Dogs are famously known as “man’s best friend,” but for some breeds “everyone’s best friend” is more accurate. While it’s always wise to introduce new pets the right way, some dogs make that process a lot easier. Who are these extra-friendly dogs?
This toy-sized purse dog is built for running—and snuggling! Bred as companions for royalty and nobility, Italian greyhounds have a long history of close human interaction. That makes make them naturally inclined to seek companionship and form strong bonds with their owners and other pets.
See an Italian greyhound in a Renaissance painting—or modeling a dog sweater today—and it’s easy to see how they wrap people around their tiny paws. With their affectionate, playful nature, they generally tend to get along with other pets as well (though, due to their size, any playmates need to be gentle). In fact, Italian greyhounds can be prone to separation anxiety, so having a companion helps keep them company.
A cross between a bichon frise and a Cavalier King Charles spaniel, this small dog is a perfect blend of two sweet, family-oriented companion breeds to create a pet that is friendly and outgoing. Cavachons love everyone and are easy to train, which makes them a good match for families and empty nesters. Their gentle and easy-going nature makes them great companions for other animals, especially when socialized from a young age.
Cavachons tend to be very playful and social, which helps them get along easily with other pets, and their easy-going temperament makes them highly adaptable to busy, multi-pet households.
The cockapoo is another popular small breed, but one with double the energy of our previous two lovebug breeds. This small dog loves everyone and is easy to train, making them a great addition to families big and small.
One of the oldest of the “doodles,” this popular breed crosses the spunk and smarts of a poodle with the friendliness of a cocker spaniel. Where these breeds overlap is an excellent family dog who enjoys owners, children and other pets.
Intelligent, adaptable and affectionate, cockapoos thrive on interaction and can easily form bonds with other pets in a household. Their friendly and outgoing personality enjoys the company of humans and other pets.
Looking for a dog that’s a little bigger—or a lot bigger? The largest breed on our list is extra-large, a gentle giant loves everyone: The Newfoundland.
Newfies are famously patient, tolerant, calm and gentle, which makes them great companions for people, children and pets. They also have protective instincts toward the ones they love that make them a welcome addition to the home. While this massive, 100-plus-pound breed is eager to please and surprisingly easy to train, their love comes with a dense double coat, an affinity for swimming and water—not to mention a tendency to drool.
Learn more about dozens of dog and cat breeds and get a free custom breed profile for your pet at ThePetHealthZone.com.