- poodle
- irish setter
- cavalier king charles spaniel
- boston terrier
- dog breeds
- petit basset griffon vendeen
- staffordshire bull terrier
- pembroke welsh corgi
- boxer
- labrador retriever
- beagle
Looking for a happy-go-lucky dog to bring into your home? Search no further! Learn more about these very friendly dog breeds. It doesn’t hurt that these dogs are super-cute, too!
1. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
Try saying that ten times fast! Confident, happy, and extroverted, the PBGV is best suited to active dog owners. Although independent, PBGVs are still willing to please and want to work with owners, coming from their history of hunting small game such as rabbit and hare in their native France. In 2023, “Buddy Holly” the PBGV was named Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, a first for the breed.
2. Beagle
Beagles are known for their merry personalities and following their noses, which can lead them into some mischief, and maybe even meeting new friends! Originally bred for hunting, Beagles have long ears that help them catch scent particles (allowing them to sniff out game effectively). They’ve been popular dogs for years, both in real life and in cartoons. Charlie Brown’s Beagle Snoopy is actually an AKC-registered dog.
3. Poodle
An outgoing breed, the Poodle is exceptionally smart and active. The Poodle also excels in obedience training. Poodles come in three different sizes — the Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle, and Standard Poodle — and thrive on exercise, including participating in dog sports with their owners.
4. Labrador Retriever
Millions of Americans own Labrador Retrievers due to their even temperament and trainability. Labs love to please their master and excel as guide dogs for the blind, as part of search-and-rescue teams, or in narcotics detection with law enforcement.
5. Boxer
Patient, spirited with children, and also protective, the Boxer is a popular choice for families. Boxers love to be with people! A notable characteristic is their desire for human affection, especially from children. This intelligent breed also excels in the ring, winning Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show an impressive four different times.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With a sweet, gentle nature, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (a namesake of King Charles II of Britain) is a trustworthy pet for children and thrives as part of a family. This friendly breed, bred to be companions to people, also makes a great therapy dog.
7. Irish Setter
Irish Setters have outgoing, clown-like personalities and lots of energy, making them friendly favorites with families. Irish Setters became popular in the 18th century throughout Ireland and the British Isles. They were originally used to “set” game, working closely with hunters, crouching low near the birds so that the hunters could walk up and throw a net over both bird and dog.
8. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
One of the most delightful small house dogs, as well as an avid competitor in many dog sports, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is bold and friendly, responds well to training, and loves their family. A member of the Herding Group, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi may even go as far as trying to herd family members.
9. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier has a compact, muscular frame. But this breed is extremely affectionate towards family members, including children, and they have proven themselves as loyal canine companions to their owners.
10. Boston Terrier
These dogs are nicknamed “the American Gentleman” because of their tuxedo-like coloring, gentle disposition, intelligence, and suitability as companions and house pets! Often easy to train, Boston Terriers love to remain by their owners’ sides.
