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Dog licences and 2026 fees in Hamilton, Ontario
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Hamilton dogs need a licence before three months of age and annual renewal. The 2026 schedule uses altered and unaltered rates and removes former late, senior and disability fee categories.
Key information
Hamilton dogs need a licence before three months of age and annual renewal. The 2026 schedule uses altered and unaltered rates and removes former late, senior and disability fee categories.
On this page
Register and keep the tag on
Buy or renew in person, by phone or mail using the City application. Keep the tag attached to the collar and renew annually. Renewal reminders are a courtesy; the owner remains responsible.
Animal Services is at 247 Dartnall Road. Licensing telephone service is 905-574-3433, Monday to Friday 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. Municipal Service Centres also offer licensing. The page gives two weekday shelter closing times, so confirm visits by phone.
Current fees and service dogs
The listed 2026 charge is $29 for an altered dog or puppy under six months, and $65 for an unaltered dog. The potentially dangerous or dangerous category costs $410; a replacement tag is $5.
Qualified trained service dogs receive free licensing with proof retained on file. Do not apply an old senior or disability discount: the City says those separate rates and late fees were removed in the January 2026 restructuring.
Changes and refunds
Submit the Change of Animal Ownership form for a new owner. A licence does not override household animal limits. The service offers a free ride home once in 365 days when a lost licensed dog is recovered.
A refund may be requested if the dog dies within 30 days of purchase, with tag and proof returned in writing to the Animal Control supervisor. Overdue licences are excluded, and moving away within 30 days does not qualify.
Quick reference
- Altered dog or puppy under 6 months29 CAD per year
- Unaltered dog65 CAD per year
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| Altered dog / puppy under 6 months | $29 |
| Unaltered dog | $65 |
| Dangerous category | $410 |
| Replacement tag | $5 |
| Licence timing | Before age 3 months; renew annually |
What to do next
- Register
Choose the correct dog category and provide service proof if relevant.
- Attach
Keep the tag on the collar.
- Update
Renew each year and submit ownership changes.
Animal Services licensing location
Hamilton Animal Services
247 Dartnall Road, Hamilton, Ontario L8W 3V9
The City lists dog licence applications, renewals and account services at this location, with telephone support. Confirm current in-person closing time because the source has two weekday closing times.
- Licensing phone
- 905-574-3433
- Phone hours
- Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Sources: Hamilton dog licensing
10 useful questions
When does my puppy need a licence?
Before it is three months old.
Does a tag need to stay on the dog?
Yes. Attach it to the collar.
What is the altered-dog fee in the posted 2026 schedule?
$29.
Are old senior rates still in effect?
No. The City removed separate senior and disability rates in the 2026 change.
Can a trained service dog be licensed free?
Yes, with the required qualifying training proof.
Does moving out of Hamilton qualify for a 30-day refund?
No. The City specifically excludes that reason.
Which number handles licensing?
905-574-3433 during licensing office hours.
Official information and forms
This guide covers the City of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, including its named former municipalities. Check property-specific programme boundaries where stated. Fees and active service notices can change. Use the linked official page for the application or latest notice.