Top Ten Most Lovable Dogs in the World
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COMMENTS (54)
While I completely agree with the labrador retriever being the #1 breed, I was bummed that border collies were not on the list. My last dog was a border collie/Australian Shepherd cross. He was one of the sweetest dogs. He'd come up to cuddle you when you were upset.
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by Cassandra Cherice Gonzales on 10/06/2012 03:32pm
In my opinion, great danes should be number 1. they are the gentle giants of the canine world.
Our family is blessed with 9 Wolfhounds! We had a litter Nov 2011, and were unable to let go of any of them. I have been around multiple breeds throught my life, raising Weimaraners, German Shepards and Labradors and I say without hesitation; Irish Wolfhounds are by far the most gentle, loving, human oriented and stubborn I've encountered!Because of their size, stature and Bark/Growl we never have issues with unwanted/univited guest's speaking largely (no pun intended)of solicitors etc... . Freinds and family can an do walk right in the house but they know their going to be wolfied when they do. Our hounds are sure, any one who comes over is there to see them not us.
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by Jason Dowd on 02/07/2013 03:37am
I don't understand how Basset Hounds didn't make the cut.
No way a beagle is not in this list. Their loving and trusting demeanor is the reason they are used in lab testing.
The Basset Hound is one of the sweetest dogs in the world. This list isn't accurate without the Basset.
Shocked and Amazed not to see the classic family-loving soft-mouthed people-pleasing Golden Retriever anywhere in the list! They are not Labrador Retrievers, which they may have seen fit to lump them in with, I am not sure. I guess everyone has their opinions, but there is breeding over many centuries for certain traits, and many of the breeds on the list are meant to hunt and kill. Goldens (and Labradors as well) were bred to retrieve game without eating or damaging it, which takes a lot of discipline and placing people's demands above the dogs own basic instincts. True Love right there!
Nice choices overall but my valentine is a corgi. Besides being ever so cute and cuddly, corgis are incredibly clever. (Yes, I like alliteration) They are super affectionate and keep their people entertained. They like to be the boss, it's true, but they are also natural court jesters. I've adopted the motto, "Listen to the corgi; he's usually right." He alerts me to visitors and anything out of the ordinary and keeps me on my toes. And he is very protective of me too. Corgis are big dogs in little packages. :)
The pug is the funniest, friendliest, lovable dog. Always at your side, loves to cuddle and friendly with everyone. After treats our pugs like to lick our faces in thanks. These two pugs, I never have to worry about them biting anyone.
Well I like chihuahuas. Always have, always will. They are so little and adorable, and they LOVE their people.
What about Golden Retrievers? What about the Australian Shepherd? This article left my Bichon bragging and my Goldie and Aussie feeling dejected!
Seriously, how are Boxers not on this list? They are the sweetest, most lovable dogs I've ever known. They are so gentle, and so full of love for their people. No matter how big they get, they still think they are lap dogs.
Chihuahuas, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Border Collies, Boxers, Cocker Spaniels, Catahoula Leopards, Huskies, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and German Shepard/Foxhound mixes
as a life long collie lover
as a life long collie lover
How could you have a list of the most lovable dogs without listing Golden Retrievers? They, along with Labs, are so social and adoring of not just their families but other people and pets as well. Mine have stayed by the sides of wandering children, protected our cats from stray dogs, alerted us to snakes in the woods, let our cats eat from their dog bowls before they do, brought us our newspapers and slippers, and slept at our feet and sneaked into our beds (yes, even a 95 lb Golden can successfully do this). Sweet, gentle, loving and lovable - what more could you want?
We have 3 dachshunds currently, not a shy one in the bunch! Luna is a little crazy and gets very upset if guests try to leave without telling her goodbye... she needs each person to come to her (on the couch pillows) and hug/pet her. Wolf and Heidi don't care if you come and go, but surely are not shy about coming out to get some hugs and treats! I have to agree that Eskies are the lovebirds of my dog world. Dobermans, dachshunds, many mutts... nothing can match the look of love you get from an American Eskimo!
We have had doxies all my life. They are GREAT doorbells! Shy around strangers? NOT! But they prefer a stranger not pet them without permission. I would consider them one family dogs overall, and might nip at a stranger's heels when he turns around. They were bred to hunt badgers. Not shy. They are loving towards us, and my one doxie gives me body hugs, putting her short little legs around my neck and pressing close. Strangers might be able to bribe them with select biscuits. My one piebald loves EVERYONE!
