15 Dog Breeds With Exemplary Behavior

When wanting to bring home a pet, many of us consider good behavior as important as looks, size, and temperament. Well-behaved dogs are more convenient to train and adapt well to different living situations, making them great additions to any household. If you’re searching for a loyal family pet or a calm companion with impeccable manners, this list of 15 dog breeds is for you.
Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is one of America’s most beloved dog breeds and is often regarded as the best-behaved by experts. Cherished for their friendly, easygoing, and intelligent nature, Labs are eager to please their owners. Their strong sense of loyalty means they are typically gentle and great with children and people of all ages.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

With a charming and eager-to-please personality, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, often called the Cavy, quickly wins hearts. This breed shines in obedience training and excels in service dog roles. Friendly with both people and other animals, the Cavy adapts well to homes with children and multiple pets.
Poodle

One of the most competent and trainable canines, whether Toy, Miniature, or Standard, excels in both brains and behavior. Originally bred in Germany for duck hunting, this breed now shines as a loyal companion. They have a friendly, people-pleasing personality and moderate energy levels, which makes them ideal family pets.
Pug

This easygoing breed doesn’t play favorites as long as it’s getting plenty of attention. But don’t think it’s all about lounging around; pugs enjoy being the center of attention and will keep the family entertained with their playful and happy-go-lucky antics. The pug is known for being calm and well-adjusted.
Newfoundland

Who can resist that adorable bear-like face? As per dog trainers, the Newfoundland needs very little to be content. They are incredibly tolerant and intensely loyal to their family. Newfoundlands enjoy short daily walks, and given their large size, they need ample space to stretch out and explore.
Havanese

Petite and cheerful Havanese dogs are highly trainable and thrive on human companionship. Their affectionate nature helps them be great with kids and other pets, and their playful yet gentle demeanor suits family life perfectly. Adaptable to various living environments, whether a cozy apartment or a spacious home, Havanese excels in any setting.
Irish Setter

Irish Setters bring a burst of cheer to any home. Their friendly and outgoing personalities mean they are a favorite in lively households. These dogs are great with children and other pets. Highly trainable and responsive to positive reinforcement, they thrive on regular exercise to match their high energy levels.
Boston Terrier

Often called the “American gentleman,” the Boston Terrier is a sensitive dog with a keen sense of its owner’s emotions. This breed is loved for their natural charm and comedic antics, which can easily win anyone over. Boston Terriers are highly trainable and quickly learn good behavior, making them well-suited for mastering proper manners.
Bichon Frise

Undoubtedly, Bichon Frises can brighten up any space with their cheerful attitude. They are small dogs with a knack for mischief and a love for fun. Friendly with people and other animals, Bichons are a perfect fit for apartments or smaller homes. Their agreeable nature and compact size make them delightful companions in various settings.
Golden Retriever

You’ll get easily charmed by their friendly personalities. They are recognized for their warmth and exceptional obedience, earning them a spot among well-behaved dogs. Their natural gentleness and sociability ensure they will be a hit with people and other pets. Highly cooperative and eager to please, they seldom get into conflicts.
Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu’s cheerful personality allows it to be a perfect match for families looking for a small, well-mannered pet. Also known for their delightful disposition, this breed may require patience to earn their trust. However, once you build that bond, you’ll enjoy the company of a loving dog who is always eager to please.
Beagle

Beyond their charming looks, this breed is noted for their friendly and outgoing nature. Great with young children, Beagles are even-tempered and patient, making them ideal family pets. While Beagles are intelligent, they can also be stubborn, so they benefit from proper training to become fantastic family pets.
Bernese Mountain Dog

They are patient, easy to train, and love spending time with their families. Their sweet temperament and love for companionship make them excellent, obedient pets. The Bernese Mountain Dog ranks high among the most friendly breeds around. They are naturally relational and prefer being with their family to being alone for long periods.
German Shepherd

We affectionately call our pets “good boy” or “good girl” while expressing love. The German Shepherd is a perfect fit if you’re looking for an actual example. Due to their active nature and responsiveness, they are part of military and service roles. However, their greatest joy comes from being by their owner’s side in every activity.
Border Collie

As the ultimate workaholics of the dog world, these canines are loved for their extraordinary intelligence and relentless work ethic. Additionally, with sharp minds and a keen eagerness for mental challenges, they are a breeze to train. Though highly energetic, their behavior remains exemplary when their needs for stimulation are met.