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

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 in English is German Shepherd Dog. In Britain and Ireland, it is also known as the Alsatian, a name that was used more commonly during the 20th century.

I have a 5-year-old purebred German Shepherd, and he is the smartest dog I have ever seen. I taught him how to shake in three days. He learned how to open the door in the boot room. My other German Shepherd did too.
I have had seven German Shepherds growing up, and none of them were ever hard to train or didn't listen. The two dogs we had that weren't German Shepherds were the only ones we had trouble with, so we stick to German Shepherds now.
Our neighbors had two Border Collies that always came onto our property. They never listened, even when we heard our neighbor calling them to come home. I have seen Border Collies be hard to train all the time. Not all dogs are perfect. One of my friends has a German Shepherd who is really stupid, so you can't just judge by the breed. Every dog has a different personality.
For me, I have had a way better experience with German Shepherds. Border Collies can be smarter, but German Shepherds are usually less hyper and easier to train.
Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever, also known simply as the Labrador, is a sporting dog bred for retrieving game in water. Labradors are known for their friendly temperament, intelligence, and strong swimming ability. The breed remains one of the most popular in the United Kingdom, the United States, and other... read more

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.
Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is a large-sized breed of dog originally bred as a gun dog to retrieve shot waterfowl such as ducks and upland game birds during hunting and shooting parties. They were named retriever because of their ability to retrieve shot game undamaged. Golden Retrievers are known for their... read more

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.
Siberian Husky

The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working dog breed that originated in northeastern Siberia. It was developed by the Chukchi people for sled pulling and endurance in cold climates. The breed is known for its thick coat, erect triangular ears, and striking blue or multicolored eyes.

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.
Border Collie

The Border Collie is a working and herding dog breed developed in the Anglo-Scottish border region for herding livestock, especially sheep. It is widely regarded as the most intelligent dog breed, with high energy and trainability. Border Collies excel in dog sports and obedience competitions.

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!
Beagle

The Beagle is a breed of small-sized hound, similar in appearance to the much larger foxhound. It is a scent hound developed primarily for hunting hare. Beagles are known for their strong sense of smell, vocal nature, and friendly temperament, making them popular as family pets.

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.

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.
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 colors, 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

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.
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. The breed is known for its strength, loyalty, and controversial history regarding breed-specific legislation.

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.
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 historical uses was to herd livestock and pull carts laden with butchered meat to market. Today, Rottweilers... read more

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.
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.
Dachshund

The Dachshund is a short-legged, long-bodied hound-type dog breed with floppy ears and short fur. It comes in a variety of colors and coat types, including smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. Although popular as pets, Dachshunds are not considered hypoallergenic.

I have a one-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!

Dachshunds are just icons! You can't beat them. They're cute and loyal. If you shot one, they would forgive you.
If you're sad, they'll cuddle up next to you. They are also great guard dogs. They were bred to hunt badgers, so it makes sense.

The Newcomers

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Miniature American Shepherd

Also known as the Miniature Australian Shepherd, this breed and the larger Australian Shepherd are American breeds. So, Miniature American Shepherd is the better name.
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Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tuléar is a breed of small dog named for the city of Tuléar in Madagascar and its cotton-like coat. It is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. The breed is recognized by major kennel clubs and is often kept as a companion animal.

The most underrated breed of all time. They are little dogs, but they have the temperament of a Lab.

The Contenders

Dalmatian

The Dalmatian is a breed of large dog, noted for its unique black or liver-spotted coat. Originally used as a carriage dog, it was known for running alongside carriages to guard the horses and occupants. The breed is also recognized for its role in firehouses and in popular culture, such as the 101 Dalmatians... read more

The Dalmatian is a wonderful family dog. They are very helpful, very loyal, and very sweet.
If you see a fire truck, think of the Dalmatian. Dalmatians also have adorable puppies.

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.

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.
Great Dane

The Great Dane is a large German breed of domestic dog recognized for its giant size and gentle temperament. The breed's German name is Deutsche Dogge, meaning German Mastiff. Great Danes are often referred to as gentle giants and were originally bred for hunting large game.

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.
Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a small terrier breed originally developed for fox hunting. It is predominantly white-bodied with smooth, rough, or broken coats. The breed is known for its high energy, intelligence, and strong hunting instinct.

Rajapalayam are the best dog breed for me, but Jack Russells are one of the most underappreciated dogs that ever existed. And I bet this is due to their small size, and most people around the world are clearly obsessed with Pit Bulls or menacing-looking dogs.

My neighbour has this dog, and it's really cute. I see her every day when I pass their house. I stroke her. She's a calm dog. Her name is Hannah.
This breed should be a lot higher on the list, not number 14. She's black and brown mixed. I wish she was my dog.

