Dogs have been alongside humans for thousands of years and were domesticated originally to help people accomplish things during daily life. Dog breeds have varying histories, meaning they were bred for many different tasks, such as herding, guarding and hunting. Because of this, their temperaments are also very different. Dogs that were bred to be around other dogs, such as those bred for group hunting, sledding and companionship are often the breeds that get along well with other dogs – because they were required to do so to perform their jobs. Others, such as herding dogs, guarding dogs and fighting dogs (even if they aren’t used for this purpose today) have retained a less-than-social attitude towards other canines in their homes. So if you’re looking for a dog breed that should have no issue cohabiting with other dogs, consider the ones in this list.
#1 – Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever has been one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States for many years and with good reason – they are extremely social dogs that get along well with people, other dogs and even small animals like cats. Originally bred for waterfowling, they were often working around other dogs and needed a temperament that provided no aggression. Labradors have succeeded as disability assistance dogs as well due to their gentle, even dispositions.
#2 – Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is also a very popular dog breed and for all of the same reasons as the Labrador. This dog was also used to hunt fowl, both on land and in water. They are very social dogs towards all species – friend and stranger alike. This breed has also excelled at disability assistance work due to their outstanding temperaments.
#3 – Siberian Husky
Siberian Huskies are a sledding breed from Russia, where they were used to work in teams. As you can imagine, any dog aggression in a team of sled dogs would be very counterproductive. Therefore, these dogs were bred to work well with each other. Although care should be taken around other small animals, as these dogs are known for having high prey drive, they are generally trustworthy around other dogs their size or larger.
#4 – Beagle
The Beagle is one of the smallest of the hounds originally bred for hunting hare. This breed has been used for hunting in large groups for very many years, requiring them to be very social with other dogs. In fact, they have quite a strong pack drive and are prone to separation anxiety. Beagles are also very gentle, affectionate dogs that do well with people of all ages, including young children.
#5 – Chinook
The Chinook was developed in the United States and is a relatively rare breed. Originally bred for sledding, they work very well alongside other dogs and make excellent family companions for the active owners. Chinooks are social and affectionate towards people of all ages, although they may be reserved at first with strangers. Like the Siberian Husky, their sledding heritage requires an affinity for other dogs.
#6 – Greyhound
Greyhounds have been used for hunting and racing for centuries and both of these jobs require them to work with other sighthounds. Because of this, they are very affectionate towards all of the dogs within their pack and make a great choice for someone looking for a dog that lives well with other canines. However, because of their hunting and coursing history, caution must be taken around small animals such as cats and rabbits. Although you might see Greyhounds wearing muzzles during their races, this isn’t because they are aggressive with each other – it is only to prevent them from accidentally nipping at each other while trying to catch the lure.
#7 – Pointer
Pointers are a very old breed of dog. They are even-tempered, docile and very active. Originally bred for hunting in large packs, Pointers were required to be sociable towards other dogs and have maintained this characteristic today. Aggression is highly frowned upon and rarely seen in this breed and they are known for living well alongside other dogs and animals of various species. Although active, they make great family companions and do well with children.
