They don’t call dogs “man’s best friend” for nothing. These loyal companions have been living alongside humans for more than 15,000 years, offering love, protection, and friendship, as stated by Buster Box. What’s even more amazing is that many dogs extend that same warmth to other animals, too.
Whether it’s curling up with a cat, playing gently with kids, or coexisting peacefully in a busy household, some pups seem to have an extra dose of charm that makes them get along with just about everyone.
Of course, every dog is unique—just like people. Personality, training, and early socialization play a huge role in shaping how a dog behaves around others. But certain breeds were originally developed to work closely with humans and sometimes even with other animals, making them naturally more sociable.
So, if you’re dreaming of adding a four-legged friend who’s likely to blend seamlessly into a multi-pet or family household, you’ll definitely want to know which breeds are known for their easygoing, affectionate nature.
Key Takeaways
Many of these loyal breeds are not only devoted to their families but also get along well with other pets, making them ideal for multi-animal households.
Their loyalty and affection ensure they thrive as constant companions, whether in apartments, family homes, or with seniors.
Choosing the right breed means finding a balance between companionship, adaptability, and harmony with the other animals in your home.
Most Of These Dog Breeds Are Great With Other Animals
1. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu has a royal past, first bred in Tibet and later cherished by Chinese royalty. Known as the “Lion Dog,” this toy breed was created to be a loyal companion. Shih Tzus are happiest when they’re close to their people, so they don’t enjoy being left alone for too long.
Shih Tzus have an affectionate and gentle nature. They love cuddles, thrive on attention, and enjoy curling up on laps.
Their laid-back personality makes them great for apartment living or homes without large yards. Unlike some breeds that love to dig or chase, a Shih Tzu finds joy in being by your side and soaking up affection.
Hypoallergenic and great for people with allergies
Thrive in multi-pet households and get along well with cats
Social dogs, rarely territorial or aggressive
Playful without being overly energetic—great for families with kids
2. Biewer Terrier
The Biewer Terrier is a rare toy breed with a fascinating history. This breed began in Germany in 1984 when Yorkshire Terrier breeders Werner and Gertrude Biewer produced tricolor puppies from a recessive gene.
The American Kennel Club only recognized the Biewer Terrier in 2021, making it one of the newest official breeds. With their long, silky tri-colored coats and plume-like tails, these dogs are elegant little companions.
Biewers are playful, happy-go-lucky dogs that keep their puppy-like charm well into adulthood. Despite their small size, they are sturdy and athletic dogs, and are even known for their ability to hunt small vermin. You’ll often see them carrying toys in their mouths, showing off their fun and childlike nature.
Loyal and devoted to their families
Friendly with kids, pets, and even strangers
Rarely aggressive, but quick to alert their owners
Long lifespan and great for first-time dog parents
Lighthearted “jokers” with a charming, whimsical personality
3. Labrador Retriever
It’s no surprise that the Labrador Retriever is seen in this list. These loving dogs are really one of the friendliest dog breeds out there. Originally bred to work alongside fishermen and hunters, they love spending time with people and thrive in family life.
Labs are playful, affectionate, and adaptable. They get along well with other dogs and pets, often making friends quickly. While they are gentle with smaller animals, early socialization and supervised introductions are still important.
With their high energy, they need plenty of exercise and play time—fetch, swimming, or long walks are perfect for keeping them happy.
Sweet, loyal, and affectionate with families
Highly social and friendly with other pets
Non-aggressive and gentle, even with smaller animals
Always ready to make new friends—human or animal
4. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is often called a miniature version of the Greyhound. Sleek, elegant, and fast, they have been companions to nobility for centuries.
This breed even appeared in Renaissance paintings and was adored in the Roman Empire more than 2,000 years ago. They may look delicate, but they are agile little athletes who can sprint up to 25 miles per hour.
Italian Greyhounds are affectionate lapdogs but also playful and lively. They enjoy cuddling with their families and are gentle by nature. While they can be shy with strangers, they thrive on love and attention from those they trust. Because of their slender build, they should be supervised during play to avoid injuries.
Friendly and affectionate with their family
Gentle and social with other dogs, and often cats too
Playful but prefers soft, careful playtime
Love cuddling and staying close to their people
5. English Toy Spaniel
The English Toy Spaniel, also known as the King Charles Spaniel in the U.K., has a royal history dating back to the 17th century. Bred as companions for kings and nobles, they were especially adored by King Charles II, as mentioned by PetMD.