So right about them being family dogs... we can never figure out which of us is loved best by which dog! The Eskie is MINE. The doxies circle the house, looking for love.. a comfortable chair... a dropped piece of food, a cat to bedevil. Clowns, all 3 of them. Are you on facebook? I would love to see pics of yours, and mine are all over my pages!
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by Diane Purcell on 02/20/2013 12:09pm
No one ever thinks of Airedale Terriers, but they are one of the best, loveable dogs! They are not the digging fools that alot of terriers are, and are super smart and friendly. Good protectors but just big fools! 3yrs ago I got my very first Airedale and I'm hooked! Mine is even good with our 3 cats!
We have an Awesome Siberian Husky! He is so Loveable! And Gorgeous! I also have a sweet little Shih Tzu (had 2 but lost my 7 year old baby girl last year) But they are so sweet and loving and Very Loyal and protective! I Love all dogs ! I think the list is great ! Of course I think mine are the best ! :)
PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!! PITBULLS!!!
I was disappointed not seeing the ever lovable Siberian or Samoyed make the top 10.
Greyhounds are affectionate, clean and obedient. They are a wonderful to play with and ours gets along with cats, small dogs and children. They can be adopted very easily and without great cost. in a word they are beautiful.
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by Linda Laveck Purdy on 02/25/2013 02:45pm
Too many good dogs to list here. I am laughing at the post for pitbull. Seriously? LOL I am thinking of getting a papillon after meeting one that a friend has, but then after reading here about that cute little bichon, now I am torn. Thanks for the article.
Border collies are amazing!!! They are argued as the #1/#2 smartest dogs in the world, and are super loyal, fun, and are very good with kids. They sense any type of mood you are in, if you're bummed, they stay at your side to comfort you, if it's playful, they are right there to play fetch with you. Also great to cuddle with. Definitely will always have border collies in my family. I would say I'm bummed they didn't make top 5.
Let's face it--the lovability of dogs is in the beholder! We all believe our breed is the best and sweetest. Right now I'm owned by a dachshund, and he sure is pretty darn lovable! It's hard to imagine my home ever being without one again. However, in your description of the Irish Setter you neglected to mention one of their most apparent personality traits--have you ever met a setter that wasn't just plain goofy? I've known a few, and they each have had a very broad streak of silliness running through them. What a joy to be around!
Shelter Mutts! They KNOW they've been rescued and always show their gratitude. Wouldn't trade my two for any purebred.
Golden retrievers have to be #1 - huge error on your list. Loyal, smart, courteous, fun-loving. I have had spaniels, shepherds, heelers, and a variety of mutts. My family has terriers, pitt mixes, dobermans, Jack Russells and more. Goldens beat all except for mutts, but I do not think you feel mutts are a breed of their own!
my king charles spaniel simon is the sweetest little guy. he snuggles with me every nite and likes to be on my lap constantly. they are such sweet and happy little dogs with alot of love to give. they should be on the list
I realize that they aren't the most popular to own, but where the heck are Saint Bernards?!?!!?! It really doesn't get much more loveable than that!!!!
You forgot the Great Dane! He should be NUMBER ONE on your list! This is, by far, the best dog that I have ever owned! Gets along well with strangers, children, and other pets everyone! A VERY GENTLE GIANT! Very well-behaved, very trainable and has never had an accident in the home. He even trains the other pets! Love MY DANE!!!
I don't understand why no on has mentioned the Sheltie. I was first introduced to a Sheltie when I was in my 20s. I camped next to a family who had one and I could not get over how friendly this dog was. It came over to visit me and played to nicely with the kids. As a cat person, I just always kept that in my mind. Seven years ago I lost my beloved cat Andy and I knew, for the guys in the family, we needed a dog. I would stand for nothing but a Sheltie (we ended up getting another cat too about 8 months later too). Although Willy is bigger than normal, he weighs in about 60 pounds, it just adds to his majesty. Although I am not that familiar with Collies, I know our Sheltie and others and they are the most lovable and loyal dogs. And he's [i]always [/i]on top of everything that goes on in this house.
