Top 5 dog trainers in Zurich that truly transform pup behaviour
Your dog might be cute, but let’s be real: they don’t always listen. This is especially true when they’re tugging on the leash, ignoring commands at the park, or barking at the worst possible moments.
That’s where dog training comes into play, as it basically helps your pup to behave and learn cool tricks. We’re well aware that not everyone has the time or patience to teach their pup. Luckily, the best dog trainers in Zurich that we found are ready to save the day.
So if you’re ready to see your dog transform from being rowdy to reliable, this guide is for you. Continue reading as we’ve rounded up our top picks that actually delivered.
How much does a dog training service cost in Zurich?
In Zurich, a dog training service typically costs CHF 100. However, the total amount could change. If you’re on a budget, group classes are available at CHF 40 per session.
1. Swiss Dog School
Address: Widdergasse 10, 8001 Zürich
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
If you’re looking for a dog training school that operates in both German and English, then Swiss Dog School should be on your radar.
Founded in 2013, they’ve been featured on major Swiss TV and news channels, including SRF, Blick, and Tele M1. They even had the chance to share their insights with Tierisch TV.
We love that their program includes six practical courses for all breeds of dogs. And these aren’t just basic obedience drills. They cover everything important, including learning commands and understanding dog body language.
Additionally, they have a three-hour online theory course and a mandatory exam that you need to complete before they hand your dog over.
Meanwhile, for those wanting to level up, there are advanced options like social walks, a truffle-hunting course around Zurich, and nose work exercises for your dogs too.
You can also book private lessons, home visits, and even telephone consultations to work on specific behavioural challenges you’ve observed along the way. Booking them is relatively easy too, as you can do it directly online.
However, keep in mind that they have limited availability on weekends. So if that’s your only availability, we highly suggest booking at least a month in advance to see if a slot’s open for your dog.
Well-organised and engaging classes
“Fantastic Experience at Swiss Dog School! Meeting Jennifer and attending Swiss Dog School was a real pleasure. Our dog loved the classes, which were fun, engaging, and well-organized. The group was diverse and supportive, making every session enjoyable. Highly recommend—thank you, Jennifer!”
Tetiana Bably, Google Review
Helpful theoretical courses
“I was very satisfied with the theoretical course at Swiss Dog School. The lessons were clear, supportive, and well-structured. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking quality dog training.”
Julia Puskas-Graffagnini, Google Review
2. Dogcenter
Address: Hundeschule Dogcenter, Uetlibergstrasse 345, 8045 Zürich
Contact Details: +41 76 349 33 94
Operating Hours:
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
If you’re after a dog training centre where safety and freedom go paw in paw, Dogcenter is worth checking out. Located in a fully fenced environment, it’s really the kind of space where dogs can explore and learn without worries (and distractions too!).
Just keep in mind that, since the space is outdoors, classes may be affected by the weather.
Our favourite offering is their medical training, which is priced at CHF 45 per session. In this workshop, your dog will learn to handle vet visits, grooming, and other examinations calmly.
They will also show you how to use cooperation signals and gradually introduce touch, so your dog can truly relax, even when they’re being examined. We appreciate the practical guidance, but make sure to still come prepared by bringing a short leash and lots of treats.
And if you’ve got time, we suggest trying one of their unique offerings, which is the Crime Tour with your Dog. Your dogs will gather evidence, sniffing out clues and putting their noses to work in a fun and engaging way.
However, we’ve heard that booking can sometimes be a challenge.
Great opportunity to socialise with other puppies
“I took the puppy course with Salma, my Samoyed. We both had a lot of fun, and it was a good opportunity for Salma to socialize with other puppies. Cinzia is very kind and patient, and even translated the instructions into English for me. We look forward to starting the Junghundekurs.”
Chloe Braud, Google Review
Dog- and people-centric teaching approach
“Very Dog & People centric approach to teaching and learning to communicate with our furry friends”’
Richard Polya, Google Review
3. Hundeschule Animal Coach
Address: Uetlibergstrasse 347, 8045 Zürich
Contact Details: +41 79 423 31 16
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Hundeschule Animal Coach is a great dog training school if you’re looking for one that applies modern learning theory. This dog school uses only positive reinforcement, so yes, there’s no old-school punishment here.
We love that they offer dummy training and truffle-hunting courses, which are perfect if you want to challenge your dog’s natural instincts in a productive way.
For everyday needs, they also offer basic puppy training, as well as advanced courses covering topics such as behavioural counselling.
Meanwhile, if you prefer more undivided attention for your pups, private lessons are available. This will also give you an opportunity to work closely with an instructor on your dog’s specific needs.
The instructors themselves are knowledgeable too. They provide helpful feedback in every class, so you’re never left guessing what to do next.
