A Seal of Trust

This is an English translation of a version written by Noble Alliance and reviewed by the République et Canton de Genève, Département de la santé et des mobilités (DSM), Office cantonal de la santé, and especially Mr. Cédric Alber, Directeur de la communication.

Having a dog is a commitment that goes far beyond the affection we feel for it. In

Geneva, this responsibility is part of a regulated framework designed to ensure harmonious coexistence between pet owners and public spaces. The control mark, required for all dogs in the canton, is a central element. It guarantees that each owner fulfills their obligations regarding the identification, insurance, and health monitoring of their companion. Much more than an administrative formality, it represents an essential step for safety, traceability, and animal welfare.

Regulations enshrined in law

The control mark for dogs in the Canton of Geneva is governed by the Dog Act (LChiens), adopted on March 18, 2011, and entered into force on August 30, 2011. This legislation introduced measures to ensure public safety and promote responsible dog ownership. Since 2012, the dog tax has been collected directly by the canton via a tax slip, but this does not exempt owners from obtaining the annual control mark.

In May 2023, amendments were made to the Dog Act to update cantonal law with national developments and improve its enforcement. These adjustments include administrative simplifications and a better definition of concepts related to dog ownership, thus ensuring an even clearer framework for owners.

A regulated framework serving the common good

In the Canton of Geneva, all dogs over six months old must bear a control mark. This requirement, which must be renewed before April 1 of each year, ensures that each owner fulfils their obligations regarding the identification, insurance, and health monitoring of their animal.

The process is simple: the owner must go to their municipality of residence—or a municipal police station for residents of the City of Geneva—with three essential documents:

• A certificate of civil liability insurance covering any damage caused by the dog.

• A vaccination record, including proof of a valid rabies vaccination.

• Proof of registration of the dog in the AMICUS database, guaranteeing official identification.

A complementary measure to the dog tax

An element often misunderstood by owners is the distinction between the control mark and the dog tax, which is also in effect in the canton. Unlike the mark, which is issued by the municipalities, the tax is collected directly by the cantonal tax administration via a slip sent to owners, usually in the summer.

It is therefore imperative to acquire the control mark independently of paying this tax, otherwise penalties will apply. This measure helps ensure that all dogs are properly recorded and monitored.

Why this requirement?

If Geneva stands out for this system, it's because the control mark is much more than a formality. It plays an essential role in dog management within the canton:

• It facilitates the identification of animals, particularly in the event of loss or theft.

• It guarantees health monitoring by ensuring that each dog is properly vaccinated.

• It reinforces the responsibility of owners, who must prove they have insurance coverage in the event of an incident.

This system is therefore part of a pragmatic approach, where responsible dog ownership is encouraged without becoming an excessive burden on owners.

A benchmark model in canine management

While many cities around the world are seeking to better regulate the presence of dogs in urban areas, Geneva offers a balance between freedom and responsibility. The control mark illustrates the Geneva authorities' desire to preserve harmonious coexistence between dog owners and the rest of the population, while guaranteeing the safety and well-being of animals.

At Noble Alliance, we fully support this approach and encourage every dog ​​owner to view this obligation not as a constraint, but as a civic commitment. The control mark is a key element of the Geneva model of dog management, a model that could inspire other regions seeking to combine animal welfare and owner responsibility.