Dogs are man’s best friends. Following domestication, they formed bonds with humans to get food and shelter. Every dog has a unique personality. Some breeds are more sociable than others—they make friends with their owners, other dogs, and even strangers.
It is worth mentioning that every dog, regardless of its breed, can become friendly and outgoing with early socialization and proper training.
Socialization, starting at a young age, helps your dog get comfortable in different environments. It also helps them get along well with humans and other dogs, have a stroll on sidewalks, travel in cars, and go for a vet visit.
The American Kennel Club ranks each breed’s “openness to strangers” on their site into five possible levels, ranging from “reserved” to “everyone is my best friend.”
Have a look at these 9 dog breeds that welcome strangers.
Dog Breeds that Welcome Strangers
1. Beagle
Breed Profile
Height: 12 to 15 inches (Miniature: Under 12 inches)
Weight: Under 30 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 years
Beagles are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they feel happy to be surrounded by people due to their pack mentality. They are eager to please their owners and love human interaction, which makes them ideal family pets.
Beagles have a cheerful disposition. These curious dogs approach strangers with a friendly demeanor and a wagging tail. This playful and affectionate breed quickly makes new friends wherever they go. They are generally good with children and other pets.
Beagles are ideal for social households that frequently welcome guests. They have a gentle temperament and require daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
2. Golden Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 21.5 to 24 inches
Weight: 55 to 75 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
One of the most popular dog breeds, Golden Retrievers are loyal and affectionate dogs. Their patient and friendly disposition makes them ideal as family pets. These highly trainable and eager-to-please dogs happily welcome the new guests.
Golden Retrievers are sociable and highly intelligent dogs who serve as fantastic therapy and service dogs. The AKC ranking for this breed is “everyone is my best friend.” They do well with other pets, including dogs, and are well-suited for multi-pet households.
They form strong bonds with their owners. Golden Retrievers are the outgoing and trustworthy fellows who have a joyous and playful approach towards life, says the American Kennel Club.
3. Labrador Retriever
Breed Profile
Height: 21.5 to 24.5 inches
Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
Life Expectancy: 11 to 13 years
Just like their Golden cousins, Labrador Retrievers have a reputation for being friendly with everyone. Labrador Retrievers are known for their playful and energetic personalities. Due to their happy and outgoing nature, they have a welcoming attitude towards strangers.
These affectionate dogs make strong bonds with their favorite humans. Their versatility and adaptability make them suitable for different roles such as therapy work, service, and search and rescue missions.
Labradors love water and make great pets for families who enjoy activities like swimming, hiking, or hunting.
4. Boxer
Breed Profile
Height: 21.5 to 25 inches
Weight: 50 to 80 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
Boxers are medium to large-sized dogs known for their playful and energetic nature. They are loyal and protective dogs who make new friends wherever they go. They are highly trainable and are ideal for active households where they get adequate physical and mental stimulation.
Their expressive faces and mischievous personalities bring smiles to every face they meet. Boxers have an outgoing personality, and they do well with children and adults. They can excitedly jump on other people for getting attention.
Proper training and socialization are required to turn boxers into well-behaved pups. In the absence of proper exercise, they can exhibit destructive behaviors and bark excessively.
5. Irish Setter
Breed Profile
Height: 25 to 27 inches
Weight: 60 to 70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
Irish Setters are large and energetic dogs known for their outgoing demeanor. These playful and friendly dogs have a strong desire to please their humans. They welcome the new guests with a happy face and a wagging tail.
Their joyful demeanor is contagious. It is an active breed that should get enough physical and mental stimulation. A lack of proper exercise can result in destructive behaviors such as excessive barking and chewing.
They have an athletic and sweet nature. They thrive on human interaction, love people, and are the life of the party.
6. Brittany Spaniel
Breed Profile
Height: 17 to 20 inches
Weight: 30 to 40 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
Brittany spaniels are the medium-sized dogs known for their sporting personalities. Due to their affectionate and loyal nature, they make great family companions. Hailing from northwest France, these friendly dogs are not wary of strangers.
They are intelligent and highly trainable dogs. Due to their high energy levels, they are well-suited for active households. Brittany spaniels are athletic and cheerful canines with great endurance and versatility.
Brittany spaniels are always eager to please and make an excellent hunting partner. They ensure to quickly make new friends wherever they go.
7. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Breed Profile
Height: 10 to 12 inches
Weight: Around 30 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 13 years
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are sturdy and small dogs having short legs and a long body. Corgis are playful and affectionate dogs having an outgoing nature. PDSA describes them as happy and fun-loving dogs. Corgis are the stranger-friendly dogs who greet guests with a wagging tail.
Corgis’ distinctive appearance and friendly personalities make them popular among dog lovers. They were bred to be companion dogs, so they are always focused on their humans. Corgis need a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Just because Corgis have short legs, does not mean they cannot run. These dogs are surprisingly fast and energetic. They do shed, and their coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
8. Shih Tzu
Breed Profile
Height: 9 to 10.5 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 18 years
The name “Shih Tzu” means “little lion.” This lapdog snores more than it roars. Shih Tzus are known for their loyal and affectionate nature. They will befriend even a stranger for minor affection. They are great companions for families and individuals.
These eager-to-please dogs easily make new friends wherever they go. Shih Tzus are alert dogs who bark to let you know when someone or something new enters their environment. Proper socialization can make them better behaved when they encounter new situations.
Just like all other breeds, Shih Tzus require regular exercise for physical and mental stimulation. According to PetMD, around 30 minutes of walk and play sessions will suffice.
9. Samoyed
Breed Profile
Height: 19 to 23.5 inches
Weight: 35 to 65 pounds
Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
Samoyed, affectionately known as Sammie, is popular for its friendly and outgoing nature. Sammies are happy to lounge with their humans as much as they love performing a task. They are not wary of strangers and easily make new friends wherever they go.
They get along well with children, other pets, and new faces. Originating from Russia, Samoyeds are known to have a lot of energy and a high prey drive. You need to train them properly to keep them from chasing small cats.
Samoyeds need plenty of exercise to channel their inner energy. Physical activity can include running, long walks, and active play sessions.
Conclusion
Many dogs are known for their friendly demeanor and affectionate nature. They love making new friends and thrive on human interaction. If you are planning to adopt a sociable canine with a happy-go-lucky attitude, one of the breeds mentioned in this article will be a great fit for you.
