Top 10 Best Dog Breeds

Dogs are often called man's best friend, and for good reason. These loyal and affectionate animals have been our companions for centuries, providing us with companionship, protection, and endless amounts of love. With over 300 different dog breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect furry friend. From tiny lap dogs to large working breeds, there is a dog breed for everyone.

To help us determine the best dog breeds, consider factors such as temperament, trainability, health, and popularity when you are voting.

While every dog is unique and has its own personality, these breeds have consistently shown themselves to be friendly, easy to train, and healthy. Whether you're looking for a cuddly lap dog or an energetic companion for outdoor activities, this list has something for everyone.
The Top Ten
1 German Shepherd The German Shepherd is a breed of medium to large-sized working dog that originated in Germany. The breed's officially recognized name is German Shepherd Dog in the English language. The breed is known as the Alsatian in Britain and Ireland.

If you consider the jobs dogs perform, you will nearly always find a breed that does them better than a German shepherd. What you won't find is a dog that can do as many different jobs as a German shepherd.

Intelligence. German Shepherds are among the smartest dog breeds. They are quick to learn and can be trained to do anything from simple obedience to intricate search and rescue activities.

Loyalty. German Shepherds are very devoted to their families and owners. They are known for being protective and will go to great lengths to protect those they care about.

Versatility. German Shepherds are adaptable canines that can serve as working dogs, therapy dogs, and family companions.

Athleticism and Strength. German Shepherds are powerful, athletic dogs. They are ideal for activities such as hiking, jogging, and playing fetch.

Trainability. German Shepherds are easy to train. They are eager to please their owners and respond well to commands. Training approaches based on positive reinforcement work especially well for them.

Adaptability. German Shepherds are flexible dogs that thrive in a wide range of environments. They can reside in apartments, houses, or farms.

Health. In general, German Shepherds are healthy dogs. However, they are predisposed to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia.

In summary, German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, versatile, and adaptable dogs. They make excellent working dogs, therapy dogs, and household pets.

2 Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever, also Labrador, is a sporting dog bred for aquatic game. The Labrador is one of the most popular breeds of dog in the United Kingdom and the United States.

I've had Labs my entire life: a chocolate, a yellow, and a black Lab. The chocolate one will forever be my favorite. Her name was Dash, and she was so sweet, kind, loving, and very energetic. She would always swim in my pool and go down my old slide from when I was little. She lived for 9 years but died from lung cancer. We had to put her down, but in her final moments, she kissed me, basically telling me everything was alright.

The other two are also pretty good. The yellow one, Cookie, is not good around other dogs but loves humans. She loves sleeping with me but is very anxious around other dogs. The last one is Rocky, the black Lab. Rocky is so sweet but is sort of dumb. He will kiss you every second of your life and is so loving but is a bad listener. However, I still love Rocky and Cookie, and Dash will forever be in my heart.

3 Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever is a large-sized breed of dog bred as gun dogs to retrieve shot waterfowl such as ducks and upland game birds during hunting and shooting parties, and were named 'retriever' because of their ability to retrieve shot game undamaged.

I loved my Golden Retriever. His name was Lucky Storm, and he was the sweetest thing ever. Whenever I came home from a long, stressful day, he always greeted me with the biggest smile on his face and licked me until I burst into laughter. When I was in bed, he would come up next to me and keep me warm. I can't thank him enough for being my best friend for most of my life, and for the one time he did something I can never repay him for.

Before I got Lucky, I had a Netherland Dwarf bunny named Twitcher who looked like a literal angel. He was white with blue eyes, not red. One day, I accidentally left the door open. I believe that all animals should be able to walk around the house as they please, and that's exactly what Twitcher did - he escaped out the front door. The next morning, when he was gone, I searched the entire neighborhood, finding no trace of my beloved rabbit. I came inside nearly in tears. I was so upset. Keep in mind that I had had this rabbit for about eight years by then. He was sweet to everybody. He didn't bite, scratch, or try to run away.

I was in a state of panic when I realized I had left the door open again and now Lucky was gone. This time, I did cry. I cried until I heard a firm bark at my closed door and opened it. Standing there was Lucky, and Twitcher the angel bunny was hanging from his jaws. I was so overjoyed and in a state of shock that I thought I was dreaming. I didn't know that Lucky had noticed Twitcher's absence and had also been looking for him. I was so happy, yet so stunned with disbelief.

