A dog with a death stare or a temper that makes others think 10 times before they approach is one whole challenge. It means you have to justify its attitude to anyone who comes over and make sure it doesn’t scare off the kids.
But these problems won’t exist if you know about dog breeds with friendly behaviors and get one with a welcoming aura. Some dogs are wired to be chill, social, and easy to trust, even around strangers and toddlers.
If you want a friendly companion, let us walk you through dog breeds that are known to be genuinely friendly.
Dog Breeds With Friendly Behaviors
1. Poodle
Poodles were originally bred in Germany as water retrievers to help hunters collect game from lakes and rivers. Due to such conditioning, these dogs are smart, carry themselves with dignity, and are quick to listen, as per the AKC.
These dogs have a people-loving nature, and that trait shows how emotionally tuned in they are. This friendly dog will notice when you’re down, excited, or tired, and respond accordingly.
If your dog is barking at everyone and everything, that’s a problem. But luckily, this affectionate breed is not the kind that gets snappy or aggressive without reason. If you give Poodles basic structure at home, they stay polite with guests and around kids.
2. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs began as pocket-size companions for 19th-century English laceworkers who settled in France. Today, it’s one of the most adored pet dogs because when it opens its mouth to smile, you feel compelled to return that cuteness with a smile.Â
Don’t be fooled by the stern face because Frenchies are among the friendliest dog breeds. This outgoing dog greets visitors with a relaxed posture, quiet snorts, and a gentle tail wiggle, which shows that it prefers company over conflict.
When annoyed, this playful dog huffs and turns away, but hardly snaps. Interestingly, French Bulldogs are too friendly to work as guard dogs, and many dog owners joke that a Frenchie would let a burglar leave while smiling down at him.
3. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu’s roots trace back to Imperial China, where palace breeders refined the little lion dog as a lap warmer for Ming and Qing emperors, as per PetMD. That’s the reason it’s commonly called the lion dog, and it still makes an excellent family pet and one of the friendliest small dog breeds.
And because this social breed was always treated as a royal companion, it has carried that poise and calmness to date. Most Shih Tzus greet family visitors with bright eyes and a gentle demeanor, which means they don’t get startled at the door.
If you piss a Shih Tzu dog, it will turn its head and stage a dignified ‘royal freeze’ which signals displeasure without drama.
4. Havanese
Havanese are Cuba’s native lap dogs that sailed over with Spanish traders, and they soon became the island’s velcro dogs. They stick close to every household member, welcome others with bright eyes and a soft tail, so they don’t feel threatened.
This loving dog loves human companionship so much that PDSA states that it wants company more than space. It will love spending time with kids and other pets without picking fights.
You can also cord their silky coat to make tassel-like ropes, giving it an eye-catching look which is rare in toy breeds. The Havanese might need a little extra care with grooming and training, but they’re not overly energetic or exercise-demanding, which makes them a great choice for families.
5. Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier, i.e., the American Gentleman, originated in Massachusetts to be a companion. So naturally, it’s a charmer temperament-wise and is the friendliest dog breed. They enjoy attention and won’t hesitate to smile at anyone willing to pet them.
These affectionate dogs usually do well with kids, other pets, older people, and even new faces. A good dog should be cool with people walking in and out of their space.
The Boston Terrier’s round, oversized eyes broadcast its every mood, so it’s easy to spot stress and settle them before trouble.
Boston Terriers can be a little protective, but that’s only because they adore their humans. Their loyal nature and easygoing personality make them an excellent first dog for new pet owners.
6. Maltese
The Maltese are adorable dogs, calm enough to be lap dogs. It hails from the sunny island of Malta, where it was prized as a portable comforter, and its history goes back to at least 2,000 years, according to Pawlicy. It is one of the most beautiful dogs, and its sociable personality is a plus for pet owners.
Centuries later, its job is unchanged. They stick close to be lap dogs. Their soft eyes and loose shoulders signal the greeters that aggression is rare around here, and they can pet these furballs.
A distinct thing about these puppies is that their pure-white, floor-length coat has no undercoat, so they don’t shed much, and grooming is easier.
Maltese are smart little dogs, and after centuries of being human companions, they’ve mastered the art of getting what they want. That’s why consistent training is key with this clever breed.
7. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are one of the friendliest dog breeds, and their roots go back to Arctic sledge-pulling dogs. They were later miniaturized in Germany’s Pomerania region and were made fashion-sized by Queen Victoria in the 1890s.
Today’s poms pack the same big-dog heritage into 3-7 pounds and are more eager to mingle than menace. They are extroverted, alert, and approach others with perked ears and happy twirls.
Despite their toy size, Poms keep a bold watchdog bark they inherited from their larger Spitz kin. But that isn’t scary because once they scan the house and surroundings, they settle beside you like tiny cuddle balls.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are a loyal breed that first earned their keep as nimble rat-hunters in 19th-century Yorkshire mills, as they could squeeze into tight corners where other dogs couldn’t.
Their working past made them bold yet people-focused, and it shows. A well-socialized Yorkshire Terrier behaves politely around people with its eyes looking bright and a confident trot.
These quiet dogs have the famous floor-length steel-blue and gold coat, which is silky and almost shed-free like human hair. These dogs can adapt well to different environments, including city life.
They’re great for all kinds of families; whether it’s a young couple with kids, empty nesters, or even senior citizens.
9. Miniature Pinscher
Just like Yorkshire Terriers, Min Pins were bred to chase rats out of barns and homes, but in Germany. They still carry that fearless attitude, but around humans, a Pinscher pup is surprisingly affectionate.
These dogs are watchful, but once they know you, they’re loyal and love staying around you. These buddies form a strong bond with the person around and are well-mannered.
If they sense something is off, they bark but settle down soon. Min Pins have a standout high-stepping walk called the hackney gait, which gives them a prancing look.
10. Pug
Pugs come from Imperial China, where they were bred for human companionship. But later, they sailed to Europe with Dutch traders and became popular with the royal family of the Netherlands, known as the House of Orange.
Today’s pugs are gentle and social, evident from their soft facial expressions and a strong sense of love for their humans. These dogs enjoy being around people and get along with kids.
Although they don’t get angry easily, if that happens, they snort quietly instead of wreaking havoc. Notably, they have forehead wrinkles that make them appear worried or grumpy, but their personality is affectionate.
Conclusion
Affectionate dogs don’t need constant reminders to behave. They settle in well and make people feel safe. If your dog has a positive aura, there’s less stress and fewer awkward moments with the guest. These are the friendly companions who do not let their owners get bored.
If you’re thinking about getting a puppy, pick one with an easygoing nature, and you won’t have to second-guess their behavior or explain them to everyone. These gentle dogs are easier to keep, especially for first-time owners.
