20 World’s Most Friendly Dog Breeds (based on genetic personality traits)

January 6, 2023 Kar-Bay-Inc

Dogs make the world go round, especially the pups who love being around people and other animals.

Even though there are some very dangerous dogs out there, most canines have a friendly disposition when owners put in the work to socialize them from a very young age.

And, a select few of the most friendly dog breeds are typically gentle and loving by nature.

I’ve gone on a research mission to find some of the friendliest dog breeds out there.

We all have our own perception of what a friendly dog looks like.

Some people picture a slobbery Labrador with a wagging tail, while others see a wiggling boxer with a goofy grin when they think about a friendly pooch. But some of these friendly dogs will surprise you.

A Friendly Dog Is A Socialized Dog

While any canine companion can become friendly when trained and socialized properly from an early age, some breeds are known to be more aggressive and anti-social by nature.

This is due to the way and reasons for what these dogs were originally bred for.

For example, some canines that were originally bred for protection of cattle against lions in South Africa (Boerboel) or dogs bred for fighting (Pit Bulls) tend to be more suspicious of other people and animals, be more aggressive and protective of their owners.

They’ll be friendly with people they know well but less friendly with strangers.

Breeds that were only bred to be pet dogs are likely to be much more friendly and social.

It’s popular to say that “it’s the owner, not the dog/breed.”

While it’s certainly true in part, the dog’s genetic make-up does matter.

A 2008 observational study of individual breed phenotypes and genes, while not giving a specific answer, did found that canines vary in temperament, personality traits and skills by breed.

A 2017 study found that chromosomal regions, which vary by breed and its DNA, are directly associated with the dog’s personality traits.

Therefore, some breeds are simply genetically more likely to be friendlier and more social.

They’re more accepting of strangers, and children and, easier to socialize, and probably won’t make the best house guard dogs.

Below are some of the most friendly dog breeds we know.

If your favorite breed didn’t make the list, don’t feel bad.

Lots of dogs are friendly even though they aren’t listed here.

How you treat and socialize your dog affects how he will act toward others, so be sure you’ve done the research and put in the work.

Characteristics To Look For

When looking for a friendly dog breed, follow these guidelines before jumping the gun and buying or adopting.

Pick a breed or mix that is known to be easier to train
Pick a dog breed that gets along with the other dogs it is currently with
Look for a dog that seems to be more of a lap dog, working breeds are much more high-energy and need more stimulation
Dogs that need more stimulation and exercise can develop behavior problems if paired with an owner that does not have the time to train or interact with the dog
See how they respond to strangers coming up to them as well as kids

20 Most Friendly Dog Breeds in the World

1. Samoyed

Pictured above, Samoyed isn’t just a beautiful and intelligent dog. This very friendly breed is affectionate and widely renowned for its “smile.”

They adore children because of their playful nature.

Samoyed dogs love interacting with kids because they have just as much energy as a child.

Samoyeds are great with other dogs and people, too. They would make an ideal family pet.

This is one of the most friendly dog breeds you can adopt, as they tend not to be aggressive and enjoy being around other animals and people.

2. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, rarely mentioned on any lists, is one of the most friendly dogs in the world.

This interesting looking breed is extremely energetic.

Add to that a playful personality and an amazing friend who will play with you for hours.

They’re known for jumping up and dealing out kisses to everyone.

This behavior has been affectionately named the Wheaten Greetin’, and you’d be lucky to be on the receiving end.

The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier tends to have a strong prey drive, but this isn’t a problem if you keep them busy and stimulated.

They are also known for being very protective of their families.

3. Rough Collie

Collie is a broad term used for quite a few deviations in the breed.

But, when it comes down to it, they’re all pretty darn amazing and friendly companions.

Sensitive and one of the most intelligent dogs, the Rough Collie breed takes the cake for being exceptionally friendly compared to many others.

They get on well with other dogs and people and enjoy being around kids. If you’re lucky, you might even see one try to herd a bunch of children to keep them safe. Herding and protective behavior without high levels of aggression are in Collie’s nature.

4. Bassett Hound

The Bassett Hound is a loyal and active breed that gets along with people and other pets alike.

They love playing with children and are known as clown dogs in the Hound community – not just because they look funny, but due to their humorous personalities.

The Bassett Hound are known as one of the best hunting dogs, but will also keep a smile on your face as they work their way into your heart.

This breed is not aggressive towards other dogs at all, and even less so towards people.

As one of the most friendly dog breeds, they accept virtually everyone (human or furry) they meet.

5. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a gorgeous, sweet, and proud breed who isn’t as demanding as other small dogs.

They love to play and cuddle up on the couch with their lazy owners. Very few people will have a hard time getting along with these dogs.

This breed is friendly towards strangers and fine with other pets due to their relaxed personalities.

They don’t need lots of exercise and prefer to be indoors close to their owners. The Shih Tzu also sheds less than other breeds, making cleaning the house a lot easier.

6. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever, known in short as The Lab, should probably be at the top of the list of the most friendly dog breeds because they kept the #1 dog breed title for the years.

These dogs have been a family favorite for many years.

They have lots of energy and love nothing more than running around or taking a splash in the lake or pool. The Labrador Retriever loves to be with their family, no matter what they’re up to.

Labs are affectionate and love a good cuddle after a day of running and romping with the kids.

This is a fun breed that is perfect for an active owner. They have no problems with strangers or other dogs, which doesn’t make them the best guard dogs on the planet.

RELATED: 30 Most Popular Dog Breeds

7. Dalmatian

Dalmatians have been made famous by movies, cartoons, and firehouses. But this isn’t a breed you see very often, which makes the owners somewhat sad.

They are so intelligent and perfect for someone who is a first time dog owner.

As a working dog, the Dalmatian needs exercise and stimulation to keep them out of trouble.

Don’t let that stop you from adopting one of these dogs because not only are they known as one of the most friendly dog breeds, but their beauty and love of children are worth it.

8. Vizsla

The Vizsla is an exotic dog breed that comes from Hungary, and they’re one of the most beautiful canines. With their sensitive and affectionate demeanor, these dogs love people and are fine with strangers, which makes them a great pet for families.

However, they do need a lot of attention, and shouldn’t be left alone for very long periods of time.

While they are one of the most friendly dog breeds, they aren’t the best option for owners who don’t have much time to spend with their canine companions.

9. English Bulldog

You might think the English Bulldog is an aggressive and scary breed, but it’s actually quite the opposite. With their gentle personalities and patience with kids, they make outstanding family pets. These dogs love nothing more than to lay around and not do too much.

They are lazy and don’t need lots of exercise, but they can be very stubborn. The English Bulldog requires an owner that will be patient and consistent when it comes to training this dog breed. The English Bulldog’s loving characters make up for it in leaps and bounds though.

10. Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier, known as one of the cutest dogs alive, is a high energy, somewhat small dog who adores people and likes other animals.

They enjoy snuggling on the couch as much as a run outside, so they’re an amazing all-round dog for any family.

These pups are clowns and social media have proved it – they snore, they joke, and they fart.

This breed is any kid’s absolute dream.

The Boston Terrier is a little dog breed with a huge personality, and they’re definitely one of the most friendly dog breeds to adopt.

11. Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is one of the most famous dogs, an experienced and skill hunter, a very sensitive dog, with a calm disposition. They’re not aggressive towards other dogs, and they enjoy the company of people more than anything.

Friendly, playful, and high spirited, they are one of the most friendly dog breeds and make amazing therapy animals, too. Having an Irish Setter means dedicating a lot of time to your dog, in particular to his grooming and exercise needs.

12. Papillon

The funny looking Papillons are friends with everybody. The Papillon means butterfly in French, and it’s easy to see why this breed has such a unique name. Their ears have tufts of fur that frame their head, and they resemble that of a butterfly wing. Did you ever notice that?

They’re known as a type of spaniel and are fragile due to their small size. But don’t let that fool you, because this dog has boundless energy. For that reason, the Papillon loves being around and playing with kids. They’re great with other dogs and even cats, so this breed will be great for a family who have other puppies, felines and children.

13. Pug

Ah the Pug, a stubborn and relaxed breed that sometimes wheezes when it breathes. They are known to be comical and highly entertaining, they love making everyone laugh, and they’re one of the most friendly dogs on the planet.

Due to the fun loving personality of the Pug, they can fit into any household. They especially love kids, because they love to play all the time. They are a small breed, but are very sturdy, so they can withstand a bit of roughhousing from the children too.

14. Beagle

Curious, affectionate and smart, the Beagle is another breed popularized by hunters who absolutely adore kids. They have tons of energy and therefore need daily exercise to keep them happy and in shape.

The Beagle gets on with everyone, making them a popular breed.

They’re beautiful and fun to watch when they’re on the trail of a scent – a genetic habit that all dogs of this breed will have.

Be warned that the Beagle is known for having high levels of separation anxiety and would do best in a household where someone is home most of the time.

15. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a fearless and sociable breed with a playful and somewhat relaxed personality. They’re great for people who enjoy hiking in their spare time, and also anyone who goes swimming, since they love it.

This dog breed is amazing with small children and playful towards other dogs. Another one of the most friendly dog breeds that is very active, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel would match best with an active owner who loves spending a lot of time playing Frisbee with their dogs.

16. Mini Schnauzer

This is a very kid friendly dog breed that’s always alert and is very intelligent.

Schnauzers and their compact cousins, Mini Schnauzers, love being the center of attention, especially if you have visitors.

Their unique appearance will certainly attract many looks; those beards and eyebrows are enough to make anyone give a double take.

The Mini Schnauzer loves being with people, but tend to have a favorite person who they’ll follow and be with whenever they can.

They’re high-energy dogs, so they fit best in a home where they will get a lot of exercise and attention.

17. Standard Poodle

The Standard Poodle is high on the list when it comes to intelligence, so the are easy to train.

They’re lively and fabulous, with an elegant demeanor. But don’t let that fool you, because these friendly dogs love nothing more than to play and be around people.

This breed has a very low aggression level, which means they’re fine with strangers and other pets.

The Standard Poodle is also an amazing swimmer, so it won’t hurt to have a dog pool around or take him to the local lake or dam for a quick swim.

RECOMMENDED: 16 Best Dogs for Families with Kids

18. Golden Retriever

Hollywood has gotten it right when casting the Golden Retriever as a family pet.

With their friendly and affectionate personalities, these dogs are amazing with kids and don’t mind other dogs, cats, and even livestock.

Given how social this dog is and how accepting and tolerant they are of kids, they’re yet another poster child of the most friendly dog breeds in the world.

Golden Retrievers are very smart, and it’s a high-energy breed that needs plenty of grooming, exercise, and stimulation to keep them from chewing everything in your house.

The Golden Retriever is fine with strangers, and because of this, make terrible guard dogs. They’d much rather invite everyone in.

19. Keeshond

Keeshond is another rare dog breed not usually found on any dog breed lists. This medium size dog somewhat resembles the Pomeranian, but is a lot friendlier according to dog trainers.

It’s a spitz breed who loves children.

They’re quick and very playful, and they also get along well with other dogs.

Because of their gentle personalities, Keeshonds are sometimes used as comfort dogs, therapy dogs and dogs for depression or anxiety.

They’re known to help people cope after something traumatic has happened like PTSD.

They aren’t aggressive towards strangers and visitors, which makes them poor watch or guard dogs but one of the most friendly dog breeds out there.

20. French Bulldog

If your pup is up for a photoshoot with a ridiculous hat on, you know he’s game for other things too. So the last dog on the list of the most friendly dog breeds is the jester of the dog world.

The French Bulldog is a clever yet stubborn breed who doesn’t need lots of exercise. They love people and enjoy playing with kids.

In the last couple of years they’ve grown in popularity due to their adaptability.

Because of their low energy needs, they can easily live in apartments with one short walk a day.

When it comes to other dogs, a proper introduction will go a long way in terms of them getting along well with other pets and dog breeds.

Are There Dog Breeds I Should Avoid?

Just like there are many friendly dogs to choose from, there are dogs that have less tolerance for kids and new people and dogs.

It would behoove you to avoid these dogs if you are looking for a dog that loves all people, dogs, and kids:

Basenji
Shiba Inu
Chihuahua (depends on how you train them, I have some terrors in my neighborhood)
Afghan Hounds
Chow Chow (these are actually known to be a bit more temperamental)
Akita

I would be doing you a disservice if I didn’t touch on the less friendly protective guard dog breeds.

Dobermans are great at what they do, but might not be the best dog if you have people walking into your house unannounced unless you’ve trained them well. The same goes for Rotties.

I would also add Rhodesian Ridgebacks and German Shepherds there. They are pretty protective and they make me leary around strangers and small children.

One, you need the space for these larger breeds.

They CAN BE very friendly, given you’ve trained them diligently.

FAQ

Which gender of dog is more loving?

Believe it or not, male dogs tend to be more loving towards their owners and other people.

Females can be more standoffish, but I actually have a female dog and she is the sweetest so the majority is not a hard and fast rule.

Friendliest Dog Breeds: Final Thoughts

So there’s our list of the friendliest dog breeds we could come up with. It was tough because I’m sure we missed some that many would feel deserve to be on the list.

If you enjoyed that article, check out the article below for more related content!

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