Quick Facts About Your Pet Friendly Trip To Calgary
Here are the important rules to follow to keep your trip fun and fine-free!Leash Law is Serious!
Dogs must be on a leash at all times on public property (like sidewalks and pathways) unless you are in a signed Off-Leash Area. The leash cannot be longer than 2 meters (6.5 feet). Fine: $150.Always Pick Up Pet Waste!
ou must pick up your dog's waste immediately and throw it in a garbage bin. Calgary takes this very seriously. Fine: $500.Scooters, Bikes & Skateboards
For safety, you are not allowed to ride a bike, e-scooter, or skateboard on a pathway while holding your dog's leash. Fine: $75.Patios Only
Most restaurants only allow dogs on their outdoor patio, not inside. Always ask the staff first!Know Your Hotel's Pet Policy
Many hotels do not allow pets to be left alone in the room
Explore Calgary's Dog Friendly Districts
Want to spend an afternoon walking, shopping, and eating with your dog? These neighborhoods are perfect for a stroll.
Eau Claire & RiverWalk
The Vibe: A beautiful mix of city and nature right next to the Bow River. It is quiet, paved, and very scenic.
Why Dogs Love It: It is the perfect spot for a long, flat walk. You can cross the bridge into Prince's Island Park (dogs must be on-leash!) or walk across the famous red Peace Bridge.
The Vibe: Energetic and trendy. This area is full of shops and people. It is often called the "Red Mile."
Why Dogs Love It: There are many patios to rest on, and it connects directly to the beautiful Elbow River Pathway for a nature break.
Kensington & Sunnyside
The Vibe: A cozy "urban village" just across the river from downtown. It feels very walkable and friendly.
Why Dogs Love It: You can walk across the famous Peace Bridge, grab a coffee, and then hike up McHugh Bluff (an off-leash area!) for the best view of the city skyline.
Inglewood
The Vibe: Calgary’s oldest neighborhood. It is historic, artsy, and home to the "Brewery Flats."
Why Dogs Love It: It is very relaxed with great pet-friendly breweries. Starting at Studio Bell, you can walk along the river pathways near the Bird Sanctuary, but please note: Dogs are NOT allowed inside the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary to protect the wildlife.
Stephen Avenue (8th Ave SW)
The Vibe: This is a famous pedestrian street right in the center of downtown. It has historic buildings, tall sculptures, and lots of energy.
Why Dogs Love It: There are no cars during the day, so it is safe to walk on a leash. There are many patios where you can stop for a drink. It is great for "people watching"!
Marda Loop
The Vibe: A community that truly loves dogs! It has a small-town feel with lots of boutiques and pet stores.
Why Dogs Love It: It is very close to River Park (a huge off-leash park). Afterward, you can visit Marda Loop Brewing, which even has a special menu just for dogs.
Dog Friendly Patios, Cafés & Breweries
When the weather is nice, grab a seat outside! Remember: Your dog must usually stay on the patio and be leashed.
Four Dogs Brewing Co
Vibe: 100% dog-focused. It is named after the owner’s four rescue dogs.
Why it's a top pick: It is one of the few places that is designed specifically for dogs, featuring a "dog bed alcove" built into the bar.
Location: 1205 1 St SW (Victoria Park/Beltline)
Cold Garden Beverage
Vibe: Funky and very social. It feels like a big backyard party.
Why it's a top pick: It is widely considered the "most dog-friendly" brewery in town. You will almost always see other dogs there.
Location: 1100 11 St SE (Inglewood)
Una Pizza + Wine
Best For: Dinner and people-watching.
Why it's a top pick: Located right on the busy "Red Mile," it has a hydration station for dogs and a lively patio atmosphere.
Location: 618 17 Ave SW (17th Ave)
Village Ice Cream
The Vibe: The best ice cream in town.
Why it's a top pick: If you ask, they will often give you a "pup cup" (a small scoop of vanilla or whipped cream) for your dog to enjoy while you eat yours.
Location: (Multiple Locations)
Off Leash Fun! Parks Close to Downtown Calgary
Every dog needs a chance to run free! Please watch the signs—only go off-leash in the signed areas.
Need a Break? Trust PAWS Dog Daycare!
If you are visiting Calgary for the Stampede, a conference, or a long day of sightseeing, you cannot leave your dog alone in the hotel room.
Tips for Long Days, Events, and Outings
Calgary is very dog-friendly, but some of our biggest attractions are not. Here is how to plan your days so both you and your dog have a great time.The "Stampede Strategy" (July)
The Calgary Stampede is huge, but dogs are not allowed on the Stampede Grounds (except service animals).
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The Problem: You cannot bring your dog to the rodeo, midway, or chuckwagon races.
