Dogs are known for their loyalty, companionship, and unwavering love, but not all dogs are created equal when it comes to behavior. While some dogs may be easy-going and well-behaved, others may be more challenging to train and manage. When choosing a dog, it’s important to consider their behavior and temperament, particularly if you’re looking for a family pet or a dog that will be around children.
In this blog post, we’ll be exploring the top best behaved dog breeds. We’ll cover a range of breeds, from small toy breeds to large working breeds and even mixed breeds. We’ll provide insights into their behavior and overall temperament to help you make an informed decision about which breed might be right for you.
Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you narrow down your search and find a dog that fits your lifestyle and preferences. So without further ado, let’s dive into the top best behaved dog breeds.
Toy Dog Breeds
A toy dog breed is any small dog breed that typically weighs 7 pounds or less and stands no taller than 12 inches at the shoulder. Despite their small stature, many toy breeds are known for their big personalities and make excellent companions for people of all ages. Here are five of the best-behaved toy breeds.
1) Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a tiny breed that is known for its big personality. They are one of the most popular toy breeds in the world and are beloved for their loyalty, intelligence, and affectionate nature. Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their owners and can be quite protective of them. They are also highly intelligent and easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times.
2) Papillon
Papillons are a playful and energetic breed that are known for their butterfly-shaped ears. They are smart, trainable, and love to learn new tricks. Papillons are also social dogs that love to be around people and other animals, making them great pets for families with children.
3) Maltese
Maltese are gentle and affectionate dogs that make great lap dogs. They are playful and enjoy spending time with their owners, but they also have a calm and relaxed demeanor. Maltese are also easy to train and love to please their owners, making them great pets for first-time dog owners.
4) Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are intelligent and playful dogs that are known for their hypoallergenic coat. They are affectionate with their owners and love to be around people. Toy Poodles are also easy to train, and enjoy learning new tricks and commands. They require regular grooming to maintain their curly coat.
5) Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, or “Yorkies,” are spunky and lively dogs that are known for their small size and big personality. They are intelligent and easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times. Yorkies are also loyal and affectionate with their owners and make great lap dogs. They require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.
Toy breeds can be great pets for those looking for a small, manageable dog with a lot of personality. They are generally easy to train and can make great companions for families and individuals alike.
However, it’s important to remember that every dog is unique and may have their own personality and behavior traits. When considering a toy breed, it’s important to do your research and choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and preferences.
Small Dog Breeds
Small breeds are typically dogs that weigh less than 25 pounds and are known for their small size and cute, endearing features. They are often well-suited to living in apartments or other small living spaces and can make excellent companions for people of all ages. Here are five of the best-behaved small breeds.
6) Pomeranian
Pomeranians are playful and energetic dogs that are known for their fluffy coats. They are intelligent and easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times. Pomeranians are also loyal and affectionate with their owners and can be great pets for families with children. They require regular grooming to maintain their thick coat.
7) Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are friendly and affectionate dogs that are known for their tuxedo-like markings. They are easy to train and make great pets for families with children. Boston Terriers are also energetic and love to play, although they are also content to snuggle on the couch with their owners. They require moderate exercise to stay healthy and happy.
8) Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are gentle and affectionate dogs that make great lap dogs. They are intelligent and easy to train, although they can be sensitive to harsh training methods. Bichon Frises are also social dogs that love to be around people and other animals, making them great pets for families with other pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their fluffy coat.
9) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are friendly and affectionate dogs that are known for their long, silky coat. They are easy to train and love to please their owners. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are also gentle and patient with children, making them great pets for families. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat and are known to be prone to certain health issues, so it’s important to choose a reputable breeder.
10) Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are affectionate and playful dogs that are known for their long, flowing coat. They are easy to train and love to learn new tricks. Shih Tzus are also social dogs that love to be around people and other animals, making them great pets for families with other pets. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
Small breeds can be great pets for those looking for a small, manageable dog with a lot of personality. They are generally easy to train and can make great companions for families and individuals alike.
However, it’s important to remember that every dog is unique and may have their own personality and behavior traits. When considering a small breed, it’s important to do your research and choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and preferences.
Medium Dog Breeds
Medium breeds are typically dogs that weigh between 25 and 60 pounds and are known for their athleticism and agility. They are often well-suited to families with children or active individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. Here are five of the best-behaved medium breeds.
11) Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are friendly and affectionate dogs that are known for their loyalty and obedience. They are easy to train and love to please their owners. Golden Retrievers are also energetic and enjoy playing fetch or going for a swim. They make great pets for families with children.
12) Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are friendly and outgoing dogs that are known for their intelligence and loyalty. They are easy to train and love to please their owners. Labrador Retrievers are also energetic and enjoy playing fetch or going for a swim. They make great pets for families with children.
13) Standard Poodle
Standard Poodles are elegant and intelligent dogs that are known for their hypoallergenic coat. They are easy to train and love to learn new tricks. Standard Poodles are also affectionate with their owners and make great pets for families. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
14) Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs are loyal and intelligent dogs that are known for their herding abilities. They are easy to train and excel in obedience competitions. Australian Cattle Dogs are also energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They make great pets for active individuals or families with older children.
15) Welsh Corgi
Welsh Corgis are playful and affectionate dogs that are known for their short legs and big personality. They are intelligent and easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times. Welsh Corgis are also energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They make great pets for families with older children or active individuals.
Medium breeds can be great pets for those looking for an athletic and agile dog with a lot of personality. They are generally easy to train and can make great companions for families and individuals alike.
It is important to note that every dog has its own unique personality and behavior. When selecting a medium breed, it is vital to conduct your research and choose a breed that aligns with your lifestyle and preferences.
Large Dog Breeds
Large breeds are typically dogs that weigh more than 60 pounds and are known for their strength and imposing presence. They are often well-suited to families with older children or active individuals who enjoy outdoor activities. Here are five of the best-behaved large breeds:
16) Great Dane
Great Danes are gentle giants that are known for their calm and affectionate nature. They are intelligent and easy to train, although they can be sensitive to harsh training methods. Great Danes are also loyal and protective of their owners, making them great pets for families. They require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy but are generally low-energy dogs.
17) Bernese Mountain Dog
Bernese Mountain Dogs are friendly and loyal dogs that are known for their tri-color coat. They are intelligent and easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times. Bernese Mountain Dogs are also energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They make great pets for families with children.
18) Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle and affectionate dogs that are known for their thick, fluffy coat. They are intelligent and easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times. Newfoundlands are also loyal and protective of their owners, making them great pets for families. Low-energy dogs they may be, but to maintain their health and happiness, they need to be exercised regularly.
19) St. Bernard
St. Bernards are friendly and affectionate dogs that are known for their thick, fluffy coat. They are intelligent and easy to train, although they can be stubborn at times. St. Bernards make great pets for families because they are not only loyal but also protective of their owners. Although they are low-energy dogs, regular exercise is important to keep them healthy and happy.
20) Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants that are known for their calm and affectionate nature. Irish Wolfhounds are known for their intelligence and trainability. However, it’s important to avoid harsh training methods as they can be sensitive. These dogs are loyal and protective of their owners, making them great pets for families. While they require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, they are generally low-energy dogs.
Large breeds can be great pets for those looking for a strong and imposing dog with a gentle and affectionate nature. They are generally easy to train and can make great companions for families and individuals alike. It is crucial to keep in mind that each dog has its own personality and behavioral characteristics. When thinking about adopting a large breed, it is essential to conduct research and select a breed that is compatible with your way of life and personal preferences.
Mixed Breed Dogs
Mixed breeds, also known as mutts, are dogs that are the result of breeding between two or more different breeds. They can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and their behavior and temperament can vary depending on their breed mix. Here are five of the best-behaved mixed breeds:
21) Labradoodle
Labradoodles are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. They are friendly and affectionate dogs that are known for their hypoallergenic coat. They are intelligent and easy to train and love to learn new tricks. Labradoodles are also energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They make great pets for families with children or individuals with allergies.
22) Cockapoo
Cockapoos are a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. They are affectionate and playful dogs that are known for their curly coat. They are intelligent and easy to train and love to please their owners. Cockapoos are also social dogs that love to be around people, making them great pets for families. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
23) Goldendoodle
Goldendoodles are a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They are friendly and affectionate dogs that are known for their hypoallergenic coat. They are intelligent and easy to train and love to learn new tricks. Goldendoodles are also energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They make great pets for families with children or individuals with allergies.
24) Schnoodle
Schnoodles are a cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle. They are affectionate and playful dogs that are known for their curly coat. The dogs are intelligent, trainable, and enjoy pleasing their owners. Schnoodles are great family pets as they are social dogs that love being around people. They require regular grooming to maintain their coat.
25) Puggle
Puggles are a cross between a Pug and a Beagle. They are friendly and affectionate dogs that are known for their wrinkly face and short legs. Puggles are intelligent and can be trained easily. They are also fond of learning new tricks. Being energetic, they need regular exercise to ensure their well-being and happiness. Puggles make good family pets, especially if you have children.
