How To Bet At Canadian Online Sportsbooks
Thinking about trying your luck with sports betting in Canada, but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. Navigating online sportsbooks in Canada can seem daunting, but it’s perfectly legal to bet. With dozens of sites to choose from, this guide simplifies everything for beginners trying to understand how to bet at Canadian online sportsbooks. Covering Canada’s betting laws and how to place your first wager, our expert tips will help you get started.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Canada?
Yes, online sports betting is legal in Canada, as each province regulates its own industry. Offshore sportsbooks operate internationally but are accessible to Canadians, who are not breaking any federal or provincial laws. For example, Bodog has been a trusted name for Canadians for over 20 years, offering a sportsbook that is both safe and reliable.
Note: For a deeper dive into the regulations, check out our full guide on sports betting laws in Canada before betting.
| Sportsbook | Bonus Amount | Review | Join Now |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
100% match up to $400 + 50 Casino Free Spins | 4.8/5 | Visit Bodog |
 |
50% match up to $250 + 100 Casino Free Spins | 4.6/5 | Visit BetOnline |
 |
100% match up to $1,000 | 4.1/5 | Visit MyBookie |
How Does Online Sports Betting Work?
Online sports betting is simple once you understand the basics, and it’s a fun way to engage with your favorite Canadian sports! Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to key betting concepts.
| Bet Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Moneyline: | You’re simply picking the winner. Bet on the Toronto Maple Leafs to beat the Montreal Canadiens at -120 odds. |
| Point Spread: | The team must win by (or stay within) a set margin. Raptors -5.5 means Toronto must win by 6 or more points. |
| Over/Under (Totals): | You’re betting on the total score of the game. Over 5.5 in a Canucks vs. Flames game means you win if the combined score is 6+ goals. |
| Parlays: | Combine multiple bets into one for a bigger payout—but all picks must win. Leafs to win + Oilers to cover the spread + Over 6.5 in a Jets game. |
| Prop Bets (Proposition Bets): | Wagers on specific outcomes within a game. Will Connor McDavid score a goal? Yes (+150). |
Note: To see them in action, try placing a moneyline bet on the NHL at Bodog.
Step-by-Step Guide to Betting at Canadian Online Sportsbooks
Follow this simple, step-by-step guide to get going with trusted sportsbooks. Each step is designed for beginners, ensuring you can sign up, claim Canadian sportsbook promos and bet confidently.
- Choose Your Sportsbook
Start by picking a reliable sportsbook. We recommend Bodog for its Canadian focus and NHL odds, BetOnline for fast payouts, or MyBookie for its beginner-friendly design.
- Create an Account
Sign up by clicking “Join” or “Sign Up” on the sportsbook’s site. Enter basic info like your name, email, and phone number. You’ll need to verify your email or phone via a code, which takes no more than two minutes.
- Make a Deposit
Fund your account using popular methods like credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), or Bitcoin for faster transactions. Minimum deposits are low ($10 at Bodog or $20 at BetOnline). Crypto deposits often unlock bigger bonuses when choosing it as your sportsbook banking method (along with other cryptos as well).
- Claim Your Welcome Bonus
Boost your bankroll with a welcome bonus! At signup or deposit, enter a promo code if required. Some bonuses auto-apply, just be sure to check the “Promotions” tab and read all of the terms before receiving them.
- Place Your First Bet
Head to the sports section, pick a game (e.g., an NHL match like Leafs vs. Canadiens), and choose your bet type. Enter your stake (start small, like $5-$10), review your bet slip, and confirm. Bodog makes this process seamless for beginners and they even let you explore the site before signing up.
- Withdraw Winnings
Won your first bet? Congrats! Request a payout via the cashier section. Options include Bitcoin (fastest, often within minutes) or bank transfer. You’ll need to verify your identity with a photo ID and proof of address, which is standard for safety.
Why Choose Bodog, BetOnline, or MyBookie?
As a new bettor in Canada, it’s important to choose a sportsbook that offers more than just odds. You need a platform that’s secure, beginner-friendly, and packed with features that make betting easy. Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose the best fit.
- Bodog – Best for Beginners
A Canadian favorite since 1994, Bodog has a great interface with a strong focus on NHL and CFL betting. It offers a 100% welcome bonus up to $400 (or $600 with crypto), perfect for hockey fans looking to increase their bankroll when the season starts.
- Sign up with Bodog today and claim your welcome bonus!
- BetOnline – Best for High Stakes and Crypto Betting
Known for fast payouts, BetOnline is great for beginners with its simple homepage layout but also excellent for high rollers. New users can claim a welcome bonus up to $250, ideal for those wanting to explore live betting on the Raptors.
- Start betting with BetOnline now and claim your bonus!
BetOnline Sportsbook
- MyBookie – Best for Prop Bets and Contests
Designed with new bettors in mind, MyBookie offers a straightforward platform and a generous 100% match bonus. It’s perfect for starting small on CFL games, or for those looking for prop bets and contests to enter.
- Join MyBookie today and get your betting bonus at sign up!
FAQs About Online Betting in Canada
Is it safe to use offshore sportsbooks?
Yes, it is safe to offshore sportsbooks as long as they are reputable like Bodog, BetOnline, and MyBookie. Always ensure you're using well-established sites with positive reviews to minimize risk. All of these sites hold licenses and have decades of trust and secure encryption to protect your data.
Can I use Canadian dollars?
Yes, most Canadian online sportsbooks, including Bodog, BetOnline, and MyBookie, accept Canadian dollars (CAD) for both deposits and withdrawals. You’ll also have the option to use other currencies like USD or cryptocurrencies, depending on your preference. You can deposit, bet, and withdraw without worrying about currency conversion fees.
What’s the minimum deposit?
Minimum deposit amounts vary depending on the sportsbook and payment method, but typically, you’ll find that the minimum deposit is around $12–$25 CAD. As for bets, you can find some sites that take wagers for as little as $1 USD.
What’s the best sportsbook for NHL betting?
For NHL betting, Bodog is often considered one of the best sportsbooks for Canadians. They offer extensive NHL coverage, posting lines early that are cheaper than most of the other available sportsbooks. If you're a fan of hockey, Bodog is a solid choice on teams like the Leafs or Canucks.