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6 of the friendliest dog breeds that love being around people

Photo credit: The Kennel Club
Photo credit: The Kennel Club

From Good Housekeeping

English Setters, Cocker Spaniels and Havanese dogs are among some of the friendliest breeds who love to be around groups of people and families, the Kennel Club has found.

While all dogs bring joy to their owners, there are some sociable pups which love being around people more than others. "In a year like no other, it's been clear that dogs have been instrumental in helping their owners through a turbulent time," Bill Lambert from the Kennel Club told Country Living.

"In fact, two thirds of dog owners agree that their dog has and continues to be a lifeline in lockdown. While all dogs love spending time with their owners, certain breeds relish being around people and are known for their friendly, extroverted nature."

Looking for a friendly pup to adopt? Take a look at the breeds below...

1. Cocker Spaniel

Photo credit: Yulia Titovets/The Kennel Club
Photo credit: Yulia Titovets/The Kennel Club

"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. The breed has remained a family favourite since the early 20th century, thanks to their gentle and cheerful nature," Bill says.

2. Bichon Frise

Photo credit: Lisa Croft-Elliott/The Kennel Club
Photo credit: Lisa Croft-Elliott/The Kennel Club

"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."

3. English Setter

Photo credit: Ruth Dalrymple/The Kennel Club
Photo credit: Ruth Dalrymple/The Kennel Club

Are you thinking of adopting an English Setter? Bill explains: "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. 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."

4. Australian Terrier

Photo credit: L Croft-Elliott/The Kennel Club
Photo credit: L Croft-Elliott/The Kennel Club

"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 and is very suitable as a companion dog."

5. Havanese

Photo credit: Lisa Croft-Elliott/The Kennel Club
Photo credit: Lisa Croft-Elliott/The Kennel Club

"The Havanese is known to be a lively, affectionate and intelligent breed. 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," Bill adds.

6. Smooth Collie

Photo credit: Lisa Croft-Elliott/The Kennel Club
Photo credit: Lisa Croft-Elliott/The Kennel Club

"The Smooth Collie is a strong and intelligent dog, originally bred to manage sheep, and still enjoy spending time outside. They are a sociable and energetic breed so need active, outdoorsy owners," says Bill.

"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."


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