9 friendliest dogs ranked by pet expert — 1 is perfect for families
Every dog has the potential to be friendly if trained correctly as a pup, but there are some breeds that are naturally more affectionate and gentle than others. To find out which stand out the most, I asked a pet expert, and they revealed nine of the friendliest dogs, including a lesser-known breed that could be an ideal choice for families.
Pet expert and CEO of Pets4Homes, Axel Lagercrantz, said: “Each dog breed has unique traits, but there is a collection that come out on top in terms of friendliness and suitability as family pets. Choosing the right breed should always take into account your family’s lifestyle, activity level, and housing situation.”
Is your dog on the list? Find out below.
9. Irish Setter
Axel shared: “The first that comes to mind is the Irish setter. Originally bred to help ‘set’ game for hunters, their origins as working companion dogs mean they are exuberant, energetic and compatible with people.”
The Irish Setter is a fantastic dog to have around children, and they make a great family playmate.
The only downside to owning this breed is its need for exercise and they can be quite stubborn, according to Pooch and Mutt.
(Image: Getty)
8. Labrador Retriever
Labrador retrievers are similar to the Irish Setter, said the pet expert. “Bred as fishing assistants in Newfoundland, they’ve since become one of the world’s most popular family dogs because of their gentle temperament, intelligence and the ease with which they can be trained.”
Ross Hallifax from pet insurance specialist Purely Pets agreed and commented: “Friendly, loyal and outgoing, Labradors are also great family pets.
“With a good-natured temperament and high intelligence, they are highly trainable, sociable pets.”
(Image: Getty)
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The popular Cavalier King Charles Spaniel also made the list of the friendliest dogs. This pooch is known to be gentle, trustworthy and good with young children.
“They love to be fussed over and make great lap dogs,” said Axel.
Speaking on the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Ross shared: “Gentle, affectionate and social, they are excellent companion dogs and form strong bonds with their families.”
(Image: Getty)
6. Beagle
According to the Pets 4 Home expert, “The Beagle is a happy-go-lucky little dog.”
Beagles were once bred to work in packs. They thrive on companionship and are well-suited to life with children and other pets.
Ross from Purely Pets added: “A curious, friendly and sociable breed, they make excellent family pets and are good with children and other dogs.”
(Image: Getty)
5. Boxers
Boxers are another very friendly breed due to their guarding instincts and affectionate personality.
They thrive in a loving environment and are deeply patient and protective, making them a great option for families.
According to Boxer Rescue, their greatest flaws are having too much energy, they can have dominance issues, flatulence, drool, and genetic medical issues.
(Image: Getty)
