Moving to a new city with your four-legged friend or deciding to get a dog in Edmonton can quickly become a complex process of navigating a multi-layered system of regulations. Unlike some Canadian cities that have strict restrictions on certain dog breeds, Edmonton takes a progressive stance, having abandoned discriminatory breed-specific legislation back in 2012.
Historical context
Until 2012, the city had Breed Specific Legislation (BSL). On October 16, 2012, the Edmonton City Council voted to repeal this controversial legislation.
Municipal level
At the municipal level, the most important news is that Edmonton has no breed restrictions. The city does not ban any breeds.
“Restricted Dog” category
Although Edmonton does not have breed-specific restrictions, the city does have a “Restricted Dog” category, which is subject to stricter regulations.
According to Bylaw 13145, a “Restricted Dog” is defined as any dog that:
- Criterion 1: Has chased, attacked, or bitten any person or animal, causing physical injury
- Criterion 2: Has chased, attacked, or bitten any person or animal more than once
- Criterion 3: Has been the subject of an order under the Dangerous Dogs Act
Requirements for Restricted Dogs
If your dog is classified as a Restricted Dog:
Licensing and insurance:
- Annual license: $250
- Mandatory liability insurance: at least $1,000,000
Off property:
- Under control
- Muzzled
- On a leash (no more than 2 meters)
On property:
- Indoors, OR
- Outdoors in a fully enclosed enclosure, OR
- Outdoors with a muzzle and chained
New penalty system (2026)
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Chasing a person or animal | $250 |
| Attack/bite without serious injury | $500 |
| Repeat violation | $1,000 |
| Attack with serious injury | $3,000 |
| Maximum penalty | $10,000 |
Dunbar Dog Bite Scale
- Level 1: Aggressive behavior without contact
- Level 2: Tooth contact without puncture
- Level 3: 1-4 punctures, shallow
- Level 4: 1-4 punctures with deep wounds
- Level 5: Multiple Level 4 bites
- Level 6: Death of victim
Limits on number of animals
- Maximum of 3 dogs
- Maximum of 6 cats
- Maximum of 4 rabbits
Restrictions do not apply to animals under 6 months of age and individuals with a business license.
Contacting the Animal Care & Control Centre
Contact information:
- Phone (within Edmonton): 311
- Phone (outside Edmonton): 780-442-5311
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 13550 163 Street NW, Edmonton, AB
Hours of operation:
- Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Level of rental housing
Landlords' rights in Alberta
Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act does not give tenants the right to have pets. Landlords in Alberta may:
- Prohibit all pets
- Allow pets with restrictions on type
- Set size restrictions
- Set breed restrictions
- Set limits on the number of animals
- Require additional deposits or fees
Exceptions: Service Dogs and Support Animals
Service Dogs have legal protections. Landlords cannot:
- Refuse them because of a “no pets” policy
- Charge pet deposits or fees
- Set breed restrictions
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not protected by the Alberta Service Dogs Act, but may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Alberta Human Rights Act.
Practical steps for tenants
Before signing a lease:
- Read the lease carefully — look for provisions about animals
- Ask for specific details:
- Are there breed restrictions?
- Are there size restrictions?
- Are there quantity restrictions?
- How much is the pet deposit?
- Is there a monthly fee?
- Get everything in writing — NEVER rely on a verbal agreement
- Ask about the Pet Policy — request a copy
- Document the condition of the property — take photos
After moving in:
- Follow all the rules
- Be a good neighbor
- Maintain communication with your landlord
Pet Deposits and Fees
- Pet damage deposits are limited to one month's rent
- Monthly pet fees range from $25-100+
- Service animals are exempt from pet deposits and fees
Breed restrictions in rental housing
Breeds that are often restricted include:
- Pit bulls
- Rottweilers
- German Shepherds
- Doberman Pinschers
- Huskies and Malamutes
- Akitas
- Chow Chows
- Great Danes
- Mastiffs
- Wolf hybrids
Condominium level
Condo Board Authority
According to the Alberta Condominium Property Act, condo boards have the authority to set their own rules regarding animals. Condo bylaws take precedence over municipal regulations and agreements with the landlord.
Typical Restrictions
- Complete ban or restriction on animals
- Size restrictions (maximum 20-25 kg)
- Breed restrictions
- Number restrictions (maximum one dog)
- Approval process prior to purchase
- Behavioral rules (leash, barking, cleaning)
- Pet deposits ($50-100)
How to check Condo Bylaws
If you are buying:
- Ask your REALTOR® to obtain condo documents
- Carefully read the Pet Policy
- Contact the Property Manager
- Talk to current residents
- Include a condition in the Offer to Purchase
If you are renting:
- Obtain permission from the landlord
- Ask the landlord about the Condo Bylaws
- Submit an application to the Condo Board (if required)
- Obtain written approval
Grandfathering
When condo boards change bylaws, a “grandfather clause” is often applied, which allows existing animals to remain but prohibits new animals that do not meet the new rules.
