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 Glen of Imaal Terrier is a sturdy, low-to-the-ground terrier with a calm disposition and strong work ethic. Originally bred for hunting and farm duties in Ireland’s Wicklow Mountains, Glens are known for their quiet tenacity and affectionate nature. They're ideal for families seeking a less vocal, moderate-energy terrier that still retains classic terrier courage and charm—perfect for rural or suburban homes with space to explore.
The American Water Spaniel is a rare yet highly versatile sporting breed originally developed in the Midwest United States. Bred for retrieving from boats and hunting in swampy terrain, this curly-coated companion is both a skilled worker and a gentle family pet. Their friendly nature, eagerness to please, and medium size make them suitable for active households who enjoy the outdoors. While they’re still used as hunting dogs today, their affectionate disposition also makes them great house companions when properly trained and socialized.
The English Setter is an elegant, friendly, and graceful sporting dog known for its feathered coat and gentle disposition. Bred for hunting and companionship, this breed thrives in active households that can provide ample exercise, affection, and mental stimulation. English Setters are affectionate with children, easy to train, and happiest when included in all aspects of family life.
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 Silky Terrier is a lively, affectionate, and confident small terrier breed known for its flowing, silky blue-and-tan coat and bold personality. Originally bred in Australia by crossing Yorkshire Terriers with Australian Terriers, the Silky combines the best traits of both—a spirited terrier drive with an affectionate companion temperament. They thrive in active households where they can be both a playful entertainer and a loyal lap dog.
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 Miniature Bull Terrier is a bold, playful, and affectionate breed known for its distinctive egg-shaped head and clownish personality. A smaller version of the Standard Bull Terrier, the Miniature is equally spirited and thrives on human companionship. This breed suits active households looking for a fun-loving, loyal companion with a mischievous streak.
The Japanese Spitz is a cheerful, cloud‑white companion—smart, vocal, and devoted to the family. Apartment‑friendly with daily walks and brushing; excellent for first‑time owners who enjoy training.
The Icelandic Sheepdog is a cheerful Nordic herder—social, vocal, and always ready to work. Great for active families who want a friendly, trainable spitz that thrives on outdoor life and daily engagement.
The Brussels Griffon is a big personality in a tiny, bearded package. Lively, sensitive, and people-obsessed, “Griffs” shadow their humans like Velcro and thrive on training games and couch cuddles. Available in rough (wiry) and smooth coat varieties, they’re great apartment dogs with modest exercise needs. If you’re searching “Are Brussels Griffons hypoallergenic?”—no, but rough, hand-stripped coats shed very little. “Do Brussels Griffons bark a lot?”—they can be alert; teach “quiet.”
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.
