The scent of mulled wine, fairy lights and wagging tails everywhere in between: dog Christmas markets have become a lovely little tradition in Switzerland. Instead of candles and gloves you will find treats, collars, little coats and gift ideas for your four-legged friend, and your dog is usually welcome to come along and sniff out the goods himself. We have gathered the dates for the 2026 season, starting with the dog Christmas market in Zollikon, along with a few tips to make the visit as relaxed for your dog as it is for you.
Dog Christmas market in Zollikon: Sunday, 22 November 2026
The season opens with the dog Christmas market in Zollikon on Lake Zurich. It now takes place on Sunday, 22 November 2026, from 9.30 am to 4 pm in the Gemeindesaal Zollikon at Rotfluhstrasse 96. Entry is free, as is parking in the underground garage. Numerous dog brands present their products, and food and drink for both humans and dogs are taken care of. You will find all the details on the market's website and on the event page on Eventfrog.
One note with a wink: the market is organised by Vicos Welt from Binz-Maur. Despite the strikingly similar name, the organisers are not connected to us at Vico's Hundewelt, even though our Vico naturally finds his namesake rather charming.
Doggy's Christmas in Lenzburg: Sunday, 13 December 2026
Three weeks later, Doggy's Christmas follows in the Mehrzweckhalle Lenzburg, according to the organisers the largest dog Christmas market in Switzerland: Sunday, 13 December 2026, from 10 am to 5 pm, free entry. The market is organised by the animal welfare association Tierhilfe Arme Pfoten, and the proceeds go to animal welfare. You will find a wide range of exhibitors all about dogs, plus food stalls and a raffle.
More markets: regional and often announced at short notice
Alongside the two big dates there are regional dog Christmas markets every year, run by dog schools, animal shelters or local clubs. Many of them are only announced in October or November. From late October onwards it is worth checking the events calendar on hunde-agenda.ch or your municipality's calendar. It is best to double-check the date on the organiser's website shortly before you set off, as last-minute changes are not unusual for smaller markets.
Taking your dog to the market: how to keep it relaxed
An indoor market full of people, dogs and food smells is exciting for many four-legged visitors. A few simple rules keep the visit stress-free:
- Keep your dog on a short leash while still giving him time to sniff.
- Allow breaks: a quick trip outside, a few quiet minutes away from the crowds.
- Bring water and a few familiar treats. A treat pouch like our SnackPack is handy for this, keeping rewards within reach without rummaging at every stall.
- Check the collar and tag beforehand: in a crowd, an up-to-date phone number on your dog is worth its weight in gold.
- Not every dog enjoys crowds. If yours prefers peace and quiet, visit during the quieter hours or leave him at home and bring the present back for him.
Dressed up for the market?
At dog Christmas markets you will see plenty of dogs in festive outfits, and if your dog is used to wearing clothes there is nothing wrong with that. Our Vico wears his SantaPaw Christmas costume on occasions like these, though only since he was allowed to get to know it calmly at home first. What matters is that the outfit does not restrict him, that nothing hangs over his eyes or ears, and that he can wear it comfortably at all times. You can read what to look out for in terms of safety, size and comfort in our guide to buying a dog costume. You will find more festive ideas in our Dog costumes collection.
We wish you and your dog plenty of fun browsing, sniffing and sampling. Perhaps our paths will cross at one of the markets.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring my dog to the dog Christmas market?
Yes, that is the whole point. Most markets require dogs to be on a leash, and your dog should feel comfortable in crowds and around other dogs. You will find the exact rules, for example regarding females in season, on the organiser's website.
Does entry cost anything?
Entry is free in Zollikon and Lenzburg in 2026. Smaller regional markets sometimes ask for a small contribution, often in aid of animal welfare. It is best to rely on the organiser's information.
My dog does not like crowds. What should I do?
Then do not force him into a packed hall. Visit the market during the quieter hours, keep the visit short, or go without your dog and surprise him at home with a little something. For most dogs, a lovely walk afterwards is the bigger present anyway.
