These Are the Friendliest Dog Breeds

Looking for man's best friend? Try one of these friendliest dog breeds.

24 Friendliest Dog Breeds for Your Family

Friendliest Dog Breeds, Ranked — Read on to see which pet experts agree are the friendliest dog breeds.

Sure, dogs are known for being man's best friend, but not every pup will be the perfect match for your lifestyle. There are lots of things to consider when adding a new dog to the family, including size, age and activity level of the pooch and of your existing family members.

But one of the most important aspects to consider is the dog's level of friendliness. Read on to see which pet experts agree are the friendliest dog breeds.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador retrievers, commonly known as labradors or labs, are popular in Canada and the United Kingdom. And in the United States, they are the most popular breed of dog, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). "Many children have grown up sleeping with their heads nestled against these family-friendly breeds, who are typically more tolerant of small children than many smaller breeds," says Sally Morgan, author of "Dances of the Heart - Connecting with Animals" and a holistic physical therapist who works with pets and people.

"These breeds love to play fetch in the yard, love to swim, love to romp with children, and have provided decades of fun and love for many American families," Morgan adds. "These dogs also make wonderful therapy dogs because of their love for humans and easygoing attitudes."

Labrador Retriever Breed Summary

Labrador Retriever Overview

Temperament: Friendly, active, outgoing

Height: 22.5-24.5 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)

Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 55-70 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

Labrador Retriever in Action

Friendly black lab GIF — Labs are among the most popular breeds of dog in Canada, the U.K. and the U.S.

Golden Retriever

While it is hard to rank which dogs are most popular, golden retrievers are also at the top of the list.

According to the AKC, goldens are "an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty [that] stands among America’s most popular dog breeds" who have "an endearing love of life." Nearly every expert we spoke with listed the golden retriever as one of the friendliest dog breeds, too. "[They are] very friendly and outgoing social butterflies. Goldens seem to never quite grow up and always keep the happy-go-lucky attitude of young puppies," says Steffi Trott, a professional dog trainer with SpiritDog Training in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

As a veterinarian of 21 years, Jim D. Carlson has seen tons of great dogs and some favorite breeds, but goldens top his list. "As a dad, I would count the golden retriever as a top choice for the best family dog and friendliest patient. The golden's sweet, eager-to-please personality is topped with a remarkably easygoing nature," Carlson says. "These dogs are naturally in tune with owners, fun loving and nearly human-like in their care, concern, and compassion for children, adults, family and strangers."

Golden Retriever Breed Summary

A happy golden retriever resting on grass

Golden Retriever Overview

Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, devoted

Height: 23-24 inches (male), 21.5-22.5 inches (male)

Weight: 65-75 pounds (male), 55-65 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

Golden Retriever in Action

Newfoundland

If you're looking for what pet experts would consider a gentle giant, then the Newfoundland could be the right dog for your family. They are so famously friendly that they are often referred to as the nanny dog. "They’ve been called 'nature’s nannies' for their innate love of children," says Sadie Cornelius of Canine Journal. "The sweet, gentle-giant Newfoundland, or Newfie as it’s commonly called, is the perfect accompaniment to families with room to romp as they tend to drool and shed — a lot — though they’re such great companions, you’ll hardly even notice."

Their large size is worth noting as the AKC says, "the massive Newfoundland is a strikingly large, powerful working dog of heavy bone and dignified bearing." A male can weigh up to 150 pounds, and female pups can weigh up to 120 pounds. But as long as you have space, these beautiful dogs are an excellent choice.

Newfoundland Breed Summary

Newfoundland Overview

Temperament: Sweet, patient, devoted

Height: 28 inches (average male), 26 inches (average female)

Weight: 130-150 pounds (male), 100-120 pounds (female)

Life Expectancy: 9-10 years

Newfie in Action

Newfie puppy eating GIF — Don't let this Newfie pup fool you — male Newfoundlands often grow to almost 150 pounds.

Standard Poodle

Another large dog that the folks at the Canine Journal consider one of the friendliest is the standard poodle. "They’re smart, gentle and make good playmates for children," Cornelius says. "Poodles are also hypoallergenic which makes them great for families with allergies."

Plus, they can sport some fascinating haircuts that other breeds would seemingly never tolerate. "The poodle stands proudly among dogdom’s true aristocrats. Beneath the curly, hypoallergenic coat is an elegant athlete and companion for all reasons and seasons," according to the AKC.

