Suckler cow farming, guarding dogs and wolves

Hiking and biking trails occasionally take you across farmland and through wildlife habitats. Follow a few basic rules to help ensure peaceful encounters between humans and animals.

The project

The map gives you an idea of where suckler cows and livestock guarding dogs are currently roaming. If an area is marked in orange, you’re sure to come across them. But even if it’s not marked, there’s still a chance you might. The map is based on GPS-tracked animals and detailed mapping of alpine pastures. It’s here to help you plan your route — or decide on the spot whether to cross a pasture or take a wide detour.

Behaviour with mother cows

1. Keep distance

If possible, keep your distance so as not to disturb the cattle. In any case, walk past the cows calmly. Cattle have an individual zone - similar to the natural distance zone for humans. If this is violated, the animals may feel harassed. Attacks on humans are usually meant to protect themselves, the herd and especially the young animals.

2. Don't touch the calves

The mothers cows always keep an eye on their young ones and can react violently in case of conflict. Do not approach the calves and under no circumstances touch them. Mother cows want to protect their calves. They do not like strangers touching their offspring. However, calves often lie somewhat hidden away from the herd.

3. Dogs on leash

Keep your dog on a leash and avoid the cattle as calmly and spaciously as possible. Avoid direct contact with the herd. Cattle always classify your dog as a predator and want to protect their herd - regardless of its appearance and size.

Behaviour tips with guarding dogs

Behavioural principles

Take signs with behavioural tips seriously
Slow down
Do not startle animals
Do not surprise dogs, but attract their attention by talking loudly.
Get off the bike

When guard dogs bark, run towards you and block the way

Stand still and give the dogs time to assess the situation (do not look directly at the dogs, do not touch them, do not address them directly).
Keep your distance from the herd
Do not provoke the dogs: do not raise your sticks, do not wave them around, do not shout at them.
If necessary, keep the dogs at a distance with the stick extended at an angle and pointing calmly downwards.
As soon as the dog has accepted the presence and stops barking, the walk can be continued slowly.

If the guard dogs do not calm down

Walk backwards and retreat to a greater distance from the herd
Avoid eye contact
Avoid the herd as far as possible or turn back
If you force your way through the herd despite clear warning signals from the guard dogs, you can be bitten in the worst case.

Behavioural tips for encounters with wolves

Behavioural principles

The wolf population in Switzerland is growing continuously. Although an encounter is rare, the following rules of conduct should be observed.

Stay on signposted paths and places and thus respect the habitats of the wild animals.
Take your leftovers home and do not dispose of them in the forest. This attracts wildlife and wolves.
If you are out with your four-legged friend, keep him under control.

When you meet a wolf

Stand still and try to grasp the situation. If the wolf notices you, it usually retreats.
If this is not the case, keep calm and draw attention to yourself with a certain voice and slowly retreat