VILLACH ON FOUR PAWS
Dogs are known to be a human’s best friend – and that’s also true in Villach. Currently, over 3,600 dogs are officially registered in Villach, and the number is rising. This makes clear rules, mutual respect, and harmonious coexistence between dog owners and the rest of the city’s population all the more important.
The city supports this coexistence with a range of dog-friendly measures that meet the needs of both four-legged companions and their fellow human citizens.
OFF-LEASH AREAS FOR MORE FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT
Villach offers several designated off-leash zones where dogs can run and play freely – without a leash. These zones are located on St. Magdalener Straße, in St. Leonhard, in Lind, and along Goritschacher Weg. The areas are fenced in, providing a safe space for plenty of exercise. The off-leash zone in St. Leonhard also features play equipment designed for coordination and mobility training, especially for younger or smaller dogs.
Outside of these zones, a leash is required throughout the entire city – including in public parks and green spaces. In cemeteries, which are places of peace and remembrance, dogs are generally not allowed. However, walking a leashed dog respectfully across a cemetery is usually tolerated.
COOLING OFF ON HOT DAYS
On hot summer days, two official dog swimming spots offer a chance to cool down. Dogs can safely jump into the water, play, and enjoy a refreshing break at the west shore of Silbersee and at the outlet of Lake Ossiach near Slatinweg.
DOG WASTE STATIONS FOR A CLEAN CITYSCAPE
To help keep the city clean, Villach provides 177 dog waste stations known as "Gassimaten." These stations supply dog owners with free dog waste bags and make a significant contribution to public cleanliness. The City Green Department regularly services and refills the stations. Important to know: dog waste must be disposed of in the designated bins – not in nature. Those who do not comply with leash or cleaning regulations may face consequences.
An overview of all dog waste stations in Villach can be found here.
RESPONSIBILITY STARTS WITH REGISTRATION
Being a responsible dog owner starts with acquiring a pet and officially registering it. Those looking to give an animal a new home will find several local options – especially the shelter run by the Carinthian Animal Welfare Association in Villach, where many dogs and cats are waiting for a second chance.
In Villach – as in all of Austria – dog owners are required to register their dogs and pay an annual dog tax.
The fee is €10 per dog used for professional or commercial purposes, and €40 for guard dogs or any other dogs. All details on the dog tax can be found here.
Additionally, since 2010, all dogs must be microchipped and registered in the central pet database. This ensures that lost dogs can be quickly returned to their rightful homes, avoiding unnecessary shelter stays.
ASSISTANCE DOGS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME
Assistance dogs provide essential support for people with physical or mental disabilities. In Villach, they are allowed to enter all public areas – without restriction. The city’s Equal Opportunities Advisory Board is also working to make particularly dog-friendly businesses more visible in the future, helping people with assistance dogs navigate more easily.
With well-equipped off-leash zones, dog swimming areas, waste bag stations, and clear legal guidelines, Villach shows its heart for the many dogs living in the city – and creates ideal conditions for respectful coexistence between people and animals. As long as everyone follows the rules, nothing stands in the way of a harmonious life together.