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 Carolina Dog—often called the “American Dingo”—is a primitive, free-living dog type discovered in the U.S. Southeast and selectively developed as a stable companion. Wary with strangers yet deeply bonded to “their people,” Carolina Dogs are athletic, clean, and cat-agile with a distinctive fishhook tail and pricked ears. If you’re asking “Are Carolina Dogs good apartment dogs?”—yes, for active owners who meet exercise and socialization needs. “Do Carolina Dogs shed?”—moderately year-round with seasonal coat blows. “Are Carolina Dogs hypoallergenic?”—no.
The Australian Kelpie is a high-energy, intelligent working dog bred for herding sheep across vast landscapes in Australia. Renowned for its stamina, agility, and independence, the Kelpie thrives in active homes and excels in jobs that require problem-solving and focus. This breed is loyal and hardworking, making it an ideal companion for farmers, dog sports enthusiasts, and experienced dog owners who can provide mental and physical stimulation.
The American English Coonhound is a fast, vocal, and determined scent hound originally bred for raccoon and fox hunting. Known for their endurance, distinctive baying voice, and affectionate nature, these dogs thrive in homes that can match their energy and give them room to roam. They are friendly with people and other dogs but require ample mental and physical activity to stay content.
The Miniature Bull Terrier is a bold, playful, and affectionate breed known for its distinctive egg-shaped head and clownish personality. A smaller version of the Standard Bull Terrier, the Miniature is equally spirited and thrives on human companionship. This breed suits active households looking for a fun-loving, loyal companion with a mischievous streak.
The Chow Chow is a dignified, cat-like Asian spitz/guardian known for its lion’s ruff, scowling expression, and blue-black tongue. Calm and reserved with strangers but deeply devoted to family, Chows do best in structured homes that value neutrality training, early socialization, and steady routines. If you’re wondering “Are Chow Chows good apartment dogs?”—yes, for owners who meet exercise and grooming needs and manage barking. “Do Chow Chows shed?”—yes, heavily during seasonal coat blows. “Are Chow Chows hypoallergenic?”—no.
The Mastiff, often referred to as the English Mastiff, is one of the largest and most powerful dog breeds in the world. Despite their imposing size, Mastiffs are known for their gentle temperament and deep loyalty to their family. They are calm, protective, and dignified, making them excellent companions for experienced dog owners with enough space and patience for this colossal breed.
The Silky Terrier is a lively, affectionate, and confident small terrier breed known for its flowing, silky blue-and-tan coat and bold personality. Originally bred in Australia by crossing Yorkshire Terriers with Australian Terriers, the Silky combines the best traits of both—a spirited terrier drive with an affectionate companion temperament. They thrive in active households where they can be both a playful entertainer and a loyal lap dog.
The Havanese is a cheerful, adaptable companion dog known for its silky coat, people-loving nature, and surprising agility. As Cuba’s national dog, it thrives in apartments or houses, with families or singles, making it one of the best small dog breeds for Canadian households seeking an affectionate and trainable pet. They’re playful, smart, and always eager to be by your side.
The Mountain Cur is a tough, athletic American treeing cur bred by frontier families to hunt squirrel, raccoon, and big game—and to guard the homestead. Devoted, bold, and highly trainable, Curs excel with outdoorsy owners who enjoy daily adventure, scent games, and structured training. If you’re searching “Are Mountain Curs good family dogs?”—yes, in active homes. “Do Mountain Curs bark a lot?”—they’re vocal when treeing; teach a solid “quiet.” Apartment life is possible only with serious exercise and enrichment.
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.
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.
