Do Dogs Need a License in Ontario 2026? Dog Tag Requirements by Municipality and Where to Buy Supplies in North York

Yes — dogs in Ontario must be licensed through their local municipality, and most cities including Toronto require dogs to wear a visible tag at all times. As of 2026, dog licensing is mandatory under the Dog Owners' Liability Act and reinforced by municipal bylaws across the Greater Toronto Area. If you've just welcomed a new dog into your home, getting registered is step one. Step two? Making sure your dog is properly outfitted with the right collar, ID tag, leash, and food — all of which you can find at Ashario Pets in North York.

At our North York store, we regularly help new dog owners who come in right after registering their dog — excited, a little overwhelmed, and looking for the right collar to attach that shiny new tag to. Whether you're a first-time owner or relocating to the GTA from another province, this guide covers everything you need to know about dog licensing in Ontario in 2026, plus the supplies checklist you'll want to tick off before your dog's first walk. While you're getting started, browse our full range of dog accessories in North York — including collars, leashes, and harnesses — or explore all dog products at Ashario Pets.

Is Dog Licensing Mandatory in Ontario in 2026?

Dog licensing in Ontario is mandatory and enforced at the municipal level, not the provincial level. Each municipality — including the City of Toronto, which encompasses North York — sets its own licensing rules, fees, and renewal timelines. Failure to license your dog can result in fines.

In Toronto, all dogs 3 months of age and older must be licensed under the Toronto Municipal Code, Chapter 349 (Animals). The city issues a metal tag that must be worn on the dog's collar at all times when the dog is off your private property. As of 2026, licensing fees in Toronto are generally lower for spayed or neutered dogs versus intact dogs, and senior discounts may apply for owners 65 and older. Always confirm exact fees directly with the City of Toronto Animals & Pets office, as fees are updated annually.

Neighbouring municipalities have similar requirements:

• Vaughan — Annual dog licensing required; tags issued by the city; microchipping encouraged alongside the physical tag.
• Markham — All dogs must be registered annually; tags must be worn on the collar in public.
• Mississauga — Annual license required for dogs 3 months and older; tags issued by Animal Services.
• Brampton — Annual licensing mandatory; reduced fees for sterilized dogs.
• Richmond Hill — Dog tag required; can be obtained online or in person through municipal offices.

Key Takeaway: Regardless of which GTA municipality you live in, your dog needs a valid license tag worn on their collar in public. Licensing is handled by your local city or town — not by Ontario as a province. Contact your municipality directly for current 2026 fees and renewal dates.

What Is the Dog Owners' Liability Act Ontario 2026?

The Dog Owners' Liability Act (DOLA) is Ontario's provincial legislation that holds dog owners strictly liable for bites and attacks — regardless of whether the dog has shown aggression before. As of 2026, DOLA continues to impose a province-wide ban on pit bull terriers and dogs that are substantially similar in appearance.

DOLA doesn't govern the day-to-day licensing tag requirements — that's your municipality's job — but it does set the legal framework for owner responsibility. The full text of the Dog Owners' Liability Act is available through the Ontario government's legislation portal. For practical guidance on responsible dog ownership, the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) publishes updated recommendations on dog safety, socialization, and community responsibility.

Our team at Ashario Pets recommends that new dog owners in North York familiarise themselves with both their municipal bylaws and provincial legislation — especially if they're adopting a larger or mixed-breed dog. Being informed from day one makes the ownership experience smoother for everyone, including your neighbours.

What Supplies Does a New Dog Owner in North York Need in 2026?

Beyond the licensing tag, a new dog owner in North York needs a core set of supplies to keep their dog safe, healthy, and comfortable from day one. Our North York location at 1111A Finch Ave W stocks everything on this list — open 7 AM to 11 PM, 365 days a year.

In our store, we see customers come in right after picking up their new dog, license tag in hand, needing help choosing the right collar size and a quality food. Here's what our in-store team typically recommends for new dog owners:

• Collar with ID tag attachment — Your dog's municipal license tag needs a collar to hang from. Choose an appropriately sized, adjustable collar.
• Leash or harness — For walks in North York's parks and sidewalks. Harnesses are often recommended for puppies and brachycephalic breeds.
• Food and water bowls — Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easiest to keep clean.
• High-quality dog food — The most important long-term purchase. More on this below.
• Dog treats for training — Small, high-value training treats help establish good behaviour early.
• Dog toys — Mental stimulation reduces destructive behaviour. Brands like Kong and ZippyPaws are stocked at Ashario Pets.
• Grooming supplies — A brush, nail file, and dog-safe shampoo keep your dog clean between vet visits.
• Pet supplements — Depending on breed and age, omega-3, probiotics, and glucosamine supplements may be recommended by your vet.

You can shop all dog supplies at Ashario Pets online, or visit us in person. GTA delivery is available through Uber Eats, DoorDash, SkipTheDishes, Instacart, and Fantuan — so you can have everything delivered before your dog even arrives home.

What Should I Feed My Newly Licensed Dog in North York?

Feeding your dog the right food from the start has a significant impact on long-term health outcomes. According to AAFCO (the Association of American Feed Control Officials), adult dogs require a minimum of 18% crude protein and 5.5% crude fat on a dry matter basis, while puppies under 12 months need at least 22% crude protein and 8.5% crude fat to support healthy development. Always check the guaranteed analysis panel on any food you purchase.