Insurance Level
Why insurance companies restrict breeds
Insurance companies analyze liability claim data. Some breeds have more bite claims, so insurers may refuse coverage or charge higher premiums.
Breeds that are often restricted:
- Pit bulls
- Rottweilers
- Doberman Pinschers
- German Shepherds
- Akitas
- Chow Chows
- Huskies and Malamutes
- Mastiffs
- Great Danes
- Presa Canarios
- Wolf hybrids
Insurance companies that do NOT cover certain breeds:
- Canadian Direct Insurance
- Allstate Insurance Company of Canada
- Scotiabank
- Alberta Motor Association (AMA)
Insurance companies that DO cover all breeds:
- Royal Bank of Canada
- Intact Insurance*
- State Farm Canada*
- Johnson Inc.
- TD Insurance
*Customers are asked about the dog's history, where the animal is kept, and whether there is a fence.
What to do if your breed is restricted
- Shop around — not everyone has the same restrictions
- Emphasize history — provide veterinary records, training certificates
- Consider an Umbrella Policy — additional liability coverage
- Use an Insurance Broker — they can help you find companies
Why Edmonton abandoned breed-specific legislation
Problems with breed-specific legislation:
Difficulty identifying breeds
Studies have shown that visual identification of a dog's breed (especially mixed breeds) is extremely unreliable. The term “pit bull” is not a distinct breed, but an umbrella term.
Lack of effectiveness
Research results are mixed. Some have shown that breed-neutral legislation is more effective.
The Calgary model
Calgary has achieved a more than 50 percent reduction in reports of dog aggression under breed-neutral legislation.
Discrimination and unfairness
Breed-specific legislation unfairly punishes responsible owners and well-behaved dogs.
International examples
Italy repealed its breed-specific legislation in 2009.
Edmonton Humane Society's position
EHS does not support breed-specific legislation (BSL) and instead supports a breed-neutral, multi-factor approach with management decisions based on the individual dog.
EHS recommends policies that:
- Target factors that contribute to aggression
- Establish conditions for dogs based on observable behavior
Step-by-step guide
Step 1: Check the municipal level
Call 311 or 780-442-5311
Ask:
- “Does Edmonton have breed restrictions?”
- “Is there a history of aggressive behavior in my dog?”
- “What are the licensing requirements?”
Step 2: Check with your landlord
If you already rent:
- Review your lease
- Contact your landlord in writing
- Request a copy of the pet policy
If you are looking for a new place:
- Look for “pet-friendly” in the listings
- Ask specifically about restrictions
- Before signing, make sure everything is in writing
Step 3: Check the Condo Bylaws
If you are buying:
- Request the condo documents
- Read the Pet Policy
- Contact the Property Manager
- Talk to the residents
- Include the condition in your offer
If you are renting:
- Get permission from the landlord
- Ask about the condo bylaws
- Submit an application to the condo board
- Get written approval
Step 4: Check your insurance
If you have insurance:
- Contact your insurance company
- Ask about coverage for your breed
- Ask about the amount of liability coverage
If you are purchasing new insurance:
- Be honest about the breed
- Shop around with several companies
- Ask about an additional umbrella policy
- Provide documentation of good behavior
Step 5: Documentation
Create a folder with the following documents:
- City dog license
- Veterinary records
- Proof of spaying/neutering
- Lease agreement/condo bylaws
- Written approvals
- Insurance policy
- Training certificates
- Photos of the dog
Special cases: Service Dogs and Support Animals
Service Dogs
Legal protections
Service dogs have the right to access:
- Restaurants and cafes
- Shops and shopping centers
- Public transportation
- Schools and universities
- Hospitals and medical clinics
- Rental housing
- Condominiums
How to confirm status
- Obtain certification
- Apply for evaluation (if self-trained)
- Pass evaluation
- Renew annually (for self-trained)
When renting:
- Provide your Alberta Service Dog Identification Card
- Provide medical documentation
- Understand your rights
- If you encounter problems, contact the Alberta Human Rights Commission
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Legal status
ESAs are NOT protected under the Alberta Service Dogs Act:
- They do not have automatic access to public places
- They do not have automatic protection from “no pets” policies
- Landlords can refuse or charge fees
However
The Alberta Human Rights Act may require reasonable accommodation:
- Diagnosed disability
- Medical documentation from a doctor/psychiatrist/psychologist
- Proof that the ESA does not impose an undue burden
If you have an ESA:
- Obtain medical documentation
- Be honest with your landlord
- If denied, contact the Alberta Human Rights Commission
- Be prepared to compromise
Practical tips for responsible ownership
Get a license
All dogs 6+ months old must be licensed.
