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There’s nothing better than the love of a canine companion. A wet kiss and a fuzzy snuggle can instantly bring a smile to your face and cure a case of the blues. While all breed are awesome in their own way, some have friendlier temperaments than others. If you’re thinking about adding a furry addition to your family, it’s likely that you want a friend that has a happy-go-luck personality. The 10 following breeds are famous for their sunny dispositions and mix well with people of all ages, including young children, as well as other animals.
1. Boston Terrier
If you’re looking for friendly breed, the Boston terrier is a fantastic option. This breed is on the small size, weighing between 12 and 25 pounds and measuring about 15 to 17 inches, so they’re a great size for curling up on your lap and apartment living. The Boston is famous for his gracious personality and affectionate manner; so much so that this breed is referred to as “The American Gentleman”. They’re comfortable around people and mix well with other animals. They’re also extremely intelligent and tend to be quite silly. The Boston terrier is always up for a jaunty walk on a dog harness and will bring tons of love to everyone he meets.
2. Beagle
A member of the Hound Group, just one look at those floppy ears and those sweet, puppy dog eyes and you’ll instantly fall in love. Spend just a few minutes with this breed and your love will grow even more! Their merry personalities are quite intoxicating! You’ll have a hard time not wanting to spend every moment you possible can with this adorable, fun-loving, obedient pooch. However, while Beagles are indeed friendly, they can be quite curious, too; that’s the hound in them! Be advised that you should invest in a leash for dogs that pull because as soon as a Beagle picks up a scent, he just has to sniff it out and find the source! But with proper training (investing in a dog training book is a wise idea, too), this breed is fairly easy to care for and will make the perfect companion.
Related: Best Dog Food for Beagles
3. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever is the most popular dog breed in America, and with their super friendly dispositions, it’s easy to see why! If you’re looking for a good-sized dog that will get along with children and other animals, then this is a great option for you! They are a member of the Sporting Group, and as such, they have very outgoing and eager to please personalities. Make sure that you have plenty of interactive dog toys and puzzle toys for dogs on hand, because these guys like to play; but they’re always up for a good belly rub and cuddle, too! It’s also important to note that this do tend to suffer from skin issues and allergies, so make sure you feed them a dog food for allergies or a high-quality dog food for Labs.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If you’re looking for friendly small-sized pooch that will retain his puppy dog looks well into his golden years, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will make the perfect addition to your family. This breed is a member of the toy group, making him perfect for small abodes. They have mesmerizing eyes and always appear to be smiling. They’re also extremely affectionate, quite gentle, and have a graceful way about them. Do note, however, that this breed does have a long coat that needs to be properly maintained. Make sure you have a high-quality dog shampoo and a sturdy dog brush to keep him well-groomed. You might also want to invest in a pair of dog grooming clippers to keep him neat and trim. A dog hair dryer can also be useful to dry out those thick locks after a bath.
5. Bulldog
Another fantastic breed that is hailed for its contagiously friendly and super silly personality is the Bulldog. This short, yet thick dog stands at about 15 inches high and can weigh up to 50 pounds. The Bulldog is extremely docile and will get along with just about anyone he meets; babies, toddlers, other dogs; you name it! They are loyal companions and love to curl up. Do be advised, however, that Bulldogs love to eat. Make sure you choose one of the premium-quality dog food brands for feeding. If you notice that he’s gaining weight, a dog food for weight loss is a good choice.
Related: Best Dog Food for Bulldogs
6. Golden Retriever
Another one of the most popular dog breeds in America, the Golden retriever is hailed for his super friendly personality and his devotion toward his human companions. This breed is also exceptionally intelligent. With his smarts and sunny disposition, it’s no wonder why Goldens are often used as service dogs. They are also love having a job to do and will be happy to complete whatever task you give them. They also adore interacting with people of all ages and other animals. Like other retrievers, the Golden does tend to suffer from skin issues. Medicated shampoo for dogs can help to alleviate dry, itchy skin.
Related: Best Dog Food for Golden Retrievers
7. Irish Setter
If you’re looking for an all-around happy and family-friendly dog, the Irish Setter won’t disappoint. This breed is known for its sweet-natured personality and loyalty. They love to make their human companions happy. They also have quite a bit of energy and will enjoy spending time playing with young children. Like other large dogs, the Irish Setter can develop joint issues with age, but offering a dog joint supplement can help to offset such problems.
8. Pug
A pressed-in face is the first thing most people think of when they picture a Pug, which is utterly adorable. Mix in a small stature, a curly-cue tale, and a loveable personality and this breed is the ideal choice for anyone who is looking for a pooch that will play well with others. Pugs are extremely silly and love playing; but, they do enjoy their naps, so you’ll want to have a comfortable and supportive dog bed for your furry pal.
Related: Best Dog Food for Pugs
9. Boxer
Another super friendly breed is the Boxer. Though they might appear intimidating at first, they are anything but. They love to offer slobbery kisses and they are essentially big kids at heart. They’ll roll over and let anyone who is willing to rub their bellies! Boxers do need regular exercise, though, so a well-fitted dog collar and a sturdy leash is a must.
Related: Best Dog Food for Boxers
10. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
This breed is often regarded as one to be fearful of, which is unfortunate because they are anything but scary. The Staffordshire Bull Terrier is a sturdy, tenacious, and courageous breed. While it’s true that they if they are handled incorrectly they can develop unpleasant traits (which is true for any breed), they are truly good-natured, playful dogs. In fact, they are so friendly, gentle, and caring that they are also referred to as “The Nanny Dog” or the “Children’s Nurse Maid”. If you have young children, a Staffordshire Bull Terrier and your little ones will be instantly best friends.
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