17 Dog Breeds That Are Friendly With Everyone – Even Total Strangers

Interesting
By Maya Rivera

Dogs are often known as man’s best friend, but some breeds truly stand out for their friendliness. These particular breeds are not only affectionate with their families but extend that warmth to strangers as well. If you’re looking for a dog that’s amiable and social, consider these 17 breeds that are known for their welcoming nature.

Labrador Retriever

© labrador_love_hub

Meet the Labrador Retriever, a bundle of joy with a heart full of love. Known for their outgoing personality, these dogs greet everyone with a wag of their tail. Their friendly nature makes them excellent companions for families and strangers alike.

Labradors are always eager to please, making training a breeze. They enjoy participating in family activities and are often found at the center of attention. Did you know? Labradors are often used as therapy dogs due to their gentle demeanor. Whether it’s a child or an adult, they bring smiles to every face they meet.

Golden Retriever

© wildontherun

Golden Retrievers are the epitome of friendliness. Their radiant smiles and kind eyes are enough to make anyone’s day brighter. Known for their loyalty, they bond quickly with their owners and strangers alike.

These dogs are not just friendly but also intelligent, making them perfect for various roles, including service dogs. Their golden fur reflects their warm nature, and they enjoy nothing more than playing fetch or swimming. Fun fact: Golden Retrievers are often cast in movies for their appealing looks and charming behavior. They truly are stars at heart!

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

© retrievers_friends_socal

With their soulful eyes and gentle demeanor, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the ultimate lap dogs. They thrive on human companionship and are known for their affectionate nature.

These dogs have a knack for making friends wherever they go. Whether at a park or a family gathering, they are always ready to spread joy. Loving and gentle, they are perfect for families with children. A historical tidbit: These spaniels were named after King Charles II of England, who adored them. Their royal lineage adds to their charm and grace.

Poodle

© integrityk9services

Poodles are not only known for their intelligence but also their amiable personalities. Available in standard, miniature, and toy sizes, they suit any living situation.

These elegant dogs enjoy socializing and are often seen engaging with people at parks or homes. They’re quick learners and enjoy showing off their tricks, especially when it earns them new friends. Did you know? Poodles were originally bred in Germany as water retrievers. Their playful and friendly nature makes them a joy to be around, turning any stranger into a friend.

Beagle

© protectorsofanimals

Beagles are curious explorers with a nose for friendship. Their merry nature and wagging tail make them approachable to everyone they meet.

These hounds love to be part of a pack, whether it’s with other dogs or humans. They’re always on the lookout for adventure and enjoy being the center of attention. Fun fact: Beagles have been popular in comic strips, thanks to their playful antics and distinctive howl. Their friendly demeanor makes them a favorite among families and strangers.

Boxer

© American Boxer Club

Boxers are full of life and love, with a playful spirit that endears them to everyone. Their boundless energy and joyful antics make them a favorite among children and adults alike.

Known for their patience and protective instincts, Boxers are excellent family dogs. They have a special way of winning over even the most hesitant visitor. Historically, Boxers were used as guard dogs, but their friendly nature shines through, making them perfect companions. They’re always ready for a game or a cuddle, bringing joy to any household.

Bichon Frise

© southeast_animal_hospital_ny

The Bichon Frise is a little bundle of joy, known for its cheerful disposition and fluffy white coat. These dogs have an uncanny ability to make friends with anyone, thanks to their playful and affectionate nature.

Bichons thrive on human interaction and love being part of family activities. They’re often seen as the life of the party, entertaining everyone with their antics. Did you know? The Bichon Frise has a history of performing in circuses due to their intelligence and charm. Their delightful personality makes them a joy to be around.

French Bulldog

© thedogist

French Bulldogs are known for their charming personalities and bat-like ears. These little dogs have a big heart and are always ready to make new friends.

Their laid-back nature makes them perfect for city living, where they enjoy interacting with neighbors and passersby. Despite their small size, they have a mighty presence and a knack for making everyone feel special. A fun tidbit: French Bulldogs were popularized in Parisian society during the 19th century, adding a touch of elegance to their friendly nature.

