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 Japanese Chin is a toy breed known for its elegant, cat-like demeanor and affectionate personality. With a distinctive plume tail and a luxurious coat, this charming companion thrives in calm environments and loves nothing more than lounging in their owner’s lap. The breed is prized for its quiet intelligence, gentle temperament, and aristocratic charm.
The Pharaoh Hound is an elegant, athletic, and affectionate sighthound—famous for its “blush” (ears and nose flush rosy when excited) and cat-like grace. Originating in Malta and prized for rabbit hunting, this sensitive, cheerful companion thrives with active owners who can offer daily exercise, positive training, and warm indoor living. If you’re wondering “Are Pharaoh Hounds good apartment dogs?”—yes, with robust exercise, enrichment, and bark management.
The Siberian Husky is a striking, athletic, and high-energy working dog known for its wolf-like appearance, endurance, and friendly nature. Originally bred by the Chukchi people of Siberia as a sled dog capable of pulling light loads over long distances in harsh Arctic conditions, the Siberian Husky is intelligent, mischievous, and affectionate. They thrive in active homes that can match their exercise needs and enjoy their adventurous spirit.
The Morkie is a lively mix of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier—small, affectionate, and great for apartment living.
The Lhasa Apso is a confident, floor‑length companion - dignified yet playful, with a keen watchdog nature. Excellent for apartments when grooming is prioritized and training stays positive.
The Barbet is a cheerful, water-loving French retriever known for its curly coat, keen intelligence, and affectionate personality. Originally bred as a versatile waterfowl retriever, the Barbet thrives in active households that can match its energy and love for outdoor adventures. Friendly, gentle, and highly trainable, this rare breed makes a wonderful companion for families, hunters, and dog sport enthusiasts alike.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, affectionately called the “Staffy,” is a muscular, affectionate, and loyal breed known for its courage and love of people. Originally bred in England for bull-baiting and later as a companion dog, the Staffy is incredibly people-oriented, playful, and gentle with children, earning the nickname “nanny dog.” With the right training, exercise, and affection, this confident and energetic breed makes an exceptional family companion.
The Brittany is an energetic, eager-to-please bird dog known for its agility, affectionate nature, and versatility in both the field and the home. Equally suited for hunting upland game birds or snuggling with the family, Brittanys are intelligent, compact, and full of zest for life. Ideal for active households, they thrive when given a job and plenty of daily exercise.
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.
The Australian Shepherd is an energetic, intelligent, and highly trainable herding dog best suited for active families or individuals. Known for their boundless enthusiasm and loyalty, Aussies thrive in homes that offer daily exercise, mental stimulation, and a job to do—whether it's agility, herding, or simply playing fetch. While adaptable, they are not ideal for sedentary or apartment-only lifestyles unless their needs are well met.
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.
