Good behavior from your furry friend is a joy any time of year, but it feels extra special during the holiday season. From wagging tails to heart-melting cuddles, some dog breeds are especially friendly, family-loving and well-behaved—perfect for spreading holiday cheer. As the decorations go up and the festivities begin, you might wonder which pups are the most likely to light up the season with their loving personalities. Here are 6 dog breeds most likely on Santa’s nice list, according to vets.

While every dog is an individual, some of the top dog breeds as pets are known for being sweet and calm, which is why those good girls and boys are most likely to get a visit from Santa come Christmas. However, a lot of how dogs behave comes down to their training, says Nita Vasudevan, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. “Any dog’s behavior you see is the behavior someone trained and reinforced,” she says. “Even the smartest dogs need structure, socialization, consistency and enrichment to actually live up to that expectation.” Meaning, while some naturally good breeds are prone to being obedient and staying out of trouble, you still need to put in a little legwork to help your pup fulfill their maximum potential.

Of course, the best-behaved dogs are ones that are busy and tired at the end of the day. So, having regular dog park visits, and enrichment toys and dog puzzles around are always good moves if top-tier behavior is your goal. Whether you’re on the hunt for a new dog or just want to see if yours would make the nice list, vets say these dog breeds tend to be the best-behaved.

Related: Top 5 Dog Breeds to Have as Pets, According to a Trainer

Dog Breeds Most Likely on Santa’s Nice List

These dog breeds are most likely on Santa’s nice list stand out for their sweet temperaments, friendly nature, and easygoing behavior. Loved by families and vets alike, these well-behaved dogs are known for spreading holiday cheer and making wonderful companions all year long.

Doberman Pinscher

One good dog that Santa would add to his nice list this Christmas? A Doberman! This reliable dog breed is known for their guard-dog past, but they’re so much more than that. “Dobermans are typically people-oriented dogs,” Vasudevan says. “They were bred to work closely with humans, so they naturally look to their person for direction.”

These pooches are smart and easy to train, and they’re often tuned into the emotions of their humans, says Abel Gonzalez, DVM, clinical director at Dutch. Meaning, if you’re annoyed that your dog is circling the presents under the tree, they’ll know it. “A Doberman with structure, mental stimulation, and clear boundaries is often incredibly well-mannered,” Vasudevan says.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Alert, loyal, fearless

Papillon

Small dogs are known for being mischievous, but not the Papillon. This well-behaved breed is a quick learner, known for picking up training fast, Vasudevan says. With that, you can expect your Papillon to listen when you tell them “no.” Because of that, it’s no wonder they would be part of the good dogs included on Santa’s nice list this holiday season.

“They like interacting, participating and figuring out what you want,” Vasudevan says. “Many toy breeds can be a little independent, but Papillons tend to stay curious and engaged.” Just be sure to give your Papillon regular training sessions to keep them happy.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Alert, friendly, happy

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This popular breed loves to be a lapdog, preferring to stick close to their pet parents at all times. With that, they’re unlikely to get into trouble, as they are good dogs. Another perk? The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is also eager to please and easy to train, so you can teach your pup what is and isn’t OK in your household pretty quickly.

This sweet dog breed has a gentle spirit as well, so you don’t need to worry about your pooch crashing through the Christmas tree after spotting a bird outside. They’re also highly adaptable to new situations. And, of course, they’re super cute. What’s not to like?

Breed Stats

• Personality: Affectionate, gentle, graceful

Poodle

This pretty dog breed may look stylish, but this intelligent, people-pleasing dog breed is also known for being incredibly well-behaved, gentle and affectionate. Easy to train and eager to make their humans happy, Poodles consistently rank among the most obedient dog breeds, with polite manners that would easily earn them a spot on Santa’s nice list. Their calm demeanor and quick learning skills make them especially easy to manage during the busy holiday season.

Devoted and family-friendly, Poodles thrive on attention and love being involved in daily life. They enjoy dog puzzle toys, training games and mental enrichment, which keeps these active yet well-mannered dogs happy, engaged, and far less likely to get into any holiday mischief.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Active, proud, smart

Bulldog

Few dogs are as lowkey as the Bulldog. This classic pup has moderate energy levels and is happy to lounge, making your Bully a good companion for hanging at home and staying out of trouble.

This stocky breed is also easygoing and incredibly loyal to its pet parents. But Bulldogs aren’t all about good behavior: Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel points out that they have a goofy side, too. As a result, you can enjoy clowning around with your pooch to reward them for all that good behavior.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Friendly, courageous, calm

English Springer Spaniel

This sporty dog breed has a strong hunting dog background, which means the English Springer Spaniel is full of energy and always ready to play. While they love spending time outdoors, these easy-to-train, obedient dogs are also known for their good manners—traits that would easily earn them a spot on Santa’s nice list.

According to Gonzalez, the English Springer Spaniel is a great match for active families. Keep in mind that these family-friendly dogs thrive with regular exercise—because a tired Springer is a happy (and well-behaved) one.

Breed Stats

• Personality: Friendly, playful, obedient

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Dec 20, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.