Pitbulls are in fact amazing family dogs. They are referred to as nanny dogs because they are so good with children. They get a lot of bad press from the media and there are a lot of misconceptions about this breed. ANY dog that is mistreated, ignored, not properly trained, possibly inbred because of wanted traits, and TRAINED BY HUMANS to fight will be bad dogs. Pitbulls are commonly used as therapy dogs and are not human aggressive as the media makes them sound. Unfortunately there are too many ignorant people who own pitbulls and train them to be aggressive or simply throw them in a backyard and ignore them.
Look no further than your PetMed University dog below. They are the smartest dogs in the world and they understand you better than any other dog.
We are a family of Pug owners. Funny little clown dogs. They love babies, other dogs and people. Best lovers out there!
Nothing but Jack Russells from here on! Loyal, smart and a ton of fun. Most athletic and fun dogs on the planet. Been exposed to plenty of Goldens and boreder collies, but Shorty has changed all that.
I guess I have a soft spot for short legs and long bodies.
To the world,
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by Donna Mae Lober on 03/11/2013 01:42pm
What a load of crap. I certainly don't agree with all of this. Anyway, everyone knows that your own personal dog, who is there for you through thick and thin, IS THE FAVORITE, and truly is YOUR OWN most lovable!!
the quintessential lovable dog and cousin to the Labrador. for shame!
pIT BULLS ARE INCREDIBLY SWEET, LOVING, AND LOYAL. THEY ARE SO EAGER TO PLEASE THEIR OWNERS THAT THEY WILL DO WHATEVER IS ASKED OF THEM. WHEN ITS OWNER ASKS THE DOG TO FIGHT FOR HIM, HE DOES. HE WILL DUTIFUL FIGHT TO THE END SIMPLY TO PLEASE HIS OWNER. IGNORANT PEOPLE PERVERT THIS LOYALTY AND USE IT TO TURN THE DOG INTO A WEAPON. PIT NULLS ARE WONDERFUL, KIND, GENTLE CREATURES. I KNOW BECAUSE I ADOPTED ONE - AND SHE IS BEST FRIENDS WITH MY CHIHUAHUA.
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by Ann Bellows Laurier on 03/21/2013 04:50pm
English Setters are not only gorgeous but certainly should be considered the most loveable. They are loving and playful and very good with children. They are a little less demanding than the Irish Setters.
I have to agree about the American Eskimo "Eskie" dogs. I have adopted these dogs as rescues since college days and they are sweethearts. My last Eskie passed away at the age of 17 in 2011. In 2012, I found two rescues and adopted them. They are the sweetest dogs you could imagine and they love each other. Eskies are great pets!
I got my mini by accident. The Westie I wanted was sold. Best accident that ever happened to me. LOVES the human touch like no other dog I've had. A real friend indeed. Get one you won't be sorry - not a crazy barker either ~ thank God!
Although you say #2 is a collie, you have actually used a picture of a Shetland Sheepdog. The dog is too small to be a Collie and the forward is sloped like that of a Sheltie. Needless to say I am glad that a Sheltie is the #2 choice!
Come on - Irish Setters - the most stupidest, vapid, clueless dogs in the world make the list but not the most loyal, intelligent, trustworthy, hardworking and lovable dog breed EVER?
I have a rescue Collie and a rescue Border Collie. I think Border Collies get a bad name for being too hyper, need a lot of activity. My Border Collie plays frisbee, ball, has about 50 "babies" stuffed and plastic animals. She can entertain herself all day outside with or without me or her brother collie. She comes in exhausted and is gentle and sweet and not at all hyper inside. Crosby is her Rough Collie brother and although he doesn't love to catch a frisbee, he is regal and kind and will patrol the yard all day with her herding birds, squirrels, whatever is available. My Last Sheltie died at 15 a couple of years ago and we always had Shelties growing up. All of these breeds are smart, loving, loyal, easy to train and want nothing more than to please you. I can leave the house for an hour and when I come home I feel like the most loved and missed person on earth. I won't even get started on all the ways these dogs beat having a spouse.......because there is too many to count.
I think everyone has a dog they love and it's the love we have for them no matter what kind of a dog they are. We had a dalmatian from a rescue had him for about 6/7 years. Had a heart attack took to the vet and had him put down, my wife,son and I all are crying. Next week here comes my son with a 6 week old chocolate lab/retriever.The rest is history with some training,love and affection all I can say "what a dog". He's now four years old and a integral part of the family that's for sure.
