Tips

To travel to another country, your dog needs a pet passport. Furthermore, the dog must be chipped and protected against rabies. The rabies vaccination is valid three weeks after being given and must be repeated within the required period. In some countries, vaccination alone is not sufficient. In that case, blood must be taken in advance and examined in a laboratory.

Particularly in southern countries, some parasites (e.g. sand fleas) can transmit dangerous dog diseases. Be sure to inform yourself about the best protection before traveling with your dog. In some countries, a certificate is required showing that the dog was treated against parasites before crossing the border. Find out about the relevant entry requirements on the official web pages of the respective state government.

Other countries have other customs. That also applies to animal protection or animal protection laws. Thus, there may be a muzzle obligation in public transportation or for certain breeds. Get your dog used to wearing a muzzle and inform yourself about the laws in the destination country.

Please note: 
As in Switzerland, dog regulations are often set at the municipal rather than the national level.

When transporting a dog in a car, it is essential to consider the following points:

• the dog must be able to stand, sit and lie comfortably in a transport box
• get the dog used to the box and to driving before the trip
• as an alternative to the box: strap the dog to a harness with a special belt
• dogs must not be able to move freely in the car during the journey
• plan regular breaks so that the dog can relieve itself and drink 
• ask your vet about remedies against travel sickness

Be aware that 15°C outside temperature and direct sunlight are already life-threatening to a dog in a closed car. 

In Switzerland, dogs that do not travel in small transport containers require a second class ticket (half-price), a dog day ticket, or the dog pass. Abroad, dogs usually also need a valid ticket. In addition, muzzles are sometimes compulsory. Under no circumstances should dogs be allowed to walk around freely on the train. Place the dog in such a way that other passengers cannot accidentally step on it. 

Get the dog used to train travel in advance. Start with short distances and gradually lengthen them. Plan train journeys so that the dog can always relieve itself in between. 

Like wolves, many dogs like to hunt for "prey". Depending on the breed, dogs love to track pieces of food, food bags, toys, or dummies. The food can be hidden in the apartment, in the garden, or on the walk. At first, in a way that the dog can find it easily with its eyes. Once the dog has understood the search task, the hiding places can become more challenging. 

Various sports are suitable for physical and mental activity. However, it depends on your dog's health, interest, and the original purpose of its breed what kind of sport it likes best. 

Dog obedience schools, clubs, and trainers offer various sports:

• agility
• tracking
• dummy training
• dog dance
• man trailing
• trick dogging
• companion and rescue dog courses
• protection services

There are various intelligence games for dogs available in stores. In the games, dogs need to acquire hidden food by opening boxes or pushing flaps. The games are a great indoor activity – particularly when your dog is not allowed to walk much, for example, for health reasons. Watch your dog during the first attempts and provide support before it gets frustrated. 

Getting dogs used to different everyday situations is essential to deal with them in a relaxed way. In well-thought-out training sessions, dogs can be accustomed to larger crowds and mentally exercised. However, we highly recommend not to overburden the dog. 

For many dogs, there is nothing better than meeting and playing with other dogs. Some dogs, especially young ones, also play with unknown dogs. In this case, make sure that the dogs take regular breaks and that play does not degenerate into a scuffle or bullying. Apart from playing together, dogs also enjoy joint walks where they keep an eye on each other, sniff out the same spots, and communicate. Walks are not only a good workout for the dog but also promote its social skills.