Best Pet Shops
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6 of the Best Pet Shops in Winnipeg

Whether they’re covered in fur, feathers, or scales, pets add joy and love to your space and life.

The good thing is that it’s easy to add one to your family, thanks to the variety of pet stores in Winnipeg. And so in this article, we’re reviewing some of the best ones we’ve found in the area.

How much does it cost to get a pet in Winnipeg?

The prices of pets differ due to their sizes and maintenance needs. For example, more common house pets such as dogs, cats, and rabbits tend to be more affordable as they are more accessible and readily available.

More exotic pets–such as snakes, tortoises, birds, and tropical fishes–are pricier as they are harder to procure. They’ll also need specific conditions to survive as not all these animals are accustomed to Winnipeg’s climate.

To know how much different types of pets cost on average, take a look at this table below:

TYPE OF PETAVERAGE PRICE RANGE
Dogs/puppies$500 – $2,600
Cats/kittens$400 – $1,600
Rabbits$26 – $130
Hamsters$20 – $26
Mice$7 – $13
Fish$7 – $26
Birds$13 – $6,500
Snakes$20 – $105
Lizards$20 – $195
Iguanas$26 – $66
Tortoises$65 – $1,300
Spiders$33 – $98

Note that these average price ranges cover the breed or species of the pet. Generally, the larger and rarer the species is, the more expensive it’ll be.

These price points also only cover the cost of purchasing pets. Owners will also have to spend on food, shelter, toys, grooming, and veterinary care.

How did we select the best pet shops in Winnipeg?

There are many pet shops in Winnipeg, but we’ve only chosen what we think are the best and most reliable based on these factors:

Variety – What sort of pets does the store offer? Are these animals legal to own within Winnipeg and Canadian borders?
Pet Shop Atmosphere – Is the pet shop clean, sanitised, and organised? Are the animals placed in comfortable living spaces?
Quality of Pet Care Products – Are the pet-care products safe and veterinarian-approved? Are there accessories available for many types of pets?
Customer Service – Are the staff attentive to the pets’ welfare? Are they accommodating and friendly to interested buyers?

1. PetSmart

PetSmart
ANIMAL FRIENDS OFFEREDDogs, cats, hamsters, chinchillas, guinea pigs, mice, rats, rabbits, birds, tropical and freshwater fish, geckos, pythons, tortoises, frogs, and chameleons
WEBSITEhttps://www.petsmart.ca/
CONTACT DETAILSPhone:

Empress Street: Phone: +1 (204) 774-3919

Regent Avenue: Phone: +1 (204) 222-1669

North Winnipeg): Phone: +1 (204) 633-3793

SW Winnipeg Linden: Phone: +1 (204) 489-5948

Facebook: PetSmart

Instagram: @petsmart

ADDRESSEmpress Street: 915 Empress St., Unit 500, Winnipeg, MB R3G 3P8, Canada Regent Avenue: 1615 Regent Ave. W, Winnipeg, MB R2C 5C6, Canada North Winnipeg: 1050 Leila Ave. Unit 1, Winnipeg, MB R2P 1W6, Canada SW Winnipeg Linden: 1731 Kenaston Blvd, Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1V8, Canada
OPERATING HOURSMonday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

CRITERIARATING
VARIETY★★★★★ 5/5
PET SHOP ATMOSPHERE★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Clean and sanitised★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Organised★★★★★ 5/5
PET CARE PRODUCTS★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Diverse★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Safe and vet-approved★★★★★ 5/5
CUSTOMER SERVICE★★★☆☆ 3/5

PetSmart is one of the largest and most popular pet stores spanning North America. It currently has 1,500 branches within the USA and Canada, with four of the most trusted ones in Winnipeg.

Upon checking its website, the shop has a good variety of animals suitable for pet owners of all experience levels. We also appreciate that the website presents information on how to take care of the animals.

Besides a selection of furry, scaly, and feathery animals, PetSmart also has an impressive collection of pet toys, accessories, and habitats. 

Buyers can choose from many kinds of cages, beds, scratch posts, towers, mini castles, glass bowls, chew toys, stuffed toys, and aquariums.

