What Are the Best Companion Dog Breeds?

There are hundreds of dog breeds out there and each breed has something that it's best at. Pointers and retrievers for hunting and guard dogs for protecting just for two examples. That said, what are the best breeds for someone who is just looking for a companion? Today, we've gathered the top ten dogs that would make great friends and companions for any type of family.

1. Labrador Retriever

   
   The Labrador Retriever is one of the most iconic family pets there is. They thrive in almost any climate and environment with proper exercise and love being with family of all sizes and types. You will find that the Labrador Retriever is also easy to groom and to train. Though they can develop joint problems over the years, they are the overall perfect companion breed for any family.

2. Border Collie

   
   This is a great dog for someone not only looking for a companion pet, but a service pet as well. This hardworking and highly intelligent dog has a history in herding and knows how to get things done. They are very healthy and while needing regular brushing, are generally an easy dog to take care of. This is a breed that gets bored easily and needs both mental and physical stimulation provided by their human companion. If you give them a job to do and space to run, they will be one of the best family dogs you can have.

3. Boxer

   
   One of the bigger dogs on this list, and often thought of as a bully-type breed, the Boxer is actually a very kind and gentle soul. Their easy to train nature will shine through when provided with lots of exercise. Though they acclimate to most family environments, they do not often thrive in extremely hot or cold climates. They are one of the easiest dogs to groom and their friendly disposition makes them simple to take care of by anyone in the family.

4. Corgi

   
   Perhaps more known for their cute looks, the Corgi makes a great pet for older kids and adults that need a friend. They come in two distinct breeds: the larger Cardigan Welsh Corgi with its long tail and the shorter Pembroke Welsh Corgi with its bobtail. Like many dogs on the list, they do require more exercise, however, they’re a trainable breed with a history in being the companion to royalty. Keep in mind this dog will need weekly brushing and is known to develop back problems due to its elongated back.

5. Brittany Spaniel

   
   If you have the room for this bird dog to run, it will be the perfect pet for you. The Brittany is one of the easiest pets to train and with a healthy background and minimal grooming, it's one of the easiest to take care of. Overall a great family pet, the Brittany can be the perfect companion pet for you and your whole family.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

   
   One of the best family dogs out there, this royal breed is easy to train, great for apartment living, and fun to have around. As with any breed, it is known to have its breed-related issues, so take care when visiting the vet. This breed's long, fringey hair does require regular grooming, but their sweet nature makes this an enjoyable task to do.

7. Basset Hound

   
   You'll know the Basset Hound from many movies and its huge floppy ears. Great with kids, these dogs are one of the perfect breeds for you to have as a friend. However, they are known for being stubborn at times which can make training a process, so it could be beneficial to seek out a professional dog trainer. Once trained, this healthy and long-living breed will need weekly ear cleaning, and plenty of room to run and bay to become the best companion he or she can be.

8. Bulldog

   
   Perhaps most known for it's small bow-legged look, this dog is often misinterpreted as being mean and aggressive. However, what is not often known is that this dog is actually very friendly and would make a great companion pet. While they are tough to train, they are great with both adults and children and can easily become part of the pack. It should be noted, however, that they do not do good with heat and their past breeding has created a rather short lifespan. Also, take care to clean this breed and their cute folds can be prone to infection.

9. Shih Tzu

   
   A smaller dog, the Shih Tzu is notorious for its flat face and longhair. However, they are also known for their ability to be happy anywhere, their long lifespan (11 to 16 years), and the ability to get along with everyone, especially the elderly. This lap dog does require grooming and opting to keep it's coat short can save you time and hassle if you plan on going outside often where the long hair could get dirty.

10. Bullmastiff

    
    Though often thought of as a guard dog, this companion dog makes a great friend. This gentle giant can be exactly what you are looking for in a companion. They require little exercise, are easy to bathe and care for, and work great in a family unit. However, they are also known to be stubborn when training and are known to be more prone to serious health concerns when compared to other breeds.

_{Reviewed by: Theresa Miller}

_{Theresa is a tenured PuppySpot employee and breed expert. She is currently the manager of our Profile Approval department and interacts with our breeders on a daily basis. Theresa has been involved in the pet industry for over 19 years and has hands on experience with many dog breeds. Theresa is also the proud owner of Marta, a German Shepherd Dog who is a trained service dog, and a 12-year-old Maltese named Colonel!}