Be a responsible pet owner

Owning a pet comes with rules that help keep our community and animals safe.

To report excessive barking, call 519-747-8785.


On this page:

  1. Follow dog rules
  2. Report excessive barking
  3. Follow cat rules
  4. Follow other animal rules

Follow dog rules

In Waterloo, you must licence all dogs over 12 weeks old.

Learn how to buy or renew a dog licence.

You must also:

  • keep your dog on a leash shorter than 2.4 metres (8 feet)
  • pick up waste and dispose of it properly
  • use a compostable bag and bring waste home to your green bin, or use a dog waste container
  • limit your household to 3 dogs
  • keep your dog on your property or on a leash at all times
  • follow rules for pit bulls and dangerous dogs

Read the Animal Control Bylaw and Dangerous Dog Bylaw.

Learn more about dog parks and waste containers.


Report excessive barking

To report excessive barking or other dog noise, call 519-747-8785.


Follow cat rules

Cats do not need licences in Waterloo.

If you own a cat or kitten, you must prevent:

  • offensive odours
  • noise that may disturb others
  • straying or roaming
  • build-up of feces

Owners must give cats enough food, water, shelter and care. These rules are in the Animal Control Bylaw.


Follow other animal rules

The Animal Control Bylaw also sets rules for other animals, including backyard hens, pigeons, rabbits, ferrets and exotic animals.