Zurich Dog Tax 2026: All Costs at a Glance

Anyone keeping a dog in Zurich is subject to dog tax, set under the cantonal regulations of the Canton of Zurich.

How much is dog tax in Zurich?

Our calculator shows an indicative cantonal rate of around CHF 140 per year for the first dog in Zurich — one of the highest in Switzerland. Your municipal tax office is authoritative for the exact, binding amount.

Second dog and additional dogs

As in most Swiss municipalities, a higher rate generally applies in Zurich for a second dog or more.

Registering in Zurich

1. Have your dog microchipped by a vet and registered in AMICUS
2. Submit registration with your municipality's residents' registration office
3. Check liability insurance, which is mandatory in the Canton of Zurich

Exemptions

As elsewhere in the Canton of Zurich, exemptions generally apply to assistance, guide and rescue dogs.

Zurich's dog tax explained

Zurich is Switzerland's largest canton and home to a large dog-owning population. The cantonal rate of around CHF 140 per year is collected at the municipal level. In the city of Zurich itself, the rate may vary slightly. Our calculator provides an accurate estimate based on canton-level data.

Mandatory requirements in Canton Zurich

All dog owners in Canton Zurich must: microchip and register their dog in AMICUS, take a mandatory theory course if they are first-time dog owners, register the dog with their municipality within 10 days, and hold liability insurance with at least CHF 1 million coverage.

Exemptions in Canton Zurich

Certified assistance dogs, guide dogs for the visually impaired, and police/rescue dogs are fully exempt from dog tax. Private dog owners who can demonstrate their dog serves a working function (e.g., farm dogs) may apply for a partial exemption through the municipality.