With their silky coats, dark, expressive eyes, and gentle charm, these dogs were born to be lap companions.
Calm, affectionate, and playful, English Toy Spaniels are great family pets. They are friendly with children, strangers, and other animals, making them ideal for multi-pet households.
Though intelligent and eager to please, they can sometimes be a little stubborn. Consistent training and attention help them stay happy and well-behaved.
Bred as lapdogs for British royalty
Adapt well to apartment living and quieter households
Friendly with kids, strangers, and other pets
Can be willful at times, so consistent training is important
6. Havanese
The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and the only breed native to the country. Once called the Havana Silk Dog or Spanish Silk Poodle, their ancestors were brought from Spain in the 1600s.
During the Cuban Revolution, families fleeing to the U.S. brought these little companions with them, helping the breed gain popularity worldwide.
These friendly dogs thrive on companionship and love being part of family life. With their adaptable nature, they fit well into city apartments or larger homes. Their low prey drive and good manners also make them a great match for families with other pets.
Playful, entertaining, and highly social
Friendly with kids, strangers, and other pets
Adaptable to many living situations
Long, silky, and low-shedding, often considered hypoallergenic.
7. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is an ancient toy breed with a mysterious history. Despite the name, many believe they originated in China before becoming favorites in Japanese Imperial courts.
They were often gifted to nobility and kept by Buddhist monks, which gave them a strong association with royalty and elegance. With their silky coats, expressive eyes, and graceful appearance, they have long been admired as lap companions.
Gentle, affectionate, and calm, the Japanese Chin is one of the best dog breeds to have as an indoor pet. They are often described as “feline-like” because of their quiet and graceful demeanor.
Chins love companionship and thrive when close to their families. They are not overly energetic, which makes them a good fit for smaller spaces and for homes with pets who may be shy around playful dogs.
Affectionate and calm lap companions
Friendly with other dogs, cats, and smaller pets
Adaptable to apartment living and quieter households
Known for their silky coat and aristocratic look
8. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world. Originating in Scotland in the 1800s, these medium-sized dogs were first bred as gundogs to retrieve waterfowl.
Today, they are admired for their beauty, loyalty, and versatility. Known for their golden coats and friendly faces, Goldens are also among the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. year after year.
Golden Retrievers are intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please. They are easy to train and thrive in family life.
With their calm temperament and social nature, they are great with children and make excellent companions for other pets. They are energetic dogs, happiest when swimming, fetching, or simply playing outdoors.
Outgoing and gentle with kids and adults
Eager-to-please and easy to train
Energetic and playful, love outdoor activities
Loyal, affectionate, and adaptable family companions
9. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher, or “Min Pin,” is a bold and spirited toy breed from Germany. Despite their size, they are known as the “King of Toys” for their confident and regal presence.
Contrary to popular belief, they are not smaller Doberman Pinschers. Instead, historians believe Min Pins were developed from German Pinschers, Dachshunds, and Italian Greyhounds, according to the AKC.
Min Pins are energetic, curious, and fearless. They are affectionate with their families and love to stay active. Their proud, high-stepping gait makes them instantly recognizable. Originally bred to hunt rats, these little dogs are vigilant, always ready to protect their space.
Playful, loving, and full of personality
Fearless and confident despite their small size
Active and alert, originally bred as rat hunters
Curious and energetic, need mental stimulation
Conclusion
Choosing between different dog breeds is never simple, especially when you’re looking for one that will fit in with both your family and other pets. From tiny lapdogs to gentle giants, each pup has its own personality and needs.
The important factors to think about include your lifestyle and the size of your house or backyard. A playful breed might love a busy dog park, while a calmer, more patient dog could be perfect for quieter homes.
No matter which breed you fall in love with, remember that every dog deserves care, training, and socialization. Whether you adopt from a breeder or open your heart to a rescue, the right match will bring endless love and joy.
Looking for other breeds that are great with animals? You can also check out the Cocker Spaniel, German Shepherd, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Border Collie, Irish Setter, Great Dane, Corgi, Beagle, Pug, and Chihuahua.