At Ashario Pets, we carry a wide range of food types to match every dog's needs, life stage, and budget. Our nutrition experts at the North York store on Finch Ave help customers choose between dry food, raw food, air-dried, and freeze-dried formats every day. Here's a quick overview by format:

• Dry dog food (kibble) — Convenient, shelf-stable, and widely available. Brands like Acana and Orijen offer high protein content (often 35–40% crude protein) with fresh regional ingredients and meet AAFCO life-stage formulation standards. Browse dry dog food at Ashario Pets.
• Raw dog food — Minimally processed, often around 70–80% moisture content. Brands like Big Country Raw and Instinct Raw provide species-appropriate nutrition with high protein content from whole muscle meat. Typically fed at 2–3% of the dog's body weight daily. Shop raw dog food in North York.
• Wet dog food — High moisture content (up to 78%) helps hydration. Brands like Caru and Weruva use named protein sources and minimal additives.
• Freeze-dried dog food — Nutrient-dense and shelf-stable. Brands like Stella & Chewy's and Primal offer freeze-dried options that can be fed as a topper or complete meal. Explore freeze-dried dog food options.
• Air-dried dog food — Gently processed to retain nutrients. ZIWI is a popular air-dried brand carried at Ashario Pets.

For puppies specifically, look for packaging labelled "complete and balanced for growth" or "all life stages" per AAFCO standards. Puppy-specific formulas typically include higher levels of calcium (around 1.0–1.8% dry matter) and phosphorus to support bone development. Always consult your veterinarian for breed-specific feeding recommendations.

Key Takeaway: As of 2026, the most important thing you can do for your new dog's long-term health is choose a food that meets AAFCO nutritional standards for their life stage. Our in-store team is available daily from 7 AM to 11 PM to help you choose the right formula.

Where to Get Dog Tags and Supplies in North York in 2026

Your official dog license tag comes from the City of Toronto or your local municipality — not from a pet store. In Toronto, you can register your dog and pay the licensing fee online through the City of Toronto's website, by phone, or in person at a civic centre. Once registered, your tag is mailed to you. North York residents fall under the City of Toronto's jurisdiction.

Once you have your official municipal tag, the collar, leash, food, treats, and toys all come from Ashario Pets. Our store at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York, ON M3J 2P7 is conveniently located for residents throughout North York, including the Yonge-Finch, Jane-Finch, and Bathurst Manor areas. We're open every single day of the year — no holiday closures — from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Call us at +1-647-564-4433 or visit our contact page for directions and store information. You can also browse our premium pet food selection online before your visit.

Frequently Asked Questions: Dog License Ontario 2026

Do dogs need a license in Ontario in 2026?

Yes. As of 2026, dogs in Ontario must be licensed through their local municipality. Ontario does not issue a province-wide dog license — instead, each city or town (such as Toronto, Mississauga, or Markham) manages registration independently. In Toronto, all dogs 3 months of age and older must be licensed annually, and the metal tag must be worn on the dog's collar when off private property. Check your specific municipality's animal services website for 2026 fees and renewal deadlines.

Where can I get a dog license in North York in 2026?

North York is part of the City of Toronto, so dog licensing for North York residents is handled by the City of Toronto's Animal Services department. You can register your dog online at toronto.ca, by calling 311, or in person at a City of Toronto civic centre. The official tag is mailed after registration. For the collar, leash, and all other supplies your newly licensed dog needs, visit Ashario Pets at 1111A Finch Ave W, Unit 2, North York — open daily 7 AM to 11 PM. See our pet store FAQ for more store information.

How much does it cost to license a dog in Toronto in 2026?

Exact licensing fees for 2026 should be confirmed directly with the City of Toronto, as fees are updated annually. Generally, Toronto offers lower rates for spayed or neutered dogs compared to intact dogs, and senior citizen discounts may apply. There are also reduced fees available for owners adopting from Toronto Animal Services. Always verify the current fee schedule at toronto.ca or by calling 311 before registering.

What is the best collar for a new dog's license tag in North York?

A flat buckle or snap-release collar in the correct size for your dog's breed and weight is the standard recommendation for carrying a municipal license tag. The collar should be snug enough that two fingers fit between the collar and your dog's neck — not loose enough to slip over the head. At Ashario Pets in North York, our team can help you find the right collar size and style, whether you're bringing home a 5 lb toy breed or a 60 lb retriever. Browse our full range of dog accessories including collars and harnesses.

What food should I buy for my new dog in North York?

The best food for your new dog depends on their age, breed, size, and any known sensitivities. For most healthy adult dogs, a food meeting AAFCO standards for maintenance is the baseline — look for a named protein (like chicken, beef, or salmon) as the first ingredient and a crude protein content of at least 18% for adults or 22% for puppies. Brands like Acana, Orijen, Open Farm, and Go! Solutions are popular choices at Ashario Pets in North York. If your dog has specific health concerns, always consult a veterinarian before switching foods. Explore our best pet food for specific needs guide or visit us in store for personalized recommendations. You can also check out our dog wellness needs page for more guidance.