Benefits:
- Increases the likelihood of reunion
- Supports Animal Care & Control
- Discounts available
Cost:
- Spayed/neutered dogs: $37/year
- Unspayed/unneutered: $77/year
- 50% discount for seniors
- First year free (from the shelter)
How to get it:
- Online: edmonton.ca/pets
- By phone: 311
- In person: 13550 163 Street NW
Spay/neuter
- Significantly reduces license fees
- Reduces health risks
- Reduces behavior problems
- Helps control population
Train your dog
A well-trained dog:
- Less likely to be involved in incidents
- Easier to manage
- More acceptable to landlords and insurers
Courses:
- Edmonton Humane Society
- Private trainers
For breeds that are often restricted:
- Invest in professional training
- Get certified
Canine Good Citizen (CGC):
- Demonstrates good manners
- Available through the Canadian Kennel Club
Socialize
- Introduce your puppy to people, animals, and the environment
- Visit dog parks and off-leash areas
- Ensure positive experiences
Follow the rules
Leash rules:
- All dogs must be on a leash no longer than 2 meters (except in off-leash areas)
- Dogs must be under control at all times
- Restricted dogs must wear a muzzle outside of their property
Clean up:
- Clean up after your dog immediately
- On public/private property
Fines:
- $100 for basic violations
- $250 for Nuisance Dogs
Control barking
Excessive barking is prohibited. The following factors are taken into account when determining this:
- Proximity to others
- Duration
- Time of day
- Impact
Tips:
- Provide physical exercise
- Mental stimulation
- Do not leave alone for long periods
- Positive reinforcement
- Consult with a trainer
Be a good neighbor
- Clean up immediately
- Control barking
- Do not allow roaming
- Be proactive in solving problems
- Respect people who are afraid of dogs
Prepare for emergencies
- Plan for loss
- Current photo, microchip, up-to-date tag
- Know the location of emergency veterinary clinics
- Animal Care & Control contact information
- Consider pet insurance
Resources and contact information
Government resources
City of Edmonton Animal Care & Control Centre
- Phone (local): 311
- Phone (outside Edmonton): 780-442-5311
- Email: [email protected]
- Web: edmonton.ca/pets
- Address: 13550 163 Street NW, Edmonton, AB
- Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m., Sat 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m., Sun 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Alberta Human Services (Service Dogs)
- Phone: 780-427-9136 (Edmonton)
- Toll-free: 310-0000, then number
- Email: [email protected]
- Web: alberta.ca/service-dog-information
Alberta Human Rights Commission
- Phone: 780-427-7661 (Edmonton)
- Toll-free: 1-800-232-7215
- Web: albertahumanrights.ab.ca
Animal Welfare Organizations
Edmonton Humane Society
- Phone: 780-491-3522
- Web: edmontonhumanesociety.com
- Services: adoption, resources, education
Alberta SPCA
- Phone: 1-800-455-9003 (reports)
- Phone: 780-447-3600 (office)
- Email: [email protected]
- Web: albertaspca.org
Veterinary Resources
24-Hour Emergency Veterinary Clinics:
- Guardian Veterinary Centre
- Pulse Veterinary Specialists and Emergency (Sherwood Park)
Legal Resources
Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS)
- Phone: 780-644-3000 (Edmonton)
- Toll-free: 1-855-738-4747
- Web: rtdrs.alberta.ca
Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA)
- Web: cplea.ca
- Resources: “Renting with a Pet,” “Assistance and Support Animals”
Advocacy Organizations
Justice for Bullies
- Advocacy for breed-neutral legislation
- Facebook: Justice for Bullies Alberta
Information Resources
Engaged Edmonton
- Web: engaged.edmonton.ca
- Information: public consultations
Conclusion
The question of whether a particular breed is allowed in your neighborhood in Edmonton depends on several interacting factors. From a municipal standpoint, Edmonton has taken a progressive, breed-neutral position. However, if you rent, your landlord has considerable freedom to impose restrictions. If you live in a condominium, condo bylaws take precedence. Some insurance companies also have restrictions.
The most important step is to do thorough research at all levels before making a decision. Be a responsible dog owner—proper training, socialization, and following community rules keep you in compliance with the law and help keep Edmonton a pet-friendly city for all breeds.
The good news is that Edmonton has recognized that breed does not determine behavior, and responsible ownership is the most effective path to public safety. If you fulfill your role as a responsible owner, you have a place in Edmonton, regardless of your dog's breed.