While I obviously wasn't there, it's likely nothing to do with Canada. You're (either / or / and) a foreigner / FNG / civilian / etc. Note that the Aussies / Brits / Americans would get the same treatment in Canada.
There might well be a bit of airline snobbery / hazing as well. Grin and bear it, and remember you're bound to do things their way now; your old ways don't count.