While the larger breed — the standard poodle — is considered a great option for families with kids, the smaller versions are less so, especially for families with young children. "Toy and miniature poodles are not usually a great fit, as they can be high-strung and nervous," Cornelius says.

Standard Poodle Breed Summary

Poodle Overview

Temperament: Active, proud, very smart

Height: Over 15 inches

Weight: 60-70 pounds (male), 40-50 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 10-18 years

Standard Poodle in Action

Standard poodle playing with balls GIF — Standard poodles love balls.

Saint Bernard

If you grew up in the '90s, you'll remember falling in love with St. Bernard dogs thanks to the “Beethoven” movies. If you didn't, let’s catch you up: The Newton family gets an adorable puppy that quickly grows up to be a giant dog. They name him Beethoven, and the sweet dog gets into all kinds of adventures, including taking down a local vet who is up to no good. Like the fictionalized character, Saint Bernards are known for being big softies. They're famously watchful, patient and charming.

"These dogs were originally bred to be farm and watchdogs in the French Alps. Their use as avalanche dogs started through the concern and interest the dogs took in their masters' well-being," says Trott. "The dogs were never specifically trained to complete search and rescue operations; instead, the young dogs came along on rescues and learned from the older, experienced ones."

A St. Bernard will bring lots of love to your home, and they'll always keep a watchful eye on family members.

Saint Bernard Breed Summary

Saint Bernard Overview

Temperament: Playful, charming, inquisitive

Height: 28-30 inches (males), 26-28 inches (female)

Weight: 140-180 pounds (male), 120-140 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 8-10 years

Saint Bernards in Action

Saint Bernards walking stick GIF — Saint Bernards are from the western Alps in Italy and Switzerland.

Whippet

If a medium-sized dog seems like a better fit for your family's needs, you'll want to consider a whippet to see if they could be the perfect dog for your home. Whippets are also known as the "poor man’s racehorse" for their quick speed and sleek, sweet faces.

"I get to see lots of doggos, but I've fallen in love with whippets," says Marissa Rocheleau, who runs Mutt Menagerie, a doggy daycare in Fernandina Beach, Florida. "They are medium-sized, easy to groom and super friendly.”

Whippet Breed Summary

Whippet Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, playful, calm

Height: 19-22 inches (male), 18-21 inches (female)

Weight: 25-40 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Whippet in Action

Whippet puppy GIF — Whippets are closely related to greyhounds.

Greyhound

The greyhound is another sleek, medium-sized dog that experts recommended for their friendly natures. "Greyhounds are excellent family dogs who have a sense of gratitude toward their families and a laidback outlook on life," says Carlson. "Greyhounds are often used in animal hospitals as blood donors for other dogs and maintain their calm personality throughout most of life's ups and downs. You can always count on a greyhound's friendliness and calm demeanor when out and about."

Despite being famous for their highly athletic nature, greyhounds are just as happy to hang out around the house and cuddle. "Greyhounds like two things: running and sleeping. Unless they have their daily 5-minute spurt of energy, you will find a greyhound mostly interested in snuggling up with you in a warm place," says Trott. "Greyhounds are very friendly with all people and very cautious with other dogs, especially little ones, as they are careful not to hurt them."

Plus, lots of retired racing greyhounds need new forever homes.

Greyhound Breed Summary

Greyhound Overview

Temperament: Gentle, independent, noble

Height: 28-30 inches (male), 27-28 inches (female)

Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 10-13 years

Greyhound in Action

Greyhound puppy playing with basketball GIF — Greyhounds were bred for racing, but also make fantastic family pets.

Boxer

Boxers are like that one friend you can take to any party because they are so friendly that they'll always have a great time. They were first bred to help police and military teams, according to Animal Planet. But because they're so fun and photogenic, they also starred in some of Hollywood's earliest movies. "Boxers stand out as the clowns among all dog breeds," Trott says. "They are endlessly funny, and their sense of humor is a constant source of amusement for their family and everyone around."

The medium-sized dog is silly and playful with those it knows but protective of its family, so not the friendliest pet to total strangers. That can be a bonus, though, if you're looking for a friendly dog that can also be a good guard dog. One other important thing to note: Boxers have a lot of energy, but won't necessarily play well with all types of other dogs.