Irish Setter

© Daily Paws

Irish Setters are known for their stunning red coats and merry disposition. These dogs are not only beautiful but also incredibly friendly, making them a joy to be around.

They love being part of family outings and are often seen bounding through fields with endless enthusiasm. Their sociable nature makes them a hit at gatherings and events. Interesting fact: Irish Setters were originally bred for hunting, but their friendly disposition has made them beloved family pets. Their joyous spirit and elegance are sure to capture anyone’s heart.

Collie

© Adopt a Pet

Collies are renowned for their loyalty and intelligence. With a keen sense of duty, they are often seen as protectors of their families.

These dogs are incredibly friendly and thrive on human interaction. They’re gentle with children and attentive to their surroundings, making them ideal companions. Did you know? The famous Collie, Lassie, showcased the breed’s intelligence and friendly nature on screen. Collies have an innate ability to sense emotions, offering comfort and companionship to everyone they meet.

Newfoundland

© pawsafe

With a heart as big as its paws, the Newfoundland is every child’s gentle guardian. These gentle giants are known for their calm and friendly demeanor.

Despite their size, they have a tender-hearted nature and are incredibly affectionate. Newfoundlands are excellent swimmers and enjoy water activities, often playing lifeguard for family members. An interesting tidbit: Newfoundlands were originally bred for fishing expeditions, thanks to their strong swimming abilities. They remain beloved family pets, offering warmth and friendship to everyone they encounter.

Papillon

© oldhempbordercollies

Papillons may be small in size, but their friendly nature is immense. Known for their butterfly-like ears, they have a lively personality that draws people in.

These dogs are incredibly intelligent and love to learn new tricks, often entertaining everyone around them. Their sociable nature makes them excellent companions, whether at home or in social settings. Did you know? Papillons were favored by European royalty and often depicted in Renaissance paintings. Their historical charm and friendly disposition make them delightful to be around.

Bulldog

© socalbulldogrescue

Bulldogs are known for their distinctive wrinkled faces and hearty build. Despite their tough appearance, they are incredibly friendly and gentle.

These dogs have a relaxed nature, making them perfect companions for families and individuals alike. They enjoy lounging around but are always ready for a play session. Fun fact: Bulldogs were originally bred for bull-baiting but have since become beloved family pets. Their friendly nature and endearing looks make them favorites among dog lovers everywhere, turning strangers into friends with ease.

Cocker Spaniel

© abandonedangels

Cocker Spaniels are known for their beautiful flowing ears and gentle eyes. Their friendly nature and eagerness to please make them a favorite among families.

These dogs love being part of activities and are often found playing fetch or going on adventures with their human companions. Their cheerful disposition is infectious, spreading joy wherever they go. Did you know? Cocker Spaniels were bred as hunting dogs, but their friendly nature has made them popular as family pets. They’re always ready to share a smile.

Vizsla

© milliethevizslacanada

Vizslas are energetic companions known for their striking rust-colored coats. Their boundless energy and friendly demeanor make them popular with active families.

These dogs thrive on exercise and love being part of outdoor activities. They’re incredibly loyal and form strong bonds with their human companions, often following them everywhere. An interesting fact: Vizslas are known as the “Velcro dog” for their tendency to stick close to their owners. Their friendly nature ensures they’re always a welcome addition to any outing.

Shetland Sheepdog

© otis.the.sheltie

Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are known for their intelligence and agility. These dogs are not only excellent herders but also incredibly friendly.

They enjoy being around people and thrive in family environments. Shelties are known for their loyalty and often form deep bonds with their human companions. Did you know? Shelties were originally bred to herd sheep on the rugged Shetland Islands. Their friendly nature and keen intelligence make them a joy to train and a delightful addition to any family.

Samoyed

© koro.the.samoyed

With their signature “Sammy smile,” Samoyeds are known for their friendly and cheerful demeanor. Their fluffy white coats and joyful expressions make them irresistible to anyone they meet.

These dogs are incredibly social and love being part of family activities, often seen playing in the snow or running in open fields. Fun fact: Samoyeds were originally bred by the nomadic Samoyedic people of Siberia for herding reindeer. Their friendly nature and adaptability make them cherished companions, warming hearts wherever they go.