We also like how the store offers starter kits for more exotic and high-maintenance pets like birds, fish, and reptiles. We think these are great investments as they guide newbies on raising and taking care of their unique animal friends.

Another thing we liked about PetSmart is that it offers veterinary services through its partner pet hospital which currently has 900 branches within Canada. The hospital also does services such as general dentistry, general surgery, vaccinations, parasite control, and year-round preventive medicine.

On the downside, some of the staff seem to be unable to handle larger dogs. For purposes of safety and security, we think that they should ensure that all staff members are trained to handle every kind of animal the shop offers.

Pros

  • Also does pet grooming services
  • Organised and easy-to-navigate layout

Cons

  • Some staff doesn’t seem to be trained well to handle larger dogs

Customer Reviews

Love our new kitten

“I had an amazing experience yesterday while adopting our new kitten. Justin was very kind and had all the information I required. I would highly recommend this store on regent!” – Samantha Pongracz

My new puppy is happy

“The staff are always super kind and helpful! My mastiff puppy loves coming for the ride and seeing the staff, I’m thankful that even during covid they’ve remained open & are so sweet to us when we come in for essentials!” – Alexa Tyndall

2. Petland

Petland
ANIMAL FRIENDS OFFEREDDogs, cats, hamsters, chinchillas, gerbils, hedgehogs, guinea pigs, mice, rats, rabbits, sugar gliders, lovebirds, finches, canaries, parrots, aquarium and pond fish, geckos, pythons, tortoises, frogs, hermit crabs, and chameleons
WEBSITEhttps://www.petland.ca/
CONTACT DETAILSPhone: Pembina Highway:

Phone: +1 (204) 989-7616 McGillivray Boulevard:

Phone: +1 (204) 489-2009 Regent Avenue:

Phone: +1 (204) 654-9806

Email:

Pembina Highway: [email protected]

McGillivray Boulevard: [email protected]

Regent Avenue: [email protected]

ADDRESSPembina Highway: 15-1910 Pembina Hwy., Winnipeg, MB R3T 4S5, Canada McGillivray Boulevard: 2355 McGillivray Blvd. #100A, Winnipeg, MB R3Y 0A1, Canada Regent Avenue: 1546 Regent Ave W, Winnipeg, MB R2C 3B4, Canada
OPERATING HOURSMonday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Saturday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

CRITERIARATING
VARIETY★★★★★ 5/5
PET SHOP ATMOSPHERE★★★★☆ 4/5
⮕Clean and sanitised★★★☆☆ 3/5
⮕Organised★★★★★ 5/5
PET CARE PRODUCTS★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Diverse★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Safe and vet-approved★★★★★ 5/5
CUSTOMER SERVICE★★★☆☆ 3/5

PetLand is another large and popular pet store in Winnipeg. It has over three branches within Winnipeg, which we think is great for those looking for quality pet stores near their residences.

From what we’ve seen, PetLand seems to have more options when it comes to smaller and reptilian pets. We’ve also noticed the store being complete with various accessories and habitats for these pet types.

We also checked the store and found that it offers an impressive pet food selection, ranging  from kibbles, pellets, seeds, dried meats, dried insects, and frozen meat. We also like how it offers vitamins and other pet supplements that boost pets’ health and wellness.

Perhaps what draws pet enthusiasts into this store is its reportedly great assortment of fish suitable for children, beginners, and expert aquarists. Upon checking, we found that the store has many species of tropical and freshwater fish suitable for ponds and glass habitats.

In terms of employee quality, we’ve heard glowing reports on staff members being friendly and accommodating. Groomers were also said to be highly skilled as most dogs and cats came looking fresh, pampered, and happy.

However, we weren’t happy to learn about how they care for reptiles and smaller pets. Apparently, some of the cages are cramped and not as clean as the other pet habitats.

