Dangerous Dogs
A dog may be designated as a 'dangerous dog' if, after consideration, it is likely to cause significant harm or injury to individuals or animals or is used primarily to guard property.
Dangerous dog licenses are mandatory for all dogs designated as dangerous and all dogs used primarily to guard property. The owner must comply with the owner responsibilities as outlined in the Responsible Pet Ownership By-law.
Applying for a Dangerous Dog License
If a dog is used primarily for guarding a property, the owner should apply for a dangerous dog license by visiting the Animal Services Agency at 1057 Logan Avenue (regular business hours).
Owner Responsibility
In addition to the responsibilities of all dog owners, the owner of a dog that has been designated as dangerous must also:
- ensure that the dog, while on the owner's property, is securely confined indoors or is kept in a securely enclosed and locked pen, structure or yard which
- prevents the dog from escaping and young children from entering;
- is at least 10 feet wide and 5 feet deep; and
- provides adequate protection from the elements for the dog.
- ensure that the dog, if off the owner's property, is muzzled and restrained by a leash or chain no more than six feet in length which is held by a person capable of controlling the dog;
- provide a certificate of a policy of comprehensive liability insurance (minimum $1,000,000) for harm or injury caused by the dog;
- notify the Animal Services Agency immediately if the dog is running at large or has harmed any individual or animal;
- notify the Animal Services Agency with the name and address of the new owner within two working days of selling or giving away the dog;
- ensure the dog has an implanted microchip containing the owner's name and address along with the dangerous dog designation;
- notify the Animal Services Agency and provide evidence of the dog's death within two working days;
- pay all applicable license fees;
- permanently and prominently display the sign(s) provided by the Animal Services Agency at each entrance to the property and any building in which the dangerous dog is kept; and
- ensure that the dog is sterilized (not applicable to dangerous dogs designated prior to July 17, 2013).
For more information, please refer to the Responsible Pet Ownership By-law.
Frequently Asked Questions
- A dog may be designated as a 'dangerous dog' if, after consideration, it is likely to cause significant harm or injury to individuals or animals or is used primarily to guard property.
- Yes - dangerous dog licenses are mandatory for all dogs used primarily to guard property.
- All licensing fees are available on the Animal Services Fee Listing.
- No - there are specific signs that have been designed for dogs that are deemed dangerous by the City of Winnipeg. These signs are provided by the Animal Services Agency when a dangerous dog license is issued.
- No, Pit Bull dogs are not allowed within the City of Winnipeg. More information on prohibited dog breeds.
Privacy Statement:
The collection of personal information in our licensing program is for the purpose of issuing, renewing and administering the Pet License Program and the Responsible Pet Ownership By-law. Collection is authorized by clauses 36(1) and 44(1)(a) of The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). If your pet becomes lost, your personal information may be shared with area animal shelters and veterinary clinics so that you can be notified if your pet is found. Your personal information may be used by the City of Winnipeg to research and plan for programs or services respecting pet ownership. The collection, use and disclosure of this information is protected by FIPPA. If you have any questions about the collection, use or disclosure of this information, contact 311 or call toll free 1-877-311-4974 (4WPG).
