First of all, here are two things I got off of Google-- they are general lists of the rescue groups active in the Toronto area. I think I typed "Toronto dog shelters" to get these. (There is another place in the forum somewhere that allows people to recommend specific rescue groups, but I couldn't find it just now... maybe someone can help out with that?)
Local Dog Groups and Pet Rescues in Toronto
http://www.torontodogs.com/groups.html
Ontario Rescue Organizations and Shelters
http://www.canadasguidetodogs.com/onrescue.htm
As I wrote above, one of the best reasons to get an older dog is that you know exactly what you are getting, and you can pick one with the exact behaviors you want. Here is an actual example of a write-up from one Toronto group I picked randomly, just to give you an idea of this.
I would definitely prioritize personality/behaviors over looks/breeds. Dogbreedinfo.com is a great site for getting basic information, but the list of recommended breeds that it produces is a list of dogs that are
likely to have the characteristics you want. You still have to train it not to pee on the carpet, not to bark, etc. which is fun for some people and a headache for others. If you get an adult, you already know for a
fact that the dog has the characteristics you want.
If you look at the listings of puppies, in comparison, the typical information would be something like "Currently 6 months old, expected to be 35-45 lbs and moderately active as an adult, moderate shedder."
Example (I edited out the name of the dog, a chocolate Labrador):
ABC is a very loving dog with lots to offer but he isn't a huge fan of young kids and will avoid them – he isn't snappy or snarly, just prefers not to be around them full time. ABC is great with other dogs and pays no mind to the cats in his foster home. ABC loves older children who are more gentle with him, are a little quieter and can play ball so kids 10yr+ would be great! ABC is best suited to a home with no small kids around full time. He is very excitable when someone comes, in a positive way though, just looking for someone else to give him attention.
Being a mature dog ABC comes with tons of benefits – he is house trained, clean and quiet in the home, he is used to having free roam of his home when left alone, he is a nicely mannered, knows basic commands and house manners, he is way passed all the nuisance puppy stages like chewing and house breaking. Tons of great reasons to adopt a mature dog over a puppy! He's older but still really loves to get out and exercise so a good brisk walk each day is perfect for him; he'd also love to join you on hikes and other outings to the park, dog park or beach. He only barks when people are knocking at the door or if he is trying to get your attention to play. He is a very loyal, friendly guy who just likes to be around his people. He loves to play with people or just hang out quietly with the family. If you are looking for a companion that is already trained and ready to settle in to your family consider ABC! Ideally ABC can find a home with a fenced yard.
I think you can see that you can really go into an adoption with your eyes wide open this way. Rescue groups want the adoptions to be successful, so they are very upfront about behavioral issues in particular. It is NOT in their interests as a group to hold back or sugarcoat bad information, because they don't want the animal abandoned again 6 months down the road.