Last updated on October 23, 2025
No. According to local law, dog owners in Turin are required to walk their dogs at least three times a day.
A City That Walks Its Talk
In Turin, the bond between humans and their four-legged companions is taken seriously—so seriously, in fact, that the city has codified it into law. Since 2005, Turin has stood out in Europe for its unusually strict animal welfare regulations, and among the most talked-about is the rule mandating that dogs be walked no fewer than three times per day.
This regulation is part of the Regolamento per la tutela ed il benessere degli animali in città, a municipal statute approved by the City Council on April 11, 2006, and made effective on April 29 of the same year. The law outlines a wide range of responsibilities for pet owners, from proper housing and feeding to ensuring adequate physical activity and social interaction. Article 19 of the regulation specifically addresses the need for regular exercise and socialization for dogs, which includes the obligation to walk them multiple times daily.
Why Three Walks Matter
The rationale behind this law is rooted in both ethics and public health. Authorities in Turin believe that regular walks are essential not only for a dog’s physical well-being but also for its mental health. Dogs are social animals, and depriving them of outdoor activity can lead to behavioral issues, stress, and even aggression. By enforcing a minimum walking frequency, the city aims to prevent neglect and promote responsible pet ownership.
A National Outlier
Turin’s approach is unique in Italy. While national laws—such as those overseen by the Ministero della Salute—do emphasize animal welfare, they do not prescribe specific daily routines like walking frequency. The national framework focuses more broadly on preventing cruelty, abandonment, and ensuring proper veterinary care. Turin’s municipal law, therefore, goes a step further, setting a benchmark that few other cities have matched.
Enforcement and Everyday Life
Enforcement of the rule is another matter. While the law exists, it’s not policed with the same intensity as traffic violations or zoning infractions. Instead, the city relies on community vigilance. Neighbors can report suspected neglect, and local police may investigate if there’s credible concern. Fines for non-compliance can reach up to €500, though actual cases are rare and typically tied to broader issues of mistreatment.
More Than Just Walks
Interestingly, the law also prohibits other practices deemed harmful or frivolous, such as dyeing a pet’s fur or docking tails for aesthetic reasons. These measures reflect Turin’s broader philosophy: animals are not accessories, and their dignity must be respected.
So, if you’re living in Turin or just visiting with your dog, be prepared to lace up your walking shoes. The city’s parks, piazzas, and designated dog areas are not just scenic—they’re part of a legal and cultural commitment to animal welfare. And while three walks a day might sound ambitious, it’s also a chance to enjoy the rhythm of a city that truly loves its pets.
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Sources
Title: Regolamento per la tutela ed il benessere degli animali in città – Comune di Torino
Link: http://www.comune.torino.it/regolamenti/320/320.htm
Publication Date: April 29, 2006
Title: Animali d’affezione – Ministero della Salute
Link: https://www.salute.gov.it/new/it/tema/animali-daffezione/
Publication Date: September 12, 2024