20 of the Friendliest Dog Breeds That Make the Best Pals

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 10–15 years
• Temperament: Courageous, energetic, friendly

Originally bred for hunting, Beagles are social dogs who love being part of a group—whether it’s a pack of fellow pups or a human family. Their outgoing nature, curiosity, and cheerful demeanor make them one of the friendliest dog breeds, and they’re especially great with kids and other dogs.

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 14–15 years
• Temperament: Adoring, sidekick, smart

The Bichon Frise was developed to be a companion dog, and their temperament reflects that role. Friendly, charming, and eager to please, these fluffy white dogs thrive on attention and human contact.

Their playful energy and soft, allergen-friendly coat make them fit well into almost any family. But pet parents must stay on top of the breed’s extensive grooming needs—they need to be brushed every day.

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 11–13 years
• Temperament: Bubbly, happy-go-lucky, outgoing

Boston Terriers earned the nickname “the American Gentleman” not only because of their dapper black-and-white tuxedo coat, but because of their friendly and well-mannered nature, too. These dogs are lively and affectionate, bonding deeply with their humans and easily winning hearts with their playful antics.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Active, easygoing, silly

Originally bred as working dogs, Boxers have a strong sense of loyalty and a deep love for their families. They’re known for being patient with children, and their energetic, silly side makes them excellent playmates for older kids, too.

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Bubbly, happy-go-lucky, sporty

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels were bred to be royal lapdogs—and it shows. These dogs are affectionate, graceful, and always eager to cuddle. Their sweet disposition and love of people make them one of the most affectionate dog breeds, ideal for those wanting a calm and loving family dog.

• Size: Extra small or small
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Social butterfly, cuddle bug, eager to please

A cross between the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Poodle, Cavapoos inherit the friendly, affectionate nature of both breeds. They were specifically bred to be low-shedding companion dogs, and their gentle nature makes them great with kids and other pets

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Family-oriented, super trainable, friend to all

Collies were originally bred to herd sheep, a history that helped shape their alert, gentle, and devoted personality. They’re especially loyal to their families and known for their patience with children. This combination of brains and heart makes them one of the kindest dogs.

Collies come in two coat types: smooth and rough. While smooth-coated Collies will only need a once-a-week brushing with a curry comb, rough Collies need daily hair care. So when deciding which type to bring home, ask yourself how much brushing you’re willing to do.

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 13–15 years
• Temperament: Friendly, energetic, intelligent

A Cocker Spaniel-Poodle mix, the Cockapoo is a loving and smart dog. These cheerful pups are people-oriented and sporty, and their affectionate nature makes them perfect family pets.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years
• Temperament: Silly, smart, social

Golden Retrievers were bred as hunting companions, retrieving waterfowl for hunters. This job required them to be obedient and gentle, traits that still define them today.

Their outgoing personality and love of play have made them one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. Goldens are also sporty; they’re always down for a game of fetch or a run through the neighborhood.

• Size: Small, medium, or large
• Life expectancy: 10–15 years
• Temperament: Amiable, energetic, quick learner

Goldendoodles are another doodle dog breed bred to be friendly, social, and low-shedding. Their affectionate, easygoing temperament makes them wonderful for families, and their smarts and eagerness to please make them easy to train, even for first-time pet parents.

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 14–16 years
• Temperament: Adoring, cheery, social

Havanese are affectionate and gentle Velcro dogs. They’re always searching for a lap to lounge in or following their humans around the house.

But their family isn’t the only object of their affection; Havanese dogs excel at making new friends, thanks to their naturally sociable nature.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Loving, goofy, curious

If you’re looking for a workout buddy, the Irish Setter might just be your pup. These sporty dogs have lots of energy.

They were originally bred as bird dogs, but you don’t have to be a hunter to enjoy an Irish Setter’s company. They also enjoy hiking, camping, or even just playing fetch at the park. They’re friendly dogs who are happy to meet new people on their outdoor adventures.

• Size: Large
• Life expectancy: 11–13 years
• Temperament: Athletic, outgoing, smart

Labrador Retrievers spent 30 years as America’s most popular dog breed, and it’s easy to see why. Bred to work alongside human hunters and fishermen, they form a tight bond to their family and love to join you in whatever you’re doing, even swimming.

• Size: Small, medium, or large
• Life expectancy: 12–15 years
• Temperament: Bright, affectionate, always up for fun

Labradoodles were first bred to be an allergen-friendly service dog, but now they’re popular family pets. They’re known for their affectionate, playful nature and do best when surrounded by people. These friendly dogs love attention and enjoy learning new tricks and playing games.

• Size: Extra large
• Life expectancy: 9–10 years
• Temperament: Charming, friendly, patient

Don’t be intimidated by a Newfoundland’s size; though these giant dogs can tip the scale at 150 pounds, they are a calm, gentle, and friendly dog breed. Newfoundlands are so sweet, in fact, that they are one of the best dog breeds for kids. Just make sure you’re OK with wiping up daily drool from their supersized jowls.

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 12–13 years
• Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, social butterfly

Outgoing, friendly, and surprisingly sporty, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are small dogs with big personalities. Their love of people and eagerness to be involved in family activities make them one of the nicest dog breeds to bring home. Pembrokes were even a favorite of Queen Elizabeth II, who cared for more than 30 in her lifetime.

• Size: Extra small, small, or medium
• Life expectancy: 10–18 years
• Temperament: Sporty, energetic, brainiac

Poodles were first bred in Germany as water retrievers, working closely with humans. Today, there are three Poodle types (Standard, Miniature, and Toy), each known for their intelligence, charm, and people-pleasing personalities. Their affectionate demeanor and adaptability, along with a low-shedding “hypoallergenic” coat, make them a standout among friendly dog breeds.

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 13–15 years
• Temperament: BFF, friendly, cheery

Pugs first served as companion dogs for Chinese royalty, and they’ve never lost their love of lounging on laps. With a comical personality and boundless affection, Pugs thrive in human company and are happiest when they’re at the center of attention.

• Size: Small
• Life expectancy: 10–15 years
• Temperament: Inquisitive, social butterfly, determined

The Puggle combines the sweet disposition of the Pug with the energy and enthusiasm of the Beagle. This killer combo produces a friendly, outgoing pup that loves playtime and cuddles alike. Their social and tolerant nature makes them great for families.

• Size: Medium
• Life expectancy: 12–14 years
• Temperament: Doting, playful, silly

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is one of the friendliest dog breeds, and the pups have the big smile to show it. Bred for their loyalty, Staffies are often called “nanny dogs” because they tend to be gentle around children. They’re people-focused and thrive in loving, structured homes with proper training and socialization.