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 Briard is a large, shaggy-coated French herding dog—loyal, clever, and naturally protective. Famous for its flowing coat and double dewclaws on each rear leg, the Briard is affectionate with family yet reserved with strangers. If you’re asking “Are Briards good apartment dogs?”—possible for very active owners who meet exercise and grooming needs. “Are Briards hypoallergenic?”—no; shedding is moderate and regular brushing is essential.
The Tibetan Terrier is a charming, adaptable, and affectionate medium-sized companion dog, often called the “Holy Dog of Tibet.” Despite its name, it is not a true terrier but a devoted and agile companion originally bred by Tibetan monks. Known for its long, flowing coat, expressive eyes, and lively personality, the Tibetan Terrier thrives in loving homes where it can share in daily activities and receive plenty of companionship.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a versatile, intelligent, and affectionate sporting dog celebrated for its superb hunting skills and friendly nature. Known as the “supreme gundog,” this breed excels in both field and water work while also being a loyal and loving family companion. With its distinctive rough coat and expressive face, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon thrives in active households that enjoy outdoor adventures and can provide consistent training and mental stimulation.
The Lapponian Herder (Lapinporokoira) is a resilient Nordic drover—steady, smart, and weather‑tough. Ideal for active owners who enjoy training, hiking, and a devoted herding partner.
The Aussiedoodle fuses Aussie intensity with Poodle smarts—athletic, ultra-trainable, and people-focused. Thrives with mental work and daily mileage; best for engaged homes that love training.
The Pekingese is an ancient Chinese toy companion famed for its lion-like mane, “sleeve” size, and regal, affectionate nature. Calm indoors, independent yet loyal, Pekingese are great apartment dogs that enjoy short daily walks and lots of lap time. If you’re searching “Do Pekingese shed?”—yes, they have a long double coat. If you’re wondering “Are Pekingese hypoallergenic?”—no, they are not.
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.
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 Japanese Terrier is a compact, smooth‑coated companion terrier—alert, lively, and people‑focused. A rare breed that fits apartment life with daily walks and engaging training.
The Slovensky Cuvac is a large, courageous, and devoted livestock guardian breed from Slovakia, instantly recognizable by its striking all-white coat. Traditionally used to protect sheep and cattle from wolves and bears in the rugged Carpathian Mountains, the Slovensky Cuvac combines strength, independence, and unwavering loyalty. Calm and affectionate with its family, yet fearless in defense of its charges, this breed thrives in rural or spacious homes with experienced owners.
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.
