8 of the friendliest dog breeds for UK families

If you want a sociable family dog, some breeds have a long-standing reputation for being people-loving and easy-going. The eight below are popular in the UK for good reasons, but each has needs to plan for. Use this list as a starting point, then meet dogs of the breed and talk to responsible breeders or rescues.

1. Labrador Retriever

Labradors were bred to work closely with people, retrieving game for hunters, and most are outgoing, eager to please and keen on food. That makes them very trainable, and also prone to putting on weight. They need plenty of exercise and something to do, especially when young. Ask breeders about hip and elbow scores and eye testing for both parents.

2. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are gentle, patient and affectionate, and usually get on well with people and other dogs. Like Labradors, they are working gundogs with lots of energy, and their thick coat sheds and needs regular brushing. Health testing of the parents is important.

3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavaliers are small, affectionate companion dogs that usually love being with their people. They adapt well to different homes and need moderate exercise. The breed is prone to some serious inherited conditions, including heart disease, so choosing a breeder who uses the recommended health schemes really matters.

4. Beagle

Beagles are cheerful, sociable scent hounds that were bred to hunt in packs, so they tend to like company, human and canine. Their noses lead them, which can make recall a challenge, and some are vocal. They suit active owners with a secure garden.

5. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are merry, affectionate and busy. Working-type Cockers in particular have a lot of energy and need daily exercise and mental stimulation. Their ears and coat need regular care.

6. Bichon Frise

The Bichon is a small, playful companion dog that usually enjoys meeting people. Their curly coat sheds little but needs daily brushing and regular professional grooming to prevent mats. Like many small breeds, they can find being left alone difficult, so build up alone time gradually.

7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffies are often very affectionate with their families, and many love people. They are strong for their size, and they benefit from good socialisation with other dogs from puppyhood and consistent, reward-based training. Many Staffies are waiting in rescue centres for new homes.

8. Poodle

Poodles come in toy, miniature and standard sizes. They are clever, playful and responsive to training, and usually enjoy being with their people. Their curly coat needs regular clipping. Poodles are also one parent of many popular crossbreeds, such as the Cockapoo and Labradoodle.

What makes a dog friendly?

Breed tells you what a dog was originally bred to do, which influences its likely temperament. But a puppy's early experiences shape it just as much. Puppies that meet a variety of people, sounds and situations calmly in their first few months tend to grow into more confident, sociable adults.

When you look at a litter, see the puppies with their mother, and ask how they have been raised and socialised. A friendly, relaxed mother is a good sign. Rescue centres can often tell you a lot about an adult dog's personality, which takes some of the guesswork out of choosing.

Choosing the right friendly breed for you

Think about your daily life as well as temperament:

• Time and energy. Labradors, Goldens, Cockers and Beagles need a lot of exercise. Cavaliers and Bichons need less.
• Grooming. Poodles and Bichons need regular professional grooming; Labradors and Goldens shed a lot.
• Health. Ask what health tests are recommended for the breed, and check the parents' results.
• Home and garden. Scent hounds and energetic breeds need secure fencing.

Our breed finder can help narrow down breeds that suit your home. You can also look at dogs for adoption, where staff can match you with a dog whose personality they already know.