Mountain Paw

The Valais entices visitors with its majestic four-thousand-meter peaks and endless hiking trails. But if you’re traveling here with your four-legged friend, you’ll need to be aware of a few cantonal regulations that are rarely found elsewhere in Switzerland.

I’ve checked directly with the Valais authorities and agricultural associations to ensure that your hiking vacation with your dog is safe and stress-free.

An overview of the regulations

Topic	Regulations in the canton of Valais
General leash requirement	Currently, there is no general leash requirement (e.g., during the breeding season). However, leashes are mandatory in protected areas. Map of biotopes in the Canton of Valais (German/French) Fauna Protection Zones (SCPF)
Leash requirements on hiking trails	There are no cantonal regulations; this falls under the jurisdiction of the municipalities. Please follow local signage!
Public transportation	There are no state regulations. Each transportation company (e.g., mountain railways) sets its own rules.
List of restricted breeds	12 breeds are restricted (see list in German or French)! Short-term stays (<30 days/year) are permitted, but dogs must be kept on a leash and muzzled at all times on public streets.
Muzzle	Required for the 12 listed breeds on public property. On public transportation, the rules of the transport companies apply.
Cows	No central maps. Follow the warning signs on site and give the pastures a wide berth.
Livestock protection	Increased presence in many summer grazing areas. Please follow the specific guidelines! An interactive map is available: Areas where livestock guard dogs are present.
Tourist tax (dogs)	Registration requirement and tax liability apply for stays of more than 3 months. Tax Ordinance of the Canton of Valais (Art. 2) – available in German and French

Data sources:

• Official information: Cantonal Veterinary Office (SCAV) of Valais, as of 2026 – available in German and French
• Agricultural data: Department of Agriculture (Office of Livestock Management) – available in German and French & Valais Farmers’ Association. – available in German
• Legal basis: Law on Dog Ownership (Canton of Valais) & Tax Ordinance, Art. 2 – available in German and French

Important additional information for Valais:

• Breed Restrictions: Twelve dog breeds are restricted in Valais. For tourists (staying less than 30 days), these breeds must be kept on a leash and muzzled at all times on public trails.
• Livestock protection: Valais is the main area of operation for livestock guard dogs. Check the current HSH map before every hike.
• Wildlife protection zones: Even though there is no general leash requirement in the forest, leashing is required by law in marked protected areas (biotopes/wildlife protection zones).
• Map of biotopes in the canton of Valais – available in German and French
• Fauna protection zones (SCPF)