Best-Behaved Dog Breeds You Can Have
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Let's take a look at which breeds are known for being on their best behavior.All dogs are good. That’s a fact. But it’s also true that some breeds are naughtier than others. And while it will always be a joy to come home to your fur baby, it’s also good to know that your baby didn’t ruin your shoes and furniture while you were gone.
But which breeds are known for being on their best behavior? They include dogs of all sizes and personalities, from the tiny papillon to the gigantic Irish wolfhound.
These are the best-behaved dog breeds, so you can enjoy all the love without any of the headaches.
30. Papillon
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Height: 8–11 inches
Weight: 7-10 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom line: This breed gets its name from its distinctively large, fluttery ears that look like the wings of a butterfly, or papillon in French. The dogs are small, cheerful and playful, making them fairly easy to care for.
Shedding could be a problem, but given their adorable face and good disposition, we'd gladly put up with cleaning up hair for these cutie pies.
*Note: Rankings are based on "The Naughtiest and Best-Behaved Dog Breeds, According to Instagram” report from Protect My Paws.
29. Havanese Dog
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Height: 9 inches
Weight: 7-14 pounds
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
Bottom line: This highly social breed is the national dog of Cuba. Havanese dogs have distinctly soft, silky fur and large ears that give them the look of sporting a mid-length haircut.
The breed is usually amicable and gentle, which makes them a favorite for families with children.
Because of their small size, they are good for apartments or houses with limited space. They're also known for being loyal and following their owners around the house.
28. German Shepherd
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Height: 22-26 inches
Weight: 49-88 pounds
Life expectancy: 9-13 years
Bottom line: Highly intelligent, independent and loyal, German shepherds are one of the most lovable big dog breeds in the world. They make excellent work dogs and thrive when they have a purpose, which is why you'll see them working at police stations, airports and in search-and-rescue efforts.
Their strength and size does mean that their bite can be dangerous, so parents with small children should carefully watch interactions. They thrive in large spaces and will rarely act out as long as they have an outlet for all their energy.
German Shepherd in Action
27. Akita
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Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 55-92 pounds
Life expectancy: 10 years
Bottom line: Strong and independent, Akitas demand that you earn their love. Once you do, however, they are one of the most fiercely loyal breeds.
Their loyalty is most famously exemplified by Hachiko, a Japanese Akita that spent 10 years waiting for his owner — who passed away — at the Shibuya train station in Tokyo.
Their loyalty often translates to good behavior, since they follow orders and want to please their owners. Akitas also are known for being affectionate to their families, but they can be suspicious of strangers.
26. White Swiss Shepherd Dog
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Height: 22-26 inches
Weight: 55-88 pounds
Life expectancy: 12 years
Bottom line: Another shepherd dog to make it onto the nice list, this breed is intelligent, energetic and thrives when active. They do tend to be nicer to strangers than German shepherds, which is why they're not usually used as watchdogs.
Their disposition, however, makes them great pets, especially for families that have older children.
White Swiss Shepherd Dog in Action
25. Dogo Argentino
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Height: 24-27 inches
Weight: 77-99 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Bottom line: Another big dog suited for work and service, Dogo Argentinos were originally bred as big-game hunting dogs. This means that they're highly intelligent and good at following commands.
They're also protective of their family and are playful. This makes them good as service dogs and as part of search and rescue teams.
Families with small kids will need to be careful, however, given how strong they are.
24. American Staffordshire Terrier
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Height: 17-19 inches
Weight: 40-70 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Bottom line: Good-natured American Staffordshire terriers are great pet dogs. They are medium-sized, which means they won't need very large spaces, yet can run and play for longer than smaller breeds can.
As a smart breed, they like being challenged, which makes them a perfect fit for owners who like to stay active and take their dogs on hikes and mildly difficult runs.
American Staffordshire Terrier in Action
23. Irish Wolfhound
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Height: 28-34 inches
Weight: 89-120 pounds
Life expectancy: 6-10 years
Bottom line: One of the biggest dog breeds in the world, Irish wolfhounds can grow to be 34 inches tall. If not for their sweet face and demeanor, they would look like a breed straight out of "Game of Thrones" rather than real life.
Thankfully, they are well-behaved and tend to be timid and quiet. They are also unlikely to wreak havoc inside the house — which is a huge relief considering how much damage they would be able to cause.
In short, they are like giant teddy bears ready to give and receive love.
Irish Wolfhound in Action
22. Giant Schnauzer
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Height: 24-28 inches
Weight: 55-110 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom line: Miniature schnauzers tend to get more attention due to the cuteness factor of their size, but giant schnauzers are a loyal, well-behaved breed.
