Some dog breeds are not just pets; they tend to stay with you through thick and thin. Ever since their domestication, dogs have been offering comfort, companionship, loyalty, and protection to mankind. Evidence shows they have been living with us for more than 14,000 years, as per Four Paws International.
Friendly dog breeds are more sociable and affectionate than others. They are well-socialized and can adapt to different environments. These warm-hearted canines do well with kids and other dogs and happily accompany you everywhere.
Such breeds make good family dogs and are easy to train, but not excitable all the time. Who does not love an active and playful dog, but a dog must be trained to understand boundaries and enjoy play sessions without getting rowdy.
These 10 dog breeds are awesome and make great friends with everyone.
Dog Breeds That Are Awesome And Make Great Friends
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a graceful and affectionate breed with a gentle demeanor. These patient dogs want to be friends with everyone, regardless of age. Cavaliers tend to behave nicely around kids and other dogs.

Why They’re Awesome
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were bred for companionship, so they genuinely love their people. The little munchkins demand lots of attention and do not like being left alone. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are one of the friendliest dogs; they love snuggles and enjoy playing with kids.

Energy Levels
These paw-some pooches love relaxing on a couch, but at the same time, they possess the energy to enjoy a play session outside.
Exercise Needs
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might not be the most athletic breed, but it needs regular exercise to stay healthy. Take your Spaniel for a walk around the neighborhood or engage them in a game of fetch.
2. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in America. Goldens have an aura that exudes friendliness and loyalty. These social butterflies love being surrounded by people and make great companions for families.

Why They’re Awesome
The American Kennel Club describes them as devoted and intelligent pooches. These fur-tastic dogs are amazing with kids and other dogs. Golden rarely causes trouble around the house and keeps you entertained. They adore their owners and love playing fetch.
Energy Levels
Goldens are high-energy dogs, but have a calm side as well. They make a great fit for active families who can keep up with their energy.
Exercise Needs
Golden Retrievers require 40 to 60 minutes of exercise every day. You can take these furry friends on long runs, bike rides, or hunting trips. If this Sporting breed does not get enough exercise, it is likely to become destructive.
3. Pug

These little mutts are one of the most affectionate breeds in the world. Pugs are the mischievous little dogs with big personalities. They are loving and charming dogs that love to play and spend time with their humans.

Why They’re Awesome
Pugs are highly social and get along nicely with kids and other dogs. These goofy dogs always try to win hearts with their endearing and playful antics. Ignoring a Pug for more than a few hours means you are hurting their feelings. Their big sparkling eyes and wrinkled faces give human-like expressions.
Energy Levels
Pugs are moderately energetic, and given the opportunity, they can spend the entire day lying on a sofa, relaxing.
Exercise Needs
Pugs need around one hour of moderate exercise every day. Physical activity can include short walks and play sessions. However, don’t over-exercise your Pug as it is a brachycephalic breed, prone to respiratory issues.
4. Boston Terrier
The “American Gentleman,” Boston Terrier, is characterized by its Tuxedo-like coat. These affectionate pooches have bright and friendly personalities with a silly streak. Their big, round eyes sparkle with curiosity and mischief.
Why They’re Awesome
Boston Terriers love making new friends and are always ready for fun games. These adaptable and easy-to-train canines will steal your heart with a goofy smile. Boston Terriers make wonderful playmates for your kids, but make sure the play does not get too boisterous, as these pooches are small in size.
Energy Levels
Boston Terriers are high-energy dogs who thrive on human interaction. They can live in various environments, including apartments.
Exercise Needs
Boston Terriers need at least one hour of exercise every day. Some enjoy a brisk walk once or twice a day, whereas others like running and playing.
5. Collie
Have you ever read the books or seen movies about Lassie? If yes, you already know Collies are incredibly intelligent, loving, and loyal. Collies are herding dogs who thrive on companionship and make excellent family pets.
Why They’re Awesome
Collies are sociable and outgoing dogs; they are a perfect match for homes with children. They are intelligent and eager to please, with high trainability. Collies possess impressively striking coats that require regular grooming.
Energy Levels
These cuddle muffins are full of energy and need lots of space to run and exercise. They struggle in small spaces and apartment living.
Exercise Needs
Collies need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. You can exercise them through games of fetch, running, playing, and daily walks.
6. Irish Setter
Irish Setters are the carefree and spunky dudes, known for their affectionate personality. These outgoing dogs are prized by many dog lovers due to their swiftness and grace.
Why They’re Awesome
Irish Setters are devoted fellows who love children, other pets, and even cats. They are eager to become friends with strangers as well. These paw-some pals love to play with their humans and are eager to please, so you can train them easily.
Energy Levels
Irish Setters are high-energy dogs and sometimes give the impression as if they are doing their own thing.
Exercise Needs
Irish Setters ideally need over two hours of exercise every day for physical and mental stimulation, according to the PDSA.
7. Newfoundland
These fuzzballs might intimidate you at a glance due to their large size and imposing appearance. But Newfies are the gentle giants with a sweet and patient temperament.
Why They’re Awesome
Newfoundland’s gentle demeanor and calmness make perfect partners for everyone, including kids, dogs, and dog-friendly cats. Newfies are loyal and sociable dogs, often nicknamed “nanny dogs” due to their gentle behavior with children.
Energy Levels
Despite being huge, Newfoundland dogs are not overly energetic. They are extremely intelligent and eager to please, which makes training a breeze. But training and socialization should start early.

