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 Chihuahua is the world’s smallest purebred dog—sparkly-eyed, big-brained, and deeply loyal. Available in Smooth Coat (short) and Long Coat (plumed) varieties, Chihuahuas are alert companions who love laps, learning tricks, and short daily adventures. If you’re asking “Are Chihuahuas good apartment dogs?”—absolutely. “Do Chihuahuas shed?”—yes: Smooth Coats shed lightly to moderately; Long Coats a bit more with seasonal bursts. “Are Chihuahuas hypoallergenic?”—no. Focus on kind socialization, dental care, and weather protection.
The Cane Corso is an athletic, confident Italian guardian bred for farm/estate protection and versatile work. Calm and affectionate with family but naturally reserved with strangers, the Corso thrives on clear rules, early socialization, and daily structure. If you’re wondering “Are Cane Corsos good family dogs?”—yes, in experienced, training-minded homes. “Do Cane Corsos drool?”—moderately. “Are Cane Corsos hypoallergenic?”—no. This powerful breed needs thoughtful management, neutrality training, and joint-friendly exercise.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, affectionate, and strikingly beautiful working breed known for its tri-colored coat, gentle temperament, and versatility. Originally bred in Switzerland to drive cattle, pull carts, and serve as a loyal farm companion, the “Berner” is a devoted family dog who thrives on companionship, outdoor activity, and having a job to do.
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is a tough, intelligent American landrace bred in Louisiana for stock work, hog/bay hunting, and general farm duties. Known for its striking “leopard” (merle) coat and glass or odd-coloured eyes, the Catahoula is loyal, bold, and highly driven. Best suited to active, experienced owners who enjoy training, hiking, and giving their dog a real job. If you’re asking “Are Catahoulas good family dogs?”—yes, in structured homes. “Do Catahoulas shed?”—low to moderate. “Are Catahoulas hypoallergenic?”—no.
The Karelian Bear Dog is a fearless Finnish spitz‑type hunter—intense, loyal, and highly driven. Best for expert handlers who want a serious working companion with strong game focus and daily outlets.
The Dalmatian is a striking breed best known for its black or liver-colored spots and energetic personality. Originally bred as a carriage dog, this athletic and alert breed thrives in active households. Dalmatians are loyal, playful, and protective — making them excellent companions for runners, hikers, and families with older children. Their intelligence and independence can be both a strength and a training challenge.
The Mountain Cur is a tough, athletic American treeing cur bred by frontier families to hunt squirrel, raccoon, and big game—and to guard the homestead. Devoted, bold, and highly trainable, Curs excel with outdoorsy owners who enjoy daily adventure, scent games, and structured training. If you’re searching “Are Mountain Curs good family dogs?”—yes, in active homes. “Do Mountain Curs bark a lot?”—they’re vocal when treeing; teach a solid “quiet.” Apartment life is possible only with serious exercise and enrichment.
The Lakeland Terrier is a compact, courageous earthdog—game, witty, and highly portable. Great for active owners who enjoy training, hiking, and low‑shed grooming via hand‑stripping.
The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is a robust, intelligent, and energetic breed known for its hardworking nature and distinctive short tail. Ideal for active families, ranchers, and those who enjoy outdoor adventures, this breed thrives in spacious environments where it can engage in plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
The Entlebucher Mountain Dog is the smallest of the Swiss mountain breeds, known for its boundless energy, loyalty, and working drive. Often called the "laughing dog" of the Alps, this agile and intelligent breed thrives in active homes with experienced dog owners who enjoy hiking, herding, or structured activities. While affectionate and protective with family, they can be wary of strangers, making early socialization key.
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.