Mixed breeds can be great pets for those looking for a unique dog with a variety of personality traits. Mixed-breed dogs can be great companions for both individuals and families. They are usually easy to train, but it’s essential to bear in mind that each dog is unique and may have its own personality and behavior traits. Therefore, it’s crucial to do some research and choose a breed mix that suits your preferences and lifestyle.
Working Dog Breeds
Working breeds are typically dogs that were originally bred for specific jobs such as guarding, herding, or hunting. They are often highly intelligent, energetic, and trainable, and require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Here are five of the best-behaved working breeds:
26) German Shepherd
German Shepherds are intelligent and loyal dogs that are known for their courage and protective nature. They are easy to train and excel in obedience competitions. German Shepherds are also energetic and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. They make great pets for families and individuals who are experienced with dogs.
27) Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are intelligent and loyal dogs that are known for their athleticism and imposing presence. Doberman Pinschers are highly trainable and perform well in obedience competitions. They are energetic and need frequent exercise to maintain their health and happiness. These dogs are suitable for experienced individuals and families as pets.
28) Boxer
Boxers are playful and energetic dogs that are known for their short, muscular build. Boxers are an intelligent breed that is simple to train. They are playful and enjoy learning new tricks. Additionally, they are loving towards their owners and are great pets for families. Regular exercise is necessary to keep them healthy and happy.
29) Rottweiler
Rottweilers are intelligent and loyal dogs that are known for their imposing presence and protective nature. Rottweilers are a breed that is easy to train and they do well in obedience competitions. They are energetic and need regular exercise to stay physically fit and happy. Rottweilers are a good choice for families or individuals who have experience with dogs and are able to provide the necessary care.
30) Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are energetic and intelligent dogs that were originally bred for pulling sleds in cold climates. They are friendly and outgoing dogs that love to be around people and other dogs. Siberian Huskies are also independent and can be stubborn at times but are generally easy to train with positive reinforcement techniques.
They require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, and their thick coat requires regular grooming to maintain. They make great pets for active individuals or families with older children who are experienced with dogs.
Working breeds can be great pets for those looking for a highly intelligent and trainable dog with a lot of energy and a specific purpose. They are generally easy to train and can make great companions for families and individuals alike.
It is crucial to keep in mind that each dog has its own personality and behavior patterns, which makes them unique. When selecting a working breed, it is essential to conduct thorough research and select the breed that aligns with your lifestyle and interests. Additionally, it is imperative to ensure that they receive ample exercise and mental stimulation for their well-being.
Honorable Mentions
These are breeds that didn’t make it into the main categories but are still great pets with good behavior and temperament. Here are five of the best-behaved honorable mention breeds:
31) Border Collie
Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that were originally bred for herding. They are easy to train and excel in obedience competitions. Border Collies are also affectionate with their owners and make great pets for families. However, they require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy and can be prone to certain health issues.
32) Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are intelligent and affectionate dogs that were originally bred for herding. They are easy to train and excel in obedience competitions. Shelties are also gentle and patient with children, making them great pets for families. However, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy, and their thick coat requires regular grooming.
33) Standard Schnauzer
Standard Schnauzers are intelligent and loyal dogs that were originally bred for guarding and hunting. They are easy to train and excel in obedience competitions. Standard Schnauzers are also affectionate with their owners and make great pets for families. They require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy, and their thick coat requires regular grooming.
These honorable mention breeds can be great pets for those looking for a unique dog with good behavior and temperament. They are generally easy to train and can make great companions for families and individuals alike.
However, it’s important to remember that every dog is unique and may have their own personality and behavior traits. When considering an honorable mention breed, it’s important to do your research and choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and preferences, and to provide them with the love and attention they need to thrive.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a dog based on behavior and temperament is an important decision that should not be taken lightly. Every breed has its own unique personality traits, and it’s important to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle, personality, and preferences.
When considering a dog, it’s important to do your research and understand the breed’s behavior and temperament. This can help you determine if the breed is a good fit for your home and family. Some breeds require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, while others are more laid-back and content to lounge around the house. Some breeds are great with children, while others may be better suited for households with adults only.
It’s also important to remember that every dog is an individual with their own personality and behavioral traits. While breed can be a good indicator of behavior, it’s not a guarantee. Dogs from the same breed can have different personalities and behaviors based on their individual experiences and training.
When choosing the best behaved dog breed, it’s important to consider factors such as your living situation, lifestyle, and level of experience with dogs. It’s also important to provide your dog with the love, attention, exercise, and mental stimulation they need to thrive.
In conclusion, choosing a dog based on behavior and temperament is an important decision that requires careful consideration. By doing your research and understanding the breed’s behavior and temperament, you can choose a dog that fits your lifestyle and preferences and provide them with the love and attention they need to live a happy and healthy life.