Exercise Needs
Newfies do not require extensive physical activity, but they do require regular exercise to stay healthy. They enjoy swimming, long walks, hikes, and flyball.
8. Poodle

Poodle is another friendly dog breed, loved for its intelligence and hypoallergenic coat. They are best suited for allergy sufferers due to the minimal shedding factor. All three Poodle varieties, standard, miniature, or toy, are smart, loyal, and people-oriented.
Why They’re Awesome
Poodles are lovable and devoted canines who excel at learning new tricks, mastering obedience training, and competing in dog sports like agility. They love playing with kids, racing with other dogs in the dog park, and receiving warm hugs.

Energy Levels
They have high energy levels and are known for their athleticism.
Exercise Needs
Poodles require one hour of exercise every day to stay healthy and fit. Physical activities can include running, swimming, and retrieving.
9. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were originally bred to be the royal companions. These sweet and gentle family dogs are quite sociable and thrive on human interaction. These fluffballs make perfect partners due to their adaptable, loving, and charming personalities.
Why They’re Awesome
Shih Tzus love making new friends and hanging out with their favorite humans. They do exceptionally well with children and other dogs. These snuggly canines make excellent playmates for your kids and have outgoing personalities.

Energy Levels
Shih Tzus are moderate-energy dogs. Their easygoing nature and small size make them perfect for apartment living.
Exercise Needs
Shih Tzus require half an hour to one hour of daily exercise. They are intelligent and eager to please canines, but have a stubborn streak, so training can be a bit challenging. PetPlan recommends lots of play time and short and fun training sessions for these pooches.
10. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are tenacious, brave, and clever dogs who were originally bred as fighters. These muscular and agile canines look tough, but are softies at heart. They are sweet-tempered, friendly, and playful.
Why They’re Awesome
Staffordshire Bull Terriers make excellent family pets due to their loving and gentle disposition. These cuddle pets are patient around kids and other dogs. Their athleticism, protective nature, and reputation as “nanny dogs” make them valued among dog lovers.
Energy Levels
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are lively and energetic pooches who love getting involved in family activities.
Exercise Needs
Staffies need around two hours of daily activity for physical and mental stimulation. Exercise can include walking, running, or playing in a fenced yard.
Conclusion
Numerous awesome dog breeds, such as the Golden Retriever, Collie, and Boston Terrier, are known for their friendly disposition. Their intelligence, eagerness to please, and loving personalities make them awesome and make them great family pets.
If you are planning to adopt a friendly dog, ensure proper training and socialization before bringing your furry friend home. Most importantly, reciprocate their love and affection, and take care of their grooming and exercise needs.