Is Ticino Pet-Friendly? What Expats Need to Know Before Moving to Lugano with Pets
- Knotted
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Are you considering a move to Switzerland with your pet? If your relocation plans include Ticino, you're in luck. This beautiful region in southern Switzerland is not only known for its lakes, mountains, and Mediterranean flair — it's also one of the most pet-friendly areas in Europe.
Whether you're bringing a dog, cat, or another furry friend, moving to Lugano or nearby towns with pets is easier than you might expect. From accessible housing for pet owners, to green spaces, pet healthcare, and an overall welcoming culture, Ticino is truly a paradise for animal lovers.
Before You Move: Entry Requirements for Pets in Switzerland
Before arriving in Switzerland, make sure your pet meets the national import regulations. The process is straightforward for most expats coming from the EU or North America, especially if you're bringing a dog or cat. Here's what you need:
Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785-compliant chip.
You’ll need a valid rabies vaccination certificate.
If you’re relocating from outside the EU, a veterinary health certificate might also be required.
For smooth travel and stress-free arrival, we always recommend checking the latest updates with your vet or a relocation consultant before departure.
Ticino: Where Pets Are Family
In Ticino, pets are not only allowed — they’re embraced. Whether you’re walking through Lugano’s old town, hiking near Monte Brè, or sipping coffee in Locarno, it’s common to see pets accompanying their owners everywhere.
Many restaurants and cafés in Lugano are dog-friendly, often offering water bowls and shady spots for your companion. In fact, don’t be surprised if your dog gets more attention than you do — it's part of the charm!
Dogs are welcome on public transport, including trains and buses. Small dogs can travel for free in a carrier, while larger ones require a discounted ticket. And cats? They’re very common in villas with gardens and even in city apartments, especially if you're open with landlords and keep things tidy.
Pet-Friendly Housing in Ticino: What Expats Should Know
One of the top concerns for expats relocating with pets is finding suitable pet-friendly housing. The good news? Ticino has many options, from spacious homes in Collina d’Oro to modern flats in downtown Lugano.
While Swiss rental listings don’t always mention pet policies, many landlords are open to pets — particularly if you present a professional relocation profile with a stable income and clear plans. Some may require an extra deposit or written consent in the rental agreement.
Working with a local relocation service in Ticino can significantly simplify your search, filtering listings based on your pet’s needs and your lifestyle.
Outdoor Life in Lugano: Walks, Trails, and Pet-Friendly Parks
Ticino’s natural beauty is a playground for both humans and pets. From lakefront promenades to forest paths and alpine trails, there’s no shortage of places where your pet can stretch their legs and enjoy the fresh air.
A few pet-friendly outdoor highlights include:
Parco Ciani (Lugano): A lush, lakeside park perfect for walks, socializing, and relaxing.
Monte Brè and Monte San Salvatore: Accessible by funicular, these scenic mountains offer numerous pet-friendly trails.
Lido Riva Caccia: In off-season months, locals bring their dogs for a splash in the lake.
Sentiero del Castagno (Chestnut Trail): A peaceful walk through shaded chestnut groves, ideal for weekend hikes with your dog.
While leashes are required in most urban zones, Ticino provides designated off-leash areas, and the culture around pet ownership is respectful and well-regulated. You’ll also find dog waste bag dispensers and bins along walking routes — a small touch that reflects a thoughtful, animal-friendly society.
Veterinary Services and Pet Care in Ticino
Switzerland offers top-tier veterinary services, and Ticino is no exception. You’ll have access to private clinics, emergency care, and even animal physiotherapists and specialists. Most veterinarians speak multiple languages, including English and German, and offer excellent care standards.
In addition to vets, the region offers:
Pet groomers and pet supply shops
Trainers and behaviorists
Dog hotels and pet-sitters, ideal if you're traveling or busy
Community groups and WhatsApp networks where expats help each other with pet care or dog-walking tips
If you're used to a high standard of pet care, you’ll feel right at home in Ticino.
Pet Registration and Bureaucracy in Switzerland
After moving to Ticino with a dog, you must register your pet with both:
Your local commune
The AMICUS national database, which keeps track of vaccinations, training requirements, and responsibilities.
Some breeds require additional socialization training, and there is a yearly dog tax (modest and commune-dependent). Cats don’t require registration unless used for breeding, but microchipping and neutering are strongly recommended by authorities and vets.
Ticino Welcomes Pets — And So Do We
In Ticino, you’ll experience something rare: a region where pets are part of the lifestyle, not just tolerated. From friendly locals to accessible transport, beautiful trails to modern healthcare, living in Ticino with pets can be a truly rewarding chapter of your life.
Whether you're a single professional moving to Lugano with a cat, or a family bringing your dog to Ticino, you’ll find this canton to be one of Switzerland’s best-kept secrets for animal lovers.
Need Help Relocating with Your Pet? Let Us Take Care of It.
At Knotted, we support expats relocating to Lugano and all of Ticino — including those with furry companions. From finding the perfect pet-friendly apartment, to managing registrations, connecting with local vets, or even hiring a pet-sitter, our relocation services cover it all.
📱 WhatsApp us at +41 76 771 30 22
Because home isn’t home without them. 🐾
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