Pet business ideas costing over $20,000 in Canada
14 ideas
These 15 pet business ideas suit people who have savings, a loan or a partner to invest in premises, equipment or specialist stock. Examples include a local aquarium fish shop, a small boarding kennel or pet hotel, and a dog day care centre with premises.
Small boutique cattery
Run a small dedicated cat hotel with private suites, either in a rented unit or a purpose-built space.
- C$40k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Dog kennel with purpose-built runs
Run a licensed boarding kennel with indoor and outdoor runs on rural or zoned land.
- C$200k-800k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Goldfish and aquarium supplies shop
Run a small neighbourhood shop selling goldfish, tanks, filters and feed to families and hobbyists.
- C$25k-90k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Local aquarium fish shop
Open a small shop selling aquarium fish, tanks, food and advice to hobbyists and new pet owners.
- C$30k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Pond fish supply to landscapers and garden shops
Deliver healthy pond fish in aerated tanks to landscapers, garden centres and aquatic shops on a regular seasonal route.
- C$20k-70k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Long-distance pet moving by road
Drive pets between cities and provinces, or across the US border, for owners who are relocating.
- C$35k-95k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Small-group dog adventure walks
Pick up a few well-matched dogs and take them on longer trail or park walks.
- C$8k-30k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Neighbourhood bird shop
Run a small shop selling birds, cages, seed and toys to local bird owners, with advice they can't get from big chains.
- C$30k-150k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Mobile pet groomer
Groom dogs and cats at owners' doors from a van or trailer fitted with a bath and table.
- C$15k-70k
- Part-time
- Out and about
Pet grooming salon
Rent a small shopfront and run a grooming salon with walk-in and booked appointments.
- C$20k-80k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Dog day care centre with premises
Open a rented indoor and outdoor space where staff look after larger groups of dogs each day.
- C$100k-350k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Pond and water garden supply shop
Open a small shop selling pond liners, pumps, filters and plants, with advice for hobbyists and garden owners.
- C$30k-120k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Small boarding kennel or pet hotel
Run a small purpose-built or rented boarding facility for dogs and cats with staff and set daily routines.
- C$15k-75k
- Full-time
- Own premises
Mobile pony rides for parties and fairs
Bring calm, well-trained ponies to birthday parties, fall fairs and community events.
- C$8k-40k
- Side hustle
- Out and about
About these ideas
Most of them need a physical site, so start by thinking about location, lease terms, zoning and how many local customers you can realistically reach. Animal welfare is central, so consider your own experience, the hours you can commit and who covers you when you are away. Costs such as renovations, ventilation, fencing, water systems and insurance can add up quickly. Before you commit money, talk to local pet owners, visit similar businesses and price out a cautious first year.
Questions
What should I check before leasing premises for a pet business?
Check that municipal zoning allows animal use, what the lease says about noise, odour and modifications, and whether neighbours or landlords could object. It is worth asking your city or town office what permits or inspections may apply before you sign anything.
Do I need a licence to run a kennel, cattery or day care in Canada?
Requirements often vary by province and municipality, so check with your local government and provincial animal welfare body. Things to look at include business licences, facility standards, inspections and any rules on animal numbers. Confirm the details directly before spending on a build-out.
How can I fund a pet business that costs over $20,000?
Options to look into include personal savings, a small business loan, equipment financing or a partner. Compare terms carefully, and build a budget that covers fit-out, insurance, stock and several months of running costs before you have steady customers.