There are just as many different dog personalities as there are breeds. Some dogs prefer the company of other dogs to humans. Other dogs are independent, and happiest when they make the rules. Some dogs, though, love their people more than they love playtime, and would rather be rewarded with a happy owner than a treat!
These are dogs that are happiest when they know their people are happy, and can feel it when they’ve done something to disappoint them. These are 10 of the breeds that aim to please their humans.
1. Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers are eager to please, and are known to be friendly, social, affectionate, and easy to train. They love all people – not just their people, but strangers too! This breed has been a favorite companion to people all over the world for years because of their sweet, happy-go-lucky personalities.
2. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever was originally bred as a working dog, but it’s pleasant, friendly nature has made it a favorite breed for families. Smart and easy to train, Labs are often chosen to train as service dogs, both for those with disabilities and as law enforcement K9s.
3. Poodle
There’s a stigma that the poodle is a “prissy” breed, perhaps because of it’s fluffy coat, but poodles are intelligent, happy dogs that love to socialize! Poodles love their people and might be reserved at first with strangers, but quickly warm up to them. These dogs are energetic and love to make their people happy, which makes them a great breed for agility training and dog sports.
4. Corgi
Both the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are friendly dogs, cheerful and energetic. Some are known to be independent, but with early training, quickly learn that they’re happiest when they’re making you happy.
5. Pit Bull
Pit Bulls get a lot of bad press, but this breed is loyal and extremely eager to please it’s owner- even if that owner doesn’t have good intentions. Pit Bulls who are raised in happy homes are sweet, affectionate dogs, once known as the “nanny dog”. Because many are poorly socialized and often trained to be aggressive, this breed has become the unfortunate poster-dog for the phrase, “Blame the owner, not the breed.”
6. German Shepherd
German Shepherds are a common K9 breed because they love to learn and enjoy having a job to do. Though they don’t care much for strangers, German Shepherds are loyal, protective dogs that love to see their humans happy.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise craves human company and attention so much that they can be very demanding about it! These dogs love all kinds of people, especially children, and are happy to spend time playing or snuggling.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (CKC)
These gorgeous dogs are patient and loyal, eager to please and social – traits that make them another great breed for families with children. They’re sweet and adaptable dogs, and are just as happy competing in dog sports as they are working as therapy dogs, whichever makes their owners happiest.
9. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are known to be “Velcro” dogs – dogs that form a deep bond with their owners want to be right where they are! They’re energetic working dogs, but they’re also loving and devoted, and are known to thrive under the care of a loving owner.
10. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Dogs of this breed are loyal, very affectionate and protective of their owners, but can be shy with strangers. These dogs have sensitive souls, and can become visibly hurt when their owners show displeasure towards them.
Toledo, United States.
