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The 15 Most Gentle Dog Breeds

Written by: Renee Moen
| Published on September 18, 2014

If you’re looking for the ideal canine cuddly buddy, then consider a gentle dog breed for your family.

Some dogs are built for tough work, with the cuddle life not such much for them. But other breeds are tender hearts from the get go, their genetics making them gentle dogs who want to cover you with kisses. From playful pups to gentle giants, this list of least aggressive dog breeds includes some of the most lovable hounds you’ll ever meet.

But remember, situations can arise that cause stress and even the best of dogs has limits. Just because a dog breed is considered gentle, always treat dogs with respect and be sure children understand being kind to dogs too.

15 Most Gentle Dog Breeds

#1 – Pug

If there were a clown division with the American Kennel Club, Pugs would be included in it. These dogs are entertaining and lively. Being bred as a companion dog, these big hams are also incredibly laid back and would prefer to snuggle than do anything else.

gentle dog breeds pug

#2 – Cavalier King Charles (CKC)

Like the Pug, the CKC was bred as a companion dog. They live to hang with their humans. There is nothing this breed would rather do than curl up next to their people. CKC’s are known for their gentle loving nature and they just can’t help looking adorable for the camera!

Is your pooch a natural in front of the camera? Check out these 5 Tips For Taking Spectacular Photos Of Your Dog.

least aggressive dog breed CKC cavalier king charles dpg

#3 – Corgi

The loveable Corgis! These sweet, even-tempered dogs love to frolic and play with their people. Bundles of furry enthusiasm, the Corgi are incredibly gentle with children. They may try to herd a family member along, but wouldn’t harm them. They’re just too much the gentle dog breed for that!

gentle dog breed corgi playful

#4 – Boston Terrier

Known as little gentlemen, partly for the tuxedoes they wear, the Boston Terrier also got their nickname for the incredible manners they display. Gentle, kind and considerate are some of the words used to describe this dashing breed.

gentle boston terrier dog

#5 – English Mastiff

Their size may intimidate and set people on edge, but the English Mastiffs’ heart is as big as their massive heads. Bred for security, a Mastiff will knock down the bad guy and wait. But don’t worry, they won’t get away! The perpetrator will drown in a river of drool before the Gentle Giant attacks.

Do you have a drooler? Here are The 8 Dog Breeds That Slobber The Most.

gentle giant dog breeds english mastiff

#6 – English Bulldog

Despite the squishy face that looks more menacing than it actually is, the English Bulldog may be stubborn but is also considered one of the most gentle dog breeds. These big dogs like to please their humans and keep them laughing.

least aggressive dog breed bulldog

#7 – Irish Wolfhound

Give an Irish Wolfhound a warm bed and comfortable life and this tall dog will repay their family with gentle, loving devotion. These pacifists are so easygoing that if someone broke into the family’s home to rob it, the wolfhound may roll over on their warm bed and continue snoozing.

The Wolfhound isn’t the only dog that calls the Emerald Isle home. These 7 Irish Dogs Breeds Can’t Help Feeling Lucky.

gentle dog breeds irish wolfhound large giant

#8 – Old English Sheepdog

Bred to herd farm animals, the OES is completely devoted to his family. Since herding is in his genetic code, an OES may try to herd his family to get where they need to be, but he wouldn’t consider being heavy-handed about it. This shaggy dog is way too gentle for pushiness.

least aggressive dog breeds big fluffy sheepdog

#9 – Dachshund

Oh, those energetic and silly wiener dogs! The Dachshund, so happy to see their human they may wiggle themselves into a heart attack. Once sufficient kisses have been given, he is content with being held and petted. The perfect nap buddy, the doxie is one of the least aggressive dog breeds you’ll ever come across. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t stubborn!

doxie dachshund gentle dog breed

#10 – Newfoundland

What would this list be without a Nana? In the tale of Peter Pan, the nursery maid, Nana, was in fact a Newfoundland. These gentle giants are loving companions, wanting to stretch out next to their humans and snuggle. Their size, however, inhibits maximum snuggling when lying on a couch…. Been there, ended up on the floor.

gentle newfie newfoundland large dog breed

#11 – Collie

On the subject of loveable dogs of the cinema, we can’t forget to mention one of the most gentle dogs of all time – Lassie! Collies are as kind as they are beautiful. Bred for herding livestock, the Collie will keep your kids rounded up but in a tender way.

gentle dog breeds collie fluffy

#12 – Labrador Retriever

One of the world’s most popular dog breeds, Labs love their families with the whole of their gentle hearts. You can see this good dog’s kindness in her friendly smile!

gentle chocolate lab breed dog

#13 – Golden Retriever

Golden, glorious, and gentle! Who doesn’t love a Golden Retriever? Another of the most popular breeds, Goldens fit in wherever they are, making friends with adults, children, and other dogs, no problem.

While Labs and Goldens have maintained their popularity, learn how other dog breeds have fared through the years. Check out Then & Now: The 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds of the Last Decade.

golden retriever gentle soft dog breed

#14 – Beagle

Who’s the most famous Beagle in the world? It’s Snoopy, of course! A gentle dog with a brave heart, Snoopy set the standard and his breed brethren live up to it every day. Beagles are loyal and playful dogs who form tight bonds thanks to their strong need for companionship.

beagle gentle dog breed

#15 – Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is eager to please, affectionate, and usually wearing a smile. Shelties make great family dogs, loving to run with the kids. While a gentle dog breed, this sweet fluff loves to bark, so be ready to have lots of conversation about what a good dog you’ve got on your hands!

fluffy gentle dog breed shetland sheepdog

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