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Writer's pictureNicola Smith

A Look at 10 Most Popular Dogs in Canada

Every year the Canadian Kennel Club, Canada’s primary registry for purebred dogs releases a list of the most popular breeds across Canada. No surprise to see the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever and Poodle holding a high rank; but one new breed added to the list is the Australian Shepard. It’s interesting as I recall noticing during the past few years, the Australian Shepherd seemed to be popping up everywhere and it’s now making the list of popular breeds for the first time as a registered purebred.


If you are looking for a new member to join your family and do have a select breed in mind; please consider adoption. Whether it’s a Golden Retriever or a French Bulldog, there are breed specific rescue organizations dedicated to helping your favorite breed to find homes and have a second chance at life. 


Ok everyone, here are the top 10 most popular breeds. I’ve added a short description, links to a rescue organization for that breed as well as a cute pup to follow on Instagram of that particular breed. As a Toronto dog walking service we love all breeds of dogs.



1. Labrador Retriever 


This is one of the most popular breeds in Canada, the United Kingdom and the United States. They are known to be gentle, intelligent and eager to please.

Rescue Organization: Lab Rescue




2. German Shepherd


Did you know that the German Shepherd was initially bred to trot all day long? So, it should come as no surprise that this is a high energy dog that needs lots of outside activity. They are extremely intelligent, loyal and protective.

Rescue Organization: German Shepherd Rescue 





3. Golden Retriever 


This dog is a classic family pet who is kind, obedient, loving and intelligent. This breed is not only a great family pet but often used as service dogs because of their ease of trainability. 

Rescue Organization: Golden Rescue Instagram: @Zoe_and_Riley




4. Poodle 


Poodles are known to be highly intelligent, energetic, affectionate and are eager to please. This breed needs lots of exercise. If you are looking to get a poodle make sure you have the energy and time to get out and walk; promise you will be rewarded 10 times over with love.

Rescue Organization: Standard Poodles in Need 




5. Shetland Sheepdog   


These dogs are described as Intensely loyal, affectionate and responsive. Often mistakenly called miniature collies, the Shetland sheepdog is a distinct breed. Because of their sweet nature, it’s not too shocking this breed is high on the list of popular breeds.

Rescue Organization: Sheltie Nation 




6. French Bulldog 


Number 6 in Canada but in the UK this breed has taken over as number one! This breed is a fabulous family pet; they are not known for being loud, although they do tend to snore a lot! At We Wag Toronto, French Bulldogs are our most popular breed as well!

Check out Joey who boards with us; he has his own Instagram page!

Rescue Organization: French Bulldog Rescue Network

Instagram: @joeythefrenchie





7. Havanese


The Havanese is a Cuban member of the Bichon family that includes better known breeds such as the Maltese and Bichon Frise. This breed has been called the “Velcro dog” because they stay so close to their owner’s side. They are said to be energetic and trainable.

Instagram: @mugithehav





8. Bernese Mountain Dog


The Bernese is an great family companion and protector of the household. This breed has a strong desire to please and is known as being very trustworthy. They are well tempered and affectionate dogs who like to stay close to their owners.

Rescue Organization: BFW Rescue Inc

Instagram: @waltertheberner




9. Australian Shepherd


This dog is known to be high spirited, responsive and very loyal. This is the first time this breed has made it in the top 10!

Rescue Organization: Aussie Rescue of Ontario

Instagram: @sadiemtnpup



10. Bulldog


Bulldogs were the first of it’s breed to be recognized in 1873 by the Kennel Club of England. They are known to be even tempered dogs with a low level of needed activity. 

Rescue Organization: Bulldog Rescue Network





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