Pros

  • Offers an impressive department of pond and aquarium fish
  • Highly skilled and patient groomers

Cons

  • Some feedback on subpar care practices on some pets

Customer Reviews:

A great place to buy pet fish

“Excellent store, I come here for all my pet needs. Knowledgeable, friendly staff, who actually care about your pet and its needs. Great fish department.” – Ryan Lampertz

Store has an impressive array of pet supplies.

“Nice store, well-lit with wide aisles.  Lots of dog and cat supplies.  They also cater to the fish and reptile crowd.  This store is a satellite Animal Rescue location for the Winnipeg Humane Society.  I would have given it 5 stars, but the pricing of products on the shelves is a bit deceptive.  The large bold price on the labelling is their Petland Member price. Big difference in price if you don’t have a member loyalty number.  It is free to join though.” – Guy Wilde

3. Pet Valu

Pet Valu
ANIMAL FRIENDS OFFEREDDogs, cats, love birds, parakeets, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, ferrets, tortoises, iguanas, bearded dragons, and chameleons
WEBSITEhttps://www.petvalu.ca/
CONTACT DETAILSPhone:

Dominion Centre:

Phone: +1 (204) 237-7383

McPhillips Street:

Phone: +1 (204) 334-8600

North Town Road:

Phone: +1 (204) 269-6336

Reenders Drive:

Phone: +1 (204) 654-9955

Plessis Road:

Phone: +1 (204) 777-7387

Facebook: Pet Valu

Instagram: @petvalu

Twitter: @petvalu

ADDRESSDominion Centre: 27 Marion St., Winnipeg, MB R2H 0S8, Canada McPhillips Street: 2136 McPhillips St. #10, Winnipeg, MB R2V 3C8, Canada North Town Road: 400 North Town Road #240, Winnipeg, MB R3Y 0Y3, Canada Reenders Drive: 3 Reenders Dr., Winnipeg, MB R2C 5K5, Canada Plessis Road: 1750 Plessis Rd., Winnipeg, MB R3W 0B3, Canada
OPERATING HOURSDominion Centre:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Saturday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

McPhillips Street:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM 8:00 PM

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

North Town Road:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM 8:00 PM

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Reenders Drive:

Monday to Saturday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Plessis Road:

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM 8:00 PM

Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

CRITERIARATING
VARIETY★★★★★ 5/5
PET SHOP ATMOSPHERE★★★★☆ 4/5
⮕Clean and sanitised★★★★☆ 4/5
⮕Organised★★★★★ 5/5
PET CARE PRODUCTS★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Diverse★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Safe and vet-approved★★★★★ 5/5
CUSTOMER SERVICE★★★☆☆ 3/5

If you’re looking for a shop that ethically sources the animals they offer for adoption, then Pet Valu is the place to go.

Apparently, this pet store works with several local humane societies and animal rescues to promote pet adoption. People with hearts for giving strays new homes will likely find new friends waiting to be adopted in Pet Valu’s different branches.

Besides offering pets for sale and adoption, we also appreciate this store for being partners with popular and high-quality brands of pet food, treats, bedding, toys, accessories, habitats, and grooming products. 

We’re also thrilled about the availability of pet-safe cleaning products, such as deodorisers and cleansers in this store. Owners can now keep their pets’ areas clean and disinfected without exposing them to harmful chemical fumes.

This pet store also has its own grooming services, which makes it a convenient place to shop and pamper your furry friend in one day. Upon checking, it seems the shop only accommodates dogs and cats in its grooming stations as of now. 

Despite being a haven for rescues and an impressive array of pet accessories and items, we were disappointed about the shop being not-so-spotless, especially in the grooming station.

The only thing that concerns us a bit more is hearing a handful of reports about some staff being unfit to handle animals. Even if it was unintentional, it’s sad to know that some pets were traumatised by the mishandling of the staff.