Many people have them as guard dogs, since they are not very keen on strangers. However, once you've gained their love, you'll have it forever, and they'll likely follow you around the house.
This makes them good companions and perfect family dogs.
Giant Schnauzer in Action
21. Bolognese
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Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 6-9 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom line: These fluffy white dogs are tiny and irresistibly cute. They are extremely friendly and love to socialize with people and dogs. Take them to a dog park and watch them make friends with all the other dogs.
At under 10 pounds, you can easily carry them with one hand, which they often love, since they are very affectionate and like to feel included.
Unsurprisingly, they are great with kids.
20. Mucuchies
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Height: 22-28 inches
Weight: 66-110 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom line: Often described as active, brave and intelligent, Mucuchies are working dogs often used as guard dogs. They are loyal and obedient, but are also sharply aware of hierarchies, meaning that you'll have to convince them of your authority and earn their respect.
Because of this, they are not ideal for families with small children. But if you have a large space and the ability to spend time training them, they'll help you and keep you company without causing trouble.
19. Australian Cattle Dog
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Height: 17-20 inches
Weight: 33-49 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Bottom line: Like shepherd dogs, Australian cattle dogs are incredibly smart and thrive when they have a purpose. This makes them good working dogs and is why they are often tasked with herding cattle.
Once you properly train them, they can understand commands and expectations very well. As an added plus, they are known for their friendliness and playfulness.
Australian Cattle Dog in Action
18. Chiweenie
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Height: 6-10 inches
Weight: 5-12 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Bottom line: Tiny and sweet, chiweenies are the perfect lap dog. They'll be happy napping on your lap as you work on your computer and are generally well-behaved.
It's worth noting that they are very nervous and love to bark at strangers, which means they usually don't do well with small children.
But if you don't have infants and want a small dog that doesn't need too much space, you'll fall heads over heels for chiweenies.
17. Doberman
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Height: 24-28 inches
Weight: 71-99 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-13 years
Bottom line: Dobermans have been unjustly maligned by the media for decades. They are often depicted as aggressive and dangerous dogs. This, however, is not actually the truth.
Though they have been bred as guard dogs and are very strong, they are also intelligent and usually only attack on command.
Because they're so good at understanding and following instructions, they are very well-behaved.
16. Huntaway
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Height: 20-24 inches
Weight: 55-88 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Bottom line: Huntaways were bred in the late 19th century to work as shepherd dogs in New Zealand. But even if you don't have sheep that need to be herded, you'll find this breed to be sweet in disposition and quite gentle.
They need to be active, so they make great pets for families or for people who love heading out to nature on excursions.
15. Scottish Terrier
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Height: 9.8 inches
Weight: 18-22 pounds
Life expectancy: 11-13 pounds
Bottom line: Who would be able to resist a dog that looks like it has a beard worthy of Victorian England? Scottish terriers may be small, but they have big personalities. They're stubborn but sweet, alert but friendly.
Known for their confidence, they will jump at the chance to protect you, even against larger dogs. Overall, they are playful and like things to go their way, but that playfulness rarely turns to destructive mischieviousness.
Scottish Terrier in Action
14. Cane Corso
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Height: 23-28 inches
Weight: 88-110 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-12 pounds
Bottom line: Once used as a herder, this breed is now most popular as a companion dog or a guard dog.
Big and strong, they are also fairly shy and usually have good tempers, making for a good combination of traits.
Cane corsos are good at following orders and are gentle enough to play with older kids.
13. Rough Collie
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Height: 21-26 inches
Weight: 35-75 pounds
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
Bottom line: Popularized by the movie "Lassie," collies are beautiful, gentle dogs. They are obedient and tend to be great with kids, both protecting them and playing with them without getting rough.
The breed is highly intelligent and loves to be active. Their gorgeous hair has also made them into popular show dogs.
12. Basenji
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Height: 16-17 inches
Weight: 21-24 pounds
Life expectancy: 14-16 years
Bottom line: This hunting dog breed is known for having problem-solving abilities and a high curiosity. Basenjis are good companion dogs because they get attached to their owner and are not destructive.
However, they aren't great family dogs, since they show a strong preference for a single person. They also don't do well with cats.
On the plus size, they are hypoallergenic and like to climb.
11. American Pit Bull Terrier
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Height: 17-21 inches
Weight: 30-60 pounds
Life expectancy: 8-15 years
Bottom line: If you've ever interacted with a pit bull terrier, you know firsthand that friendliness is this breed's middle name.
Pit bulls are quick to trust and love interacting with humans. They are energetic and can run around for hours, which is part of the reason they are so great with kids.
Their happy, friendly disposition makes them one of the most popular adoption breeds.
