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It's not hard to love dogs. They're the most amazing, loyal and friendly animals on the planet! While no breeds are inherently mean, some are naturally friendly than others. So if you want an exceptionally friendly dog, choosing the right breed can be a factor.

It is important to note that no matter which breed you choose, the thing that truly determines a dog's friendliness is their experiences. A dog can only be as friendly as their owner shows them how to be, so make sure they are properly trained and socialized. Make sure your breeder is reputable, and if you're adopting, be sure to be informed about your rescue dog's past.

With that in mind, some breeds are really outgoing, affectionate and fun-loving. If you're looking for just a pet, consider getting a turtle. If you're looking for a new best friend, you'll have an easy time finding it in one of these breeds!

Top 10 Friendliest Dog Breeds According to the American Kennel Club

1. Labrador Retrievers

Whether at work as a guide dog or playing at home, Labrador Retrievers are famous for their people skills and friendliness. Energetic and eager to please, Labs love nothing more than attention from their owners and families. One game of fetch with a Labrador Retriever, and you'll see why they're the most popular breed in North America.

2. Golden Retrievers

There's a reason you don't see too many junk yards guarded by a Golden Retriever. Goldens want to make friends with every person they see, and if you're a stranger, you're just a friend they haven't met. Their easygoing makes them a perfect fit for families, or anyone who has space for them to run around. Take your Golden Retriever for a walk, and chances are he'll introduce you to everyone in the neighbourhood.

3. French Bulldogs

What do The Rock, Leo DiCaprio and Martha Stewart have in common? They're all love their French Bulldogs! That's no surprise, French Bulldogs are among the friendliest and Instagrammable dogs on the planet. They're just as happy going out for a walk as they are curling up on the couch. It doesn't matter to a French Bulldog, as long as they're doing it with their best friend.

4. Bulldogs

Their trademark jowls and underbites might make Bulldogs look kind of grouchy, but nothing could be further from the truth. Even though they were bred by Ancient Romans for a violent sport called "Bull-baiting" (we don't even want to know), that kind of thing is all in the past. Today, Bulldogs naturally sweet and gentle people pleasers who love nothing more than to fall asleep with their head on their owner's lap.

5. Beagles

In addition to being happy, friendly animals that love to be with people, Beagles are known for their incredible noses. This combo, actually led the US Department of Agriculture to form the Beagle Brigade in 1984 to sniff out contraband at airports and border crossings. It takes an especially nice police dog to sniff someone at the airport and not make them nervous, but Beagles are just that friendly!

6. Rottweilers

Rottweiler dogs check all the boxes of a great relationship: they’re loving, forever loyal and reliably playful, while at the same time trusted guardians of their inner family. Sadly, Rotties aren’t immune to stereotypes, and one of the biggest misconceptions of the breed is that they are vicious and overly aggressive—a belief that may deter families with young children. In reality, properly raised and trained Rotties are confident, calm, playful and loving souls.

7. Yorkshire Terriers

The beloved lapdog of Victorian ladies, Yorkshire Terriers can be feisty, particular and brave beyond their size. They’re popular due to their long lives and low-shedding hypoallergenic status. This is a super friendly dog that will be your companion anywhere you go.

8. German Shorthaired Pointers

If you're not a squirrel, you stand a pretty good chance of making friends with a German Shorthaired Pointer. They're as energetic as they are friendly, so if you want a friend to sit around and binge watch TV with, they might not be for you. But if you want a buddy to come with you on a jog, a bike ride, or especially a swim, you want a German Shorthaired Pointer.

9. Boxers

Loyalty, patience and intelligence are great qualities in a friend, and a Boxer checks those boxes. Boxers have worked at different jobs over the years, but where they've really excelled is as a guard dog. The reason for this is simple, they’re are loving companions who care deeply about their families. As a bonus, they're quite versatile for their size. As long as they get regular walks, Boxers can thrive in the city or the country.

10. Dachshunds

The unmistakable Dachshund is famous for its low, long-backed body, short legs and vibrant personality. Its curious, colourful and friendly demeanour makes the Dachshund breed quick crowd-pleasers and dependable family dogs.