Concerns with dogs

General dog concerns

We can help Calgarians address dog ​​concerns in their community.

  • Dogs must be supervised at all times. This supervision prevents nuisance behaviours, such as barking.
  • Roaming dogs are a community nuisance; they can chase people’s pets or defecate on neighbour’s property.
  • Keeping your dog in your yard keeps it safer from traffic, wildlife, poisons, diseases, frostbite, dehydration and abuse from humans.​​
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Talk to the dog's owner

Do you know who owns the dog? If you're comfortable, talk to the owner first. Most times, a conversation with your neighbour can resolve challenges without City intervention.

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Register a complaint

If a dog continues disruptive behavior (such as nonstop barking) call or submit a service request to 311. An officer will investigate the complaint and follow up with the complainant.

  • If a dog is running at large in your community, a bylaw officer will be sent to catch the dog.
  • If the dog is licensed, it will be returned to the owner, who may face a fine.
  • If the dog is not licensed, it will be impounded at the Animal Services Centre.
  • Please note: no anonymous complaints will be accepted - you must identify yourself.

Dog safety

  • Stay away from stray dogs- even if you think you know the dog.
  • Never try to break up a fight between two animals -even if one is your own.
  • Never tease a dog, or do anything that may hurt it.
  • Never take away a dog's food or bone, or pull a toy from his mouth.
  • Never disturb a dog that's sleeping or eating.
  • Never approach a dog that's with her puppies.
  • Stay away from a dog that has been tied up and left alone in a public place.
  • Always keep your face away from dogs.
  • Never run away from a dog that scares you:
    • Instead, stand like a tree by making your hands into fists and placing them under your chin.
    • Stand still, do not speak to the dog, and look at the ground.

Never stare into the dog's eyes. Doing these things will show the dog that you are not a threat.

Meeting a dog

  • Always ask the owner's permission to pet the dog first.
  • If the owner gives you permission to pet the dog, let the dog sniff your hand, being sure not to place your hand in its face.

Pet the dog gently under the chin. Do not pet the dog on its head, as not all dogs like to be touched on the top of their heads.

Dog owners

  • Neuter your male dog. Unneutered dogs may be more aggressive than neutered dogs.
  • Control your dog at all times.
  • Do not encourage aggressive behaviour by playing rough or pulling toys or bones from your dog's mouth.
  • Properly socialize your dog.
  • Keep your dog out of situations you know may cause problems.
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Dog bites

Dog bites must be reported immediately.

Call 311 (Calgary) or (403) 268-CITY (2489) (outside Calgary). You will be asked:

  • Your name, address, and home and business telephone numbers
  • The location, date and time of the incident
  • The current location of the dog that bit you- if known
  • Brief details of the incident, including names and telephone numbers of any witnesses
  • The dog's breed, size and colour.
  • Any identifying features of the dog, such as collars or markings
  • Where the dog lives and/or who the owner is, if known

Dog bites require medical attention immediately.

Immediate steps to take:

  • Disinfect the wound by washing with soap and water
  • Loosely cover the bite with gauze
  • See a doctor as soon as possible, and ask if tetanus shot is needed
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  • Impounded dogs

    Dogs currently impounded at the Animal Services Centre.

    Learn more

  • Responsible pet ownership

    ​Pets and owners, living in harmony.

    Learn more

  • Wildlife concerns

    ​Concerns about dangerous, abandoned, injured or nuisance wildlife.

    Learn more

  • Contact us

    ​​Questions or concerns? Give us a call or come down and visit.

    Contact us

Help us reunite impounded pets with their owners in our Animal Services Facebook Group.

Join on Facebook
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