13 Best Behaved Dog Breeds You’ll Love

Everyone wants to have the perfect dog that will keep them and their family entertained but not cause a ruckus every time some friends come over. Although it can be cute at times, no one wants to come home to a mess from their dog that has been trying to occupy itself. But, for dog lovers, there are breeds out there that are more well-behaved than others.

This list has some of the best-behaved dog breeds to own so you can have peace of mind that they won’t tear up your couch when you make a quick grocery run. These furry friends, both large and small, are adorable to own and will make their owners proud by being good boys and girls.

Pssst…in case you don’t want any fur covering everything, have a look at these big dog breeds that don’t shed.

13 Best Behaved Dog Breeds

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

If you’re looking for a breed that radiates love, the Cavalier Spaniels are one of the best choices. They’re exceptionally good at mimicking their owner’s behavior, so if you’re a bit of a couch potato, don’t be surprised to find your doggo by your side.

Cavalier Spaniels are friendly little things that love the homey lifestyle. These dogs will also gladly accompany you on a hike for some bonding time outdoors. They have an average amount of energy, so a walk a day should keep them happy.

Cavalier Spaniels have a gentle nature and can be left alone with children. They’re also very easy to train and known to be quiet and well-behaved. This is a companion dog, though, so they shouldn’t be left alone for too long.

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2. Beagle

One of the more easy-going and laid-back dog breeds, Beagles may be small but are larger-than-life when it comes to their personality. This is a people-pleasing breed that makes amazing companions with a joyful nature that loves to play. The best part about these little guys is that they are free from genetic diseases, so expect them to live healthy lives by your side.

Beagles are active dogs, so they’ll need quite a bit of exercise. Make sure to put aside some time each day to play with them or take them with you on your run. They are incredibly intelligent and pretty easy to train with a calm demeanor.

Beagles can be stubborn but make beautiful family dogs and can become a best friend to kids.

3. Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers, also affectionately called the ‘American Gentleman’ because of their tuxedo-like markings, are an easy breed to look after. They have one of the most lively personalities of any dog breed and are extremely friendly.

Bostons are known to be incredibly intelligent, sometimes a little much for their own good. They need mental stimulation. But they have a stable mindset and are generally quiet dogs who only bark when they need to.

These tuxedo dogs will get along with everyone in the family and are suitable for any size home, even apartments. They are also extremely playful and energetic, so regular exercise is important. They are excellent family pets. 

If you can give them the love and exercise they need, you will have yourself a loyal friend for life. Plus, who could say no to those adorable ears and big eyes?

4. Labrador

With their big size, who would have thought that a Labrador is one of the most well behaved dog breeds on this list? Labradors are outgoing and friendly dogs that make excellent companions, service dogs, and guide dogs. They also make amazing family dogs that love children and playing with other pets.

A bonus of a Lab is that their coat is made of short hair, which is easy to maintain with some occasional brushing needed here and there.

Labs tend to live long and healthy lives and have that playful personality to keep you smiling for all of those years. Although they are giant goofballs, they aren’t lazy and need to be active, so those with an active lifestyle will love them.

They also happen to be some of the easiest dogs to train with quite a long attention span since they almost never get impatient or bored.

5. French Bulldog

A cousin that is often mistaken for a Boston terrier and vice versa, the French Bulldog is the perfect little dog for someone who wants a companion around the house. This breed isn’t really the outdoor type with well-documented breathing issues because their short faces are a limiting factor in their exercise. A brisk walk is all that is needed to keep them in shape.

What they lack in physical ability, they more than make up for in personality with Frenchies being one of the most entertaining and playful breeds around. 

They love attention and are incredibly playful but intelligent, making them very easy to train. Don’t worry about any yapping either, as Frenchies hardly bark but will do so if they sense any danger.

If you’re curious as to why your Frenchie won’t stay quiet at night, then have a look at some of the possible reasons why dogs bark at night to get an idea.

6. Collie

Collies were bred to herd sheep and are still used for that purpose today; they are both eager to please and smart. Collies’ inherent ability to protect comes from their breeding purpose. They have a weird sense of understanding their owner’s moods and will, thus, do what they can to help their owners. They make for great companions and can even be good therapy dogs.

They make brilliant family dogs and can be trained quickly and with ease. In general, they are quiet and calm and can be housebroken easily in almost any home size. They do need companionship though, and will have to be brushed every few weeks with a strong dog brush to keep their long hair tangle-free.

They also love other dogs and will defend your family and home if needed.

7. Golden Retriever

One of the most popular breeds in the world, Golden Retrievers have built a reputation for their amazingly friendly personalities. They are great family dogs with a temperament that is calm and friendly.

However, if you want a guard dog, then a Goldie isn’t for you as they try to make friends with everyone they meet.

