Updated for 2026 with current CFIA entry requirements, airline policies, and dog-friendly destination guides across Canada.

Dog-Friendly Canada: Travel Guide for Pet Owners

Canada is one of the easiest international destinations for American dog owners. The border crossing requirements are straightforward, the drive across is simple if you live near the northern US states, and the country itself is spectacularly dog-friendly. From the cosmopolitan cities of Vancouver and Montreal to the wild expanses of Banff and Jasper, Canada offers incredible variety for traveling with a dog.

My partner and I have taken our Australian Shepherd, Banjo, across the border seven times now, for road trips through British Columbia, weekend getaways to Montreal, and a two-week camping trip through the Canadian Rockies. Each trip has reinforced what we learned on the first one: Canada loves dogs, and traveling there with one is remarkably hassle-free.

Entry Requirements: Getting Your Dog Into Canada

From the United States

Bringing a dog from the US to Canada is simple compared to most international travel. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) requires:

Requirement	Details
Rabies vaccination	Dogs over 3 months old must have a current rabies vaccination certificate signed by a licensed veterinarian
Vaccination certificate must include	Dog’s breed, age/DOB, sex, color/markings, microchip or tag number, vaccine name, serial number, vaccination date, and expiration date
Waiting period	None, certificate valid immediately
Health certificate	Not required for dogs from the US (but recommended to carry)
Microchip	Not technically required by Canada, but highly recommended for identification

That is essentially it. No USDA endorsement, no titer tests, no waiting periods. The rabies certificate is the one critical document. Make sure it is current, signed by a licensed vet, and includes all the required information. Photocopies are generally not accepted; carry the original.

At the Border (Driving)

When you drive across the US-Canada border, you will present your dog’s rabies certificate to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer. In most cases, they glance at the certificate, verify it is current, and wave you through. On our seven crossings, we have never been delayed more than 5 minutes for the dog.

Tips for border crossing:

• Have the rabies certificate accessible, not buried in luggage
• Keep your dog calm and visible (officers may want to see the dog)
• Declare that you are traveling with a pet when asked what you are bringing into Canada
• If your dog is a restricted breed in the province you are entering, know the rules in advance

Flying Into Canada

If flying, the airline will check your rabies certificate before boarding. Canadian airport customs may or may not ask to see it upon arrival. Have it ready regardless.

Breed Restrictions

Canada does not have federal breed-specific legislation, but some provinces and municipalities do:

• Ontario: The Dog Owners’ Liability Act restricts Pit Bull type dogs. Existing registered pit bulls can remain but must be muzzled and leashed in public. New pit bulls cannot be brought into the province.
• Manitoba: Winnipeg bans pit bulls within city limits.
• Quebec: Montreal previously had a pit bull ban that was partially overturned. Current rules require dogs deemed dangerous (any breed) to be registered, muzzled, and leashed.

Most other provinces and cities have no breed restrictions. British Columbia, Alberta, and the Maritime provinces are generally unrestricted.

Best Dog-Friendly Cities in Canada

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is arguably the most dog-friendly city in North America. The combination of ocean, mountains, forests, and urban parks creates a paradise for active dogs.

Highlights:

• Stanley Park: 1,000 acres of forest, seawall, and beaches in the heart of the city. Dogs are welcome throughout the park on leash. Off-leash hours (before 9 AM and after 5 PM) in designated areas. The Seawall walk is 9 km of stunning waterfront path.
• Pacific Spirit Regional Park: 750 hectares of temperate rainforest on the UBC campus peninsula. Extensive off-leash trails through old-growth cedar and Douglas fir.
• Kitsilano Beach: Dog-friendly section at the western end. Dogs can swim and play off-leash in the designated area.
• Spanish Banks Beach: One of Vancouver’s most popular dog beaches with an off-leash area.
• Granville Island: The public market and surrounding area are dog-friendly outdoors. Some shops welcome dogs inside.
• Deep Cove: A stunning inlet 30 minutes from downtown. Dog-friendly kayak rentals and the popular Baden Powell Trail.

Dog-friendly restaurants: Vancouver has an extensive patio culture, and most patios welcome dogs. Craft breweries are particularly dog-friendly. Check out Brassneck Brewery, 33 Acres Brewing, and Parallel 49 Brewing.

Montreal, Quebec

Montreal combines European charm with North American accessibility. The city is walkable, parks are plentiful, and the dining scene is vibrant.

