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 Polish Lowland Sheepdog—affectionately called the PON—is a bright, shaggy-coated, medium herder famed for its big brain, big memory, and comical fringe-covered eyes. Loyal, watchful, and people-focused, PONs excel in obedience, herding, rally, and agility, but they also make devoted family companions. They suit active households that can provide daily mental work, firm-yet-kind training, and regular grooming. If you’re searching “Do Polish Lowland Sheepdogs shed?” or “Are PONs good apartment dogs?”—expect moderate shedding, strong watchdog instincts, and success in condos only with real exercise and enrichment.
The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a lively, intelligent, and affectionate American terrier breed known for its versatility as a hunter, farm dog, and devoted companion. With a slightly longer body and shorter legs than its close relative, the American Rat Terrier, this breed excels in pest control and thrives in active households. The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is loyal, adaptable, and eager to please—making it equally at home in rural environments, suburban yards, or even city apartments when properly exercised.
The Transylvanian Hound is a rare, noble, and determined scent hound from Hungary, known for its exceptional hunting skills, athletic build, and loyal nature. Traditionally used for tracking and hunting large game such as boar, bear, and deer, this breed is intelligent, courageous, and affectionate with its family. It thrives in active households that can provide plenty of outdoor activity and mental challenges, making it an ideal companion for experienced dog owners who enjoy an adventurous lifestyle.
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).
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the definition of a lapdog — gentle, affectionate, and incredibly people-oriented. Known for their expressive eyes and silky coats, Cavaliers are small yet sturdy companions who thrive in both active families and relaxed homes. They adapt well to apartment life, enjoy cuddles as much as play, and are especially suitable for seniors or first-time dog owners looking for a loving companion.
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 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 Schipperke is a lively, intelligent, and mischievous small Belgian breed often nicknamed the “little black devil” for its curious nature and bold personality. Originally bred as a watchdog and ratter on canal barges, the Schipperke is alert, independent, and full of energy. With its fox-like face, pricked ears, and distinctive black coat, this spirited companion thrives in active homes that can provide daily mental and physical stimulation.
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a cheerful, smart, and famously long-and-low herding dog from Wales. Bred to drive cattle by nipping heels, Pembrokes are energetic, people-focused companions who thrive on training games, brisk walks, and family life. If you’re wondering “Are Pembroke Welsh Corgis good apartment dogs?”—yes, with daily exercise and bark management. Curious “Do Corgis shed a lot?”—they’re heavy seasonal shedders with a dense double coat.
The Swedish Lapphund is an affectionate, intelligent, and versatile spitz-type dog from Sweden, known for its thick, fluffy coat, friendly personality, and strong herding and guarding instincts. Traditionally used by the Sami people to herd reindeer and protect property, this rare breed is deeply loyal to its family and thrives in active homes where it can participate in daily activities.
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.
