Dogs are generally friendly animals, but just like human beings, some more than others. Of course, that is understandable, given that throughout history, they have been companions to humans and have worked with and for them. If you are looking for a really friendly dog to bring home, we have compiled a list of some of the friendliest dogs out there.
So here’s the list of most friendly and adorable dogs:
1. Boston Terrier
Famously nicknamed as the ‘American Gentleman’, this gentle breed of dog is a happy go lucky mutt that loves to please their owner. Of course, their sweet sense of humor makes it very easy. Boston Terriers are really social dogs that enjoy being around people and children, even though they may require some training in regards to this. Most Boston Terriers weigh around 40kgs give or take, and their height can be approximately 40 cm when fully grown.
With a no-nonsense attitude towards barking, they certainly make a great choice for apartment dwellers. It’s not like they don’t bark, but they’re just sensible about it. The only sign of aggression ever shown by this dog is if it senses a threat coming, in the form of strangers or otherwise, which can be managed by proper training. If you want a dog that behaves like the gentleman that has gone extinct in the 21st century, look no further than the Boston Terrier.
2. Irish Setter
One of their most prominent signs of friendliness is how Irish Setters are not wary of strangers and greet them with absolute enthusiasm. With their owners, Irish Setters love to demonstrate their affection. Characteristics such as high levels of intelligence and activeness is what makes them fare well in many dog sports. Between 55 to 67 cm is how tall these pooches grow as adults. Just like their height, even their weight depends on the gender, but it can be anywhere between 24 to 32 kgs.
One thing’s for sure, Irish Setters will not fail to entertain you with their mischievous nature, every now and then. Training them will require some patience as they carry a stubborn, independent streak with them. They also mature slowly, so you are likely to have a big dog with small puppy-like behaviour for a good while. Irish Setters love doing new things and going to new places. Interestingly, they are especially good with birds, as they were originally bred to.
Count on the Irish Setter to be the ideal companion for you with their infectious energy, love for adventure and enthusiasm levels.
3. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The non-aggressive nature of this dog often does come as a surprise in the canine world, considering its previous reputation, but that has been changing in the past few years. The Staffie, as it is called often, is no more aggressive than any other breed. It was originally bred as a fighting dog, but even then, it did live with the families as their pet, and that is even more so the case today. Staffies can weigh between 11 to 17 kgs and can have a height of 32 to 42 cm.
Fearless, but pretty even tempered and extremely affectionate – that’s just how the Staffordshire Bull terrier rolls. Considering their strength and energy, they are better suited for experienced dog parents. They have been nicknamed ‘the nanny dog’, considering their love for children. Best part is that Staffies also get along well with other dogs and animals, given proper training.
4. Pug
Pugs are famous for their charm and gentle companionship. They are somewhat laid back and prefer a sedentary lifestyle, though that is not to say that they don’t enjoy the daily playtime. What you can expect from a Pug is to either imitate or complement your mood, depending on what suits the situation best. After all, we’re talking about a sensitive dog breed here. These wrinkly cuties can be around 25 to 30 cm tall and 6 to 8 kg heavy.
Pugs are highly suited to a family with children and outgoing people. Somewhat clownish, they tend to follow their owners very closely, earning their nickname of ‘shadow’. However, this is not a dog that should be left alone for long, as they are very much prone to separation anxiety. Looking for an easy-going dog that will keep you entertained, without being physically demanding? There’s no doubt that the Pug is as good a fit as any other.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Just one look into the eyes of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will make it clear how this furball is meant to be a people pleaser. Since they are extremely patient, size does not bother them at all. In the sense, they make friends easily with dogs bigger and smaller than them alike. Moreover, they also get along really well with children and are accepting of strangers as well. You’ll usually find an adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniel weighing around 5 to 9 kgs, with 30 to 33 cm in height.
The sweet and gentle nature of this breed makes them ideal as therapy dogs, and also as a companion to older households. Amazingly, the Spaniel is also very obedient and easily trained. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel does tend to chase anything that moves, so they may require training regarding that. Sure, you can’t deny that they’re quite active, but these pooches love cuddling or just sleeping on its humans just as much.
6. Maltese Dog
Maltese Dogs were bred to be companions and they sure do fulfil that criteria splendidly. Gentle and sprightly by nature, they treat everyone as a friend. While the Maltese is an excellent therapy dog, they also excel in a lot of dog sports. They are small but possess a lot of energy. Given their size, which is 20 to 25 cm in case you were wondering, they are prone to injuries. So they may need some training in households with small children.
Just like their feathery and cloudy appearance suggests, the Maltese is a lightweight pooch, weighing only about 3 to 5 kgs. Given proper training and basic socialization, they get along well with pretty much everyone. The Maltese Dog is an affectionate breed that really loves to please their owner. But of course, they also need that love to be reciprocated. When all is said and done, the Maltese Dog is a wonderful companion who only brings joy to the house.
Things To Keep In Mind For The Friendliest Dogs
Dogs have always been companions to humans and they still carry that disposition with them. Every dog loves and cares for its owner, and it is up to the owner to treat their pet right. Abuse and neglect can result in destructive behaviour in a dog. Also, some dogs have higher energy and greater exercise needs which if neglected, can cause some angst. These are needs that must be considered and objectively assessed with the consultation of the breeder, as to whether they can be met by the owner, before bringing a dog home, to be able to do right by your pet.
Dogs have been called a man’s best friend. But whether a man can be a dog’s best friend is up to the individual. So, treat your dog with love and affection, and you will have a happy and loving friend that brings immense joy to you till the end of days.
See also: Best Dog Breeds for Kids