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The Solution: Book daycare at PAWS well in advance!
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How to Include Your Dog:
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Dog-Friendly Pancake Breakfasts: Many local community breakfasts welcome dogs! Look for outdoor events in the Beltline or Marda Loop.
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Perimeter Fun: Walk your dog down 17th Ave SW or Stephen Avenue to see the cowboys and horses from a safe distance, then grab a spot on a patio.
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Dog-Friendly Shopping
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Outdoor Lifestyle Centres:
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Deerfoot City: This is a unique open-air shopping district in NE Calgary. Because it is outdoors, it is much easier to walk your dog between stores. The massive Bass Pro Shop here is famous for welcoming pets.
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Adventure Stores:
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Bass Pro Shops (CrossIron Mills): Located just north of the city (a short drive), this huge outdoor store is extremely dog-friendly. It is a great place to socialize your pup while you shop for gear.
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Canadian Tire: Most locations in Calgary allow leashed dogs, making it a handy stop for supplies.
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The Rule for Malls: Indoor malls (like Chinook Centre) generally do not allow dogs. Always check the sticker on the door before entering any store.
Mountain Day Trips (Banff & Canmore)
Most visitors take a day trip to the mountains (1 hour drive).
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National Park Rules: Dogs must be on a leash at all times in Banff National Park. This is strictly enforced to protect bears, elk, and your dog.
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Best Dog-Friendly Stops:
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Canmore: Stop here first! It is very relaxed. Walk the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk (very easy, scenic wooden path).
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Banff Townsite: Walk along the Bow River Trail. It is flat, paved, and has iconic views of the castle-like Banff Springs Hotel.
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Safety First! Emergency & Local Contacts
| Name | Contact | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calgary Animal Services (Bylaw) | 311 | For lost pets or bylaw questions |
| Downtown Animal Clinic | (403) 262-3237 | Non-emergency veterinary care |
| VCA Canada Western Veterinary Specialist and Emergency Centre | (403) 770-1340 | 24/7 Emergency Hospital |
| PAWS Dog Daycare | (403) 984-9247 | For Bookings/Drop Off |
Summer Fun & Winter Tips
Summer (June-August)
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Hydrate: Calgary is high-altitude and dry. Your dog will get thirsty faster than at home. Bring a water bottle on every walk.
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Hot Pavement: If the sidewalk is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for paws. Stick to the grass.
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River Safety: The Bow River is fast and cold. Only let your dog swim in designated safe areas, like the quiet spots at Sue Higgins Park (south of downtown).
Winter (November-March)
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Chinooks: Calgary gets warm winds called "Chinooks" that melt snow. This can make paths icy and wet, so bring a towel for muddy paws!
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Jackets: Short-haired dogs might need a jacket for walks longer than 15 minutes.
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Salt & Ice: City salt can hurt paws. Consider using dog booties or paw wax.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Getting Around
Q: Can I take my dog on Calgary Transit (Bus & C-Train)? A: Yes! Leashed dogs are allowed on all Calgary Transit buses and C-Trains for free.
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The Rules: Your dog must be on a leash and well-behaved. They are not allowed on the seats.
Q: Are there breed restrictions in Calgary? A: No. Calgary does not have "Breed Specific Legislation" (BSL). We do not ban breeds like Pit Bulls or Staffordshire Terriers. We focus on responsible ownership and behavior, not breed.
Rules & Safety
Q: Do I need a City of Calgary license for my visiting dog? A: If you are just visiting for a short trip, you generally do not need a Calgary license. However, your dog should wear a collar with a current ID tag from your home city or a microchip tag.
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Why? If your dog gets lost, this is how we find you. If you move here, you must license your dog within 3 months.
Q: What wildlife should I worry about? A: Calgary has many large urban parks, which means we have wildlife like coyotes, porcupines, and sometimes bobcats.
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Safety: Always keep your dog in sight. If you see a coyote, do not run. Make noise, wave your arms, and back away slowly while keeping your dog close.
Shopping & Dining
Q: Are dogs allowed in malls? A: generally, no. Major malls like Chinook Centre, Market Mall, and The Core do not allow pet dogs inside.
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Exceptions: Service dogs are always welcome. Some outdoor shopping centers (like Bass Pro Shop at Deerfoot City) have pet-friendly stores, but you must check each store's policy.
Q: Where can I buy dog food or gear? A: Calgary has many pet stores! For a fun outing, leashed dogs are welcome inside Bass Pro Shops (at CrossIron Mills) and Cabela's. Most Canadian Tire locations are also dog-friendly.
Emergency
Q: What if I lose my dog? A: Call 3-1-1 immediately. Calgary Animal Services is excellent at reuniting pets with owners. You can also check the "Impounded Dogs" list on the City of Calgary website.