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 Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful, dignified, and loyal hunting dog known for the distinctive ridge of hair running along its back. Originally bred in southern Africa to track and hold lions at bay, this athletic breed combines strength, endurance, and a calm, devoted temperament. Ridgebacks thrive in active homes where they receive firm yet loving guidance, daily exercise, and plenty of companionship.
The Poodle is a highly intelligent, elegant, and versatile breed known for its signature curly coat and exceptional trainability. Available in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy — Poodles are adaptable to a wide range of living environments. Despite their dignified appearance, Poodles are energetic, playful, and make wonderful family companions. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them a preferred choice for allergy sufferers.
The Australian Cattle Dog, also known as the Blue Heeler or Queensland Heeler, is a high-energy herding breed developed in Australia to drive cattle across rough terrain. Renowned for its intelligence, agility, and endurance, this dog thrives in active homes where it has a job to do. Loyal and protective, the Australian Cattle Dog forms strong bonds with its owners and is a top choice for rural and working families.
The Morkie is a lively mix of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier—small, affectionate, and great for apartment living.
The Working Kelpie is an intelligent, energetic, and highly skilled herding dog from Australia, bred for endurance, agility, and independent thinking. Unlike the Australian Kelpie developed for show, the Working Kelpie is focused on practical herding ability, thriving in farms and ranches where it can work livestock tirelessly. Devoted to its work and handler, this breed needs an active environment and is best suited for experienced owners who can provide purposeful tasks and daily mental and physical challenges.
The Swedish Lapphund is an affectionate, intelligent, and versatile spitz-type dog from Sweden, known for its thick, fluffy coat, friendly personality, and strong herding and guarding instincts. Traditionally used by the Sami people to herd reindeer and protect property, this rare breed is deeply loyal to its family and thrives in active homes where it can participate in daily activities.
The Great Dane, often called the “gentle giant,” is a majestic and affectionate dog breed known for its towering size and loyal heart. Despite their imposing stature, Great Danes are friendly, calm, and excellent family companions. They thrive in homes that can accommodate their size and provide moderate daily exercise along with plenty of affection.
The Basset Hound is a lovable, low-slung scent hound known for its long ears, soulful eyes, and incredible nose. Originally bred for tracking game, the Basset combines a calm and affectionate nature with a stubborn streak, making them both charming and comical. They are great family companions, gentle with children, and adaptable to various living situations, provided they get regular exercise and mental stimulation.
The Harrier is a cheerful, medium-sized pack scenthound—sturdy, social, and built for hours of trotting. Great for active families who enjoy long walks, trail time, and scent-based games.
The Akita is a powerful, dignified, and loyal breed originally from Japan, where it was revered as a symbol of good health, happiness, and long life. Known for their thick double coats, curled tails, and noble presence, Akitas are intelligent and independent, often forming strong bonds with one or two people. This breed thrives with experienced dog owners who understand its unique temperament and can offer firm, consistent training. While calm and quiet indoors, Akitas require space, socialization, and structure to prevent overprotectiveness or aloofness.
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.
