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 Wirehaired Vizsla is a versatile, affectionate, and athletic hunting breed from Hungary, known for its dense wiry coat, keen hunting ability, and loyal nature. A close cousin to the smooth-coated Vizsla, this breed excels in the field, at dog sports, and as a loving family companion. Gentle with family yet driven in the field, the Wirehaired Vizsla thrives in active households that can provide daily exercise, mental challenges, and plenty of companionship.
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 Portuguese Podengo Pequeno is a lively, clever, rabbit-hunting hound in a portable package. Famous for its pricked ears, keen nose, and joyful “let’s go!” attitude, the Pequeno comes in smooth and wire coats and thrives with active families. If you’re wondering, “Are Portuguese Podengo Pequenos good apartment dogs?”—yes, with daily exercise and enrichment. They’re affectionate, social, and fun, yet retain an independent, primitive-dog streak.
The Rat Terrier is an energetic, intelligent, and versatile small-to-medium terrier breed known for its exceptional hunting ability, adaptability, and affectionate nature. Once a staple on American farms for pest control, Rat Terriers are now beloved as loyal family companions who excel in agility, obedience, and active play. They thrive in homes that can provide daily exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of time with their people.
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever (“Chessie”) is a powerful, weatherproof waterfowl retriever famed for its oily, wavy coat, stamina in icy water, and steadfast loyalty. Affectionate with family and sensible with strangers, Chessies are biddable yet independent thinkers who thrive with clear training, daily exercise, and real jobs like retrieving, dock diving, or scent work. If you’re asking “Are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers good family dogs?”—yes, in active, training-minded homes. “Do Chessies shed?”—moderate to heavy seasonally. “Are Chesapeake Bay Retrievers hypoallergenic?”—no.
The Tosa, also known as the Tosa Inu or Japanese Mastiff, is a large, powerful, and dignified dog originally bred in Japan for sumo-style dog fighting. Calm and composed yet incredibly strong, the Tosa is a loyal and protective guardian with a quiet, reserved nature. They require experienced ownership, consistent training, and early socialization to develop into well-balanced companions. While rare outside Japan, the Tosa’s combination of strength, intelligence, and devotion makes them an impressive breed for knowledgeable owners.
Golden Retrievers are intelligent, affectionate, and loyal dogs, making them one of the most beloved breeds globally. Known for their beautiful golden coats and friendly demeanor, they excel as family pets, therapy dogs, and service animals. Goldens thrive in active households and require both physical and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
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.
The Afghan Hound is a striking and noble breed, famous for its flowing coat, regal appearance, and aloof demeanor. Originally bred for hunting large game in the rugged mountains of Afghanistan, this breed combines elegance with athleticism. Afghan Hounds are known for their independence, sensitivity, and unique personality. They thrive in calm, structured environments and make loyal companions for experienced dog owners who appreciate their quiet sophistication.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a versatile, intelligent, and affectionate sporting dog celebrated for its superb hunting skills and friendly nature. Known as the “supreme gundog,” this breed excels in both field and water work while also being a loyal and loving family companion. With its distinctive rough coat and expressive face, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon thrives in active households that enjoy outdoor adventures and can provide consistent training and mental stimulation.
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.