Here, language won’t be a barrier either. The instructor speaks English even in German classes, and they will happily translate anything that’s unclear.
But if you want a more convenient option, we suggest attending their English dog training classes instead. Just keep in mind that these courses are only available once a week.
Understanding of breed-specific traits
“As a first-time dog owner, I had a great experience with AnimalCoach. The trainers are knowledgeable and supportive, with a strong understanding of breed-specific traits. The school offers a well-organized training structure that helps address specific challenges effectively. We’re super happy with the progress and are definitely continuing our training beyond the mandatory courses.”
Miri Ju, Google Review
Provides tips and guidelines
“I would recommend this dog school to anyone who asked me. I had to do the course for the 10 compulsory classes when I came to Zurich with my dog, and at first I was not very convinced of the usefulness of this course, after finishing it and thanks to Sebastian, the trainer we worked with, I have to say that I am extremely happy, we have learned a lot, Sebastian has given us some tips and guidelines that have worked great with our dog and we have noticed a noticeable change for the better both in his behaviour and in the bond with us when working with the dog.”
David Marcos, Google Review
4. Dog Affair
Address: Brandschenkestrasse 130, 8002 Zürich
Contact Details: +41 76 390 90 17
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM
If you’re looking for a one-stop dog centre with training, grooming, and even a boutique under one roof, then Dog Affair is the one for you.
Their dog training school is approved by the veterinary office, so you know it’s recognised and trustworthy. We love that they offer independent courses for your dog’s individual development.
For those with limited time, their intensive weekend training is a great option too. It will just require 12 lessons of 50 minutes each, totalling CHF 550 for the entire package.
Our favourite service is definitely their first-aid workshop. Knowing how to handle emergencies with our dogs gave us so much peace of mind, which is really a great plus!
Dog Affair is also known for their dog care services. Our four-legged friend was cared for in a pack, allowing plenty of playtime and cuddles while also providing quiet time to rest.
Also, don’t worry, as drop-offs and pick-ups are flexible. However, they can be slow to respond to calls or texts, so it’s better to schedule an in-person.
But we love their dog grooming services, which include paw and ear care. And if you love spoiling your pups, the boutique here offers high-quality leashes and wooden toys.
Really cares about dogs
“We’ve had a great experience with Dog Affair! We started with puppy classes and training for our toy poodle Luna, and she loved it. The team is friendly, professional, and really cares about the dogs. We also did a dog first aid course recently, which was very informative. We’re hoping to do their off-leash walking course soon too. Highly recommend!”
Christina Rossi, Google Review
Great community
“Gosh. The atmosphere is so warm and welcoming! It’s really a big extended family. We’ve been to other dog hotels before but this is next level. Any dog and their owner will be more than happy to be at Dog Affair. Thank you Adrian, Patricia & team!”
Matthew Hua, Google Review
5. Charly’s Dog Training
Address: Flüelastrasse 16, 8048 Zürich
Contact Details: +41 76 837 78 76
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
If you have a dog with aggression, anxiety or behavioural challenges, Charly’s Dog Training is the place that you should go.
Owned by Cyrill, who trained with Kynologie Schweiz from the Swiss Kennel Club, he’s also been a trusted trainer for dogs from animal shelters. He helps them adjust and thrive in their new homes.
What we love most is that no violence or oppression is used in the training. Even better, they don’t rely on food lures, which means your dog learns through trust and communication, not just treats.
Another thing we love about them is their doggo guide, a comprehensive 12-chapter resource that helps you understand training techniques and strengthen your bond with your fur buddy.
The Companionship Program was also a game-changer for us. We could learn at our own pace, with Cyrill’s support whenever we need it.
The weekly calls were especially reassuring, as we could correct small mistakes immediately and never felt alone during the process.
They also offer a free online course focusing on understanding your dog’s behaviour, complete with learning materials and cheat sheets.
However, it’s worth noting that Charly’s Dog Training has no Sunday training sessions.
Focuses on correcting behaviours
“Cyrill is a fantastic trainer! In addition to collaborating with my daycare (WoofWoof) he’s also training my own dog, Dina! Always using a positive methodology, he teaches more than just how to correct behaviors, he encourages building a relationship of love and respect between dog and human. We definitely recommend him! 👌♥️”
Manuela Lazzaretti, Google Review
Proactive in giving additional recommendations
“The most difficult issue with my dog was leash walking / constant pulling on walks. I got some great advice and already made huge progress after the first session. Cyrill did not only work on the leash walking with us but also gave me valuable tips to tweak little things in every day life and at home to improve overall behavior. Thank you for the fantastic progress!”
Matylda Mostepan, Google Review