Tips for those thinking of buying a dog in Montréal
- Choose an animal adapted to your lifestyle, residence and personality.
- Provide the necessary funds for the annual pet license, food, care, etc.
- Find out about the animal’s life expectancy to avoid unpleasant surprises.
- Make sure that the lease or co-ownership agreement for your dwelling authorizes the presence of animals, more specifically dogs. In fact, some places in Montreal allow cats but not dogs.
- Adopt an animal from a shelter. The city of Montreal strongly encourages the adoption of animals from shelters that are already vaccinated and sterilized.
- Your dog must be sterilized and micro chipped as of January 1st, 2020 to be able to live in Montreal.
When You Own a Dog in Montreal
- The city medal must be worn by your pet at all times.
- All dogs must be on a leash no longer than 1.85m.
- They must wear a harness or halter if they are over 20kgs.
- Poop must be picked up! It’s your responsibility.
- You can’t have more than 3 dogs in your home.
Dog Parks in Montreal
The city of Montreal has 50 parks throughout the boroughs. What few people know is that the City of Montreal offers workshops and advice on canine behavior in dog parks. These activities are free and take place from the end of May to mid-September. The workshops last about an hour.
Important point: the city has set up an interactive map to help us find the nearest dog park. Take advantage of it!
Important local rules for Dog Parks in Montreal
- In the dog parks, it’s a maximum of 2 dogs per person.
- Sick dogs are not allowed in dog parks.
- Children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult.
- Food and toys are forbidden (unless your dog is alone, then you are allowed toys because it will not make people jealous).
- Your dog must be vaccinated and treated against parasites. It is not obligatory, but it is highly recommended.
- Snow removal must be done by the dog owners using the park
Coming to visit Montreal with your dog
You don’t need a permit to bring your dog to Montreal as long as your stay is 30 days maximum and you have a proof of residence or an animal permit from your municipality. It is forbidden to bring to Montreal a dog that has bitten or attempted to bite someone in the past.
Dogs are Not Allowed in Bars or Restaurants
This is due to local laws. Restaurants owners are very strict with that.
