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 Husky Collie mix blends the endurance of the Siberian Husky with the intelligence and agility of the Border Collie—an energetic, brainy hybrid for active homes.
The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” is a compact and confident toy breed beloved for its silky coat, charming personality, and fearless spirit. Originally bred for catching rats in 19th-century England, Yorkies have evolved into affectionate lap dogs and loyal companions. Despite their petite frame, they carry a big-dog attitude — alert, spirited, and sometimes bossy. This breed thrives in apartments or homes where they receive consistent attention, grooming, and positive reinforcement training.
The Gerberian Shepsky combines the German Shepherd’s trainability with the Siberian Husky’s endurance—an eye-catching, high-energy hybrid best for experienced, active owners.
The Pudelpointer is a rugged, super-trainable German versatile hunting dog created by combining the Poodle (“Pudel”) and English Pointer. Famous for its wiry, weatherproof coat, keen nose, and balanced temperament, this medium-large gundog excels at tracking, pointing, and retrieving on land and water—then settles calmly with the family. If you’re wondering “Are Pudelpointers good family dogs?”—yes, in active homes that can meet their exercise and training needs. If you’re asking “Are Pudelpointers hypoallergenic?”—no; they’re moderate shedders despite the wiry coat.
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier, affectionately called the “Staffy,” is a muscular, affectionate, and loyal breed known for its courage and love of people. Originally bred in England for bull-baiting and later as a companion dog, the Staffy is incredibly people-oriented, playful, and gentle with children, earning the nickname “nanny dog.” With the right training, exercise, and affection, this confident and energetic breed makes an exceptional family companion.
The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee), often called the “Xolo” or “Mexican Hairless Dog,” is an ancient and noble breed known for its unique appearance, loyal temperament, and remarkable history. Available in hairless and coated varieties, the Xolo comes in three sizes—toy, miniature, and standard—making it adaptable to many living situations. Calm, intelligent, and affectionate with family, the Xolo is a low-maintenance and devoted companion that thrives in loving homes.
The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is an ancient livestock guardian—calm, imposing, and deeply loyal to its family. Bred across the steppes and mountains of Central Asia to deter predators and protect property, the CAO is naturally suspicious of strangers yet affectionate and gentle with its own people. If you’re asking “Are Central Asian Shepherds good family dogs?”—yes, in experienced homes with secure fencing, early socialization, and clear rules. “Do Central Asian Shepherds shed?”—moderately to heavily, seasonally. “Are they hypoallergenic?”—no. Heat management, joint care, and visitor protocols are essential.
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, affectionate, and strikingly beautiful working breed known for its tri-colored coat, gentle temperament, and versatility. Originally bred in Switzerland to drive cattle, pull carts, and serve as a loyal farm companion, the “Berner” is a devoted family dog who thrives on companionship, outdoor activity, and having a job to do.
The Italian Spinone (Spinone Italiano) is a bearded, rough‑coated gun dog—gentle, humorous, and tireless in the field. Ideal for active homes seeking a patient family companion with real hunting stamina.
The West Highland White Terrier, affectionately known as the “Westie,” is a cheerful, confident, and affectionate small terrier with a bright white coat and a personality as bold as it is charming. Bred in Scotland to hunt small game, the Westie is spirited, intelligent, and adaptable—making it a favorite companion for families, singles, and seniors alike. Known for their playful nature and loyalty, Westies thrive in homes that provide daily activity, mental stimulation, and plenty of companionship.
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.
