Looking for the perfect dog breed for your Canadian lifestyle? Whether you live in a snowy northern town or a bustling Toronto condo, our Dog Breeds in Canada directory helps you find the right match. Explore profiles with details on temperament, size, grooming, and which breeds thrive in Canada’s unique climates.
Explore our expert-curated directory of dog breeds—featuring traits, size, temperament, care needs, and more to help you choose the ideal canine companion.
The American Hairless Terrier is a small-to-medium-sized breed known for its intelligence, high energy, and completely hairless coat—making it a standout choice for allergy-sensitive households. Originally bred in the United States, this terrier is spirited, curious, and deeply loyal to its family. While social and playful, they also serve as attentive watchdogs. With minimal grooming needs and a lively personality, the American Hairless Terrier is ideal for families seeking a low-shedding, energetic companion that thrives on attention and daily activity.
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog is a cheerful, compact companion originally bred to be an all-purpose farm helper. Known for their intelligence, agility, and affectionate nature, they excel in both rural and suburban homes. These dogs are eager to please and relatively easy to train, making them great for active families or individuals who want a versatile partner. Wondering “Are Danish-Swedish Farmdogs good apartment dogs?” Yes—if well-exercised, they can adapt beautifully to smaller living spaces.
The Afghan Hound is a striking and noble breed, famous for its flowing coat, regal appearance, and aloof demeanor. Originally bred for hunting large game in the rugged mountains of Afghanistan, this breed combines elegance with athleticism. Afghan Hounds are known for their independence, sensitivity, and unique personality. They thrive in calm, structured environments and make loyal companions for experienced dog owners who appreciate their quiet sophistication.
The Norwegian Buhund is a cheerful, nimble spitz herder from Norway—smart, biddable, and always ready for action. With upright ears, a curled tail, and a thick double coat, Buhunds make upbeat family companions for active homes that enjoy training, hiking, and dog sports. If you’re wondering “Are Norwegian Buhunds good apartment dogs?”—yes, for active owners who meet exercise and bark-management needs. “Do Norwegian Buhunds shed?”—yes: they’re seasonal heavy shedders.
The German Shepherd is a large, intelligent, and highly trainable breed renowned for its loyalty, courage, and versatility. Originally developed for herding and guarding flocks, this breed is now one of the most trusted working dogs in law enforcement, military, and service roles around the world. With their striking appearance and confident demeanor, German Shepherds make both formidable protectors and loving companions when given proper training and stimulation.
The Tibetan Spaniel, affectionately known as the “Tibbie,” is a small, intelligent, and charming companion dog from Tibet. Revered for centuries by Buddhist monks, these alert and affectionate dogs are known for their silky coat, expressive face, and cat-like agility. Loyal yet independent, the Tibetan Spaniel thrives in loving homes where they can be close to their family while keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings.
The Stabyhoun (pronounced “sta-BEE-hoon”) is a rare, intelligent, and affectionate sporting dog from the Netherlands, prized for its versatility as a hunting companion, watchdog, and family pet. Known for its gentle nature, black-and-white or brown-and-white coat, and loyal temperament, the Stabyhoun is one of the rarest breeds in the world. They excel in active homes that value both a capable working dog and a devoted family companion.
The Collie is an elegant, intelligent, and loyal herding breed best known for its flowing coat and gentle nature. Famously portrayed as “Lassie,” Collies are wonderful family companions that thrive on human interaction and structured activity. If you’re wondering “Are Collies good apartment dogs?” the answer is yes—with enough daily exercise and mental engagement. These dogs are intuitive, easy to train, and gentle with children, making them one of the most beloved family dogs.
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a bold, confident, and athletic gun dog known for its signature tight curls and spirited personality. As one of the oldest retriever breeds, it excels in water and field work while also being an affectionate family companion. Ideal for experienced and active owners, this breed balances independence with loyalty. Wondering “Are Curly-Coated Retrievers good apartment dogs?” They can adapt if their high exercise needs are met, but thrive in spacious environments.
The Affenpinscher is a compact and wiry toy breed known for its comical expression and monkey-like face, earning it the nickname “Monkey Terrier.” Despite its small size, the Affenpinscher is bold, curious, and fiercely loyal to its family. Ideal for experienced dog owners, this breed thrives in apartments or small homes with regular stimulation and attention.
Canada’s #1 family dog for decades.
Adaptable and winter-ready.
Bred for cold climates.
Great for active, rural lifestyles.
Apartment-friendly in urban areas.
