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 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 Mastiff, often referred to as the English Mastiff, is one of the largest and most powerful dog breeds in the world. Despite their imposing size, Mastiffs are known for their gentle temperament and deep loyalty to their family. They are calm, protective, and dignified, making them excellent companions for experienced dog owners with enough space and patience for this colossal breed.
The Australian Terrier is a small but spirited working terrier, bred for toughness, adaptability, and loyalty. Originating in Australia, this hardy little dog was developed to hunt vermin, guard property, and serve as a devoted companion. Despite its compact size, the Australian Terrier has a big personality — alert, affectionate, and always ready for action. They thrive in both active family homes and with owners who appreciate a low-shedding, intelligent dog with a dash of feistiness.
The American Water Spaniel is a rare yet highly versatile sporting breed originally developed in the Midwest United States. Bred for retrieving from boats and hunting in swampy terrain, this curly-coated companion is both a skilled worker and a gentle family pet. Their friendly nature, eagerness to please, and medium size make them suitable for active households who enjoy the outdoors. While they’re still used as hunting dogs today, their affectionate disposition also makes them great house companions when properly trained and socialized.
The Norwich Terrier is a spirited, affectionate, and sturdy little dog with a big personality packed into a small frame. Known for their pricked ears, wiry coat, and ever-wagging tail, these terriers are among the smallest working terrier breeds but have the heart and determination of a much larger dog. They make devoted family companions, adapt well to various living situations, and thrive in homes that can provide daily exercise, training, and companionship.
The Czechoslovakian Vlcak (also spelled “Vlčák”) is a striking and powerful breed born from a mix of German Shepherd and Carpathian wolf. Originally developed for military use, this wolf-like breed is highly intelligent, loyal, and athletic, but not for the faint of heart. Vlcaks thrive with experienced, active owners who provide firm training and meaningful work. Wondering “Are Czechoslovakian Vlcaks good apartment dogs?” Only with significant daily exercise and expert management.
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a cheerful, affectionate, and spirited Irish terrier breed, celebrated for its silky, wavy, wheaten-colored coat and joyful personality. Originally bred as a versatile farm dog, the Wheaten excels as a companion for active families, bringing enthusiasm, loyalty, and a playful sense of humor into the home.
The Yakutian Laika is a versatile, intelligent, and affectionate working spitz breed from Siberia, known for its striking coat, endurance, and strong bond with humans. Traditionally used for sledding, hunting, and herding reindeer, this hardy breed is loyal, adaptable, and thrives in active households that can meet its physical and mental needs. With a friendly disposition and a natural love for family life, the Yakutian Laika is both a capable working partner and a loving companion.
The American Hairless Terrier is a small-to-medium-sized breed known for its intelligence, high energy, and completely hairless coat—making it a standout choice for allergy-sensitive households. Originally bred in the United States, this terrier is spirited, curious, and deeply loyal to its family. While social and playful, they also serve as attentive watchdogs. With minimal grooming needs and a lively personality, the American Hairless Terrier is ideal for families seeking a low-shedding, energetic companion that thrives on attention and daily activity.
The Cairn Terrier is a hardy, big-hearted Scottish earthdog—game, clever, and endlessly cheerful. Compact and weatherproof with a wiry jacket, Cairns love brisk walks, scent games, and couch time with their people. If you’re wondering “Are Cairn Terriers good apartment dogs?”—yes, with daily exercise and bark management. “Do Cairn Terriers shed?”—low to moderate, lowest when hand-stripped (clipping softens the coat and can increase visible shed).
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.
