Nobody ever wants a dog; they want a friend. A buddy who wags their tail when we walk through the door. A gentle presence who knows when we want/need cheering up. That’s why friendly dog breeds are so cherished by all dog lovers around the world. They share our homes and more than that, they become a part of our life story.
If you are welcoming a puppy into your family, or looking for a playful dog for your kids, or hoping to find a friendly breed that bonds easily with other dogs, you will want to know the friendliest dog breeds around. Don’t take them as just dogs that greet you with a wag. These are affectionate dogs that make friends wherever they go. Loyal, warm, and forever ready for a cuddle.
Most Friendliest Dog Breeds
We have compiled some of the friendliest dog breeds that bring the biggest joy to your life.
1. Border Collies
Border Collies are best known for being so intelligent and agile. They are also incredibly affectionate when given the chance to flourish in a loving home. They are a high-energy and highly trainable breed that bonds quickly with their humans.
Why they are so friendly?
Originally bred for herding, they are sharp, loyal, and love obedience training and dog sports. However, due to their herding background, you need to teach them that your kids are not something to be herded. Once they trust you, they stick by your side like a shadow.
These smart dogs need mental and physical stimulation. But in return, they give endless love and energy. They are just perfect for families who want an active canine buddy that can be both a teammate and an active friend.
2. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retrievers are the poster dogs for friendliness. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), the Lab is one of the most beloved dogs in the U.S. and one of the friendliest dogs you will ever meet. These dogs are as loyal as they come. Always wagging, always watching, and always ready for a play session, or to play fetch, or just rest their head on your lap.
Why they are so friendly?
Labs were originally bred to help fishermen and hunters. But their gentle nature and strong bonds with humans turned them into one of the most popular dog breeds of all time. Their loving nature and intelligence, and a sheer desire for human interaction make them great family dogs. And a bonus if you have children.
Due to their sweet nature and high energy, they are perfect for houses where they can run, play, and cuddle at night.
3. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is the warm hug of the dog world. Always smiling, always demanding attention, and always ready to meet new friends. Humans or other animals. And that cheeky smile is just too adorable to miss. They can really turn a sad situation into a light and breezy one with that smile.
Why they are so friendly?
They are an affectionate breed with a reputation for having a gentle demeanor with kids and being tolerant of other pets. Their easygoing personality and loving eyes make them a top choice for therapy and service work.
More than just a pretty coat, this is a dog that lives to please. A Golden loves spending time with its family and enjoys play, praise, and presence. No wonder they are a classic example of a friendly breed.
4. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Tiny dogs, big personality. Corgi breeds are the class clowns; they are outgoing dogs with a perfect mix of affection and loyalty. Plus, they quickly become the heart of any home.
Why they are so friendly?
Despite being small dogs, they have a bold and sweet nature. Their main job was herding, which means they are naturally alert, smart, and deeply tuned into their humans. Their friendly dispositions and eagerness to be part of family activities make them good family dogs. They get along well with kids, other pets, and absolutely love a good play session in the yard.
5. Newfoundland
The gentle giants of this list. Newfoundland or Newfies are big dogs, yes… but their hearts are even bigger. AKC mentions they are “strikingly large and powerful working dogs of heavy bones”. So, if you love a big, fluffy doggo with a unique personality, this breed must be it.
Why they are so friendly?
They have a sweet and calm temperament, and they are often known as “nanny dogs”, because of how good they are with small children. Their gentle and well-behaved persona makes them one of the most affectionate breeds on the planet.
Though they may need some moderate exercise and some grooming, their patience and love for their owners make them truly one of the best pets you can have. Don’t let the size fool you, this is a friendly breed through and through.
6. Cocker Spaniel
Those silky ears and expressive eyes are the highlight of this breed. Cocker Spaniels are soft and loving and ready to be part of every family moment. They were bred to hunt dogs… yes, really! Due to that small dog vibe, they can perfectly keep up in the field, but nowadays, they are just your friendly American gentleman.
Why they are so friendly?
This popular dog is known for its calm temperament and ability to bond deeply with all family members. Kids and adults alike. They show playfulness, are gentle, and respond well to obedience training and performance activities such as agility training. Plus, they are really close to their owners, highly adaptable, and love cuddles and companionship.
7. Pug
Pugs are the ultimate dog comedians. They are charming with a short coat, have that goofy, mushy, wrinkly face, and are full of love. It is safe to say this dog lives to make you smile.
Why they are so friendly?
Pugs love people. Period. There is no other explanation for them being so friendly. They are highly adaptable, easygoing, and thrive in homes where they are considered a member and part of the family. They were once the mischievous friends of the Chinese royalty, and they still carry that aura.
Their small dog frame carries a big personality. They are great with small children, friendly with other dogs, and perfectly happy lounging on the couch or playing in the park. Truly, they are one of the most happy go lucky dogs you will ever meet.
8. Samoyed
A snow-white cloud of happiness. The Samoyed is as friendly as it looks. According to AKC, their hometown is Siberia, which makes them even more mysterious, as they are built to handle the minus 60 degrees temperature.
Born to work closely with humans in the cold climates, these smiley dogs are social, loyal, and always ready to play with you. They form strong bonds with people and love to be part of the pack.
Why they are so friendly?
These dogs are beautiful. Very beautiful, in fact. But they are also very affectionate, smart, and always looking to spread joy. Great companions for kids and other pets, Samoyeds are made for families.
9. Shih Tzu
A little dog with a royal past and a heart full of love. Shih Tzus are the kind of friendly dogs who prefer laps over long walks and affection over adventure. WebMD describes them as dogs with long silky hair, short legs, and big soulful eyes.
Why they are so friendly?
They were bred solely to be intelligent companions in China, which makes them deeply affectionate and devoted. This small dog is perfect for those who want a gentle and lovely dog who has a knack for playfulness. They are also generally low maintenance; you won’t have to spend too much time on their exercise needs and training.
Their love is quiet but lasting. Plus, they will bond well with your kids, and if there are other dogs in the house.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a good family dog or a buddy for your kids, there is one dog perfect for you on this list. You can also consider some other options such as Bernese Mountain dog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Boston Terrier, Irish Setter, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Beagle, Poodle, etc.
But you should know that the friendliest dog does not come that way; they are matured through time, play, training, love, and an active lifestyle. You give them care, cuddles, and connection, and they will give you their whole heart.
So go ahead. Find your new friendly best friend.
