If there were a global ambassador for dogs, the Labrador Retriever would win by a landslide. These lovable goofballs are the gold standard when it comes to friendliness. Labs are sociable, patient, and incredibly gentle with kids, other pets, and total strangers. They don’t just tolerate company—they thrive in it. Whether they’re wagging at the vet, playing with toddlers, or nudging your hand for one more throw of the ball, Labs are always radiating good vibes. Their intelligence also means they’re easy to train, which makes them ideal for therapy work, service roles, or just being the world’s most loyal shadow. Labs don’t just love—they adore. You’ll never feel alone again with one by your side. Let’s check out which other dogs round up our list of the most friendly to humans.
1. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are basically the soft-hearted empaths of the canine universe. With their signature sunny coats and even sunnier dispositions, Goldens are endlessly affectionate, endlessly forgiving, and endlessly eager to please.
They’re the kind of dog that will comfort you through a breakup, play gently with your toddler, and somehow charm your grumpy neighbor—all in one afternoon. Goldens love being around people, and they rarely meet a stranger they don’t try to befriend.
It’s this unshakeable sweetness that makes them such popular therapy dogs and emotional support companions. They’re intelligent, loyal, and the definition of emotionally available. If you want a dog that genuinely feels like your best friend, a Golden is your golden ticket.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Tiny body, massive heart—Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the ultimate lap dogs, and they wear the title with pride.
These little lovebugs are all about connection. They’re gentle, intuitive, and so affectionate it’s almost like they’re hardwired for human emotions.
Whether you live alone or in a house full of kids, a Cavalier will fit into your life like a missing puzzle piece. They get along with other dogs, cats, grandparents—you name it. They don’t bark much, they’re easygoing, and they live to snuggle. Seriously, their idea of heaven is being curled up in your lap, soaking up love like a sponge. They’re not just friendly—they’re emotionally fluent.
3. Poodle
Poodles get a bad rap for being fancy, but let’s get one thing straight: underneath that fabulous fluff is a deeply affectionate, wildly intelligent, and surprisingly goofy soul.
Whether standard, miniature, or toy, Poodles bond closely with their humans and are known for being sociable, gentle, and people-pleasing. They’re quick learners, which makes training a breeze, and they’re often eager to entertain.
Poodles love a good challenge—mental or physical—and they do it all while staying tuned into your mood. Feeling low? They’ll cuddle. Feeling playful? They’re grabbing a toy. Bonus: they’re hypoallergenic, so even allergy-prone folks can enjoy their warm, sweet energy.
4. Beagle
Beagles have “buddy” written all over them. With their floppy ears and forever-puppy faces, these pups are known for their outgoing personalities and deep love of company—human and canine alike.
Originally bred as pack animals, Beagles are natural team players. They hate being alone, which means they’re always by your side, sniffing out snacks or just tagging along for vibes. They’re playful, curious, and full of energy, making them great family dogs for homes that can keep up.
Beagles can be a little stubborn (blame the nose), but their affectionate, cheerful nature more than makes up for it. They don’t just want to be near you—they want to be part of the crew.
5. Irish Setter
If dogs could throw a party, the Irish Setter would be the one inviting everyone and insisting they stay for snacks. With their gorgeous mahogany coats and boundless energy, these extroverted charmers are equal parts athlete and sweetheart.
Irish Setters are known for being outgoing, goofy, and completely in love with people. They thrive in homes where there’s space to run and humans to shower with affection.
These are not dogs who do well alone—they crave connection and love being in the mix, whether it’s a family gathering or a chaotic game of fetch. With proper training, their high energy becomes an asset—and their loyalty? Unshakable.
6. Boxer
Boxers are built like athletes and act like comedians. These muscular goofballs are endlessly entertaining and shockingly affectionate. They form deep, loyal bonds with their families and are often gentle giants around kids.
Despite their powerful appearance, Boxers are total softies. They’re protective but not aggressive, and they’d rather bounce around the backyard like a toddler on espresso than pick a fight.
What makes them especially friendly is their playful spirit—they love games, snuggles, and following you around like a shadow. Give them structure and attention, and you’ll get a loyal, silly, heart-of-gold companion who lives to make you laugh.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a puffball of pure joy. These small, bouncy pups are basically walking serotonin—happy, gentle, and obsessed with people.
Bichons have an almost magical ability to make friends with everyone they meet. They’re easy to train, relatively low-maintenance temperament-wise, and always ready to cuddle or perform their next silly antic. Because they were bred as companion dogs, they thrive on attention and affection. They’ll follow you around, nap beside you, and greet you like you’ve returned from war—even if you were only gone five minutes.
If you’re looking for a sweet, sociable, always-up-for-a-snuggle dog, the Bichon’s got your back.
8. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Don’t let the tough look fool you—Staffordshire Bull Terriers are absolute sweethearts. These muscular cuties are incredibly affectionate with their families, especially kids, which is why they’re sometimes called “nanny dogs.”
Staffies form deep emotional bonds and will stick to you like glue. They’re playful, goofy, and totally people-oriented. With proper training and socialization, they’re friendly with strangers and can live harmoniously with other pets.
Unfortunately, stereotypes have done a number on this breed’s rep, but dog lovers in the know will tell you—Staffies are one of the most loyal, snuggly, people-loving breeds out there. They just want love, and lots of it.
9. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels might just be the softest souls in the dog world. With their gentle eyes, silky ears, and endlessly wagging tails, they are affectionate to the core.
Cockers love being around people and are happiest when they’re part of the family action. Whether it’s a walk, a cuddle session, or helping you “supervise” dinner prep, they’re always nearby. They’re great with kids, friendly with strangers, and usually get along well with other pets.
Cockers are also sensitive and emotionally tuned-in—they’ll pick up on your mood and mirror your energy. If you want a dog who makes you feel seen, loved, and unconditionally accepted, the Cocker’s got your heart.
Explore more of our trending stories and hit Follow to keep them coming to your feed!
Don’t miss out on more stories like this! Hit the Follow button at the top of this article to stay updated with the latest news. Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!
