Responsible Pet Ownership

Rules for Dogs in Windsor

Owning a dog in Windsor comes with responsibilities. The City has rules in place to help keep pets, people, and neighbourhoods safe and comfortable.

Key Rules from the By-laws

• Leash & Control: Dogs cannot run loose (“at large”). They must be on a leash or otherwise under control when off your property.
• Noise: Constant or excessive barking that disturbs neighbours is not allowed.
• Clean-up: Dog owners must pick up after their pets in all public and private spaces.
• Number of Dogs: You can have up to three dogs per household.
• Dangerous Dogs: Dogs declared dangerous or potentially dangerous must follow strict rules, such as being muzzled in public, securely confined at home, and possibly covered by liability insurance.
• Animal Care: Dogs must be kept in safe, clean, and suitable conditions, with proper enclosures when necessary.

Why These Rules Exist

These regulations are part of Dog Control By-law 245-2004 and the Keeping of Animals By-law 8156. They’re designed to:

• Protect public safety,
• Ensure animals are cared for humanely, and
• Help neighbours live comfortably alongside pets.

For more details, you can read the full by-laws here, but these are the basics every dog owner in the City of Windsor should know.