Switzerland packs an unusual range of climate into a small country. Southern Ticino, near the Italian border, gets genuinely hot in summer, with the same heatstroke risks as anywhere in southern Europe — watch for heavy panting, drooling, or lethargy, and keep walks to early morning or evening.

Can dogs get altitude sickness in the Alps?

At altitude, dogs can experience a milder version of altitude sickness too — reduced energy, faster breathing, or reluctance to move much for the first day at a high alpine base. Build in an easy first day after a significant elevation gain, the same way you would for yourself.

How do you protect paws from winter cold and salt?

In winter, cold pavement, road salt, and ice between paw pads are the more common everyday risks, especially for short-haired breeds. Paw balm or dog boots, and rinsing paws after a salted-street walk, are standard practice for Swiss dog owners through the winter months.