There is no such thing as a [i]"Top Ten Most Lovable Dogs in the World" [/i]list.
[b][/b]SHETLIES hands down, the most loving, and loyal. I don't even need a leash for my Sheltie, she stays right by my side. I can leave her by the front door and she stays put until I let her in. She never leaves, and is a very smart dog. FULL of kisses.
Without a doubt Wire Hair Fox Terriers deserve to be #1 on the list...with apologies to other breeds.
I have rescued two Italian Greyhounds, one Chihuahua, and one Schipperke. Without a doubt, all of them are lovable and love unconditionally. Whichever dog is yours, it is definitely #1. No top ten list can ever reflect a true dog lover's feelings. But the info on the different breeds was interesting to read. Love is in the AirA top 10 list of the most lovable dogs in the world? Well, not exactly. Alas, the geniuses at MIT have yet to partner with the AKC to develop a device that measures a pooch’s "lovability." So until such a device is invented, we here at petMD have done the next best thing: compiled a list of our most lovable dog breeds. Of course this does not mean that your dog is not lovable. In fact, we encourage you to submit your own list in the comment section below. So, without further ado, petMD’s Top 10 Most Lovable Dogs … #10 BulldogUnfairly labeled a "sourmug," the Bulldog is actually one of the most comical, jovial, and charming dogs you can find. Sure, he can usually stand to lose a few pounds, but how many of us could say any different? Devoted and affectionate, the Bulldog is best for the, shall we say, on-the-couch Cupid. #9 Irish WolfhoundWe like to call this guy the gentle giant. One of the world's largest breeds, he is strong and sturdy. But the Irish Wolfhound is also one of the most gentle, noble, and lovable dogs you'll ever meet. So after that long walk on the moon-lit beach, you can cuddle close next to the fireplace. Just remember, no chocolates! #8 Bichon FriséA wonderful addition to the family, the Bichon Frisé will play with and, more importantly, tire out your kids — all the while with a happy-go-lucky attitude. And when he's not doing acrobatic jumps off your furniture, he loves getting under the covers and licking sweet nothings in your ear. #7 American Eskimo DogIf you're with the "in" crowd, you'll probably call this powder puff an "Eskie." Compact and always ready for a game, the American Eskimo dog is perfect for those unusually cold days of winter. Just don't expect the Eskie to want to share you with other pets or kids. She prefers to have you all to herself. #6 Old English SheepdogYou know the strong, silent type that you just stare at in amazement? Well, old Bobtail — as he's called by his adoring fans — isn't one of them. The Old English Sheepdog prefers sauntering about and letting out his trademark bark, which sounds somewhat like two pots clanging together. Still, we love this guy and he loves us back. #5 Miniature SchnauzerWith his small beard, bushy eyebrows and sometimes perked up ears, the Miniature Schnauzer is just about the cutest little Valentine anyone could ask for. Just don't you be calling him little. He wouldn't like it and would probably dump you faster than Kim Kardashian divorced Kris Humphries. #4 Irish SetterLong and flowing red hair that just makes you want to pull her close and rub underneath her chin and on her belly ... what more can we say? We're a sucker for gingers. The Irish Setter is also enthusiastic, energetic, and athletic. Basically, there's no good reason this gal (or guy) should be dateless on Valentine's Day. #3 DachshundShort legs? Check. Elongated body? Check. More personality than you can sometimes handle? Triple-check. The Dachshund is playful and yet still enjoys her independence, so it's no wonder she's become one of the most popular breeds in the U.S. Just don't be surprised if she hides away when strangers come a'knocking. She prefers to shower you — and only you — with kisses. #2 CollieOkay, so she had us at Lassie. But really, the Collie is so much more than that. She's intelligent, sensitive, gentle, and occasionally stubborn. Sound like anyone you know? The Collie is great for the Valentines out there who are looking for an outdoors-y partner, and who also have a family to share her with. Just don't let her get caught up in her old re-runs of that kid Timmy. She's got somebody better to come home to now. Right? #1 Labrador RetrieverWas there ever a question she wouldn't make the list? Oh, lovable Lab, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach, when feeling out of sight … oh wait, these are Elizabeth Barret Browning's words. Well, you get the picture. The Labrador Retriever makes for a great Valentine.
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