Boxer Breed Summary

Boxer Overview

Temperament: Bright, fun-loving, active

Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21.5-23.5 inches (female)

Weight: 65-80 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

Boxer in Action

Boxer puppy moving head GIF — Boxers are one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide (for good reason).

Pug

Big- and medium-sized dogs aren't the only breeds that pet experts consider to be among the friendliest. There are lots of adorable and cheerful small pups that would make a great addition to your family, too. A quick scroll through YouTube or Instagram, and you'll learn that pugs have a ton of fun. So, it isn't surprising that they're considered an amiable breed.

"They're known for being great family dogs because they're great with all ages — children, adolescents, adults and the elderly," says Candy Pilar Godoy, who pens the popular blog Boogie The Pug. "They were bred to be lap dogs for royalty, and they often prefer humans to other dogs. In fact, they're known as ‘velcro pugs’ because they stick to their human like velcro, becoming your shadow and best friend."

Plus, their wrinkly little faces are beyond cute.

Pug Breed Summary

Pug Overview

Temperament: Charming, mischievous, loving

Height: 10-13 inches

Weight: 14-18 pounds

Life expectancy: 13-15 years

Pug in Action

Pug retrieving stick GIF — Pugs have short-muzzled faces and curled tails.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

While the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is currently in the top 20 rankings for most popular dog breeds in America, the pup has always been beloved in the United Kingdom. Mary, Queen of Scots, owned one of the most famous Cavalier King Charles, who was found under her skirts at the moment she was beheaded. Needless to say, the small doggos are quite loyal and are known for being affectionate, gentle and graceful.

"These small dogs are easygoing and make great pets for seniors or families with older children," says Morgan. "They love to sit close to their people. My sister loves the breed so much that she has had up to eight of them at one time."

Their large, round eyes and regal grace make them part of "dogdom’s noblemen," notes the AKC. "They just want to be with their people and enjoy meeting new people,” adds Morgan. “They tend to be easygoing with strangers and make good companions."

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed Summary

Two cavalier King Charles spaniels sitting on grass

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, graceful

Height: 12-13 inches

Weight: 13-18 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in Action

Cavalier King Charles spaniel pup running GIF — A cavalier King Charles spaniel pup runs and plays on a slippery hardwood floor.

Bulldog

Another friendly pup that traces its origins to the United Kingdom is the bulldog. It's hard to mistake the small, stocky breed for anything else because they have such distinctive faces, featuring furrowed brows and pushed-in noses.

"These tough guys can take a lot. A bulldog is sturdy enough to handle whatever your kids may throw their way, but they’re also low on the energy scale and perfect for lightly active households," Cornelius says. "Tolerant and sweet, bulldogs live well in both small and large homes making them very versatile mates."

In addition to being friendly, they're famous for being loyal. Whether you live in the city or the country, a bulldog will happily follow its human wherever. The AKC has this last bit of advice for those considering a bulldog: "Don’t mistake their easygoing ways for laziness — bulldogs enjoy brisk walks and need regular moderate exercise, along with a careful diet, to stay trim."

Bulldog Breed Summary

Bulldog Overview

Temperament: Friendly, courageous, calm

Height: 14-15 inches

Weight: 50 pounds (male), 40 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 8-10 years

Bulldog in Action

Bulldog playing GIF — Bulldogs have wrinkled faces and distinctive pushed-in noses.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Corgis are famous for being the chosen dog of Queen Elizabeth. You can even find many adorable videos of her and her dogs on social media.

But some pet experts recommended the breed to us commoners as well. "I have been a Pembroke Welsh Corgi lover and guardian for more than 35 years," says Morgan. "While these dogs are not the best for very small children, they are herding dogs and therefore love to follow family members around the house, love to go on family outings and are a smaller size, which can make for easier care."

Plus, did we mention how cute they are? They're smart doggos, too. "Like many herding breeds, they are intelligent and highly trainable to learn tricks that will amuse older children. Herding breeds are dogs that have been bred to work with people and take direction from people, so they pay close attention to the people in their lives," Morgan adds. "Corgis are also very friendly, and all of mine have been great therapy dogs, working with seniors in nursing homes and people who have cancer.”

Pembroke Welsh Corgi Breed Summary

Corgi Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, smart, alert

Height: 10-12 inches

Weight: Up to 30 pounds (male), up to 28 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 12-13 years

Pembroke Welsh Corgi in Action

Pembroke Welsh corgi opening mouth GIF — The Pembroke Welsh corgi is a herding dog breed from Pembrokeshire, Wales.

