The 15 Most Friendly Dog Breeds

We’re often told that dogs are pack animals, which is code for: They love being around their pet parents. But if you’ve actually been around pups, you figure out very quickly that some canines are friendlier than others. This will always vary by a dog’s individual personality and past experiences they’ve had with humans or other animals.

That being said, certain dog breeds (and mixes), in particular, are also associated with their exceptionally friendly nature — making them ideal for first-time pet parents and their families. One of the best things about adopting from a rescue or shelter is that the hard-working staff and/or foster family will already know which are the friendliest pups they’ve rescued — and who has the potential to be friendly with trust, training, and patience. 

Want to get better acquainted with the cutest and friendliest dog breeds around? From Labs to Corgis, read on for all the details on the most fun, snuggliest, outgoing (and sometimes Velcro) pups out there.

What makes a dog breed friendly? 

Lots of dogs are friendly, but some dogs take friendliness to a whole other level. What exactly makes them so friendly? Friendly dogs tend to be affectionate, outgoing, adaptable, and people-oriented. Some are calm and relaxed, others can be active or excitable.

1. They’re people-oriented

The friendliest dog breeds (and mixes) are usually those bred to work closely with people or whose original purpose was primarily to be companions to humans. You’ll find a lot of friendly dog breeds in the American Kennel Club Sporting, Hound, Herding, and Toy Groups. Unlike breeds used primarily for guarding, friendly dog breeds tend to be less protective and more trusting of strangers. 

2. They’re socialized

No matter the breed or mix, dogs are more likely to grow up to be friendly with people and other animals if they are properly socialized starting in early puppyhood. Socialization is a process of introducing dogs to everyday people, places, animals, sights, and sounds, so they grow up feeling confident and comfortable in their surroundings.

3. They’re trained

Training helps teach puppies and dogs what is and is not acceptable when living in a human world. Consistent training builds confidence, reduces fearfulness, and fosters a positive relationship between dogs and their people.

Without proper socialization or training, even dogs of breeds that are generally friendly can grow up to be nervous or fearful. Conversely, intensive socialization can help dogs who are shy, wary, or fearful grow up to be confident, friendly adults. 

What is the friendliest dog breed?

There are so many friendly dog breeds, but some of the friendliest dogs out there are those you see every day: mixed-breed dogs. These are the very same pups you often find at a rescue or a shelter. While some shower you with friendly vibes the moment you meet, others may need some patience from their pet parents to build trust in order for their friendly sides to come out — but that doesn’t mean they’re not there.

Let’s meet the top 15 friendliest dog breeds, grouped by size.

Friendliest large dog breeds 

The friendliest big dog breeds are extremely popular due to their winning personalities.  

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Labrador Retriever 

The Labrador Retriever has long been one of the most popular breeds in the United States. The main reason is the breed’s fantastically friendly personality. Labs are highly trainable and get along great with people of all ages, including kids. In fact, Labs are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds for families. They have a ton of energy, but with lots of daily exercise, they’ll be on their best behavior. 

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Golden Retriever 

Another one of the friendliest dog breeds for families, the Golden Retriever has a sparkling, smiley personality. They have a similar temperament to Labrador Retrievers, but Goldens have a bit less energy and tend to be calmer than the bouncy Lab. Golden Retrievers love meeting new people and bonding with their beloved human family. 

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Boxer 

The gregarious Boxer loves to play with people of all ages, including children. Due to their boisterous energy, monitor play with small kids to prevent accidental knockdowns. Boxers are extremely loyal, devoted companions. Although they happily greet invited company to their homes, Boxers are good watchdogs and protective of their families despite their innate friendliness. These energetic dogs need plenty of exercise and consistent training to shine their brightest. 

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Collie

Anyone familiar with Lassie knows all about the Collie’s loyal, friendly, and gentle nature. Fantastic family dogs, Collies love children and will watch over them with patience and affection. Collies get along great with people and animals, including other dogs, cats, and other pets, although they might try to herd them on occasion. With moderate daily exercise, Collies are usually calm in the home.

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Newfoundland

Rightly nicknamed the “gentle giant,” the Newfoundland is enormous, but these dogs are gentle and sweet in personality. The Newfie is calm, dignified, and loves making new friends. They are patient and enjoy playing with kids of all ages. These “nanny” dogs are famous for their desire to keep the family’s children safe and happy. Although they need only moderate daily exercise, these huge dogs need lots of living space, so they aren’t the best apartment dogs.

Friendliest medium dog breeds 

The friendliest medium dog breeds are middle-of-the-road when it comes to size, but big on friendliness.

