And that’s just the start of it. As of September 15, 2008, Geneva’s list of dogs declared as dangerous or vicious has grown to 15. The latest additions are the Bullmastiff, Thai Ridgeback, and French Mastiff, a.k.a. Bordeaux Bulldog.

The population’s outrage was felt in the first ever Geneva citizen ballot, which resulted in a landslide 80 percent in support of stricter laws regarding what kind of control and owner education and regulation should be required.

The population’s outrage was felt in the first ever Geneva citizen vote, which resulted in a landslide 80 percent in favor of stricter laws regarding breed control and owner education and regulation.

Owners who owned one of the flagged breeds before legislation was passed may maintain the dog, but only after reporting ownership to the cantonal veterinary office, proving that the dog originated from an approved breeder, completing a dog training course, and licensing the dog. Only one dangerous breed is permitted per household.

Owners who owned one of the identified breeds before legislation was passed may retain the dog, but only after reporting ownership to the cantonal veterinary office, proving that the canine came from an approved breeder, completing a dog training lessons, and licensing the dog. Only one dangerous breed is allowable per household.

Geneva divides the 15 breeds into different categories, with each category holding specific requirements. A complete list of dangerous breeds and set of laws can be acquired through Geneva’s cantonal veterinary office.

In addition to provisions that must be made for dangerous breeds, Geneva’s general dog owner population, caretakers of the canton’s 30,000 dogs, is subject to new rules. As previously declared, specific guidelines for the proper keeping of dogs must be followed. But more recently, every dog owner is now required to attend a dog ownership course, regardless of their dog’s breed.

Furthermore, dog walkers must now be licensed.

Geneva isn’t the only Swiss canton that’s tightening the leash when it comes to dog control. Valais, Fribourg, Bern, and Zurich have their own legislation. And, prospects point toward future rulings regarding care and control of dogs in all of Switzerland, including tougher liability for owners and nationwide breed bans.

Whether you’re a lifelong Geneva resident, tourist, or emigrant, familiarizing yourself with the rules governing dog ownership within the canton will prevent tricky situations. Following those set of laws will protect you, your dog, and your record with the law.

Don’t fail to comply with Geneva’s newest, and oldest, dog possession regulations by obtaining half truths, or no information. These laws are set to care for both you and your animal.