Zurich is a dream city for dogs and their owners. Switzerland's largest city sits on Lake Zurich, surrounded by forested hills, and has a deeply embedded culture of responsible pet ownership. Dogs are a common sight in restaurants, on public transport, and swimming in the lake during summer. The canton of Zurich has breed-specific legislation banning certain breeds, so pet sitters should be aware of the restrictions before accepting assignments with listed breeds. The city has excellent green spaces — from the Uetliberg mountain to the Zürichberg forest to the lakeside promenades — all accessible by the city's efficient tram and bus network. Veterinary care is world-class, though Swiss prices apply. For pet sitters, Zurich offers an exceptional quality of life with clean air, safe streets, pristine nature on the doorstep, and a culture that considers well-trained dogs a natural part of urban life.
Veterinary Clinics
Tierspital Zürich (Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich)
Irchel (university veterinary hospital — 24-hour emergency)
Tierärztlicher Notfalldienst Zürich
Zurich (after-hours emergency service)
Kleintierpraxis am Lindenhof
Zurich City Center (Lindenhof)
Tierklinik Aarau West
Oberentfelden (30 min from Zurich — specialist clinic)
Pet-Friendly Parks
Zürichberg Forest
Off-leash OKA large forested hill on the eastern side of Zurich with extensive trails through beech and spruce woodland. Dogs are very welcome and can be off-leash in most areas outside the wildlife protection zones. Popular with joggers and dog walkers from Oberstrass and Fluntern. The forest connects to the zoo area and has stunning views over the city. Accessible via tram 6 to Zoo.
Zürichberg, 8044 Zurich
Uetliberg
Off-leash OKZurich's local mountain (871m) with panoramic views of the city, lake, and Alps. Extensive hiking trails through forest and meadow. Dogs are welcome on leash on the summit area and off-leash on many forest trails. The Planet Trail and Felsenegg ridge walk are excellent dog-friendly routes. Accessible via S10 train to Uetliberg station.
Uetliberg, 8045 Zurich
Zürichhorn Park and Lakeside Promenade
Leash requiredA lakeside park on the eastern shore with lawns, sculpture gardens, and a promenade stretching toward Tiefenbrunnen. Dogs must be on leash in the park but there are designated dog swimming areas along the lake. In summer, the Hundebadi (dog swimming spots) are extremely popular. Great for a morning walk followed by a lakeside café stop.
Zürichhorn, 8008 Zurich
Allmend Brunau / Sihlwald
Off-leash OKA natural area along the Sihl River south of the city center with meadows, riverbank trails, and access to the Sihlwald wilderness park (Switzerland's only natural forest park). Dogs can be off-leash in the Allmend area. The Sihlwald forest requires leashing during wildlife breeding season (April–July). Excellent for longer nature walks close to the city.
Allmend Brunau, 8045 Zurich
Local Pet Regulations
Dog Registration (Canton of Zurich)
All dogs in the Canton of Zurich must be microchipped and registered in the national AMICUS database. Registration must be completed within 10 days of acquiring a dog. The annual dog tax in Zurich city is CHF 160. Registration is done through your vet or directly via the AMICUS online portal.
Breed-Specific Legislation
The Canton of Zurich bans several breeds. Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, and Bull Terriers have been banned since 2010, and Rottweilers were added to the banned list in January 2025. Owning, breeding, or importing these breeds is prohibited. Any dog involved in a biting incident can also be subject to behavioral evaluation and restrictions imposed by the cantonal veterinary office.
Leash Requirements
Dogs must be on leash in the Zurich city center, on public transport, and in designated leash zones (marked with signage). In parks and forests, dogs can generally be off-leash unless signage indicates otherwise. During wildlife breeding season (April 15 – July 31), dogs must be leashed in forest areas throughout the canton.
Public Transport (ZVV / SBB)
On Zurich's trams, buses, and S-Bahn (ZVV network), small dogs in carriers (max 30×52×25 cm) travel free. Larger dogs require a half-fare ticket or a Hunde-Tageskarte (dog day pass). Dogs must be leashed on all public transport. The Zurich transport network is extensive and efficient, making it easy to reach parks and hiking trails without a car.
Source: ZVV — Zürcher Verkehrsverbund
Dog Waste
Dog owners must clean up after their dogs in all public spaces in Zurich. The city provides Robidog waste bag dispensers throughout parks and walking routes. Fines for non-compliance are CHF 100–300. Zurich takes cleanliness seriously and enforcement is consistent.
For nationwide regulations, see our Switzerland pet care guide.
Best Neighborhoods for Pets
Seefeld (Kreis 8)
An upscale lakeside district with direct access to the Zürichhorn promenade and dog swimming areas. Lined with cafés, restaurants, and boutiques, most welcoming dogs. The Bellevue area connects Seefeld to the city center. Popular with professional dog walkers and affluent pet owners. Excellent for pet sitters who want lakeside living.
Oberstrass / Fluntern (Kreis 7)
A hillside residential district bordering the Zürichberg forest. Quiet streets with immediate access to extensive forest trails. The Zurich Zoo is in this district. More residential and family-oriented than the city center. Ideal for pet sitters caring for dogs that need daily forest walks and open space.
Wiedikon / Enge (Kreis 3 / 2)
A lively district south of the main station with a mix of urban and green spaces. Close to the Uetliberg trailheads and Sihl River walks. The Bäckeranlage park is a local dog-walking hub. Numerous pet-friendly cafés along Birmensdorferstrasse. Good value for accommodation compared to the lakeside districts.
Wipkingen / Höngg (Kreis 10)
A green, residential district in western Zurich along the Limmat River. Käferberg forest provides excellent off-leash walking. The Limmat riverbank path is popular with dog walkers. More village-like feel than central Zurich with a strong local community. Good for pet sitters who prefer a quieter, nature-focused setting.