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Beagle 

The happy-go-lucky Beagle is a friend to everyone they meet, whether family or strangers, adults or kids, human or animal. Their adaptable nature is due in part to their original use as a hunting dog who worked alongside huge canine packs to track down prey like rabbits and foxes. The Beagle’s tail is always wagging and their voice is big. Beagles like to bark and howl to express themselves. They need lots of daily exercise to burn off their abundant energy.

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Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a cheerful dog who loves to meet new people, dogs, even horses. Highly affectionate with their favorite people, Corgis are adventurous and want to accompany you everywhere you go, whether hiking, camping, boating, or just to the park across the street. They have very short legs, but these herding dogs have substantial bodies and tons of energy, so they need lots of daily activity to be content.

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Staffordshire Bull Terrier 

With their muscular body, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier looks tough, but these dogs are softies on the inside. Staffies are extremely loving, loyal dogs. They are wonderful with kids of all ages thanks to their patience and gentle demeanor. Vigorous daily exercise will keep these athletic dogs in excellent shape.

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Bulldog 

The Bulldog is another brawny-looking dog who is sweeter than you might expect. Despite that frowning, wrinkled face, the Bulldog is extremely friendly and loving, especially with their human families. Bulldogs are outgoing, entertaining dogs who enjoy strolling around town with you. These couch potatoes don’t need a lot of exercise, but it’s good to get them moving as much as you can so they don’t pack on the pounds.

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Miniature Poodle

If you’re searching for the friendliest dog breeds who don’t shed, the Poodle should be high on your list. Poodles come in three sizes — the large Standard, the tiny Toy, and the Miniature right in the middle. All Poodles are friendly and as intelligent as a human toddler. They love to learn new tricks and will soak up all the attention they receive as they delight new people with their performances. Miniature Poodles need moderate exercise every day. 

Friendliest small and toy dog breeds 

The friendliest small dog and toy dog breeds may be petite in size, but they are big on affection and friendship.

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

With their cheerful, smiling expression, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is hard to resist. These toy-size Spaniels are sweet, gentle, and extremely friendly — as happy to meet new folks as they are to play with their favorite people, including kids. The breed is very adaptable, able to chill on the couch or head out on a hike, whatever is on the menu that day. 

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Bichon Frise 

The Bichon Frise is a happy, charming breed with an outgoing personality. These intelligent, highly trainable little dogs were once circus performers, and their star quality continues to shine to this day. One of the friendliest toy dog breeds who doesn’t shed, the white Bichon Frise has a soft, plush, curly coat that everyone will want to touch. Bichons love to play, so they are great companions for children. 

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Havanese 

The Havanese is a cousin to the Bichon Frise, but their silky coat is straight rather than curly, and comes in many colors other than white. Havanese are extremely people-oriented, adaptable, and cheerful little dogs. They love playing with kids of all ages and making new friends wherever they go.  

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Pug 

There’s something about seeing a Pug that just makes everyone smile. These charmers get along with everyone, and have never met a stranger. Due to their flat face, they can get overheated in warm weather, so exercise them early in the morning or later in the day. 

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Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu comes from China, where these small dogs were bred solely to be pets and constant companions to emperors and other royalty. The Shih Tzu today remains an exceptional family pet — playful, friendly, and affectionate. Shih Tzu are happy to travel with you, accompany you on outings around town, or hang out and cuddle at home.

Commonly asked questions

What are the most popular dog breeds? 

The most popular dog breeds include the French Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, German Shepherd Dog, Poodle, Bulldog, Rottweiler, Beagle, Dachshund, and German Shorthaired Pointer. But over 50% of U.S. families have mixed-breed dogs, making the lovable mutt the most popular breed in the U.S.

What are the best dog breeds for pet parents with allergies? 

The best dog breeds for pet parents with allergies are those with non-shedding or low-shedding coats, including the Poodle, Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier, Havanese, Coton de Tulear, Bedlington Terrier, Portuguese Water Dog. But be aware that no dog is truly hypoallergenic. 

What are the best dog breeds for families?

The best dog breeds for families include those who are friendly, adaptable, trainable, and good with kids. Some dog breeds (and their mixes) good for families include the Labrador Retriever, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Golden Retriever, Beagle, Collie, Irish Setter, Basset Hound, English Cocker Spaniel, Shih Tzu, and Bichon Frise.

References

America’s Popular Dog Breeds, 1900-1960

Genetic Characterization of Dog Personality Traits

Golden Retriever: The Friendliest Dog

What Shapes Your Dog’s Personality