Pet business ideas you can run from your own premises
11 ideas
These 12 pet business ideas all work from a dedicated space of your own, whether that is a shop, a purpose-built site or a small farm. They suit people who like animals, are comfortable with a fixed location and are ready to commit to regular hours.
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
Puppy and dog group classes
Run weekly puppy and obedience classes in a rented hall or indoor space for local dog owners.
- C$1k-5k
- Part-time
- Own premises
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
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
Pony party days at your own small farm
Host birthday parties and pony ride days at your own paddock, with no trailer needed.
- C$4k-20k
- Side hustle
- Own premises
About these ideas
Options range from a pet grooming salon or a local aquarium fish shop to a small boarding kennel or a dog day care centre. Before you choose, think about the site itself. Check zoning and licensing rules with your municipality, what insurance you will need, and how much space and soundproofing the animals require. Work out your startup costs in CAD, including fit-out and equipment, and consider whether enough pet owners live nearby to keep you busy through the quieter months.
Questions
Do I need a licence to run a pet business from my own premises in Canada?
It depends on the business and where you are. Boarding, day care, grooming and pet retail may be covered by municipal bylaws or provincial animal welfare rules. Check with your city or town and your provincial authority before signing a lease or buying a property.
Can I use land or a building I already own?
Possibly, but check the zoning for your property first. Some areas restrict commercial activity, noise, animal numbers or customer traffic. Ask your municipal planning office whether your use is allowed, and whether you need a permit or a change of use.
What should I budget for before opening?
Think about fit-out or building work, equipment, stock, signage, insurance, permits and several months of running costs. Costs vary widely between a small shop and a kennel with purpose-built runs, so get written quotes and compare them against realistic income.