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 West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as the “Westie,” is a cheerful, confident, and affectionate small terrier with a bright white coat and a personality as bold as it is charming. Bred in Scotland to hunt small game, the Westie is spirited, intelligent, and adaptable—making it a favorite companion for families, singles, and seniors alike. Known for their playful nature and loyalty, Westies thrive in homes that provide daily activity, mental stimulation, and plenty of companionship.
The Canaan Dog is Israel’s national breed—a vigilant, desert-bred primitive herder/guardian that’s clean, cat-agile, and deeply loyal to its family. Naturally aloof with strangers but affectionate with “its people,” the Canaan Dog thrives on clear routines, early socialization, and daily mental work. If you’re asking “Are Canaan Dogs good apartment dogs?”—yes, for committed owners who meet exercise and training needs. “Do Canaan Dogs bark a lot?”—they’re alert watchdogs; teach a reliable “quiet.” “Do Canaan Dogs shed?”—moderately year-round with heavy seasonal blows.
The American Eskimo Dog, often affectionately called the “Eskie,” is a striking, fluffy white companion known for its intelligence, alertness, and friendly demeanor. Despite the name, the breed originated in Germany as part of the Spitz family and was popularized in the U.S. as a circus performer in the early 20th century. Eskies come in three sizes—Toy, Miniature, and Standard—and make excellent watchdogs and family pets. They thrive on companionship and mental stimulation, making them ideal for active households.
The Bulldog is a stocky, sweet-natured companion with a big heart, bigger head, and famously squishy face. Calm, affectionate, and clownish, Bulldogs are excellent apartment dogs who prefer short strolls and long naps with their people. If you’re asking “Are Bulldogs good apartment dogs?”—yes. “Do Bulldogs drool?”—often. “Are Bulldogs hypoallergenic?”—no. Care focus is on wrinkle/skin hygiene, heat safety, and airway health (BOAS).
The Sarplaninac (pronounced shar-pla-nee-natz) is a powerful, devoted, and highly protective livestock guardian breed from the mountainous regions of the Balkans. Bred for centuries to defend flocks against wolves, bears, and human predators, this large, noble dog combines strength, intelligence, and unwavering loyalty. Calm and affectionate with family, yet naturally wary of strangers, the Sarplaninac thrives in rural homes where it can live and work with purpose.
The Estrela Mountain Dog is a powerful and loyal livestock guardian breed from Portugal's rugged Serra da Estrela mountains. Known for their independence, courage, and deep devotion to family, Estrelas are best suited for experienced dog owners with large, secure properties. Protective yet calm with loved ones, this majestic breed thrives in homes that respect its guardian nature and give it purpose.
The Spinone Italiano is a gentle, affectionate, and versatile sporting dog from Italy, known for its shaggy coat, soulful eyes, and calm temperament. Bred as a rugged all-purpose hunting dog, the Spinone is equally happy working in the field or lounging at home with family. Friendly and patient with children, adaptable to various lifestyles, and devoted to their people, the Spinone makes an excellent companion for active households that enjoy the outdoors.
The Weimaraner is a striking, high-energy breed known for its sleek silver-gray coat and boundless stamina. Bred in 19th-century Germany for big-game hunting, the “Gray Ghost” is a loyal, intelligent, and highly active dog. This breed thrives in rural or suburban homes with access to outdoor space, making it less suitable for apartment living. Weimaraners are known for forming strong bonds with their owners, often displaying separation anxiety if left alone too long. They're typically affectionate with children and friendly with other dogs when properly socialized, but their strong prey drive makes early training essential.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (“Toller”) is a compact, fox-like retriever bred to lure (“toll”) ducks to shore with playful motion—and then expertly retrieve in icy waters. Bright, athletic, and intensely people-focused, Tollers are fantastic for active families who love training, swimming, and outdoor life. If you’re wondering “Are Tollers good apartment dogs?”—yes, with 60–90 minutes of daily exercise and enrichment. “Do Tollers shed?”—yes: a water-resistant double coat means seasonal coat-blows.
The Russian Toy is a delicate, charming, and intelligent toy breed known for its petite size, lively spirit, and affectionate nature. Originally bred as a companion dog for Russian nobility, the breed comes in both smooth and long-haired varieties. Quick, alert, and deeply attached to their owners, Russian Toys thrive in homes where they can enjoy companionship, gentle play, and plenty of affection.
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.
