10 Underrated Dog Breeds That Are Better Than Golden Retrievers in Every Way
Golden Retrievers get all the love, but are they really the best? Sure, they’re friendly and playful, but so are plenty of other breeds, some of which outshine Goldens in ways most people don’t realize. They might not have the same mainstream fame, but that just means fewer people know what they’re missing. If you’re looking for a just as lovable but even more impressive dog, it’s time to meet the breeds that deserve way more attention.
Rottweiler
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The Rottweiler was originally bred for herding and guarding, so it takes its family’s safety seriously. Despite its rugged look, it’s affectionate with its humans and loves a good belly rub. It needs training and socialization, but with the right owner, it can be both a gentle companion and an unshakable guardian.
Irish Setter
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This red-coated athlete has stamina for days and a goofy personality to match. It’s fast, agile, and always up for an adventure, considering it was raised as a hunting dog. While Golden Retrievers love to fetch, Irish Setters prefer sprinting full speed across a field. Just be prepared for some mischief, as they stay puppy-like into adulthood.
Giant Schnauzer
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Think of the Giant Schnauzer as a bodyguard with a sharp mind. They are more serious and independent, making them excellent watchdogs. Their thick, wiry coats don’t shed much, which is a win for anyone tired of vacuuming dog hair. They need a job, whether obedience training or advanced tricks, to stay happy.
Welsh Springer Spaniel
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This red-and-white beauty has a great nose and a strong work ethic, but it is also content snuggling on the couch. It’s gentle with kids and makes fantastic companions for those who want a dog that’s loving without being overly clingy. Its coat is easy to maintain and is not as hyper as other sporting breeds.
Pitbull
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Forget the bad press—Pitbulls are affectionate, loyal, and full of personality. The muscular dogs are eager to please and love being around people, forming stronger attachments to their families. With proper socialization, they’re great with kids and other pets. If you want a strong, affectionate, and endlessly loyal companion, a well-raised Pitbull will love you for life.
Samoyed
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Trained for herding and sledding in Siberia, these dogs have thick, fluffy coats that shed a lot, but their personality makes up for it! Known for their signature “Sammy smile,” they’re social, friendly, and love to be included in family activities. They need exercise and mental stimulation, but their affectionate nature makes them fantastic companions.
Siberian Husky
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If there’s a fence, a Siberian Husky will find a way over, under, or through it. They’re independent thinkers and love to challenge their owners. Unlike Golden Retrievers, which are known for their loyalty, Huskies have a mind of their own and will test boundaries daily.
Doberman Pinscher
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Dobermans were raised for personal protection. They’re fearless, highly trainable, and quick learners. They excel in obedience training and need mental stimulation to stay happy. Despite their tough exterior, they’re affectionate with their family and enjoy relaxing indoors after a day of activity.
Portuguese Water Dog
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Golden Retrievers love water, but Portuguese Water Dogs were made for it. These curly-coated athletes helped fishermen by retrieving nets and messages between boats. Their webbed feet make them excellent swimmers, and their tight curls shed less than Golden’s fur. Just a note: They can be a little reserved with strangers!
Border Terrier
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Border Terriers pack a lot of personality into a small frame. They are compact, easy to groom, and adaptable to city living. They’re intelligent and affectionate but have enough stubbornness to keep things interesting. This little dog is a big win if you want a feisty, loving companion that fits into any lifestyle.
Belgian Malinois
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Think a Golden Retriever is intelligent? The Belgian Malinois plays in a whole different league. These dogs are elite-level thinkers trained for police work, search and rescue, and military operations worldwide. They thrive with active owners who love running, hiking, or working out with their dogs by their side.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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Bernese Mountain Dogs have all the warmth and friendliness people love about Golden Retrievers but in a bigger, fluffier package. Used to work on Swiss farms, they’re strong enough to pull carts yet gentle enough to be incredible family dogs. They’re affectionate, great with kids, and, unlike Goldens, have a stunning tri-color coat that looks straight out of a painting.
Boxer
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Boxers are proof that muscles and goofiness can coexist. They bring a natural protective instinct, making them excellent watchdogs, but they also have a hilarious, puppy-like energy that lasts well into adulthood. Their short coat means less grooming and fewer fur-covered couches, and their athletic build makes them ideal for owners who love outdoor adventures.
Australian Shepherd
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Australian Shepherds are born workers trained to herd livestock, and they have the intelligence to prove it. These dogs pick up tricks in no time, excel in agility competitions, and always look for a job. Aussies are more reserved, making them a better fit for people who want a dog with both brains and loyalty.
Brittany Spaniel
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They have the exact friendly, eager-to-please nature as Golden Retrievers but with a lighter build and even more athleticism. Bred for hunting, they have incredible stamina and can run for miles without tiring. They thrive on adventure, like hiking, swimming, or playing fetch until sunset.