Shih Tzu

Smaller dogs can get a bad rap, but one of the most famous breeds is known for its friendliness: the shih tzu. The tiny pups were bred in China and are sometimes referred to as Chrysanthemum dogs or Chinese lion dogs.

"The shih tzu is notorious for its flat face and long hair. However, it should also be known for its ability to be happy anywhere, its long lifespan (11 to 16 years) and its ability to get along with everyone, especially the elderly," say the puppy experts at PuppySpot, which places puppies in happy homes. "Being cute is a way of life for this lively charmer.”

Shih Tzu Breed Summary

Shih Tzu Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, playful, outgoing

Height: 9-10.5 inches

Weight: 9-16 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-18 years

Shih Tzus in Action

Shih Tzu puppies playing GIF — Shih tzu puppies are tiny, but even adults seldom weigh more than 15 pounds.

Brittany

If your family is looking for a dog with an upbeat attitude who loves fun, then consider the Brittany breed. "Looking to up your exercise? This beautiful, high-energy furry friend could be good motivation to get out and get moving," says Nikki Wardle of Intermountain Pet Hospital in Meridian, Idaho. "Ideal for a family that wants to spend a good amount of time outdoors, Brittanys don't require much grooming and are a snap to train."

But make sure you are ready to keep up with these pups. The AKC describes these doggos as agile and energetic. "Bright and eager at home, and tireless afield, Brittanys require a lot of exercise, preferably with their favorite humans," according to the AKC.

Brittany Breed Summary

Brittany Overview

Temperament: Bright, fun-loving, upbeat

Height: 17.5-20.5 inches

Weight: 30-40 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-14 years

Brittany in Action

Brittany puppy running GIF — A young Brittany pup happily explores the world.

Cockapoo

The cockapoo, aka the cockapoodle, was one of the first designer dogs dreamed up as a mixed breed. They are part cocker spaniel, part poodle and all charm. "If there was ever a mixed breed to steal the show, it’s the cockapoo," says Colleen Stinchcombe of Rover, which matches humans with the nation’s largest network of pet sitters and dog walkers.

"Although it wasn’t the first doodle breed, the cocker spaniel/poodle mix is certainly one of the most popular and for good reason — they’re fabulous pets," Stinchcombe says. "It’s hard to know exactly where certain traits in dogs come from, but for whatever reason, this mix tends to create some of the friendliest dogs on the planet — and they have some of the best smiles, too."

They are a small breed and only grow to be about 20 pounds, but they have an endless amount of love for their humans. "This is a dog that will happily greet you at the door, eagerly follow you around a room and happily curl up next to you on the couch or directly on your lap. Wherever you go, the cockapoo will follow," Stinchcombe adds. "It’s this friendly, sociable personality that makes these dogs excellent therapy dogs [and] great for people who can be a bit nervous around dogs."

Cockapoo Breed Summary

Cockapoo Overview

Temperament: Outgoing, loving, active

Height: 10-15 inches

Weight: 12-24 pounds

Life expectancy: 14-18 years

Cockapoo in Action

Cockapoo playing Gif — A cockapoo is a mixed-breed dog.

Coton de Tulear

The personality of the fluffy, white coton de Tulear is as endearing as it gets. The small dog is related to the Maltese and the bichon frise, two other particularly friendly small dog breeds, and rarely exceeds 13 pounds. While small breeds get a bad rap for being snippy and high-strung, the coton de Tulear is anything but.

Their small size makes them an ideal candidate for apartment living and families who aren't keen on long walks. Meanwhile, their gentle personalities and even temperament make them a favorite among seniors and families with young children.

The ideal day in the life of a coton de Tulear is spent side by side with their favorite person. They're extremely snuggly and lovable, so don't get a coton if you don't want a sidekick who follows you from room to room.

Coton de Tulear Breed Summary

Coton de Tulear Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, bright, playful

Height: 8.5-12.5 inches

Weight: 8-13 pounds

Life expectancy: 14-16 years

Coton de Tulear in Action

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English Setter

The AKC's top three adjectives for the English setter are "friendly, mellow and merry," but the English setter's remarkable coat is what usually reels people in. Their fur is sleek, soft, and comes in a wide variety of speckled patterns and colors, including lemon and orange.

