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 Bracco Italiano is a noble, powerfully built Italian pointing dog known for its sculpted head, long velvety ears, and effortless ground-covering trot. Calm in the home yet driven in the field, the Bracco is affectionate, biddable, and happiest with owners who enjoy training, hiking, and scent work. If you’re asking “Are Bracchi good apartment dogs?”—yes, for active homes that meet exercise needs. “Do Bracco Italianos drool?”—a bit, thanks to their pendulous lips. “Do Bracchi shed?”—light to moderate.
The Swedish Vallhund is a spirited, intelligent, and loyal herding dog with a long history in Sweden, often described as a “Viking dog.” Compact yet sturdy, they are known for their fox-like face, short legs, and natural herding instinct. Playful and affectionate with family, the Swedish Vallhund thrives in active households that can meet their physical and mental stimulation needs. Their versatility makes them excellent companions for work, sport, and home life.
The Pomeranian (Pom) is a spirited, ultra-fluffy toy spitz with a big-dog attitude in a 3–7 lb package. Alert, affectionate, and clever, Poms thrive on attention, tricks, and short daily adventures. They suit city and condo life well—if you manage barking and grooming. Common searches like “Do Pomeranians shed?” and “Are Pomeranians good apartment dogs?” are answered here with clear care guidance.
The Sealyham Terrier is a charming, sturdy, and spirited small terrier breed known for its distinctive long, low body, luxurious white coat, and bold personality. Originating from Wales, this breed was developed for hunting small game and excels as a confident, affectionate companion today. Intelligent and adaptable, the Sealyham Terrier is equally at home in the countryside or city, making it a wonderful choice for those seeking a loyal and playful canine friend.
The Finnish Lapphund is a friendly, intelligent, and resilient Nordic breed originally used for herding reindeer in the Arctic Circle. Known for their expressive eyes, plush coat, and alert but calm demeanor, Lapphunds make devoted family companions. They thrive in active homes that offer consistent mental and physical engagement. Their adaptability makes them suitable for both suburban and rural living, as long as their exercise and grooming needs are met.
The Scottish Terrier, affectionately known as the “Scottie,” is a dignified, independent, and confident small dog with a big personality. Recognizable for its distinctive beard, wiry coat, and sturdy build, the Scottie is both a loyal family companion and a determined little hunter. Originally bred to work independently, the Scottish Terrier is intelligent, spirited, and sometimes stubborn—making them best suited for owners who appreciate their charming, self-assured nature.
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 Sloughi, also known as the Arabian Greyhound, is an elegant, athletic, and noble sighthound from North Africa, renowned for its speed, endurance, and loyal companionship. Traditionally used by nomadic tribes for hunting game such as hare, gazelle, and jackal, the Sloughi is affectionate with family yet reserved with strangers. This breed thrives in active homes that appreciate its sensitive nature and require a graceful yet capable hunting partner or sporting dog.
The Greyhound is a sleek and graceful breed originally bred for hunting and racing. Renowned as the fastest dog in the world, it also makes a surprisingly gentle and low-maintenance companion. Despite their racing history, Greyhounds are calm and affectionate, thriving in quiet homes and adjusting well to apartment life. Known as "40-mph couch potatoes," they enjoy short bursts of energy followed by long naps.
The Poodle is a highly intelligent, elegant, and versatile breed known for its signature curly coat and exceptional trainability. Available in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy — Poodles are adaptable to a wide range of living environments. Despite their dignified appearance, Poodles are energetic, playful, and make wonderful family companions. Their hypoallergenic coat makes them a preferred choice for allergy sufferers.
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.
