dog-friendly with many hiking routes. However, you must keep your dog on a leash on the campsite. Dogs are not allowed in the pool or the playground. I always take my dog for a walk around the site when we first arrive. I want him to know where his new “home” is for the next few days.
Gradually, you will find that almost every part of the country is ready for you. In the canton of Graubünden, I found so much space to run around. It is the most sparsely populated canton in the country. I felt total peace while I was there with my dog.
Taking the Train and Public Transport
I love the transport system here. You do not need to rent a car. Dogs are welcome on trains, buses, and boats. If your dog is small and fits in a carrier, he travels for free. On the contrary, larger dogs need a ticket. You usually pay a half-fare for a dog on a leash.
I always check with the station staff to see what ticket I need. Additionally, I make sure my dog is calm before we board. I once saw a dog sitting happily by his owner on a long train ride. He looked so relaxed!
Cable cars are also great for pet travel to switzerland. Many of them do not even charge for dogs. This makes it easy to get to the high mountain trails. Therefore, you can see the best views without a long climb.
Rules You Must Know
I want to make sure you stay out of trouble. Each canton has its own rules for dogs in switzerland. One of the most important rules is about leashes. Many cantons require you to keep your dog on a leash in the forest from April to July. This is the breeding season for wild animals. Even if your dog is friendly, he can scare or hurt young animals.
In the canton of Zurich, you must have liability insurance for your dog. You also have to take a training course if you are a new owner. Additionally, some breeds are banned in Zurich. These include the Pit Bull Terrier and the Rottweiler. I always check the local laws before I visit a new area.
Finally, always pick up after your dog. There are “Robidog” bins everywhere with free bags. It is very important to keep the streets and fields clean. Swiss people are very proud of their clean country. On top of that, it shows respect for other travelers and locals.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
The hiking here is the best in the world. Jungfraujoch dogs are a common sight. You can take your dog up to the “Top of Europe” for a walk on the snow. However, keep him on a leash if there are a lot of people around.
I love the AHV Trail in Zermatt. it is a quiet path with great views. I also enjoy the forest trail from Zermatt to Sunnegga. It is cool and pleasant on a hot day. Plus, you can watch the helicopters at the heliport.
I always carry plenty of water for my dog. The weather can change fast. I check his gums to make sure he is hydrated. If they stay pale for a few seconds, he needs a drink.
I have heard of poisonous snakes in the Alps, but I have never seen one. The risk is very low. Additionally, be careful around cows. Cows with calves can be protective. I always give them a wide berth.
Statistical and Numerical Data to Consider
I think it is helpful to look at the numbers for travel. 56% of people globally now own a pet. This means more places are becoming pet-friendly every day. In 2025, 27% of pet parents took their pets on vacation for the first time.
The cost of keeping a dog in Switzerland is around 150 CHF per month for a healthy dog. Over a lifetime, a dog can cost between 15,000 and 30,000 CHF. A rental house in a big city can cost over 4,500 CHF per month.
When you stay in a hotel, expect to pay a small fee. SCHLOSS Zermatt charges 20 CHF per day for a dog. They also have a final cleaning fee of up to 100 CHF if there is a big mess. Hotel Royal St Georges in Interlaken charges 20 CHF per night.
7,454,353 hotels are listed on some travel sites, so you have many choices. 63% of travelers are now willing to pay extra for special room features. This is part of a new trend called “Pick ’n’ Stays”.
Behavior and Training Tips for the Trip
A happy trip starts with a happy dog. I spend a lot of time on training before we go. Dogs perceive the world differently than we do. Their eyesight is not as sharp, but they see movement very well. They also hear much higher frequencies than humans. This means a loud train or a bell might be very scary for them.
I use “marker training” to reward my dog. I say a word like “Great” at the exact moment he does something good. Then I give him a treat. This helps him understand exactly what I want.
I never use punishment. It only causes fear and stress. On the contrary, I use “management” to avoid problems. If a situation is too much for him, I just walk away. I want him to feel safe and secure.
He needs plenty of rest. Most dogs need about 17 hours of sleep a day. Puppies need up to 20 hours. I make sure he has a quiet place to nap after a long hike.
FAQ
Where to go in Switzerland with a dog?
First of all, Zermatt is a natural paradise and a perfect playground for your pet. You can also visit Grindelwald to see turquoise lakes and ride scenic cable cars with your pup. St. Moritz offers unique trails where you can even try dog sledding. Additionally, the canton of Graubünden is a top choice because it is the most sparsely populated area with plenty of space to run. It has only about 28 inhabitants per km2, so you will feel total peace there.
Are dogs allowed everywhere in Switzerland?
However, you can not take your dog to every single location. They are prohibited from school buildings, playgrounds, sports fields, and swimming pools. You must also keep them away from cemeteries and specific nature reserves. Local signs will usually tell you if a place is off-limits. Gradually, you will learn to spot these signs before you enter.
Is SWISS Hotel pet friendly?
Similarly, some specific hotels like Swissotel Le Plaza in Basel are very welcoming. They provide a dog basket bed and bowls right in your room. You should always message any hotel before you book to confirm their current pet policy.
Does SWISS allow dogs in cabins?
The airline industry is changing to help pets travel with more dignity. For example, Italy now allows medium and large dogs in passenger cabins due to new rules. Additionally, a company named SkyePets plans to start long-haul in-cabin flights between Australia and the US in 2026. You should always check the specific forms for your airline to see if your dog fits the size limits for the cabin.
Are dogs allowed in supermarkets in Switzerland?
No, dogs are legally prohibited in grocery stores, bakeries, and butchers where food is sold. Therefore, you must leave your dog outside or at your hotel when you shop for food. You will often see a sign at the door telling you that pets are not allowed inside.
Are dogs allowed in SWISS restaurants?
Yes, most restaurants in Switzerland welcome dogs with open arms. On top of that, you can usually assume they are allowed unless you see a sign that says no. You should always dry and clean your dog before you enter a nice eatery so they do not make a mess.
Is SWISS ok for dogs?
Switzerland is extremely dog friendly compared to many other countries in the world. You will see dogs in cafes, shops, and even fancy restaurants. Plus, the people are generally very kind to pet owners. It is a culture that truly values the bond between humans and animals.
Can pets be left alone in a hotel room?
You can leave your pet alone in some hotel rooms, but you must follow specific rules. First of all, SCHLOSS Zermatt allows this if you leave your phone number at the desk. You also must hang a special dog sign on your door so staff do not enter. Be careful, because they might charge a cleaning fee of up to 100 CHF if your dog makes a mess on the furniture.
Are trains in Switzerland dog friendly?
Yes, trains are very dog friendly and easy for any traveler to use. Small dogs in carriers can even travel for free as hand luggage. Additionally, larger dogs only need a half-fare ticket to join you on your journey.
What is the most dog friendly country?
Switzerland is often cited as one of the most dog-friendly countries in Europe. It has top-notch vet services and a culture that includes pets in daily life. Finally, Italy is also mentioned as a very pet-friendly destination for hikers and travelers. 56% of people globally now own a pet, which helps the whole world become more accepting of animals.
Concluding words
Switzerland is a dream for any dog owner who loves to travel. This guide shows that you can find luxury castles and simple campsites that welcome your pet with open arms. You can use the world-class trains and eat at the best restaurants with your furry friend by your side. Therefore, plan your trip carefully and follow the local rules to ensure a perfect vacation for you and your dog.