Pros

  • Partners with animal rescue programs
  • Great array of pets and supplies

Cons

  • Feedback on some staff being unfit to deal with animals
  • A handful of reports on the store being unclean sometimes

Customer Reviews

Excellent pet food quality and selection

“I love going here. The staff is always friendly and helpful. They recognize me and know that I’m a regular and say hi. The atmosphere is great and there is always a cat up for adoption from a local shelter and folks can bring in their pets while they shop. The pet valu brand food is incredibly healthy and has been helpful in maintaining our cats’ health.” – Catherine M

Great store for cats and toys

“I needed to get a few doughnut cat beds for my family’s cats. I ordered the beds through the online app. I went the next day and was in/out within 2 minutes! Now my own cats won’t leave those cat beds I bought! I may have to buy another one!” – LL

4. Nestor’s Aquarium and Pets

Nestor's Aquarium and Pets
ANIMAL FRIENDS OFFEREDTropical and freshwater fish, pet rodents, reptiles, and pet supplies
WEBSITEhttps://www.facebook.com/Nestors-Aquariums-and-Pets-350217718389783
CONTACT DETAILS Phone: +1 (204) 774-9322

Email: [email protected]

ADDRESS1045 St James St. R, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B1, Canada
OPERATING HOURSMonday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

CRITERIARATING
VARIETY★★★★★ 5/5
PET SHOP ATMOSPHERE★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Clean and sanitised★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Organised★★★★★ 5/5
PET CARE PRODUCTS★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Diverse★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Safe and vet-approved★★★★★ 5/5
CUSTOMER SERVICE★★☆☆☆ 2/5

If you’re looking for a store specialising in various fish species, then Nestor’s Aquariums and Pets is the right place for you.

Inside, you’ll find an overwhelming selection of glass tanks housing several species of tropical and freshwater fish. Most of them are for aquariums, but from what we’ve seen, upcoming and expert aquarists may also select swimmers for ponds and fountains.

We took the liberty to explore the shop and found that it also hosts notable brands of fish feed, aquarium decor, water testing kits, filters, aquatic plants, substrates, bedding, and different sizes of glass bowls and tanks.

This aquarium specialty store also offers reptiles and smaller rodents, as well as their corresponding pet care supplies, such as hay, stones, bedding, feeders, toys, and terrarium plants.

That said, we think this place is perfect for kids or any newbie pet owner looking for their first goldfish, hamster, or gecko, before perhaps moving on to more exotic animal companions.

Now, a word of warning though: what this store abundantly offers in terms of fish and pet care supplies, it apparently lacks in customer service. We’ve heard alarming feedback about the employees and the shop owner being rude and condescending to customers.

Pros

  • Extensive selection of aquatic pets and relevant supplies
  • Owner and staff are knowledgeable about anything related to fish

Cons

  • Several reports on rude employees and shop owner

Customer Reviews

Great staff service, excellent store ambiance

“Excellent experience today in the shop. All the staff was very helpful in setting up my daughter’s first tank. Shop was very clean and well organized. We will be back to shop again!” – Tanya Fox

An excellent store for all your fish needs

“Always welcoming and friendly staff. Fully stocked on freshwater and saltwater species, from tiny tetras and shrimp to stunning Arowana showcases. Fully stocked with all the supplies anyone would need for keep their fish happy and healthy. Definitely worth a stop for any fish-keeping hobbyist! Plus they have stuff for keeping birds, small mammals, and reptiles!” – C. Barbs

5. Winnipeg Reptiles

Winnipeg Reptiles
ANIMAL FRIENDS OFFEREDTropical and freshwater fish, pet rodents, reptiles, and pet supplies
WEBSITEhttps://www.facebook.com/Winnipeg-Reptiles-252080451483269/
CONTACT DETAILS Phone: +1 (204) 632-6614

Email: [email protected]

ADDRESS1045 St James St. R, Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B1, Canada
OPERATING HOURSMonday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

CRITERIARATING
VARIETY★★★★★ 5/5
PET SHOP ATMOSPHERE★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Clean and sanitised★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Organised★★★★★ 5/5
PET CARE PRODUCTS★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Diverse★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Safe and vet-approved★★★★★ 5/5
CUSTOMER SERVICE★★☆☆☆ 2/5

Winnipeg Reptiles is deemed as a haven of different kinds of reptiles suitable as pets, as well as glass tanks, terrarium decor, reptile feed, and plants. 