After this incident, I called everyone I knew and told them the story, but no one ever believed me. To this day, I have been thankful to my dog, Lucky, who now rests among the stars. I offer this as a tribute to him. For Lucky, one of the best dogs anyone could ever wish for.

4 Siberian Husky The Siberian Husky is a medium size, dense-coat working dog breed that originated in north-eastern Siberia.

The Siberian Husky is a working dog, meaning that it thrives on having a task to perform. Taking it for walks is the most manageable option. These dogs require frequent exercise, especially if you live in a small house.

Huskies also have a high predatory instinct, which means that many of them will attack any moving creature that's smaller than them. This includes small dogs and even babies. It will take time for a Husky to get used to having a smaller companion around. To avoid any problems, consider using a muzzle when you have him or her around small dogs or children, and always keep the dog on a leash.

Overall, a Husky is a fantastic dog. They are friendly toward humans, but you should be cautious about their natural instincts. Be aware if they ever feel threatened. Huskies can also be very stubborn and hard-headed, so establishing that you are the alpha may take some time.

5 Border Collie The Border Collie is a working and herding dog breed developed in the Anglo-Scottish border region for herding livestock, especially sheep.

Border Collies are so intelligent that they make almost every other dog breed seem unintelligent by comparison. They're faithful and loyal to their families or owners, making excellent search and rescue dogs as well as seeing-eye dogs. They're super athletic, unparalleled in herding ability, and excel at every type of dog sport. They are brave and aren't afraid to take on dangerous tasks. With unrivaled stamina, they are always ready and willing to work, even when it involves getting dirty or wet.

Yet, no matter what task they're performing, they always retain a distinctive gracefulness in their movement. They are a kind and sensitive breed, yet are not afraid to protect their families if called upon. Oh, I almost forgot. They also make adorable puppies. What more do you want, people? Vote Border Collie!

6 Beagle The Beagle is a breed of small-sized hound, similar in appearance to the much larger foxhound. The Beagle is a scent hound, developed primarily for hunting hare.

I had a Beagle, and she was by far the most loving creature I've ever come across. Not only are they loving, but they are also very loyal and charismatic. Beagles have a lot of personality and are very fun to be around. They're playful and love to please. They also have a great sense of smell, which is good for tracking things down and hunting. They're energetic and stubborn at times, but they are very entertaining and happy animals when given lots of love.

I have a dog. His name is Bo. He is a Beagle mix and is the sweetest. He still has his puppy eyes even though he's an adult, and he is so funny. He is very fast, and when he knows he's in trouble, he just walks away. It's pretty funny. Beagles, or at least mine, who is a mix, are 100% going to make you laugh. My dog knows when I'm sad and will just lay his chin on my knee. We found him in a shelter - I don't know if it was a no-kill shelter or not - and he looked so sad, peering out from behind the bars, hoping to get adopted. We adopted him, and he is so loyal. This may not be exactly what a Beagle looks like because mine is a mix.

7 Pug The Pug is a breed of dog with a wrinkly, short-muzzled face and curled tail. The breed has a fine, glossy coat that comes in a variety of colours, most often fawn or black, and a compact square body with well-developed muscles. However, Pugs have difficulty breathing, due to their extreme head shape... read more

My cousin has a pug named Chloe, and she is the sweetest little thing ever. My cousin and I love to play with her whenever we visit each other.

I have pugs. They are absolutely the most gentle, loving dogs there are. They are great with kids. If you want a best friend, pugs are it. They do need some extra care due to their folds and larger eyes. I have found that they do best in pairs or with another dog in the house, especially while their humans are away from home. They do not like to be alone.

Pugs are awesome! In the dog world, they are usually called "clowns of the dogs." They will totally goof off to get your attention and are super great with kids and the elderly. I would totally recommend this breed for a beginner at dog owning. Pugs don't need a lot of exercise and eat small meals.

8 American Pit Bull Terrier The American Pit Bull Terrier is a dog breed. It is a medium-sized, solidly-built, short-haired dog whose early ancestors came from the British Isles.

It really is such a terrible shame that this incredibly loving and loyal dog has the unfair reputation of being dangerous. At one point in my life several years ago, I had the distinct pleasure of dating a girl who had a pet Pit Bull, and I absolutely fell in love with it. Once the girl and I stopped dating, I found myself more broken up over not being able to see and be around the Pit Bull on a daily basis than I was over the girl I just broke up with.