Even if you mistook an English setter for a scoop of lemon sherbet, he'd be more likely to defend himself with a lick attack than a growl. English setters are every bit as affectionate and patient as they are beautiful.

As a medium-sized sporting dog, English setters need plenty of exercise to stay healthy. They love to run and play, and they get along with just about everyone, including other canines.

English Setter Breed Summary

English setter running in the forest in Vestfold, Norway

English Setter Overview

Temperament: Energetic, eager, strong-willed

Height: 23-27 inches

Weight: 45-80 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

English Setter in Action

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Flat-Coated Retriever

The flat-coated retriever is a relatively new breed, and one of six AKC retriever breeds. These athletic pups are built for retrieving downed ducks and geese from the water, but they also make superb family pets thanks to their outgoing, friendly nature.

As one of the friendliest dog breeds around, the flat-coated retriever is an expert at capturing the hearts of every human within licking distance. They're eager to please, confident and have a naturally cheerful demeanor.

The friendly flat-coated retriever's coat does, in fact, lie flat. (Shocking, we know.) It comes in liver or black, with black being the most popular option. They resemble black labs, but they're leaner and more elegant in comparison to their stockier, more common cousin.

Flat-Coated Retriever Breed Summary

Man holding purebred flat-coated retriever puppy

Flat-Coated Retriever Overview

Temperament: Outgoing, confident, loyal

Height: 22-24.5 inches

Weight: 60-80 pounds

Life expectancy: 8-14 years

Flat-Coated Retriever in Action

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Havanese

The Havanese has a reputation for being a "velcro dog," and the title is appropriate. This friendly breed has been known to follow owners everywhere they go. Most Havanese puppies would gladly follow you into the bathroom if you let them.

There's more to this small, cuddly lapdog than meets the eye. The Havanese is bright and easy to train, with a surprising aptitude for agility training and circus performing.

The sweet, multicolored Havanese is also a bit of a humanitarian. The breed's small size and reliable temperament make them superb emotional support pets. Plus, they adapt well to new situations, including ones with kids, strangers or cats.

Havanese Breed Summary

Playful havanese puppy dog walking with a red ball

Havanese Overview

Temperament: Gentle, playful, affectionate

Height: 8.5-11.5 inches

Weight: 7-13 pounds

Life expectancy: 13-15 years

Havanese in Action

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Boston Terrier

The Boston terrier, nicknamed the "American Gentleman," ranks highly in both energy levels and affection. While the breed was originally bred for their tenacity and strength, they're much more likely to lick you to death than snap.

The breed's terrier roots imbue this small dog with buckets of energy. They're known for getting "the zoomies," racing around the house or yard like a maniac. While this occasionally lands them in hot water, their entertaining antics are worth the headache of the trampled flowerbeds.

Unsurprisingly, the Boston terrier's energetic nature makes them a favorite among children. Just throw the kids and the dog in a fenced-in yard with some toys and let them tire each other out while you peacefully supervise from the comfort of the porch.

Boston Terrier Breed Summary

Beautiful Boston terrier dog running and jumping

Boston Terrier Overview

Temperament: Friendly, energetic, bright

Height: 15-16 inches

Weight: 10-25 pounds

Life expectancy: 13-15 years

Boston Terrier in Action

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Samoyed

The medium-sized Samoyed is as close to a live polar bear as one can (legally) buy. They look and act like fluffy, pure white teddy bears, and they're a popular choice for families.

While the Samoyed is a fantastic family dog, it's important to understand the breed's roots before adopting one on impulse. They were first bred to hunt and herd reindeer in Siberia, and their strong-willed nature makes diligent training a must.

Living with a Samoyed means living with fur. Lots of fur. Everywhere. Even with regular brushing, lint rollers are a Samoyed owner's best friend. If you like wearing black, it might be time to choose a new favorite color.

Samoyed Breed Summary

Samoyed Overview

Temperament: Playful, social, stubborn

Height: 19-23.5 inches

Weight: 50-65 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-14 years

Samoyed in Action

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Husky

Few friendly dog breeds have as much of a devoted following as the husky. With a contagious smile, thick coat and unique look, some husky owners love these large goofballs so much that they own two, three or even more.

While the piercing blue eyes of huskies are entrancing, their personalities are an acquired taste. They're extremely friendly, but they're also extremely intelligent. Sometimes, they're two smart for their own good.