Upon checking, it has aisles full of feeds, frozen meats, beddings, and starter kits for those who want to build better habitats for their scaly friends. Pre-set tanks are also available, which we think are ideal and convenient for new reptile parents.

We’re also pleased to say that the pet shop is clean and organised. The reptiles are also arranged neatly in their tanks, making it easier for interested buyers to window shop and see which lizard or snake they’ll adopt.

It is also comforting to know that the staff are also helpful and attentive, especially with reptilians that need more careful handling. 

For example, we noticed that the pet pythons seem happy, well-fed, and healthy. And with the store’s array of reptile pet feeds, accessories, and aftercare products, we believe these snake friends will remain lively and healthy in their new homes.

On the downside though, we’ve received complaints about some of the employees not knowing that much about the reptiles they’re keeping. This is in relation to some customers not getting the information they need about the animals over the phone.

Pros

  • Wide selection of tame reptiles and amphibians
  • Offers various feeds and supplies for grooming and creating habitats

Cons

  • Some reports on needing to improve sales training
  • Feedback on poor customer service over the phone

Customer Reviews

Great selection of decor and extremely friendly staff

“Had recently bought some titan isopods and they’ve been doing great! pretty hungry by the time we got them but they did have plenty of moss to eat if they needed it, so I wouldn’t blame the store for that haha. Staff are always very kind and won’t be afraid to start up a conversation or give care tips” – DragoPistachio

A haven for reptile enthusiasts

“Excellent service, absolutely in love with our snake purchased from here, great temperament, and water.  Highly recommended for all your reptile needs.” – Teri Gudmundson

6. Concrete Blonde Aquatics

Concrete Blonde Aquatics
ANIMAL FRIENDS OFFEREDFreshwater and saltwater fish, anemone, corals
WEBSITEhttps://cbaquatics.ca
CONTACT DETAILS Phone: 2046690718

Email: [email protected]

ADDRESS359 Johnson Ave West Unit G, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R2L0J2
OPERATING HOURS

Monday - Closed

Tuesday - Closed

Wednesday - Friday 5pm - 8pm

Saturday 12pm - 6pm

Sunday 12pm - 4pm

CRITERIARATING
VARIETY★★★★☆ 4/5
PET SHOP ATMOSPHERE★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Clean and sanitised★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Organised★★★★★ 5/5
PET CARE PRODUCTS★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Diverse★★★★★ 5/5
⮕Safe and vet-approved★★★★★ 5/5
CUSTOMER SERVICE★★★★★ 5/5

Among all of the pet shops we visited and reviewed, Concrete Blonde Aquatics stood out thanks to its unique selection of pets. See, this shop, as per their name, only carries aquatic creatures.

You can find saltwater fish, anemone, saltwater invertebrate, freshwater fish, and even corals! Each and every creature is sourced ethically and cared for properly in their tanks, so you won’t have to worry about any unethical practices.

In addition, the store boasts a wide selection of supplies for aquatic pets, including aquariums and accessories, heating systems, filter products, and more. You can find everything you need for your aquatic pet at Concrete Blonde Aquatics, making it an essential Pet Shop for Winnipeg locals.

Finally, their staff is extremely knowledgeable and friendly, so you won’t have any problems getting the help you need in selecting the perfect pet or product.

From the unique selection of aquatic pets to the extensive selection of supplies, there’s no doubt that Concrete Blonde Aquatics deserves a spot on our list of top Pet Shops in Winnipeg. Stop by and check out this amazing Pet Shop today!

Pros

  • Extensive collection of aquatic care equipment
  • Ethically sourced aquatic creatures
  • Knowledgeable and friendly staff

Cons

  • Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays

FAQs About Winnipeg’s Pet Shops


And that sums up our unbiased review of the best pet shops in Winnipeg! Take your time exploring these shops and finding your potential animal companion.

If your heart happens to be set on getting a puppy, take a look at our review of Winnipeg’s best dog groomers to have them cleaned, trimmed, and pampered. 

You may also want to look into Winnipeg’s best pet health insurers to get your furbaby some great coverage.