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 Newfypoo is a gentle giant with a heart as big as its size. A mix between the Newfoundland and the Poodle, this breed combines the Newfoundland’s loyalty and calm temperament with the Poodle’s intelligence and hypoallergenic coat. Ideal for families seeking a loving, social companion that thrives on affection and outdoor adventures, the Newfypoo is best suited for spacious homes with access to nature.
The Boston Terrier is an upbeat, tuxedo-coated companion with a big personality. Compact, friendly, and people-focused—great for city living and families.
The Korean Jindo Dog is a loyal, clean, and resolute spitz—reserved with strangers yet deeply bonded to family. Best for experienced owners who can provide structure, secure fencing, and daily outlets.
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 Carolina Dog—often called the “American Dingo”—is a primitive, free-living dog type discovered in the U.S. Southeast and selectively developed as a stable companion. Wary with strangers yet deeply bonded to “their people,” Carolina Dogs are athletic, clean, and cat-agile with a distinctive fishhook tail and pricked ears. If you’re asking “Are Carolina Dogs good apartment dogs?”—yes, for active owners who meet exercise and socialization needs. “Do Carolina Dogs shed?”—moderately year-round with seasonal coat blows. “Are Carolina Dogs hypoallergenic?”—no.
Labrador Retrievers are friendly, intelligent, and outgoing dogs with a reputation for being among the most versatile and loyal companions. Originally bred for retrieving waterfowl, Labs are now beloved family pets, service animals, and hunting partners. Their eagerness to please, combined with gentle temperament and high energy levels, makes them ideal for active households and first-time dog owners alike.
The Transylvanian Hound is a rare, noble, and determined scent hound from Hungary, known for its exceptional hunting skills, athletic build, and loyal nature. Traditionally used for tracking and hunting large game such as boar, bear, and deer, this breed is intelligent, courageous, and affectionate with its family. It thrives in active households that can provide plenty of outdoor activity and mental challenges, making it an ideal companion for experienced dog owners who enjoy an adventurous lifestyle.
The Cavapoo, a mix of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Poodle, is one of the most popular small designer breeds...
The Dutch Shepherd is a highly intelligent and versatile working dog, known for its strong herding instincts, loyalty, and athleticism. Originally bred to herd sheep and guard farms, this breed thrives with active owners who can provide plenty of mental and physical stimulation. While not as common in Canada, the Dutch Shepherd is gaining popularity among police K9 units, sport handlers, and experienced pet owners looking for a trainable and devoted companion.
The Bull Terrier is an athletic, egg-headed terrier famous for its strong build, triangular eyes, and playful, clownish charm. Affectionate and people-oriented, Bull Terriers thrive with active owners who provide clear rules, early socialization, and daily exercise. If you’re wondering “Are Bull Terriers good family dogs?”—yes, in structured, training-minded homes. “Do Bull Terriers shed?”—low to moderate. “Are Bull Terriers hypoallergenic?”—no. Expect enthusiasm, stubborn smarts, and big cuddles.
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.