Highlights:

• Mount Royal Park: Frederick Law Olmsted’s 200-hectare masterpiece offers forest trails, viewpoints, and Beaver Lake. Dogs on leash throughout. The viewpoint at the top offers panoramic city views.
• Lachine Canal: A beautiful linear park with cycling and walking paths along the historic canal. Dogs on leash.
• Jean-Drapeau Park: On the islands in the St. Lawrence River. Off-leash dog areas and beautiful river views.
• Old Montreal: The cobblestone streets and historic architecture are wonderful for walking with a dog. Many restaurants in Old Montreal have terraces.

Dining: Montreal’s terrace culture runs deep. From May through October, terraces fill the sidewalks, and dogs are welcome at most of them. Jean-Talon Market and Atwater Market are outdoor food markets where dogs are allowed.

Toronto, Ontario

Toronto has invested heavily in dog-friendly infrastructure. The city has over 80 designated off-leash dog parks.

Highlights:

• Toronto Islands: A ferry ride from downtown, these islands have trails, beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere than the city. Dogs welcome on the ferry and the islands.
• High Park: 400 acres with an off-leash dog area, trails, and a zoo (dogs not allowed near the zoo). The off-leash area near the south end is very popular.
• The Don Valley Trail System: Extensive trails along the Don River through ravines and forests. Dogs on leash.
• St. Lawrence Market area: The outdoor market and surrounding restaurants welcome dogs.

Note on Ontario’s pit bull ban: If you have a pit bull or pit bull mix, be aware of Ontario’s restrictions before traveling to Toronto.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, on Vancouver Island, is a compact, walkable city with incredible natural beauty.

• Beacon Hill Park: 75 hectares in the city center with off-leash areas, gardens, and ocean views.
• Dallas Road Waterfront: A spectacular coastal walk with designated off-leash areas along the beach.
• Inner Harbour: The walkway around the harbor is dog-friendly, with many waterfront restaurants welcoming dogs on patios.

Quebec City, Quebec

One of the most beautiful cities in North America, Quebec City’s walled old town is wonderful for walking with a dog.

• Plains of Abraham: A vast urban park on the cliffs above the St. Lawrence River. Dogs on leash.
• Old Quebec: Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and many restaurant terraces.
• Montmorency Falls Park: Just outside the city, the falls are higher than Niagara. Dogs on leash on the trails.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is an underrated gem for dog travel.

• Point Pleasant Park: 185 acres of forested trails and shoreline, largely off-leash.
• Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk: A 4 km waterfront walk with restaurants, shops, and views. Dogs welcome.
• Shubie Park: Off-leash park with lake swimming for dogs.

Dog-Friendly Canadian National Parks

Canada’s national parks are extraordinary, and Parks Canada has clear policies for dogs.

General Rules

• Dogs must be on leash (max 2 meters) in all national parks at all times
• Dogs are not allowed on backcountry trails in many parks
• Dogs are allowed on most frontcountry trails, campgrounds, and day-use areas
• Check individual park rules, as some trails have specific dog restrictions

Banff National Park, Alberta

Banff is the crown jewel of Canadian national parks and one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Dog-friendly trails:

• Johnson Lake Loop (3 km, easy)
• Sundance Canyon Trail (4.4 km one way, easy)
• Spray River Loop (12 km, moderate)
• Lake Minnewanka Lakeside Trail (up to 24 km one way, variable difficulty)

Important: Dogs are NOT allowed on several popular trails including the Plain of Six Glaciers, Lake Agnes, and Sentinel Pass. Plan accordingly.

The town of Banff is dog-friendly with many restaurants, shops, and accommodations welcoming dogs.

Jasper National Park, Alberta

Less crowded than Banff, Jasper offers equally stunning scenery.

Dog-friendly trails:

• Old Fort Point Loop (3.8 km, easy)
• Maligne Canyon (variable lengths, easy to moderate)
• Valley of the Five Lakes (4.5 km loop, easy)
• Patricia Lake Circle (4.8 km, easy)

The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) between Banff and Jasper is one of the most spectacular drives in the world. Numerous pull-offs with short walks are accessible with a dog.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, British Columbia

Wild Pacific coast beaches and temperate rainforest on Vancouver Island.

• Long Beach is accessible with dogs on leash
• The Rainforest Trail allows dogs on leash
• Wild Pacific Trail in nearby Ucluelet is dog-friendly

Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

Home to the highest tides in the world.

• Dogs on leash on most trails
• The beach at low tide is an incredible experience with a dog
• Several campgrounds are pet-friendly

Camping With Your Dog in Canada

Canada has exceptional camping, both in national parks and provincial parks.

National Park Campgrounds

Parks Canada campgrounds generally allow dogs (on leash) in frontcountry campgrounds. Reservations are made through the Parks Canada reservation system. Popular campgrounds book up months in advance, especially in the Rockies.

