Getting your first dog can feel like a big step! Many new pet parents worry about finding a furry friend who’s easy to care for and won’t turn the house upside down.
While every dog needs proper training and attention, certain breeds naturally tend to be more relaxed and well-behaved than others.
This article is based on information from online sources and is intended for general knowledge only. Behaviour can vary between individual dogs.
1. Labrador Retriever
America’s favorite breed for decades, Labs combine playfulness with an easygoing temperament that first-time owners adore. Their intelligence makes training a breeze, while their patient nature helps them adapt to various living situations.
Labs excel with children and other pets, rarely showing aggression. They’re the canine equivalent of that friend who gets along with everyone at the party.
Did you know? Despite their name, Labrador Retrievers were originally bred in Newfoundland, not Labrador!
2. Golden Retriever
With their sunshine-bright personalities, Golden Retrievers practically radiate warmth. These devoted companions maintain puppy-like enthusiasm while demonstrating remarkable patience, especially with young children.
Their trainability ranks among the highest in the dog world. Goldens seem to intuitively understand what you’re asking, making them perfect for novice trainers.
Their moderate exercise needs balance nicely with their love of lounging beside you during movie night.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Royal by name and nature, these elegant little dogs bring aristocratic manners into everyday homes. Their adaptability shines through as they’re equally content with a gentle walk or a quiet afternoon on your lap.
Cavaliers rarely bark unnecessarily, making them excellent apartment dwellers. Their soft, expressive eyes seem to communicate a natural understanding of human emotions.
These compact companions offer big-dog affection in a manageable, 13-18 pound package.
4. Poodle
Forget the prissy stereotype. Poodles are brilliant problem-solvers with remarkable self-control. Available in three sizes (Standard, Miniature, and Toy), they adapt to various living situations while maintaining their dignified demeanor.
Their hypoallergenic coats make them suitable for many allergy sufferers. Poodles form deep bonds with their families, showing sensitivity to moods and emotions.
These refined canines combine athleticism with restraint, rarely jumping on furniture or guests without permission.
5. Bernese Mountain Dog
Gentle giants with hearts to match, Bernese Mountain Dogs move through life with a calm confidence that puts everyone at ease. Their patient temperament makes them surprisingly delicate with children despite their impressive size.
Berners learn household rules quickly and respect boundaries with minimal reinforcement. They’re known for their “soft mouths”, taking treats gently without nipping fingers.
These tri-colored beauties originated as Swiss farm dogs, where their steady temperament made them reliable workers in any situation.
6. Bichon Frise
Resembling animated cotton balls, Bichons combine circus-performer charm with surprisingly dignified manners. These powder-puff pups rarely shed, making housekeeping easier for new dog owners.
Bichons thrive on positive reinforcement and quickly learn household routines. Their moderate energy levels mean they’re spirited during playtime but calm when indoors.
Historically companion dogs to European nobility, they’ve perfected the art of being delightful without being demanding.
7. Greyhound
“Forty-five mile per hour couch potatoes” perfectly describes these elegant speedsters. Despite their racing background, retired Greyhounds spend most of their time in zen-like repose, conserving energy between brief bursts of exercise.
Their quiet, undemanding nature makes them surprisingly suitable for apartment living. Greyhounds rarely bark and typically maintain a dignified reserve with strangers while showing deep affection to their families.
Many adopt retired racing Greyhounds, finding them already house-trained and eager for home comforts.
8. Irish Setter
Flowing mahogany coats catch everyone’s eye, but it’s the Irish Setter’s balanced personality that wins hearts. These ruby-red beauties channel their hunting heritage into focused learning rather than destructive behaviors.
Irish Setters respond enthusiastically to training, making them rewarding for first-time owners. Their joyful approach to life lifts household spirits without the chaos some energetic breeds bring.
After adequate exercise, they transform into tranquil companions, content to lounge gracefully by the fireplace.
9. Shetland Sheepdog
Miniature Collie looks paired with extraordinary intelligence make Shelties standout companions for thoughtful owners. These attentive dogs seem to anticipate needs before you voice them, creating an almost telepathic bond.
Their natural inclination to please translates into exceptional household manners. Shelties learn boundaries quickly and respect them consistently.
Originally bred to guard Shetland Island farms, they maintain a watchful but measured approach – alerting to genuine concerns rather than every passing squirrel.
10. Bulldog
Behind that wrinkled face lies a philosopher’s soul. Bulldogs approach life with remarkable composure. Their steady temperament means they rarely overreact to household commotion or unexpected visitors.
Low energy requirements make them ideal for less active owners. A moderate daily walk satisfies their exercise needs, leaving plenty of time for their favorite activity: napping near their humans.
Modern Bulldogs have left their fighting history far behind, evolving into affectionate companions who excel at peaceful coexistence.
11. Papillon
Butterfly-eared and fairy-light, Papillons bring sophistication to the toy dog category. Unlike many small breeds, they rarely resort to yappy behavior or nervous tendencies.
Their remarkable intelligence ranks them among the most trainable of the toy breeds. Papillons learn household routines quickly and adapt to changing circumstances with grace.
Despite their delicate appearance, they maintain an athletic confidence that balances their affectionate nature. These refined companions combine lap dog loyalty with sporting dog intelligence.
12. Newfoundland
Mountains of fur hiding hearts of gold, Newfoundlands embody the gentle giant archetype perfectly. Their innate nurturing instinct extends to all family members, especially children, whom they watch over with remarkable patience.
Newfies respond to guidance with thoughtful consideration rather than impulsive reactions. Their natural swimming abilities and rescue instincts reflect their heritage as working water dogs.
Despite their imposing size, they move through homes with surprising grace, carefully navigating around furniture and small obstacles.