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.
Rough Collie

The Rough Collie is a long-coated breed of medium- to large-sized dog that, in its original form, was a type of collie used and bred for herding in Scotland. It is known for its elegant appearance and loyalty. The breed gained widespread recognition through the Lassie film and television series.

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!
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, which typically has a docked tail, and the Cardigan... read more

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!
Boxer

The Boxer is a medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany. The coat is smooth and tight-fitting. Colors are fawn, mahogany, black, or brindled, with or without white markings, and white.
Boxers are known for their energetic, playful nature and strong protective instincts. They... read more

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.
English Bulldog

The Bulldog, also known as the British Bulldog or English Bulldog, is a medium-sized dog breed. It is recognized for its loose skin, distinctive pushed-in nose, and muscular build. Bulldogs are known for their calm demeanor and strong loyalty.

English Bulldogs have exploded in popularity in recent decades. They are currently the fourth most popular breed in the United States. They're so ugly that they cross over into the incredibly cute category.
With flat faces that look as though a truck hit them and big droopy jowls, these dogs are endearing in their own unique way. They are incredibly loyal to and gentle with humans. Though they may not be the sharpest tools in the shed, they are extremely sensitive and easily tune into their owners' moods instantly. Most people who get one become hooked on English Bulldogs for life.

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!
Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is the smallest of the six original and distinct spitz breeds of dog from Japan. It is known for its spirited personality, fox-like appearance, and agility. Shiba Inus are one of the most popular companion dogs in Japan.

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.
Akita

The Akita is a large breed of dog originating from the mountainous northern regions of Japan. It is known for its loyalty, strength, and protective nature. The breed is split into two varieties: the Japanese Akita (Akita Inu) and the American 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.

Have you ever read the book Hachiko Waits? If you haven't, it's about an Akita that waits at a train station for his owner to return from work every day. Even after his owner died, he continued to wait at the train station for years, never leaving his spot.
This shows how loyal an Akita can be. People would bring him food, and he would greet them, but he never left the spot where he patiently waited for his owner. He even died where he waited.
Basset Hound

The Basset Hound is a short‑legged scent hound breed used primarily for tracking game. One of six recognized Basset varieties from France, they are known for their droopy ears, long bodies, and gentle disposition.
They were first bred in the 19th century for hunting small game. Basset Hounds have... read more

My Basset is so funny and sweet! Just remember, you need to be patient when it comes to training and walking. They are very slow and a bit stubborn.
However, they honestly are better with children than Labs. Mine is so sweet to everyone!

By far one of the most loving of all breeds. They will do anything for treats.
They do have a mind of their own and like to wander off. They are very loyal and don't like to be alone.

We had two Bassets. They are so sweet. They love kids and their owners.
I miss them. Sam was 16 when he passed, and Beau was 11. I just lost Beau two weeks ago. I am 71, and he was my son too.
St. Bernard

The St. Bernard is a very large working dog breed from the Swiss Alps and northern Italy and Switzerland, originally bred for mountain rescue. They were developed by monks at the Saint Bernard Hospice in the Alps. St. Bernards are known for their strength, loyalty, and rescue instincts.

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.
Poodle

The Poodle is a group of formal dog breeds including the Standard Poodle, Miniature Poodle, and Toy Poodle. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale recognizes four sizes: Standard, Medium, Miniature, and Toy. Poodles are highly intelligent and are known for their hypoallergenic coats.

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!
Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog, also known as the Sheltie, is a breed of herding dog. Originally called the Shetland Collie, the name was changed due to opposition from Rough Collie breeders. The breed is known for its intelligence, agility, and long, dense double coat.

My beloved little Shelties are conveniently sized, beautiful, and come in several fancy colors. Shelties are very sweet, gentle, and obedient. A dignified and sensitive breed. They have impeccable house manners. Shelties get along wonderfully with other pets, and they're remarkably polite when meeting other dogs, cats, and people.

I was never really into dogs much and was always more of a cat person until my mom got a Sheltie. She was nothing like other dogs I've met. I've always found dogs in general to be kind of stressful to be around, but the Sheltie is so sweet and gentle. She never even chased other animals but tried to take care of them. They are angels.
Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of domestic dog originally bred for hauling heavy freight due to its strength and endurance. It was later used as a sled dog. Malamutes are known for their thick double coats and wolf-like appearance.

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 and White, Brown and White, Gray and White, Sable and White, Seal White, and Red/Copper and White. They are majestic! Vote!
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, agility, and strong work ethic. The breed is easily recognized by its striking coat patterns and eye colors, which can include blue, brown, or heterochromia... read more

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 much!"