Finding the right dog to bring into your home isn’t simply about picking a pretty face. It’s about choosing a loyal, loving companion whose temperament, energy level and personality are a perfect match for your lifestyle. However since every dog has its own charm and quirks, it can be tricky to know which dog breeds make the best pets. After all, some breeds stand out for their friendliness, adaptability and strong desire to bond with people, while other dog are good with kids, making them ideal choices for families looking to welcome a new four-legged member. To help you narrow down you choices, we rounded up the top five dog breeds to have as pets, according to a trainer.

So, how can you figure out which of those dog breeds is the best fit for you? Sian Lawley-Rudd, a certified ethical dog trainer at Lavender Garden Animal Services, says four essential factors should guide your decision in choosing the best breed for your individual household: knowing a breed’s origins, meeting breed-specific needs, choosing a disposition that aligns with your own, and teaching children to interact respectfully and safely.

To help narrow your search with these points in mind, Lawley-Rudd shares which adorable dog breeds make especially rewarding pets, and why they tend to thrive as beloved members of the family and devoted furry BFFs.

5 Best Dog Breeds to Have as Pets

Are you unsure what the best dog breeds to have as pets are? Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or looking for a family-friendly dog, choosing the right pet dog ensures a happy, loyal companion. From easy-to-train breeds to playful and affectionate dogs, these top dog breeds are ideal for bringing joy to any household.

Labrador Retriever

It’s no surprise Labrador Retrievers consistently rank among the best pets for families and ideal pets for a variety of households. “Labs are friendly, bouncy and social dogs who genuinely enjoy being part of family life,” Lawley-Rudd says. “Because they’re highly motivated by food and play, they’re usually easier for families to train.”

Labrador Retrievers are intelligent, energetic and eager to please, all traits that make them wonderful dogs for active families or travelers. This versatile breed’s naturally helpful and cooperative nature supports training and everyday routines, while their sweet, steady temperament makes them especially suitable for those with special needs. In fact, Labs are widely regarded as one of the top dog breeds for service dogs.

These family-friendly dogs also tend to get along great with children and other pets. “They need plenty of outlets for their retrieving instincts, as well as sniffing and carrying things around,” Lawley-Rudd notes. “They thrive with outdoor activity, so they suit families who spend time walking and exploring.”

Breed Stats

• Personality: Active, friendly, outgoing

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers aren’t simply golden in color: they’re famous for their hearts of gold, which is why so many people consider them to be the best pets you can have. “Goldens are known for their gentle, people-focused temperament,” Lawley-Rudd says. “They bond deeply with their humans and love routine, connection and calmcompanionship.”

Friendly, loyal and eager to please, Golden Retrievers are generally easy to train for obedience. They’re also naturally playful, making them an excellent fit for families with young children. Their calm, affectionate nature also means they’re gladly up for endless cuddles, so if you’re looking for a dog who’s happy to soak up pets all day long, a Golden is a perfect fit.

“They need good outlets for their retrieving instincts, but they’re naturally affectionate and emotionally sensitive, making them a great match for families who want a soft, steady companion,” Lawley-Rudd says.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Intelligent, friendly, devoted

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Another one of the best dog breeds? A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel! This ultra-snuggly Spaniel breed is known for being incredibly loving and forming strong bonds with their owners, which is one of many reasons why Cavalier King Charles Spaniels make such loyal lifelong companions. They are also great dogs for dogs for beginners. “Cavaliers are typically adaptable, sweet-natured and deeply attached to their people,” Lawley-Rudd explains. “They’re ideal for families wanting a companion dog rather than a high-energy working breed.”

Despite their calm demeanor, Cavaliers still get bursts of energy and love a good case of the Zoomies. Their flexible nature means they’re just as happy joining you for a walk as they are curling up for a couch snuggle session. “They don’t require the same level of physical exercise as larger active breeds,” Lawley-Rudd says, “However, they thrive with mental enrichment, gentle play and lots of closeness.”

Breed Stats

• Personality: Affectionate, gentle, graceful

Whippet

When it comes to the top dog breeds for pets, consider a Whippet! They are gentle, low-maintenance dogs that thrive in both family homes and apartments, thanks to their quiet nature (they aren’t known for barking excessively). Calm and affectionate, they tend to get along well with children and other pets, especially when socialized early. “Whippets and many sighthounds are wonderful family dogs when their chasing instincts are met,” Lawley-Rudd says. “They’re playful outdoors but calm indoors, affectionate, sensitive and enjoy a peaceful environment.”

Their adaptable nature also makes them excellent travel companions. Whippets are generally easy to live with and light shedders, making them suitable for many people with mild allergies. “As long as they get safe opportunities for short bursts of running, they’re very relaxed at home,” Lawley-Rudd continues. “They suit families who want a dog that’s affectionate and easy-going, rather than ‘always on.’”

Breed Stats

• Personality: Playful, affectionate, calm

Border Terrier

Border Terriers may not be the first terrier that comes to mind as one of the dog breeds that make the best pets, but these affectionate and good-tempered dogs are loyal, loving pups not to be overlooked. In fact, they are one of the best small dog breeds for apartments. “Border Terriers are cheerful, sturdy little dogs who tend to take family life in their stride,” Lawley-Rudd says. “They’re more adaptable than many terrier breeds and often bond closely with their humans without being overly intense.”

This lovable breed is also ideal for families who love the outdoors, especially those who can provide varied walks and engaging activities. “They need appropriate outlets for their natural instincts, sniffing, digging, exploring and working with their noses, but they’re generally affectionate pets and full of character,” Lawley-Rudd adds.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Lively, sweet, brave

• Weight: 11.5–15.5 pounds

Source:

Sian Lawley-Rudd, a certified ethical dog trainer at Lavender Garden Animal Services

This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Dec 14, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.