10 of the Friendliest Dog Breeds

Are you planning on getting a four-legged buddy soon? Perhaps you are thinking about getting a dog. You are here for a reason of course.

So, from terriers and spaniels and retrievers—with hundreds of dog breeds to choose from, how can you be sure you're adopting the right one for your family?

Of course, doing research ahead of time is sure to help you pinpoint the breed that will fit right in with your taste and circumstances.

In this article, we are listing down a few of the friendliest dog breeds. The friendlier the dog, of course, the easier it is to manage them.

Before we give you the list, a few things are in order. First, in choosing a good breed, you must take into consideration at least three major factors. To wit:

• Temperament – This is the dog’s personality. You should be looking for an agreeable temperament. For instance, a calmer dog has the ability to form strong bonds and be a great companion for your kids.
• Size – Size should be looked at in relation to both temperament and energy level. Some larger dogs tend to be docile, while some smaller dogs can be excitable.
• Energy level – This is a matter of preference for your family. Be realistic about the lifestyle you can provide to a dog that needs more exercise than average. If you can’t meet a dog’s needs, his excess energy can lead to behavior problems down the road.

Second, you must ask questions. Ask the breeder, ask the dealer, ask anyone who has experience handling a dog of the breed of your choice. Here are some of the most common questions you can ask before picking up a dog.

1. Is the dog safe for all members of the family? Some dogs are perfectly happy to socialize with everyone in the family, while some prefer only adults or one gender.
2. What type of energy level is the dog? You may want a dog that will accompany you and the family on long walks or one that can be carried in your arms the majority of the time.
3. What ongoing care will the dog require? Is it a longhaired dog who will need regular grooming, or a senior who may need more frequent veterinary visits?
4. What age of dog are you looking for? Would you prefer a puppy who may require lots of training but will likely socialize well with the entire family, or would you prefer an adult dog who is potty trained, but may be shyer when friends come visit?
5. Will this dog get along with other pets? If you have other pets at home, you will want to choose a dog that likes other animals and be sure that your animals like the new dog.

Alright, without further ado, here is our list of the friendliest dog breeds.

1. Labradoodle

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Labradoodles are charismatic. They are curly haired hybrid boasts the best of both worlds. The poodle breed makes them smarter, and the Lab side makes them fun, mushy and playful. Labradoodles are often hypoallergenic. Which simplifies things for many families.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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You have probably seen a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in one of the popular Hollywood films. Yes, that’s right. These floppy-eared sweethearts have been in style even since Charlotte adopted one on “Sex and the City”. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet, sociable dog breed. This makes it a great fit for people of all ages and for other dogs alike. They are very good-natured dogs.

3. Labrador Retrievers

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Retrievers are quite popular as it is a classic breed. Labrador Retrievers have, in fact, been at the top of the American Kennel Club’s "Most Popular Breeds" list for 21 years in a row. Labs are great for families as they are gentle, calm, and loyal in nature. They are easy to train and they love to be active. It means more fun times with you four-legged friend.

4. French Bulldog

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French Bulldogs are adorable. They are sure to steal your family’s heart. Why? Because French Bulldogs are superbly friendly! They're friendly to everyone as opposed to glomming on to just one family member like some breeds do. It’s a very sociable dog breed.

5. Boxer

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Boxers are extremely loyal dogs. According to the American Kennel Club, their actual name comes from the 19th century, when boxers were bred to dogfight and would stand on their hind legs to "box." Today these dogs are popular with families everywhere for their protective, patient nature with children.

6. Irish Setter

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Irish Setters are great dogs to play with as they are extremely energetic. They can sure keep your kids busy in the backyard all day. They love to play fetch! Also, they love getting brushed! These Irish Setters love to have a great time and love to be around the people they love. For sure, there will be no dull moment with this dog.

7. Beagle

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Beagles are quite popular. We probably know pretty well what Beagles are like. If not, well, do you know who Snoopy is? Well, he’s a Beagle! Snoopy is so adorable, well guess what, Beagles are really adorable even in real life! Beagles are great little dogs. They're definitely oldies but goodies - they are friendly and easygoing.

8. Havanese

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If you or any family member have allergies, then you should seriously consider the Havanese dog breed. They are an irresistibly cute toy breed known for its non-shedding coat. According to the American Kennel Club, the Havanese is growing in popularity as a family pet. Havanese dogs are affectionate, smart, quiet and can be equally happy exercising or relaxing in your lap. (And it's a good guess your kids will love that it looks like a cuddly stuffed animal.)

9. Golden Retriever

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Golden Retriever is an interesting dog breed. It has tons of personality. It is a popular breed, yes, but is particularly popular among families. It is, in fact, considered as the quintessential American pet due to its gentle, playful nature and eager-to-please attitude.

10. Greyhound

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Greyhounds are ideal for busy families. Greyhounds do not necessarily need a lot of activity. They are loyal, intelligent, and do not need tons of exercise. But they run fast! But greyhounds are actually docile, quiet dogs.

References:

petMD, LLC. 2017. "The 10 Best Dogs For Kids And Families | Petmd". Petmd.Com. Accessed February 25 2017. http://www.petmd.com/dog/top_tens/evr_dg_top_10_for_kids.

"10 Best Dog Breeds For Families". 2015. Cesar's Way. Accessed February 25 2017. https://www.cesarsway.com/about-dogs/breeds/the-10-best-family-dog-breeds.

"10 Most Dog-Friendly Dog Breeds". 2017. Vetstreet. Accessed February 25 2017. http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/10-most-dog-friendly-dog-breeds.

"10 Best Family Dogs Who Are Naturally Kid-Friendly - Dogtime". 2016. Dogtime. Accessed February 25 2017. http://dogtime.com/dog-health/general/4318-kid-friendly-dogs-list.