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 Hamiltonstovare (Hamilton Hound) is a stylish Swedish scenthound—friendly, athletic, and built for all-day tracking. Ideal for active owners who love long hikes, nosework, and positive training.
The Toy Fox Terrier is a spirited, intelligent, and agile little dog with a big personality. Combining the tenacity of a working terrier with the charm of a lap dog, this breed excels as a lively companion and an enthusiastic performer in dog sports. Alert, loyal, and adaptable, Toy Fox Terriers thrive in homes that can provide plenty of interaction, playtime, and mental stimulation.
The Lancashire Heeler is a small, big‑hearted drover—keen, cheerful, and quick on its feet. Great for active city or suburban owners who want a portable herder that thrives on training and daily walks.
The Pyrador combines the Labrador’s affectionate personality with the Great Pyrenees’ protective instincts—a loyal, giant hybrid suited to active families.
The Jindo (Korean Jindo) is a courageous, clean, and loyal spitz—reserved with strangers, deeply bonded to family. Best for experienced owners who want an intelligent, independent companion with strong hunting instincts.
The American Eskimo Dog, often affectionately called the “Eskie,” is a striking, fluffy white companion known for its intelligence, alertness, and friendly demeanor. Despite the name, the breed originated in Germany as part of the Spitz family and was popularized in the U.S. as a circus performer in the early 20th century. Eskies come in three sizes—Toy, Miniature, and Standard—and make excellent watchdogs and family pets. They thrive on companionship and mental stimulation, making them ideal for active households.
The Shetland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the “Sheltie,” is an intelligent, affectionate, and agile herding breed from Scotland’s Shetland Islands. Renowned for their beautiful long coat, expressive face, and exceptional trainability, Shelties excel in obedience, agility, and herding trials while making loving family companions. They thrive in homes that can provide daily exercise, mental challenges, and plenty of affection.
The Drentsche Patrijshond (pronounced "Drent-suh puh-triesh-hond") is a versatile, medium-sized gundog from the Netherlands. Known for its loyal, affectionate nature and calm demeanor indoors, this breed is an excellent choice for active families who want a hunting companion that also excels as a gentle house dog. Their adaptability and eagerness to please make them well-suited for life in Canadian homes that can offer both outdoor activity and indoor bonding time.
The Great Bernese combines the gentle protector instincts of the Great Pyrenees with the Bernese Mountain Dog’s affectionate loyalty—a giant, family-centered hybrid.
The Curly-Coated Retriever is a bold, confident, and athletic gun dog known for its signature tight curls and spirited personality. As one of the oldest retriever breeds, it excels in water and field work while also being an affectionate family companion. Ideal for experienced and active owners, this breed balances independence with loyalty. Wondering “Are Curly-Coated Retrievers good apartment dogs?” They can adapt if their high exercise needs are met, but thrive in spacious environments.
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.
