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 German Shepherd is a large, intelligent, and highly trainable breed renowned for its loyalty, courage, and versatility. Originally developed for herding and guarding flocks, this breed is now one of the most trusted working dogs in law enforcement, military, and service roles around the world. With their striking appearance and confident demeanor, German Shepherds make both formidable protectors and loving companions when given proper training and stimulation.
The Harrier is a cheerful, medium-sized pack scenthound—sturdy, social, and built for hours of trotting. Great for active families who enjoy long walks, trail time, and scent-based games.
The Löwchen (“Little Lion Dog”) is a merry, people‑oriented companion - low‑shedding, bright, and portable. Ideal for apartments and families who want a cheerful, trainable dog that enjoys daily walks and play.
The Whippet is a sleek, gentle, and affectionate sighthound celebrated for its graceful appearance and lightning-fast speed. Originally bred for racing and hunting small game, the Whippet has evolved into a loving companion that thrives equally in active households and relaxed home environments. Known as the “poor man’s racehorse” in its early history, this quiet and sensitive breed is devoted to its family, making it a wonderful choice for those seeking a calm yet athletic companion.
The Black Russian Terrier is a powerful, confident guardian bred for versatile working roles. Best for experienced owners who provide training, structure, and daily exercise.
The Newfoundland (“Newf”) is Canada’s iconic gentle giant—a powerful water-rescue dog with a massive frame, webbed feet, and a sweet, steady temperament. Calm indoors but strong and capable outside, Newfs thrive with families who can manage grooming, drool, and size, while offering low-impact exercise (especially swimming). If you’re asking “Are Newfoundlands good family dogs?”—yes, with supervision and training. “Do Newfoundlands shed?”—heavily, especially seasonally.
The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog (Swissy) is a majestic, people-loving draft dog—calm and confident at home, sturdy and willing at work. Best for spacious, committed homes that want a gentle giant and can meet large-breed training and exercise needs.
The Bluetick Coonhound is a determined, melodic-voiced scenthound known for its mottled blue coat and endurance on trail. Affectionate, athletic, and happiest with daily adventures.
The Boerboel is a powerful South African mastiff bred for farm guardianship. Steady, confident, and devoted—best for experienced owners who provide training, structure, and space.
The Puli is a compact, springy Hungarian herding dog best known for its spectacular corded coat. Agile, intelligent, and playful, the Puli excels at herding, agility, and obedience while doubling as a lively family companion. If you’re asking “Are Pulis hypoallergenic?”—they’re low-shedding and often tolerated by allergy-sensitive owners, but no breed is 100% hypoallergenic. Ideal for active households that can commit to coat care and daily mental/physical exercise.
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.
