Some dog breeds have high energy, while others are incredibly mature. There are breeds that have a reputation for playfulness and dogs known for their intelligence or athleticism. You’ll also find plenty of cute and loving breeds; Kids can crawl all over it, take toys out of their mouths, or even mess with it while they eat – and these cute puppies don’t care! Thanks to their even-tempered temperament, many of these calm canines also make great service or therapy dogs.
Ready to adopt a sweet companion? Here are 13 of the cutest dog breeds.
Millions of pets (including many purebreds) are available for adoption from shelters. We always recommend accreditation as the first option. If you decide to purchase a pet from a breeder, be sure to choose a responsible breeder, and always avoid puppy mills.
Bagel
It is said that beagles make bad guard dogs because of their friendly disposition. Because they were bred to hunt in packs, they enjoy the company of other dogs and people. They are happy-go-lucky, rarely aggressive, and make great companions for children and adults of all ages, but their constant curiosity can sometimes get them into trouble. Most of the time, the Beagle’s cheerful antics are more entertaining than destructive.
Beagles’ smooth coats make them relatively low-maintenance; However, since they are strong-willed, training them can be a challenge. While their independent nature can sometimes make things difficult, their sweetness always makes up for their stubbornness.
Bernese Mountain Dog
Another gentle giant, the Bernese Mountain Dog is a calm, laid-back breed with a sweet nature. Bred to do agricultural work in the mountains of Switzerland, these dogs are strong and trainable. The AKC says that although they are powerful animals, they can also be remarkably agile for their large size.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are confident, rarely shy, and gentle. They are also loved for their thick, shiny, tri-colored coats.
Bulldog
Bulldogs may look eccentric with their droopy eyes and perpetually frowning jowls, but they are known for being gentle, docile and friendly dogs with a sweet disposition. A breed with a good nature is usually happy to please you, although some may display a stubborn streak. Bulldogs are very loyal to their families and protect them, especially children.
It is important to note that the bulldog is a brachycephalic breed of dog, which means it has a short nose and can be prone to breathing problems. It can be especially difficult for bulldogs to breathe in heat and humidity, so their exercise should be limited on hot days.
Paul terrier
The AKC, which calls the breed “playful, charming and mischievous,” says the pit bull terrier is one of the best breeds for families with children because of its gentle, fun-loving disposition. Despite their historical role as gladiators in blood sports, these “cultivators” can be well-behaved and charismatic with the right obedience training (best to start when they are puppies) and plenty of exercise to moderate their overabundance of energy. Bull terriers act very much like little children and make great playmates for their human counterparts.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Once a lap dog of King Charles II, it’s no wonder these little pups are so affectionate and love to be held. They have a gentle temperament, which is why the breed is a popular therapy dog. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are often referred to as comforters, and they can sense emotions, so they often work with children, the elderly, and others with special needs.
The adorable toy breed is smart, playful, agile and brave. It doesn’t require a great deal of exercise, so it can adapt to active owners and indoor bodies. Since Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can be easily distracted, obedience training doesn’t always sink in.
Collie
Collies have very gentle and gentle personalities. They are sensitive and intelligent, but they can also be stubborn, so obedience training is often recommended. If you have young children, remember that collies are herd-raised, so they may constantly collect your children while they play in the house or yard.
There are several types of collie. The bearded collie is very shaggy and is descended from Scottish sheepdogs. Border collies are black and white shepherds who hail from the Anglo-Scottish county of Northumberland. Then there’s the classic “Lassie” collie, which is a long, brown and white version.
Golden retriever
There is no doubt that the category of “cute dogs” is dominated by the famous golden retriever. These well-rounded Scottish Armed Terriers are as suited to the home as they are to the show ring. The American Kennel Club (AKC) has described them as intelligent, friendly, obedient, and loyal.
These qualities are also why Goldens are commonly used in search and rescue and guiding services. The American Service Animal Association says golden retrievers are great leaders, and that they gently grip objects with their teeth — a useful trait for working dogs and those sharing households with young children.
Irish setter
The fun and lively Irish Setter loves company. These dogs are affectionate with their families, gentle with children, intelligent, obedient, and – like retrievers – happy to play fetch all day long and never feel grumpy or tired while doing so. Irish Setters are also highly trainable and intelligent. They have boundless energy but are gentle and eager to please.
In addition to their gentle temperament, Irish setters are known for their agile speed and bright red coats. Although their boundless energy can make them agitated, these armed dogs respond well to gentle guidance and training. Because they are so well attached to their families, they are prone to separation anxiety.
Labrador retriever
Their friendliness, intelligence, gentle temperament, and lively spirits have earned Labrador Retrievers the prestigious title of “most popular dog breed in the United States,” according to the AKC. Members of the athletic dog group can play and fetch balls for long periods of time without feeling irritated or tired. It’s perfect for families with active children and anyone else looking for active and patient companions.
The Labrador is athletic and energetic, yet patient and easy-going. Like golden retrievers, these eager-to-please pets make ideal service animals. Labs are medium to large in size and can be black, yellow, or chocolate.
Newfoundland
Don’t let the sheer size of this breed fool you; The gentle giant has the most relaxed disposition. Although they range from 26 to 28 inches long and weigh 100 to 150 pounds, these canines — Newfies, as they are affectionately known — are gentle, patient, friendly, and quick to intervene if someone threatens their families. Because of their protective nature, they have been called “nanny dogs.”
Poodle
This popularly intelligent breed comes in a variety of sizes, colors, and hairstyles, but all tend to be eager to please and highly trainable. Miniature Poodles can be shy around strangers, while Standard Poodles tend to be more outgoing. They are both playful, loyal, and rarely upset or short-tempered.
People with allergies tend to be drawn to poodles because of their hypoallergenic coats. However, it requires ample care.
Clay
The Pug is considered one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, and it is also among the silliest and sweetest breeds. The AKC describes them as “charming, mischievous, and loving.” They rarely nibble or bite, and are known to tolerate children’s prodding patiently and passively.
Pugs offer a lot of weight for dogs in a small package (14 to 18 pounds). They respond well to obedience training and don’t require a lot of exercise, which is why they’re also a top choice for apartment dwellers. People-pleasing puppies come in fawn or black.
Vizsla
Also known as the Hungarian Pointer, the vizsla has high energy levels, but this does not hinder its gentle and affectionate behavior. Originally bred to be a hunting dog, the versatile vizsla also has a history of working in this field. It goes without saying that he needs to be well trained and loves an active lifestyle.
The breed is sensitive but confident, and forms strong bonds with family. These dogs have a distinctive rust-gold color with a sleek, shiny, low-maintenance coat.