For dog owners in Vancouver, understanding the city’s licensing requirements is crucial not only for legal compliance but also for ensuring the safety and well-being of your pet. Whether you are a first-time dog owner or simply moving to the city, here’s everything you need to know about registering your dog in Vancouver.
Licensing Requirements for Dogs in Vancouver
In Vancouver, all dogs over three months of age must be licensed. This regulation is part of the city’s Animal Control By-law, designed to promote responsible pet ownership and protect the community. A dog licence provides identification, ensuring pets can be returned if lost and helping authorities track ownership in case of issues.
Pinder Rehal, a spokesperson for the City of Vancouver, emphasizes that owning a dog is a “serious lifelong commitment” and requires a safe, loving environment. Before purchasing a dog, potential owners should carefully consider whether they have the resources for its long-term care.
In 2024, Vancouver’s dog registry recorded 23,000 canine entries, highlighting the importance of proper licensing.
The Importance of Dog Licenses
Victoria Shroff, an animal law lawyer, stresses the significance of a dog licence in ensuring the safe return of lost pets. While some dogs may have identification tattoos in their ears, these can become smudged or unclear, making a tag-based licence crucial for identification. Shroff recalls a case where a dog’s ear tattoo was damaged, but the owner was able to reclaim the pet thanks to the visible licence.
The city reports that 97% of lost dogs are reunited with their owners, and if a licensed dog is picked up by animal services, it receives a free ride home once per year. Additionally, licensed pets are placed in the city’s emergency pet registry, ensuring they can be located by first responders in case of emergencies.
How to Obtain a Dog Licence
Dog owners can easily purchase a licence online through the City of Vancouver website, with a fee of $65 per year. Licences must be renewed annually, and late renewals incur a $10 penalty. Alternatively, payments can be made by phone through 311, or in person at one of three locations:
- Vancouver Animal Shelter, 1280 Raymur Ave (daily, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
- Vancouver Animal Shelter Kennels, 1280 Raymur Ave (Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.)
- Revenue Services at 515 W 10th Ave (Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.)
Note that licences are non-transferable—if you rehome your dog, the new owner must obtain a fresh licence.
What Happens if You Move or Share Custody?
If you’re moving to Vancouver from another municipality, you’ll need to transfer your dog’s licence. This involves providing proof of your previous licence, and the city will issue a new one with the same expiration date for a $6 fee.
Shroff highlights that pet owners who share custody of a dog between different municipalities must each purchase a licence for their respective city. For example, if you share a dog with an ex-partner who lives in New Westminster, you both need separate licences for Vancouver and New Westminster.
Special Licences for Aggressive Dogs
Dogs that have been deemed aggressive—defined as having bitten or attacked a person or animal without provocation—require a special licence with a distinct red, octagonal tag. The cost of this licence is higher, set at $200 annually.
The city investigates cases of aggression and may impose the “aggressive” designation on a dog after an unprovoked incident. Owners can apply to have the aggressive designation removed if their dog’s behavior improves.
Additional Identification Measures
While a dog licence is essential, Shroff recommends registering your dog with a pet registry such as the BC Pet Registry. Microchipping and tattooing your pet can provide additional means of identification, but these should complement, not replace, the dog licence.
Enforcement and Compliance
Vancouver’s animal control officers are responsible for monitoring compliance with the city’s pet regulations. In 2024, these officers conducted 5,722 patrols and responded to over 2,000 complaints, including those about barking dogs and off-leash issues.
City officials urge residents to report any lost dog tags they find by dropping them off at the Animal Services Office, Vancouver City Hall, or any local community centre or library. Tags will be returned to their rightful owners.
Conclusion
Licensing your dog in Vancouver is not just a legal requirement—it’s an essential part of responsible pet ownership that helps keep your dog safe and ensures they can be reunited with you in case of an emergency. Whether you’re a new dog owner or a long-time resident, understanding and complying with these regulations is key to a successful and harmonious relationship with your pet.
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