These gentle giants are known to not be that aggressive at all and are very easy to train. This is one of the best companion breeds out there that will happily be by your side anywhere you go. Their affection knows almost no bounds, just don’t forget to reward them.

8. Poodle

Poodles are known to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds out there. They might come across as stylish with their pampered haircuts, but they were actually bred as hunting dogs. Despite their looks, they are confident and active with a very friendly personality.

Poodles make some of the best companion dogs and love to be trained.

These good dogs do need to be exercised regularly and will need their fur looked after with a weekly brush. But, if you don’t mind that, they make great family pets that are quick to pick up on any training you give them. The Poodles’ hypoallergenic coat is just another bonus if you or your kids suffer from any allergies.

9. Pug

Don’t let the resting grumpy face fool you, Pugs are little charmers who can be mischievous at times. These doggos are extremely curious, which sometimes doesn’t end well for them, but they are the perfect dog for your home. They are happy to be amongst any amount of people or other pets and have no problem making new friends wherever they go.

When you get a Pug, you will gain a second shadow as they love to attach themselves to their new owners and stay close to them. They are relatively easy to train but can be hard at times as they are so easily distracted, so as long as you keep their attention, you will be fine. The pug is a great choice for first-time dog owners. 

Just keep track of their diet as well to ensure their health as these little guys love to eat.

10. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are large dogs, but they aren’t all brawn and no brains. These dogs are incredibly smart and easy to train.

They might look like intimidating giants, but they are actually very gentle and loving with a calm mentality. It can be intimidating taking them for a walk with their big size sometimes dictating the direction you go but they respond very well to commands and train extremely easy.

It is important to train them from as young as possible with their famous traits of patience and staying cool coming to the front as a result. Newfoundlands can grow up to weigh around 150 pounds, so a strong harness is a valuable investment for walks.

11. Bernese Mountain Dog

Coming to you from Switzerland, the Bernese is a large dog famous for its tri-color coat. They were bred as work dogs who are very friendly and outgoing with a patient and affectionate personality.

These lovable giants are amazing with kids and love to be with their family. They won’t bother you too much and will pick up what they are being taught quickly.

A standout of this breed is that they break the stereotype and actually get along with cats, so if you have any felines at home, don’t be worried. They are also incredible at being able to coordinate with their owners which makes them valuable service dogs as well.

12. Basset Hound

These little guys are famous for their massive floppy ears and have a very laid-back attitude making them perfect house dogs. Basset hounds aren’t too active, but they are immensely patient. This makes them ideal for families with children as they won’t get annoyed easily.

Bassets are also easily trained and are pretty bright, although you might not think so.

You will need to exercise these most well behaved dogs regularly as they do tend to get a little overweight. They are people pleasers and will form a lasting bond with you. Get a Basset and you will have a lifelong companion with those floppy ears following you around everywhere.

13. Corgi

The Queen’s dogs, Corgis, have a laid-back attitude with a ton of personality packed into their small size. This breed is a balance between all, with them being equal amounts affectionate to their owners but not pushy. They are intelligent and respond very well to training, and can even adapt to any living situation they find themselves in.

Corgis love togetherness and so will be very loyal to you and your family if you can provide that, along with some regular activity.

Well Behaved Dogs Frequently Asked Questions

Are there specific dog breeds that are naturally well-behaved, or is it all about training?

While genetics can play a role in a dog’s temperament and behavior, proper training and socialization are crucial factors in determining a dog’s behavior. Even breeds known for their good behavior will still require training and guidance to become well-behaved pets. Your individual dog’s personality will also be an important factor.

Are there any dog breeds that are inherently difficult to train or have challenging behaviors?

Some dog breeds might be more challenging to train due to their independent nature or high energy levels. Breeds like the Siberian Husky, Afghan Hound, and Dalmatian are known for being more independent and may require additional patience and consistent training techniques.

What are some common traits of well-behaved dog breeds?

Well-behaved dog breeds often exhibit traits such as intelligence, trainability, obedience, sociability, and a desire to please their owners. They are generally responsive to training and adapt well to different situations. And putting your dog through some obedience training can only help and the same applies to positive reinforcement. 

Can a dog’s behavior change over time?

Yes, a dog’s behavior can change over time, especially as it goes through different life stages. Regular training and continued socialization throughout the dog’s life can help maintain and reinforce good behavior.

Which of These Well Behaved Dog Breeds Would You Own?

Adding a doggo to your life is one of the best things you can do. Although these are some of the best-behaved breeds, they may still have their moments, but that’s what gives them their individual personality and identity.

Whether big or small, one of these breeds will work their way into your heart and make an amazing addition to your family. Just like people, no dog is perfect, but if you can look past any flaws they may have, your life will be filled with love and companionship from a furry friend.

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