You might wonder is Switzerland dog friendly before you pack your bags. My recent Pet Friendly Vacation in Zurich, Switzerland proved that this city is a paradise for four-legged friends.
Zurich is very pet friendly, and you will see dogs almost everywhere. First of all, the city makes it very easy to bring your furry companion along for the ride. I want to share my personal journey so you can see how simple it is to have a pet friendly Zurich experience.
The Big Question: Can I Take My Dog to Switzerland?
You might ask, can I take my dog to Switzerland for a short trip? The answer is a big yes. I had to ask myself can I travel with my dog to Switzerland and can i take my dog on holiday to switzerland before I booked my flight. You must follow a few strict rules to enter the country.
First of all, your dog must have a microchip. A 15-digit number is standard for identification. Additionally, you need proof of a valid rabies vaccination. This shot must happen after the microchip is put in. There is a 21-day waiting period after the primary shot before you can enter the country.
Numerical Data to Note:
- A rabies shot is valid only if given at least 21 days before entry.
- Puppies must be at least 12 weeks old to enter without a rabies shot, but they need a special owner declaration.
- Customs fees might apply if you do not follow the rules.
Therefore, preparation is key. I made sure my vet filled out all the forms correctly. Gradually, I felt more ready for our flight.
Getting to Zurich: Flying High with Your Pet
I looked into many airlines to see which one was the best for my small dog. Most major airlines like SWISS International Air Lines allow small dogs in the cabin. However, the rules are very specific.
Your dog and their carrier cannot weigh more than 8 kilograms (about 17.6 pounds) combined. The carrier must be soft, leak-proof, and fit under the seat in front of you. I used a bag that was exactly 55 x 40 x 23 cm to meet the SWISS requirements.
Airlines to consider:
- SWISS: 8kg limit in cabin.
- Edelweiss Air: 8kg limit; only trained service dogs are allowed otherwise.
- Lufthansa: 8kg limit; larger dogs must go in the cargo hold.
- Air Europa: They allow up to 10 kilograms in the cabin.
- Chair Airlines: They have a lower limit of 6 kilograms.
Plus, if your dog is bigger than 8kg, you might need a private jet service like K9 Jets. They allow dogs of all sizes to sit on your lap or by your side. The price is high, starting around $9,925 from some locations. At that time, I was happy my dog was small enough for a regular seat.
Finding a Pet Friendly Hotel Zurich
The search for a pet friendly hotel zurich was actually very fun. There are 149 pet friendly hotels in the city. Many of them are quite welcoming.
I stayed at the Guesthouse fürDich. It costs about $99 per night and they do not charge an extra pet fee. They allow dogs of any size, which is rare. However, they do not allow cats.
Similarly, Hotel Kindli is a great choice. They allow dogs for no fee and even provide a dog bed. If you want luxury, The Dolder Grand is the place to be. It costs $1,115 per night, but they welcome pets of any size for free.
Other great spots include:
- Hotel Marta: They provide food and water bowls in the room.
- Park Hyatt Zurich: They allow dogs in special rooms for no fee.
- Ibis Zurich Messe-Airport: This is a cheaper option at $142, but they charge CHF 20 per pet each night.
On top of that, many Airbnb rentals in Zurich allow pets. I found that most places are very open to animals. Just always ask before you book.
Dining Out: Pet Friendly Zurich Restaurants
You will love eating out with your dog here. Zurich has over 117 restaurants that allow dogs. Most outdoor terraces welcome them with open arms. Many places even allow dogs inside, especially during the cold winter months.
First of all, check out Eden Kitchen. They serve Italian food and have a very high rating of 94 points. The atmosphere is like a stylish yacht club. Additionally, Wirtschaft im Franz is an earthy and honest spot. They serve four to six courses and offer vegan options if you ask.
Other top-rated spots:
- EquiTable: They use fair-trade and organic ingredients.
- Lindenhofkeller: This place mixes Swiss traditions with fresh Alpine food.
- Restaurant Gamper: They focus on skill and use biodynamic ingredients.
- Marktküche: A pioneer for plant-based food that meat eaters will still love.
- Neue Taverne: Another hot spot for amazing plant-based dishes in the old town.
Later, I visited Ristorante Casa Ferlin for some homemade ravioli. They are a family kitchen with a long tradition. Similarly, Rosaly’s Restaurant & Bar offers hearty home cooking and rare Swiss wines.
Therefore, you never have to leave your dog at the hotel when you go to dinner. Just be polite and ask the staff where your dog should sit. Usually, they will bring a water bowl without you even asking.
Exploring the City: Parks and Walks
Your dog will need plenty of exercise. Zurich has wonderful green spaces. The Lake Zurich Promenade is perfect for a long walk. You can enjoy the views while your dog stretches their legs.
First of all, you must visit Allmend Brunau. This is a paradise for dogs. It has open fields and even a dedicated dog swimming area. It is a great place to meet other pups.
Additionally, Irchelpark offers vast meadows and tranquil streams. It is a haven for nature lovers. If you like hiking, try Käferberg. The city views from the trails are stunning.
On top of that, the Lindenhof playground has a garden area where pets can roam while kids play. It is right next to a historical site with a view of the river.
Mountain Adventures Near Zurich
You cannot visit Switzerland without seeing the mountains. I took my dog to the Zugerberg. It is 1039 meters high and perfect for short hikes in any season.
Later, we explored Mount Rigi. The views are epic. We took the train from Goldau up to the summit at 1800 meters. My dog loved the fresh air.
