Theory course for first-time dog owners

Knowing the needs of a dog, keeping it occupied and exercised in a species-appropriate way and training it requires some knowledge and prior experience. With our theory course for first-time dog owners, we make it easier for you and your pawsome new addition to the family to start life together.

 

 

 

Theoretical dog training according to Zurich legislation

 


According to the new Zurich Dog Law, which came into force on June 1, 2025, all first-time dog owners must complete theoretical dog training. This also applies to people who have not owned a dog for more than 10 years. The theoretical dog training consists of the following:

 


- Theory course

- Self-study 100-page handout

- written examination

 

 

 

Dates and fees

 


Theory course:

- Compulsory course according to the Zurich Dog Law

- Duration: approx. 3 hours

- Costs: 150 Fr. per participating person

- Requests for the theory course in English are gladly accepted so that we can find a date together

 


Written examination:

- fulfills the requirements of the Zurich Dog Law

- can only be taken after attending the theory course

- Duration: 30 minutes

- Cost: 50 Fr. per person

- Dates: 08.08., 19.00 / 22.08., 19.00 / 06.09., 12.30 / 12.09., 19.00 / 18.10., 14.00 / 31.10., 19.00 / 21.11., 19.00 / 28.11., 19.00 / 13.12., 12.30 / 20.12., 14.00

 

 

Preparation of handout:

The contents of the handout are very comprehensive. We therefore offer the preparation of the contents as a face-to-face event; this is not a compulsory event under the law, but prepares participants for the written examination.

- serves to prepare the handout, not a compulsory event

- Duration: approx. 3 hours

- Costs: 150 Fr. per participating person

- Requests for the preparation of the handout in English are gladly accepted so that we can find a date together

 

 

 

We are also very happy for people who are not affected by the Zurich Dog Law to take part in the theory course and the preparation of the handout and can recommend participation in the course to all first-time dog owners.

registration

Study goals

  • Information about dogs (senses of the dog, needs, the dog as a social creature)
  • Learning behavior (learning theory, different forms of learning)
  • Dealing with dogs (anticipatory action, aids, everyday organization, code of conduct)
  • Acquiring a dog (basic questions, choosing a dog, preparation and equipment)
  • Travelling with a dog (travelling abroad, entering Switzerland)
  • Dog and law (animal protection legislation, dog law of the Canton of Zurich, registration obligation)

Course details

target audience:

People who are keeping a dog for the first time or want to prepare for dog ownership

location:

Seminar room Mettmenstetten

course administration