From that day on, I've quite eagerly desired having a Pit Bull of my own living in my house. Unfortunately, however, society's unfairly labeled stereotype of the American Pit Bull Terrier has caused my wife to be far too fearful of an incident occurring to adopt this incredibly remarkable breed. For now.

9 Great Dane The Great Dane is a large German breed of domestic dog known for its giant size. The German name of the breed is Deutsche Dogge, or German Mastiff.

Don't get me wrong, I love cats so much! However, my Golden Retriever, Daisy, and Great Dane, Joker, who are both two years old, are amazing. Joker is a great guard dog, but he's also super gentle with Coca, my cat with weak motor skills. The disease is called Cerebellar Hypoplasia. He's fun and playful with Daisy, my lovely Golden Retriever.

Great Danes descend from mastiff-like dogs that were bred by German nobility to protect country estates and hunt wild boar. In the 18th century, Great Danes were prestigious guardians of estates and carriages. They were also popular with the upper class for sport, as few other dogs could bring down a wild boar.

10 Rottweiler The Rottweiler is a breed of domestic dog, regarded as medium-to-large or large.The dogs were known in German as Rottweiler Metzgerhund, meaning Rottweil butchers' dogs, because one of their uses was to herd livestock and pull carts laden with butchered meat to market.

This is, without a doubt, my favorite dog breed. I personally wouldn't want to own one, but I still love it. It really doesn't deserve a bad reputation. Some people say it looks scary, but in my opinion, it doesn't look scary at all. They are cute, and I love big dogs. They also have really awesome-looking colors too! People love Chihuahuas and such, but Chihuahuas are actually much meaner than Rottweilers. Most of this applies to Pit Bulls as well.

Rottweilers are so nice they should be number one because they are sweet, funny, cute, and very, very smart. Anyone who doesn't agree is a big, fat brat who doesn't have a life and is a loser. They are also hobos. People think Rotties are mean and scary. Well, guess what? They aren't. They only are if their owner teaches them to be. And why is that? Well, here's why: because they are LOYAL. Hear that? LOYAL. Oh, and they are the best in the world. Well, my dog Xena is. She is hot.

The Contenders
11 Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus have always been my favorite dog breed. I love them! My Shiba puppy, Mitzi, is so loving, playful, protective, and cute. Shibas are pretty much half-cat because they are so intelligent, clean, and don't stink at all. Everywhere you go with a Shiba, you get positive comments from passersby because they are just so beautiful.

Not a very common breed, but these dogs are amazing! Not only are they adorable, but they are also very easy to take care of. Shibas are some of the best dogs out there! I definitely recommend them to anyone. I've had my two for quite a while. One is 15 and the other is 12.

12 Dachshund The Dachshund is a short-legged, long-bodied, hound-type dog breed with floppy ears, and short fur. Although, this Dog, which comes in a variety of colours, is not hypoallergenic.

I have a 1-year-old mini Dachshund I've had since she was a teeny pup. Let me say this: she's the best. She's loyal and is always at someone's heels, never leaving your side. She doesn't tolerate being alone for long periods of time, though she thankfully doesn't chew. She's so hyper that she runs around the couch like a madman for fun and is constantly jumping around. No, she doesn't bark at all unless there's a stranger. Trust me, wiener dogs are the way to go!

Loyal, loving, intelligent - they do get lonely and really relate to their own breed. They're great in pairs. Abraham Lincoln, David Bowie, Marlon Brando, Clint Eastwood, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, George Harrison, Marilyn Monroe, Pablo Picasso, Kirsten Dunst, Christian Slater - the list goes on and on. All these people owned Dachshunds. They're the best dogs on the planet.

13 Rough Collie The Rough Collie is a long coated breed of medium to large size dog that in its original form was a type of collie used and bred for herding in Scotland.

My rough collie is the sweetest dog ever! She has so much patience for all the kids that come in and out of the house daily. She's extremely smart and loyal. No matter where I go, she will follow me. There's no need for a leash with this baby girl! It doesn't matter where we go. She stays within eyesight. Even at the dog park, with all the temptation of the other dogs running and jumping around, she still would rather wait for me to do laps with her than join in with her canine friends and all their antics! I've always loved the beauty and disposition of the Rough Collie and have had several own my heart over the years. I don't think my home would be complete without the companionship of this wonderful breed!

14 Jack Russell Terrier The Jack Russell Terrier is a small terrier that has its origins in fox hunting. It is principally white-bodied and smooth, rough or broken-coated.