Similarly, Mount Pilatus is a must-see. You can take the world’s steepest cogwheel railway to the top. There are panoramic views and a restaurant at the peak.
Places for a dip:
- Greifensee: Some parts are very dog-friendly for swimming.
- Pfäffikersee: A great spot for a walk and a swim.
- Limmat River: There are spots downriver where dogs can jump in.
- Uetikon Harbor: People often swim with their dogs here.
However, stay away from official “Badi” areas, which are for humans only. Therefore, always look for signs before you let your dog in the water.
The Zurich Pet Policy and Local Laws
You must know the local rules to avoid big fines. The Zurich pet policy is based on a “Dogs Code”. The goal is to keep everyone happy and safe.
First of all, you must keep your dog on a short leash in these places:
- On all public transport.
- At train stations and bus stops.
- On busy streets and in public buildings.
- In residential neighborhoods.
- In restaurants.
Additionally, there are times when a leash is required in nature. From April 1 to July 31, dogs must be leashed in forests to protect baby animals. If your dog chases wildlife, the fine can be up to CHF 20,000. Plus, a gamekeeper might even shoot a dog that is poaching.
On the contrary, some places are totally off-limits for dogs:
- Cemeteries.
- Swimming pools.
- Schoolyards and playgrounds.
- Large events like concerts or fairs.
Gradually, you will get used to these rules. Just remember to always pick up after your dog. Dispose of waste in the proper bins to leave no trace.
Taking the Tram: Public Transport Rules
The public transport in Switzerland is amazing. It is timed to perfection. You can take your dog on trains, buses, boats, and even cable cars.
First of all, small dogs are lucky. If your dog is under 30 cm tall at the shoulder, they travel for free. They must be in a carrier, basket, or bag. I kept my dog’s bag on my lap, and it was no problem.
However, larger dogs need a ticket. You must buy a reduced 2nd class ticket for them. If you travel a lot, a Dog Pass for CHF 350 per year is a great deal. A day pass for a dog costs CHF 25.
Similarly, dogs are welcome on Lake Zurich boats. You can even take them on the “Mini Lake Cruise” for a small fare. Dogs always require a 2nd class ticket, even if you sit in 1st class.
Therefore, you can see the whole city without needing a car. The transport system is truly a dog lover’s dream.
Pet Care in Switzerland: Health and Safety
I hope you never need a vet during your trip, but it is good to be prepared. Pet care in Switzerland is world-class. There are many experts ready to help.
The University Small Animal Hospital Zurich has an emergency team open 365 days a year. Emergency fees to know:
- Monday to Friday (8 am – 5 pm): CHF 150.
- Nights and weekends: CHF 250.
- These fees are on top of the actual treatment costs.
I also found a great local vet called Kleintierpraxis Witikon AG. They have a 5.0 rating and are very kind. Another top spot is the Kleintierklinik Oberstrass AG.
If you need a break, you can find a Dog, Pet & House Sitter through services like Very Important Pets Switzerland. They offer peace of mind while you are away at a museum or a fancy dinner.
Additionally, a local service called CITYPET has been around since 2012. They offer individualized walks and even “Dog Camping Adventures” in Ticino. Their walks cost between CHF 30 and CHF 40.
Gradually, you will see that Zurich has everything your pet could ever need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zurich a dog friendly city?
Zurich is a very pet friendly destination with 149 pet friendly hotels and at least 117 restaurants that allow dogs. You will see dogs in many public areas throughout the city.
Which city is the most dog-friendly?
Zurich is highly ranked as a pet friendly city. Similarly, the town of Zug is famous for a high quality of life and great mountain walks.
Are dogs allowed in SWISS restaurants?
Dogs are welcome in most restaurants, but you should always check before you enter. In Zurich, there are 117 restaurants ranked for allowing dogs.
Does SWISS allow dogs in cabins?
SWISS International Air Lines allows dogs in the cabin if the combined weight of the pet and carrier is 8 kilograms or less. You must use a soft-sided, leak-proof carrier.
Are dogs allowed in supermarkets in Switzerland?
Dogs are not allowed in grocery shops or supermarkets. Therefore, you should plan your shopping trips accordingly.
Can my pet sit with me on a plane?
Your pet can sit with you in the cabin if they are under the 8 kilogram limit. Assistance dogs can travel in the cabin regardless of weight but must not occupy a seat.
Do Swiss trains allow dogs?
Swiss trains allow dogs to travel with you. Small dogs under 30 cm travel for free in a carrier, while larger dogs require a reduced 2nd class ticket.
How much is Swiss Air pet fee?
Fees for pets on SWISS vary depending on the flight route. Other airlines like Chair Airlines charge a flat fee of CHF 90.
How do I add a pet to my flight?
Advance registration with the airline is required. KLM requires reservations at least 48 hours before you leave.
Concluding Words
Your journey to Zurich will be much better if you understand your dog’s body language. The local training guides say that a relaxed dog is a happy dog. If your dog starts panting a lot or scratching themselves, they might be stressed. Give them a break in a quiet spot.
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First of all, always carry water for your dog. The mountain air can be very dry. Additionally, make sure your liability insurance covers dog damage. In Switzerland, you are responsible for anything your dog does. Your insurance should cover at least one million Swiss francs.
On top of that, do not forget that the sun is strong in the mountains. Your dog might need shade or a cooling mat. Finally, enjoy every moment of your Pet Friendly Vacation in Zurich, Switzerland.
Though the rules are strict, they make the city a better place for everyone. Gradually, you will see why people love this city so much. It is clean, safe, and truly beautiful.
