Dogs are some of the best pets that we can ask for. They are our loyal companions who are with us through thick and thin, never give up on us, and ask very little in return. With our long history with dogs, some say that there are nearly 400 breeds alive today.
While the American Kennel Club only recognizes about 200 of them, that’s still an amazing amount of variety that means there’s a breed to suit anybody and their needs. Some breeds are purpose built for livestock protection and herding, while others work in high stress situations such as security and even in the military.
We’re about to talk about the dogs that make the most amazing companions, as simple as that. Here are some of the best breeds that just want to be your best friend.
Golden Retriever
The golden retriever starts this list for good reason, they are some of the most affectionate and popular breeds for people ranging from families with children in need of company, to elderly people that live alone and otherwise would be lonely.
They are well known for being some of the most gentle and loving breeds out there, and they love their interaction with people just as much as we love them. They are a smart breed that can understand how their owner might be feeling through the bond they share.
They have an eagerness to please, which means that they love training, which makes it easy for them to socialize and train. They love going out on adventures with their owners rather than being left at home.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador retriever makes our second spot on the list. They are an incredibly popular breed both in the United States and the rest of the world. They trace their lineage in Newfoundland, Canada in the 18th century where they evolved from the St. Johns water dog. They were used by fishermen to retrieve nets and fish and eventually turned into the breed we know today.
Labs, as they are commonly referred to, are amazingly social animals that love human affection. They are a patient breed that has a lot of empathy, meaning they are often search and rescue or therapy dogs.
Their excellent emotional support means that they make great pets for families with young children who need to learn responsibility and nurture.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. believe it or not, has ties to royalty. The dog breed was bred especially to be companions for royals, which means that their temperament is unbeaten when it comes to being a companion for a human.
They originated in 17th century England, and have enormous kind eyes, which are always begging to let them up on the couch for a cuddle in the colder, winter months.
They are dogs that thrive being in the presence of people and can fit into nearly any lifestyle, whether its a bustling and large family to just a couple living in a small apartment. Once they develop a bond with their adopter, they are naturally good at figuring out their emotions, and comfort them in times of stress or anxiety.
Havanese
The Havanese have a colloquial name in the dog community that give you an idea what kind of companions they are. They are often nicknamed “velcro dogs” because of their attachment to owners and need to follow them around whether its the garage, kitchen, or even bathroom.
The breed comes from Cuba around five centuries ago when they were bred from a Bichon-type dog that was introduced into the island from Spanish settlers. They are small dogs that are renowned for their good attitude and cheerful demeanor.
For someone looking for a constant companion that will love them unconditionally, the Havanese is a great option. They are adaptable dogs that can thrive in both large homes and small apartments as long as they get enough exercise.
Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese mountain dog are enormous animals, but despite their imposing stature, they are some of the most affectionate and gentle breeds that have a huge heart, both physically and metaphorically.
They were bred in Switzerland’s alpine region over 2000 years ago and come from Roman Mastiff-like breeds. Bernese are known for their incredible loyalty and patience when it comes to suiting their owner’s needs. They are also good protectors whose sheer appearance may help discourage aggressors.
They are amazing dogs when it comes to children and are noted to be extra careful when playing with smaller kids. Overall, they are the perfect breed for a family that wants a giant teddy bear that can also protect them in a pinch.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire terriers are a widespread dog breed that’s popular in many different countries across the world, but their roots are in Yorkshire, England. They were bred as ratters for industrial locations like mills and mines during the Industrial Revolution.
Yorkies, as many affectionately call them, are loyal breeds that love to be by their owners side no matter where they are. They have transformed over the years from traditional terriers into lap dogs that love comfort and company.
They have a lot of spirit, which means they can get boisterous is not stimulated enough day-to-day. Their rowdy personality is what makes them one of a kind, and they will try to defend their owners from any threat with surprising ferocity.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a fluffball that can enamore most who lay their eyes on them. They are descendants of water spaniels and poodles that come from Europe. During the Renaissance, they were heralded as noble dogs before integrating into normal households.
Bichons have a calming and happy effect on their owners, being able to both comfort and bring a smile to the face of anyone around them. They develop deep bonds with their adopters, meaning that they won’t want to leave their side easily.
Like many other breeds on this list, the Bichon Frise is an amazingly adaptable dog, which means it can suit nearly any owner’s lifestyle and needs. They make great family pets or even companions for single people living alone.
Border Collie
Border Collies are an extremely popular breed, and for good reason. They are often associated with high intelligence and never-ending energy. They are dependable dogs that come from the Anglo-Scottish border, where they were bred as the herding dogs we know today.
Many believe that border collies originate from Roman drover dogs and Viking spitz breeds. They form intense bonds with their owners and demand a lot of playtime and stimulation from them. They thrive in active households where they can get the most physical exercise.
They are the happiest breed in the world when they get to spend their time outdoors, either playing fetch, going on a walk, or just taking in the fresh air with their owners.
Tibetan Terrier
Tibetan terriers, as their name suggests, originate in Tibet and were bred to be companions for locals as well as watchdogs for monasteries and were seen as goodluck dogs by monks. They are known for forming strong bonds with their owners and not wanting to leave their side.
For people who need emotional support animals, Tibetan terriers suit this role excellently due to their affection and loyal attributes. They are always willing to stick by their owner and comfort them through anything they may be going through without asking for much in return.
Tibetan Terriers can feel that when their owner isn’t doing their best, they are always happy to provide comfort. They are adaptable, too, meaning that they can suit a variety of different households and environments.
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