If you want a long-living, fun, caring, and sweet dog, then this is the choice. My family's Jack Russell is 16 years old, and she is still alive and kicking. Yes, she may have hearing problems, and she does have bladder problems, and can't walk up the stairs very well, but she is still alive.

Yes, yes, yes, best dog ever! Even though Ronnie is jumpy and energetic, he is so fun. Although he is only 6 months old, he's really clever and comes when he's called. He does try to snap sometimes, but it is mostly accidental, and he's really good with strangers.

15 Pembroke Welsh Corgi A small herding dog breed originating from Wales, Corgis are known for their distinct short legs and long bodies. Popular as both working dogs and pets, they have a lively and affectionate temperament. There are two main types: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi.

They are so cute. My grandma has a corgi, and his name is Basil. Corgis have short little legs. Whenever Basil's legs are behind him when he lies down, we call them "drumsticks." I don't know why they aren't on the list, especially since beagles are. I mean, I like all dogs, but beagles just aren't that cute, at least when they grow up and become adults. Black corgis usually have little "eyebrows," which are the cutest things ever! Overall, corgis are the best dog breed, even when they aren't on the top 10.
-Pink

Why place them at 20? Their cute little paws, short legs, and pointy ears are to die for. They are so active and calm at the same time. Believe me, I have one. They are also good with families and children. They look so cute when they land on their little backs and sleep. They should be in 1st place! Corgis!

16 Alaskan Malamute The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of domestic dog originally bred for hauling heavy freight because of their strength and endurance, and later a sled dog.

Malamutes are the best dogs ever. They are very loyal and look like wolves. They are also beautiful and love kids. Unlike the Husky, they will listen to what you say rather than trying to find the point of it. I have a Siberian Husky and a Malamute, and the Malamute is a much better dog. They also get along well with cats.

Malamutes are similar to Huskies but are more strong-willed and intelligent. These dogs are capable of moving 2,000 pounds - wow! Malamutes are beautiful, striking dogs that many people desire simply for their looks. They are also very friendly, energetic, athletic, and independent. Their colors include: Black & White, Brown & White, Gray & White, Sable & White, Seal White, and Red/Copper & White. They are majestic! Vote!

17 Dalmatian The Dalmatian is a breed of large dog, noted for its unique black or liver spotted coat and mainly used as a carriage dog in its early days.

Dalmatians are an awesome breed. Fun fact: most fire dogs are deaf, and this has an advantage. Fire trucks can be pretty loud, producing sounds of around 100 to 130 decibels. So, if the Dalmatian is deaf, they won't be bothered by the sound.

These dogs make loyal friends, especially for firefighters. This breed is very beautiful, and they have gorgeous puppies. These dogs are loyal, trusting, adorable when they're puppies, loving, and my all-time favorite dog breed.

My favorite dog. They have discipline and they are intelligent. I love them so much.

18 Boxer The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting; colours are fawn, mahogany, black or brindled, with or without white markings, and white.

My vote definitely goes to Boxers. They are a great family dog, just so tolerant and good with any and all ages of humans. They require a larger amount of energy than some dogs, but they do have a couch-potato side to them. They are great jogging buddies. Proper training is required.

Boxers tend to get overexcited when new people come around. They jump up and throw their paws, almost boxing! Luckily, Boxers are not hard to train. Just do it while they are young. They are great dogs. Boxers come in many different color varieties, including fawn, brindle, and sometimes white.

When I was younger and sick, my Boxers would sit by me the whole time. Boxers may get a bad rap for their intimidating look. However, they are the sweetest dogs a human could ask for. They are great guard dogs. When my kids are home alone, they go bonkers if the mailman is in front of the house. If just they are home, they couldn't care less. Boxers are amazing! They should be number one on this list, no second thoughts.

19 Poodle The poodle is a group of formal dog breeds, the Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle and Toy Poodle. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale recognizes four sizes of one breed: standard, medium, miniature, and toy.

Poodles are the most amazing dogs ever! They have astonishing athleticism, are extremely affectionate, and are incredibly intelligent. It's not uncommon to feel that they are smarter than you. They are also quite silly and know they are the life of the party. I wish the stereotype that Poodles are snobby would end because they are quite the opposite and are the most down-to-earth dogs ever. Also, an interesting fact: Poodles were actually from Germany, where they were used as hunting dogs.