Provincial Parks

Each province operates its own park system. BC Parks, Alberta Parks, Ontario Parks, and Quebec’s SEPAQ all have extensive campground networks with varying pet policies. Most allow dogs in campgrounds on leash.

Private Campgrounds

KOA (Kampgrounds of America) has numerous locations across Canada, and most welcome dogs.

Road Trip Routes

The Sea-to-Sky Highway (Vancouver to Whistler)

• 120 km of stunning coastal and mountain highway
• Stop at Shannon Falls Provincial Park (dogs on leash)
• Whistler is extremely dog-friendly with off-leash areas and restaurant patios
• Alice Lake Provincial Park for swimming

The Icefields Parkway (Lake Louise to Jasper)

• 230 km of the most stunning mountain scenery in North America
• Numerous pull-offs and short walks with your dog
• Athabasca Falls, Peyto Lake viewpoint, Columbia Icefield area
• Allow a full day minimum

The Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia)

• 298 km loop around northern Cape Breton Island
• Cape Breton Highlands National Park allows dogs on some trails
• Stunning coastal scenery, whale watching (from shore), and charming villages

Montreal to Quebec City

• 260 km along the St. Lawrence River
• Stop in Trois-Rivieres (dog-friendly waterfront)
• Both cities are incredibly dog-friendly
• Consider the north shore route (Route 138) for a more scenic drive

Practical Tips

Healthcare

If your dog needs veterinary care in Canada, the system is excellent. Clinics and emergency animal hospitals are available in all cities. Costs are comparable to the US. Travel insurance for your pet is worth considering.

Pet Stores

PetSmart and Pet Valu are the major chains across Canada. Canadian Tire also carries pet supplies. Specialty and organic pet food stores are common in cities.

Weather Considerations

• Summer (June-August): Warm to hot depending on region. BC interior and prairies can reach 35C+. Carry water.
• Fall (September-October): Excellent for dog travel. Cooler temperatures, fall colors, fewer crowds.
• Winter (November-March): Cold to extremely cold. Dog boots recommended for city walking (salt on sidewalks is harsh on paws). Northern regions can reach -30C or colder.
• Spring (April-May): Variable. Mud season in many areas.

Wildlife

Canada has wildlife that can be dangerous to dogs:

• Bears (black bears and grizzlies in western Canada): Keep dogs leashed. A dog running loose can provoke a bear and lead it back to you. Carry bear spray.
• Porcupines: Common in forests. Dogs that encounter porcupines get quills embedded in their face, requiring emergency vet treatment.
• Coyotes: Present in urban and rural areas. Keep dogs leashed, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Moose: Especially in eastern Canada and the Rockies. Keep your distance; moose can be aggressive.

Currency and Costs

Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Pet-related costs:

Item	Approximate Cost (CAD)
Hotel pet fee	$25-50 per night
Vet visit	$70-120
Dog food (premium brand)	$40-80 per bag
National park day pass	$10.50 per adult (dogs free)
Campsite	$20-40 per night

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Hotel Chains

• Fairmont Hotels: Many Fairmont properties are dog-friendly, including the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs and Chateau Frontenac. Some have resident dogs.
• Kimpton Hotels: All Kimpton properties welcome pets with no size restrictions and no fees.
• Best Western: Many locations across Canada are pet-friendly.
• Holiday Inn: Select locations allow pets for a fee.

Vacation Rentals

Airbnb and VRBO have extensive pet-friendly listings across Canada. Cabins in the Rockies, cottages in Muskoka (Ontario), and chalets in Quebec are all available with pet-friendly options.

Returning to the US

When returning to the US from Canada, you need your dog’s rabies vaccination certificate. US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may ask to see it. The process is typically quick and painless.

As of 2024, the CDC updated dog importation rules for dogs entering the US from certain countries. Dogs returning from Canada (a low-risk country for dog rabies) have simplified requirements, but always check the latest CDC rules before your return trip.

Final Thoughts

Canada is the ideal first international trip for dog owners. The entry requirements are minimal, the border crossing is easy (especially if driving), and the destinations are world-class. Whether you want urban exploration in Vancouver, mountain adventure in the Rockies, or coastal charm in the Maritimes, Canada delivers.

Banjo has logged thousands of kilometers of Canadian travel, and some of our best memories together have been made north of the border. The trail around Lake Minnewanka in Banff. The off-leash beach at Spanish Banks in Vancouver. The terrace cafes of Old Montreal on a summer evening. Canada with a dog is simply a joy.

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