Huskies are masterful escape artists, and once they're out of the yard, they make a break for it. Firm, loving training is non-negotiable, along with plenty of exercise. Otherwise, your husky's intelligence and curiosity might be applied to your favorite pair of boots.

Husky Breed Summary

Husky Overview

Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, independent

Height: 20-23.5 inches

Weight: 35-60 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Husky in Action

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Vizsla

Running Hungarian short-haired pointing dog with tennis ball in mouth

Vizslas, with their ruddy red coat and boundless energy, are naturally social. They're affectionate with owners and strangers alike, but they're no couch potatoes. They have tons of energy, so they're a good match for those with a sizeable yard.

Vizslas were bred to be pointers and retrievers, but many owners call them "velcro vizslas." They get extremely attached to their people, never straying far from their side.

Vizslas do best when they have a job to do, but that job doesn't have to be hunting or retrieving. Being a devoted jogging pal or fetch playmate will do the trick, as long as they get at least an hour of vigorous activity each day.

Vizsla Breed Summary

Vizsla Overview

Temperament: Loyal, energetic, affectionate

Height: 21-24 inches

Weight: 45-65 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Vizsla in Action

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Beagle

There's a reason Snoopy was modeled after a beagle. Charlie Brown's beloved pet would be just as much of a fun-loving character in real life, thanks to the outgoing, loving personality of the beagle.

Beagles are definitely one of the friendliest dog breeds available, but they're not the most low-maintenance. They're scent hounds, meaning they were bred to sniff out prey. They're an active breed well-suited to families who can match their high energy level.

Because beagles have such superb sniffers, they were used in the 1980s to sniff out banned food in suitcases at the Los Angeles International Airport. They were smart enough to identify specific types of food, and their warm, unintimidating faces kept travelers at ease.

Beagle Breed Summary

Beagle Overview

Temperament: Cheerful, affectionate, loyal

Height: 13-15 inches

Weight: 18-30 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

Beagle in Action

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Mutt

While we've listed several breeds that are known for their friendly nature, plenty of mutts can be just as lovely — especially since mutts are often a mix of several affectionate breeds.

"One stellar quality of many mutts is that their mix of breeds often makes them less extreme in any one characteristic or breeding line as some purebred dogs, which can often make for a more balanced temperament," Cornelius says.

In addition to friendliness, the best part about mutts is they’re usually easy to find at shelters and come in every shape and size. Plus, they are likely slightly older, which means you'll have a good idea of what to expect from the dog.

Super Mutts

Kristi Benson, a dog trainer with the Academy for Dog Trainers, also recommends considering a super mutt, a mixed breed dog that has characteristics of more than three types of breeds.

"The closest thing to a guarantee that a dog will be friendly is to find an adult dog who is known to be friendly in the dimensions that are important for your family. Does your new dog need to be friendly with kids? Find a kid-friendly super mutt! What about friendly with dogs? Find a dog-friendly, social-butterfly super mutt," Benson says.

"Once dogs are socially mature, which happens between the ages of about one to three years, they are 'what you see is what you get,'" Benson adds. "A three-year-old dog who is friendly to kids is very likely to stay friendly to kids, so this is an opportunity to avoid (as much as is possible with living, breathing animals) the element of chance that always exists when acquiring a younger dog."

Invest Time in Training

There are so many kinds of dogs out there that this list should not hold your family back from adopting a great dog. Several of the animal experts we spoke with mentioned how dog breeds who aren't as famous for friendliness can be just as loving and outgoing.

"The one huge point I would like to make as the executive director of an animal rescue is that any breed can be friendly or become not so friendly, especially without very critical socialization," says Jamie Thomas of Motley Zoo Animal Rescue.

"Many times people spend so much time researching breeds when what they should be researching is how to ensure any dog grows up to be socialized and well trained. Working your dog through the fear-impact periods is one of the most important things you can do for your dog."

Your Pup's First Year Is Special

The fear-impact periods are part of your dog's journey from pup to full-grown doggo. Just like kids, the first year of your dog's life is incredibly essential and involves various milestones.

Pet experts agree that working with your pup during the stages can help them become friendly and well-socialized dogs.

"Lack of socialization in very loving, well-intended homes is one of the biggest reasons we see dogs surrendered to us," Thomas says.

Everyone Thinks They Have the Best Dog

While the breed of the dog will give you somewhere to start, it's important to remember that love, training and socialization will play a massive role in ensuring your puppy grows up to be a friendly dog.

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