American Pit Bull Terrier in Action
10. Dutch Shepherd
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Height: 22-24 inches
Weight: 66-88 pounds
Life expectancy: 11-14 years
Bottom line: Like other shepherd dogs, Dutch shepherds get along with everyone and are great with kids. They love exercising and playing, making them suitable for active owners with large spaces.
The breed is not destructive by nature. As long as they are kept mentally and physically stimulated, you'll be very happy with their stellar good behavior.
9. Miniature Pinscher
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Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 7.7-11 pounds
Life expectancy: 15 years
Bottom line: If you want a small dog with a strong personality, then consider getting a miniature pinscher. Despite their size, they are protective and they can be very affectionate while still being independent. Don't even try to put them on your lap. They're not going to stand for that.
These dogs will not create messes when you're not home, but they will have a hard time with children unless they are raised together.
Miniature Pinscher in Action
8. Belgian Malinois
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Height: 22-26 inches
Weight: 44-66 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Bottom line: An outdoor dog with lots of energy and intelligence to spare, the Belgian Malinois is often successful as a working dog. They are usually gentle when they are properly cared for, meaning they get enough exercise and games that challenge them intellectually.
If you have a large space and enjoy being active, you'll love this breed. Families with older children can use them to get the kids running around, but they aren't recommended for babies and toddlers.
Belgian Malinois in Action
7. Rat Terrier
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Height: 10-18 inches
Weight: 10-25 lbs
Life expectancy: 15-18 years
Bottom line: Unlike other feistier small dog breeds, rat terriers are gentle and relaxed. They don't tend to fear strangers as much and can get along with children.
Once used as farm and hunting dogs, they are now very popular with people living in small apartments and with seniors who want a loving dog that doesn't require too much outdoor exercise.
Properly trained dogs should not give you trouble and tend to exhibit exemplary behavior.
6. Anatolian Shepherd Dog
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Height: 28-32 inches
Weight: 88-140 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-13 years
Bottom line: As you've probably recognized by now, shepherd dogs are very well-behaved and make excellent pets. The Anatolian shepherd dog is still widely used in Turkey to protect and guard sheep.
Although quite large, they are also gentle and friendly, especially with kids, who tend to love their playful nature.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog in Action
5. Portuguese Water Dog
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Height: 17-22 inches
Weight: 35-60 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom line: Sailors need dogs too, and this breed was used to complete impressive tasks like helping herd fish into nets, retrieving nets from the water and even bringing messages from one ship to another.
As you can expect, these dogs love the water, and will be happy to join you on a boating or kayaking outing. They are smaller and not as strong as other working dogs, which makes them good family pets.
However, they are loud (as sailors are wont to be), so they sometimes scare infants.
Portuguese Water Dog in Action
4. Black Mouth Cur
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Height: 16-25 inches
Weight: 35-95 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-16 years
Bottom line: This working breed may be large and intimidating, but trust us, it's more bark than bite.
Black mouth curs are very rarely aggressive, especially with proper training and socialization. They enjoy cuddles and attention, and will often playfully ask to be petted when you are distracted with something else.
If you have enough space to give a black mouth cur a good life, don't hesitate to get one.
Black Mouth Cur in Action
3. Rhodesian Ridgeback
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Height: 23-27 inches
Weight: 64-90 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom line: Also known as African lion dogs, this breed was originally used to hunt lions. That's right, these fearless dogs are so brave and smart they can pursue the ultimate predator. But don't let that make you think they are dangerous or aggressive.
On the contrary, they make excellent guard dogs and are protective of their family. They are also smart and seek to please, meaning that they will behave well and listen to your commands.
As with other intelligent breeds, you need to establish yourself as the leader. Once you do that, you should not have any issue with this breed.
Rhodesian Ridgeback in Action
2. Perro de Presa Canario
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Height: 22-26 inches
Weight: 83-130 pounds
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
Bottom line: This hunting dog from Spain's Canary Islands was used to hunt as well as to herd cattle. When socialized early and properly, they can be affectionate and docile.
They like to be close to their owners and will stand calmly by their side. The one caveat is that they are wary of strangers, which is bad if you plan on hosting many dinner parties, but great if you want a dog that will protect you and your family.
Perro de Presa Canario in Action
1. Korean Jindo Dog
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Height: 18-22 inches
Weight: 33-51 pounds
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Bottom line: Designated a "Natural Treasure" in Korea, this breed is highly protected and respected in its native country, particularly on Jindo Island, where it originates from. They are famous for their loyalty and devotion, as well as their gentleness and usually calm demeanor.
Jindos like to be active, so it is recommended that they have space to run and play. They tend to get along well with children and will very rarely be aggressive or destructive.
For all these reasons, Jindos have been crowned the best-behaved dog breed in the world.
Korean Jindo Dog in Action