Activities For Dogs In Switzerland

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Introduction

Visiting Switzerland with your dog soon? Or maybe you already live there? Maybe you're new! Whatever the situation, rest assured, there is plenty to do in Switzerland, especially with your pooch best friend. Just remember, stay away from the chocolate. Switzerland is known for having pretty much the best chocolate in the world, and it's certainly tempting to want to share that with everyone you know, but don't share it with the poor dog. As much as the dog wants it, it's deadly. So settle for sending some care packages to family and friends if you really feel the need to share!

Eat At Miracle

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Easy
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Water & Food Bowls
Activity description
Miracle, an intimate and casual restaurant with outdoor seating in warm weather months is known for handmade pastas and pizzas. But of course, they put their spin on it and use Swiss meats and cheeses. Located in Zürich, they are well-known and pet-friendly, so your favorite pooch can go eat with you! Just remember to bring your dog's water and food bowls so you can share some of your dinner. It's the polite thing to do, after all. Oh, and be prepared: European casual dining isn't entirely casual. You still get pampered, you still get attentive staff, and you certainly get candlelight at night. It's moderately priced, so it's not outright cheap. Expect to spent roughly $18+ per meal.
Step
1
Do your research
It's time to browse a menu and use that translator option on Google. Let it be known, Miracle has a translatable website, so you can actually read everything in English, but the menu is still very much in German. In fact, it would be helpful to carry a pocket translator with you, or a book on beginner's French and German. Remember, Switzerland doesn't have its own language, there is no Swiss language, because it's a nexus, bordering both Germany and France.
Step
2
Prepare for the fun
Now that you've seen the menu and know what you'd ideally want to order and share with your dog, it's time to prepare. Check out Miracle's location, plan on how to get there, and ensure you have cash on hand for a nice tip. Remember to get your money converted if still needed. And don't forget your dog's food and water bowls!
Step
3
Enjoy the experience
Now it's finally time to eat. Enjoy yourselves at Miracle. Chances are you're going to Switzerland during the warmer months, so you'll likely be seated outside. Nice views, so take it all in! Remember to keep your dog on the leash and by the table, and to share your water and food. If the waiter is aware of your dog, chances are they will fill the water bowl.
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Visit Horburgpark

Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Free
Easy
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Sunscreen
Water bottle
Dog treats
Activity description
Horburgpark is located in Basel, and is a public park with a fenced dog playing area. There's even dog friendly art sponsored by local artists. There are also two dog beaches along the Rhine where you and your dog can play Frisbee, throw the ball around, or just lounge together. In other words, if you've been looking for a park, beach, or otherwise artsy place to hang out with your dog, then Horburgpark is it. And you have the option to mingle with other dogs. No one is saying you have to, but it is nice if you've been looking to make friends.
Step
1
Do your research
First thing's first: do your research. Look up Horburgpark and see what it has to offer. See if it's for you. For instance, you may be surprised to know that it is a former cemetery. Or that it's called "Horbi" by the locals. Or that it was established in the 50's. There's a slide, a large shallow outdoor pool, a smaller pool, and tons of grass and trees. There's even a dirt bike trail. Oh, and the fenced dog park has an obstacle course. So again, do your research!
Step
2
Prepare for the excursion
Now that you've done enough research and have an idea for what Horbi has to offer, it's time to pack a day bag. What items will you need? Well, because you're likely visiting during the warmer months, you probably need sunscreen. Maybe a few bandaids, just in case. A water bottle full of cold water to share with your dog. Maybe some dog treats for when you need to get your dog out of trouble. Or for rewards!
Step
3
Enjoy Horbi
Now that you've packed a day bag and done your research, it's time to actually go to Horbi. Remember, navigating in a new place can be a little daunting, so give yourself plenty of extra time to get there. Parks tend to close at night, so give yourself an early start to be safe. Once you're there, enjoy playing around on the dog obstacle course, visiting the beaches, or just mingling with the locals!
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Take The Glacier Express

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Easy
2 - 5 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Activity description
The Glacier Express can charge upwards of $150+ so be prepared to splurge a bit on transportation with this activity. That being said, it is a great option for those trying to get to another destination within Switzerland, without really having to settle for overpriced taxis or car rentals. Depending on where you get on, and your destination, you could be on the Glacier Express for a few hours, or even days. In its totality, it's roughly 3 days across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels, and across the Oberalp Pass at about 6,670 ft. above sea level. Dogs, cats, and other pets are allowed as long as they don't disturb other passengers.
Step
1
Do your research
Pets travel free of charge on the Glacier Express. On the Metro and commuter trains, pets are only allowed in compartments with no sign indicating prohibition on the outside. Small pets are best on your lap, while large pets should be by your legs. At stations, lift with your pet whenever possible. Guide dogs and service dogs are obviously always welcome as well, and the same rules apply: can't bother other people, and should be politely by your legs or otherwise on your lap, if small enough. If you're unsure about anything else, go to their website. Feel free to call ahead of time to inquire anything, and remember to get your ticket ahead of time.
Step
2
Prepare for the trip
Now that you've done your homework, it's time to prepare for the trip. The contents of your bag will largely depend on what you want to do, and where you're going. However, this is Switzerland, probably during the warmer months, so it's safe to say that some light snacks, bottled water, and a light sweater or cardigan are in order.
Step
3
Enjoy the ride!
It could be a few hours on the Glacier Express. It could be a whopping 3 days. However long your journey is, enjoy a cup of coffee, get some chocolate, read a beautiful book, and take some photographs. Make sure your dog is entertained with a silent toy, so as not to disturb passengers, and that you have a clear line of sight to your pet. No breaking any rules, just travelling in style and comfort together!
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More Fun Ideas...

Take In The Sights

Switzerland is a beautiful place, and that's putting it lightly. It's flat-out amazingly gorgeous. The best thing you could ever do is just take in the sights. Whether you choose to go for a walk, or find an accessible rooftop to sit down and watch the city in motion, it's all fine. As long as you get to see as much of the city as possible.

Stay In A Nice Hotel Room

There are plenty of pet friendly hotels in Switzerland, many of which don't even charge a pet fee. There's something for every budget too, whether you're willing to spend under $100 a night, or over $300 a night. If you're visiting, it may pay off to set aside at least one night in a fancy, upscale hotel that accepts pets. It's something that you won't regret, assuming it's within budget. It may involve cutting some corners here and there, or forgoing a tour or shopping trip around town, but it will make for a great memory. And you and your dog can do something really fun, like an upscale movie night with classic black and white movies.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it: the Switzerland guide to having fun with your pooch best friend! It's a fun place, a gorgeous place, full of excitement and things to do together. Just remember: keep the chocolate to yourself or share it with your human loved ones. Not your dog, please!