10 Dogs Who Do Best With A Buddy

Not all dogs are loners. Some are born with best-friend energy and don’t feel right without a sidekick. A single pup is fine, sure, but two? That’s when the magic happens. These breeds come alive in pairs, proving that twice the dog really can mean double the joy. Here are ten breeds that were born for the bestie status.

Beagle

Beagles are pack dogs by nature. Left alone, they tend to vocalize or dig out of boredom. Bring in a second pup—especially another Beagle—and suddenly, you’ve got a tag team of curious, merry explorers. Their energy levels match best with dogs that can keep up.

Golden Retriever

This breed doesn’t just like company, it craves it. Golden Retrievers form strong bonds with other dogs, often thriving in homes where they can wrestle and roam side-by-side with a buddy. They’re also playful but gentle, making them ideal for multi-dog households looking for harmony.

Border Collie

Constant mental stimulation is a must for this highly intelligent breed. A canine companion helps provide the movement and interaction Border Collies need to stay balanced. When paired, they invent games, mimic each other’s behavior, and burn energy faster than humans ever could.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Affectionate to the core, these sweet-natured dogs bond deeply with fellow pups. A friend even helps ease separation anxiety, especially for Cavaliers who get attached quickly. They’re also low-drama when it comes to sharing space, which is ideal for families seeking peaceful pairings.

Labrador Retriever

Labs love everyone, but there’s something about a second dog that makes them especially joyful. They are quick to form bonds and even quicker to invite play. Whether it’s fetch in the yard or naps on the couch, Labradors make loyal, easygoing partners for just about any other breed.

French Bulldog

These dogs are social butterflies in compact bodies. Frenchies get along with nearly every dog breed and thrive when they’ve got a fellow snuggler. They’re not high-energy, but they still enjoy playful bursts that are better shared with another flat-faced friend who won’t mind a little snorty banter.

Australian Shepherd

Busy brains need busy buddies. Australian Shepherds benefit from the constant engagement another pup provides, especially in active households. They tend to form strong pair bonds, which keep them from becoming anxious or destructive when left alone. Bonus points if the other dog enjoys a good chase or joins in on the herding fun.

Shih Tzu

Small but surprisingly attached to fellow furballs, Shih Tzus enjoy quiet companionship. Intense playing is not their cup of tea, but they do love curling up next to another gentle pup. Many owners report calmer behavior and fewer mood swings once a second dog enters the mix.

Poodle

Poodles pick up on routines and emotions fast, and they do even better when there’s another pup to observe and engage with. From puzzle toys to pack walks, their high intelligence gets a workout in duos. They also tend to get along easily with dogs of all kinds, not just other Poodles.

Great Dane

Despite their size, Great Danes are affectionate companions who hate being alone. In fact, they become calmer and more secure when there’s another dog around to share space with. Constant play is not needed, but they do need presence. Just knowing that another dog is near is enough to keep them relaxed.

Basset Hound

Low-key and loyal, Basset Hounds bond tightly with companions. While they aren’t known for high energy, they do enjoy slow exploration with a buddy. Their pack instincts run deep, and having another dog helps reduce loneliness, especially during long naps or backyard sniffing sessions.