The two Appenzell cantons, Innerrhoden (AI) and Ausserrhoden (AR), captivate visitors with their striking hilly landscape and the imposing Alpstein. For hikers with dogs, the region is a hassle-free destination: there are no breed restrictions and no general leash requirement in the forest. However, there are subtle differences in the cantonal dog laws, particularly regarding leash requirements on public transportation.
An overview of the regulations
| Topic | Regulations in the canton of Appenzell Ausserrhoden (AR) | Regulations in the canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden (AI) |
| Leash requirement | No general requirement in the forest. | No general requirement in the forest. |
| Public transportation | Leash laws are required by law (Art. 8 HuG). | No cantonal regulations; the operator’s rules apply. |
| List of restricted breeds | No. No breed-specific restrictions in the canton | No. No breed-specific restrictions in the canton |
| Muzzle | There is no general requirement for tourists. | There is no general requirement for tourists. |
| Cows | Lokale Beschilderung beachten. | Follow local signage. |
| Livestock protection | Requirement to register livestock guard dogs with local municipalities. | Check the map at herdenschutzschweiz.ch. |
| Tourist tax (dogs) | Registration is required only for stays of 3 months or longer (Amicus). | Registration is required only for stays of 3 months or longer (Amicus). |
Data sources:
- Supervisory Authority: Appenzell Ausserrhoden Veterinary Office – available in German
- Supervisory Authority: Appenzell Innerrhoden Veterinary Office – available in German
- Legal Basis AR: Appenzell Ausserrhoden Dog Law (Art. 8) – available in German
- Legal Basis AI: Appenzell Innerrhoden Dog Law (Art. 5/6) – available in German
- Maps & Protection: wildruhezonen.ch (available in German, French, Italian) and herdenschutzschweiz.ch
Blog posts about the Appenzell region
Hills, cheese, and dog-friendly trails: hiking in both Appenzells
The Appenzell region is a paradise for hiking dogs. With no breed restrictions and very lenient leash laws in the woods, you can enjoy your time here without a care in the world. Find out here why you still need to keep your leash handy on the bus in Ausserrhoden and what to watch out…
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