Looking for a furry friend who loves people as much as you do? Some dog breeds are naturally more affectionate, social, and eager to bond with humans. Whether you’re a first-time pet parent or have a busy family household, choosing a friendly breed can make all the difference.
The right dog will not only greet you with a wagging tail but also blend effortlessly into your daily life. In this blog, we’ll explore 7 of the friendliest dog breeds that love people, including popular favorites like the Cocker Spaniel, Havanese, and Maltese. These breeds are known for their loyalty, gentle behavior, and desire to be around humans. So if you’re searching for a companion who offers unconditional love and thrives on social interaction, this guide is for you. Let’s dive into the top breeds that make perfect, people-loving pets.
1. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they have transitioned into beloved family pets thanks to their loving personalities and manageable size. These dogs form strong bonds with their families and are especially good with children, making them ideal companions for households with young kids. Cocker Spaniels are naturally eager to please and are quite responsive to training when handled with patience and positive reinforcement.
Their expressive eyes and soft, silky coats make them not only adorable but also approachable. Despite their calm temperament, they enjoy being active and playing outdoors, so they benefit from regular walks and play sessions. Socialization from a young age ensures that they remain friendly with strangers and other pets. Their sensitivity to human emotions also makes them good therapy dogs, offering comfort and companionship to people in need.
2. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, cheerful dog known for its bright eyes, fluffy white coat, and happy-go-lucky attitude. These dogs are extremely sociable and thrive on human interaction. They love being the center of attention and will often charm everyone around them with their playful behavior and clown-like antics. Bichons are excellent companions for both individuals and families, including those with other pets or children.
Due to their intelligent and adaptable nature, Bichons are easy to train and often do well in obedience and agility competitions. They do not like being left alone for long periods, as they crave company and can develop separation anxiety. Bichon Frises are also known for being hypoallergenic, which makes them a great choice for people with allergies. Their affectionate and loyal demeanor ensures they will always be by your side, making them one of the most people-friendly breeds you can bring into your home.
3. English Setter
The English Setter is a graceful and friendly breed, often described as a “gentleman” among dogs due to its calm and well-mannered behavior. These dogs are extremely affectionate and love spending time with their human families. They are especially good with children, thanks to their patient and tolerant temperament. English Setters are known for their sociable nature and generally get along well with other dogs and even cats.
Their high intelligence and eagerness to please make them relatively easy to train, although they do best with consistent, gentle guidance. English Setters need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy, as they were originally bred as hunting dogs and retain a strong desire to be active. Their beautiful speckled coats also require regular grooming to maintain. Above all, English Setters thrive in homes where they are treated as full family members and given plenty of affection, attention, and playtime.
4. Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a small dog with a big personality and a heart full of affection. Known for their loyalty and spirited nature, these dogs are incredibly friendly toward their owners and families. While they may be a bit reserved with strangers at first, they usually warm up quickly and enjoy socializing. Australian Terriers are excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. They are also known for being intelligent and eager to learn, which makes them quite trainable.
These dogs have a strong desire to be part of family activities and dislike being left out. Despite their small size, they are brave and full of energy, requiring regular exercise to burn off their high spirits. They do well in both houses and apartments, as long as they get enough mental and physical stimulation. Their affectionate nature and loyal disposition make them wonderful pets for anyone looking for a cheerful and friendly companion.
5. Havanese
The Havanese is Cuba’s national dog and is cherished for its affectionate, outgoing, and people-loving temperament. These small, fluffy dogs are true lapdogs and form strong attachments to their families. They are particularly known for their cheerful disposition and playful attitude, making them excellent pets for families with children or older adults seeking companionship. Havanese dogs thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention and affection. They are very social animals and enjoy meeting new people and other pets.
Their intelligent and trainable nature makes them suitable for various activities, including agility and obedience competitions. They also make great therapy dogs due to their empathetic personalities. Havanese dogs do not like to be left alone for long, as they are happiest when they are with their humans. Their small size and adaptability make them a perfect fit for both apartments and larger homes. With their warm hearts and affectionate nature, Havanese are undoubtedly one of the friendliest dog breeds.
6. Smooth Collie
The Smooth Collie is a friendly, intelligent, and loyal dog breed known for its gentleness and devotion to its family. Unlike the more familiar Rough Collie (like Lassie), the Smooth Collie has a shorter coat but shares the same kind, social temperament. These dogs are naturally affectionate and do very well with children, other pets, and even strangers. Smooth Collies are highly trainable due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them excellent candidates for therapy work or assistance roles.
They are active and need regular mental and physical stimulation to stay happy, so daily walks and interactive games are essential. Their protective but non-aggressive nature also makes them excellent watchdogs. Smooth Collies thrive in homes where they can be involved in family activities and be given lots of love and attention. Their loyal hearts and friendly demeanor make them one of the best breeds for families looking for a dependable and affectionate companion.
7. Maltese
The Maltese is a tiny dog with a big heart and a loving spirit. Known for their long, flowing white coats and sweet expressions, Maltese dogs are true companions who adore spending time with their human families. Despite their small size, they have a lively personality and are surprisingly courageous. Maltese are particularly affectionate and often bond closely with one person in the household, though they remain friendly with everyone. They are good with children when handled gently and enjoy cuddling and lap time.
Because of their sensitivity and intelligence, they respond well to positive reinforcement training. Maltese dogs do best in homes where they receive plenty of attention and are not left alone for long periods. Their sociable nature means they also get along well with other pets. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat in good condition, but their loving and gentle personality makes every effort worthwhile. These dogs truly thrive when surrounded by people who love them back.
Bottom Line
Choosing a dog that’s naturally friendly and people-oriented makes pet ownership a joy. The seven breeds listed in this guide are perfect for those seeking affectionate, loyal, and sociable companions. Whether you prefer a small lapdog like the Maltese or a playful buddy like the English Setter, each of these dogs brings warmth and love into any home.
Remember, while breed traits are important, socialization, training, and how you raise your dog also play big roles in their behavior. With the right environment, these friendly dogs will become lifelong best friends who offer constant love and companionship.
FAQs
What makes a dog breed “friendly”?
Friendly dog breeds are typically affectionate, sociable, and enjoy being around people. They are often easy to train, good with children, and open to meeting new people and pets.
Are friendly dog breeds good with kids?
Yes, most friendly breeds like the Cocker Spaniel and Havanese are known for being gentle and patient with children, making them great family pets.
Do friendly dog breeds get along with other pets?
Many friendly breeds are also social with other animals, especially if introduced properly and socialized from a young age.
Which friendly breed is best for apartment living?
Smaller breeds like the Bichon Frise and Maltese are well-suited for apartment living due to their size and adaptable nature.