People think Poodles are fancy, stuck-up dogs, but my standard Poodle, Jack, and I love meeting people and playing outside for hours. I hated the show clips for a Poodle, so I gave him a sporting clip, and he looks good. He's super nice!

20 Akita

If you're into Pokemon, this is the Charizard of dog breeds. Highly independent and naturally territorial, the Akita offers a no-nonsense attitude and fearlessness. These dogs are also very trainable, thanks to their high intelligence. To give you perspective on their IQ, Akitas are one of the few breeds known to remain quiet when an intruder is on their property. In short, if you value peace and prosperity, don't tread on an Akita's turf.

21 English Bulldog

My English Bulldog makes me laugh all the time. She has an amazingly strong personality and is such a character. She demands attention, for sure. She loves to eat but manages to maintain a trim figure with a raw diet. She's also so stubborn that she would never crack under peer pressure. She loves playing in the snow and then runs inside to lie on the radiant heated floors. She snores like a 300-pound person one minute and purrs like a cat the next. She's extremely vocal when she wants to be. She loves people and wants to be a part of the action. Everyone loves Minnie!

22 Yorkshire Terrier The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog breed of terrier type, developed during the 19th century in Yorkshire, England, to catch rats in clothing mills.

Though expensive and prone to health problems, these wiry canines steal your heart. They are paradoxes, as they can live a 20+ year lifespan. They are intelligent, loyal, and intuitive. Truly, they are among the most expressive of any breed, both emotionally and physically. Watching them romp and play is so much fun!

I have two, and they are like big dogs in small bodies. They always try to act fierce and scary, but they are just too cute and end up being cuddled. They are not meant to be left alone at home because they'll become sad. When you get home, they'll be incredibly excited from having waited so long.

23 American Cocker Spaniel The American Cocker Spaniel is a breed of sporting dog. It is a spaniel type dog that is closely related to the English Cocker Spaniel; the two breeds diverged during the 20th century due to differing breed standards in America and the UK.

My cocker spaniel just turned 2. I got him as a birthday present for my 17th birthday. When he was 4 weeks old, I fell head over heels for him. After picking him up a few weeks later, we have become the best of friends. He's the most caring, loving, and family-friendly dog you could ever come across. He is great with children, the elderly, and everyone in between. I was distraught when I moved away to uni this September and couldn't cuddle him every day, but it makes every time I come home that much more special. I grew up with my grandparents' Labradors, and I never thought I would love another breed of dog as much until I met the Cockers. They are such fantastic dogs!

24 Australian Shepherd Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd was actually developed in the United States. Primarily a herding dog, it is characterized by its intelligence and agility. The breed is easily recognizable by its striking coat patterns and eye colors, which can include blue, brown, or even one of each.

They're so gorgeous and are the perfect companion and show dogs. They're lean, fast, and agile as well. Australian Shepherds may not be as smart as Border Collies, but they're just as good workers. I often hear that they are like Border Collies but with an on and off switch, so they know when to tone it down a little rather than work until they drop.

Very loyal, friendly, protective, and just an amazing dog! I had one that sadly passed away due to poor medical treatment by the vet, but before that, he was the best dog ever. When I got another dog while he was still alive, he quickly took care of him and even taught my other dogs some lessons, like not to trust anyone you haven't seen before or haven't been introduced to. He wouldn't destroy things or engage in any other bad behavior.

The worst thing he did was probably escape our fence when we had to take it down, but he was outside with me at the time. He was very gentle with my two baby brothers and was most attached to me. He would only get on my bed and wouldn't do anything unless I was there with him. He loved me the most out of all my family. He was simply the best dog and always will be. When the rest of my family heard about the tragic event of my dog passing away, they all said, "I've never seen a dog love you so, so much!"

25 St. Bernard The St. Bernard or St Bernard is a breed of very large working dog from Swiss Alps and north Italy and Switzerland, originally bred for rescue.

Great dog, especially for families. Although not for everyone, they shed a lot. They need a lot of attention from their family and moderate activity. Understand that you will be wiping drool and hair off of everything. It's not a big deal after you get used to it. They also have a reasonably large appetite. All of this is worth it because of their loving, protective nature.

These dogs are the best and should be in the top 10. They're so loving and don't mind the cold. They let you lie on them and are perfect for families. I had one that was a tripod - only three legs - and she thrived. She also strove to make us happy. Dog size does not matter.

8Load More
PSearch List