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While all dogs love spending time with their owners, certain breeds relish being around people more than others, including English Setters, Cocker Spaniels and Smooth Collies.
"Dogs have long been known as man's best friend, due to the love and companionship they provide their owners," a spokesperson from The Kennel Club tells Country Living.
Signs of a friendly dog breed include raised ears, a constantly wagging tail, and a willingness to approach humans without signs of aggression. Some further characteristics found in friendly dog breeds include:
- A calm temperament
- Enjoys being in social situations
- Loves human companionship
- Likes to play with other dogs and their owners
- Easy to train
- They are less likely to get anxious or fearful
If you are thinking of adopting a dog of your own, remember: "A dog's behaviour and temperament always depends on its training, socialisation and individual personality. Equally, regardless of a dog's personality, they must always be allowed enough space, peace and quiet in order to rest."
We asked the experts at The Kennel Club to recommend the friendliest breeds best known for loving people. Take a look at them below:
Cocker Spaniel
"Cocker Spaniels are so synonymous with having a friendly nature that they are even known as the 'merry Cocker'. An active and adventurous breed, with an ever-wagging tail, they love to shower their owners with affection and devotion," says a spokesperson from The Kennel Club.
"The breed has remained a family favorite since the early 20th century, thanks to their gentle and cheerful nature."
Related: Dog Breeds that Make the Best Companions
Bichon Frise
Bichons are playful, friendly dogs who get on well with children and families.
"The Bichon Frise is a small dog with a happy and lively personality. They are fantastic family companions who love to show affection to their owners, and enjoy spending days by their human's side."
Related: Best Dogs for Families
English Setter
"As well as being very active, the English Setter is also known to be outgoing and good-natured. Sadly, despite their lovable character, they have seen their population numbers decline, placing them on The Kennel Club's Vulnerable Native breed list," says the team.
"Whilst they love affection, they are a large breed so require an owner that can provide them with a lot of exercise, and a large home and garden."
Related: Large Dog Breeds to Consider Adopting
Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a small breed from the Terrier family, characterized by its wiry coat and lively, affectionate personality.
"Previously owned by the Queen's uncle, HRH The Duke of Gloucester, they are a typical terrier; alert, extroverted and eager to please. The Australian Terrier is a welcoming breed suitable as a companion dog."
Related: Small Dog Breeds that Make The Best Companions
Havanese
"The Havanese is known to be a lively, affectionate and intelligent breed," says an expert from The Kennel Club.
"They love to be with their owners, so if you can take your dog to work or you are at home for most of the day, a Havanese could be the breed for you."
Smooth Collie
And finally, Smooth Collies are also known for their friendly and outgoing nature.
"The Smooth Collie is a strong and intelligent dog, originally bred to manage sheep, and still enjoy spending time outside," says the team.
"They are a sociable and energetic breed so need active, outdoorsy owners. The Smooth Collie is another breed that is sadly classed as a vulnerable native breed, despite their endearing nature.
"Smooth Collies are also agile and active dogs that excel in canine sports like agility. They tend to have seemingly endless energy that they love to burn out on long walks."
