10 Least Aggressive Dog Breeds (Proper Training Required)

Bernese Mountain Dog — Just about all breeds can make wonderful family dogs with the right training and environment. Vesna Kriznar / Shutterstock

Some dogs bark more than they bite. If you're looking for a loyal companion with a low risk of biting the mail carrier, you're not alone. Many pet parents seek out the least aggressive dog breeds because they value calm demeanor, sociable nature and a low chance of reactive dog behaviors.

That said, dog aggression can stem from: poor socialization, fear, anxiety or even certain genetic traits.

Many of these gentle dog breeds tend to score very well on standardized temperament evaluations and have a well-earned reputation as excellent family pets.

1. Golden Retrievers

Golden retrievers are the poster pups for friendly nature. Originally bred as hunting dogs, they are now known for being affectionate dogs with excellent family pet credentials.

They get along with other dogs, kids and even other animals—provided they receive proper training.

2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Companion dogs through and through, these small dogs thrive on cuddles and human attention. They're rarely aggressive and are well-suited for homes with older adults, children or other pets.

Just don't leave them alone for too long, as they're sociable to a fault.

3. Bernese Mountain Dogs

These gentle giants are big in size and heart. Despite being bred as all-purpose farm dogs (adept at tasks like herding cattle and pulling carts), Bernese Mountain Dogs are renowned for their calm, gentle temperament.

They're loyal, loving and adapt well to family life with a firm obedience routine.

4. Labrador Retrievers

The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S., and for good reason. They're friendly, eager to please and trainable.

With proper socialization and positive reinforcement, labs become nonaggressive dogs that bark occasionally but rarely show aggressive dog behaviors.

5. Basset Hounds

With their droopy ears and deep and loud barks, basset hounds might look serious, but they're some of the least aggressive breeds around.

They're laid-back, good with other dogs and don't require constant activity, making them wonderful companions for quieter households.

6. Rough Collies

Rough collies, famously represented by Lassie, are known for their intelligence and gentle companion vibe. They're alert but not aggressive and usually bond strongly with their beloved humans.

Like many nonaggressive breeds, they benefit from early obedience training.

7. Portuguese Water Dogs

Originally bred to help fishermen, these curly-haired dogs are sociable and energetic but rarely aggressive. They do best with a firm schedule and lots of mental stimulation.

Though friendly and versatile, Portuguese Water Dogs are not commonly used as service animals; they are more often appreciated in specialized roles (for example, as allergy-detection dogs or therapy companions).

8. Irish Setters

Irish red setter — Irish Setter. Irina Shatilova / Shutterstock

Irish Setters are upbeat, affectionate dogs that thrive on attention and exercise.

They can be overly energetic during the puppy phase, but aggressive tendencies are uncommon. With consistency, they grow into calm, sociable adults.

9. Bichon Frises

White bichon frise — Bichon Frisé. LightField Studios / Shutterstock

These small, fluffy dogs were bred to be pampered companion animals. They're one of the least aggressive dog breeds, known for their cheerful personality and friendliness toward other dogs and pets. They're great for apartment dwellers, too.

10. Brittanys

The Brittany breed is another hunting dog-turned-family-favorite. They're agile and energetic but not aggressive.

With positive reinforcement and socialization, Brittanys become affectionate, loyal pets who do well with both people and other animals.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.