I may be biased but dogs are some of the most entertaining, lovable and loyal pets you can get and besides their shining personality, who can resist the cutest dog breeds? Dogs are our best friends, they are the only ones that are constantly happy to see you walk through the door, they are interactive, and they tend to exert unconditional love. They are the epitome of innocence and cuteness, which you can definitely spot in the following 7 cutest dog breeds!
7. LABRADOR RETRIEVER
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Known for being friendly, active, and obedient, they are perfect for being trained for work—as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and police dogs. Originally bred to be gun dogs, the reason for the Labrador’s soft mouth is so that they would not damage the game when they retrieve them, usually from bodies of water.
Have you ever been hit by a Lab’s thick tail? It is the perfect aid as it assists them when propelling themselves when swimming. If you want a gentle but playful dog that loves to please, then the Labrador Retriever is the perfect dog for you. Better watch out though, Labs gain weight easily and must, therefore, have a proper diet.
6. WEIMARANER
Elegance is an apparent characteristic of this beautiful breed. With their smooth, grayish coats, their relaxed and confident gait, and intelligent expressions, Weimaraners are definitely quite the head turners. Originally bred for hunting, they have excellent stamina and enjoy vigorous activities like hiking, swimming, dog sports, or any good outlet for their boundless energy. Since they have high prey drives, it would be a natural instinct for them to chase after small animals like cats or squirrels.
Weimaraners are quite sociable though and would love to meet new people and other dogs. If you have children, these dogs would also make good playmates.
5. SIBERIAN HUSKY
These handsome, resilient canines are known for being sled dogs, used by people for traveling, racing and transporting goods. Nowadays, although still used as working dogs in certain parts of the globe, they have become famous companions all over the world.
Huskies, very much like wolves, like howling rather than barking. Good with children and other pets, once properly trained they are ideal family pets. Because they are high energy dogs, they often make attempts to escape if their needs, like extensive exercise (preferably involving running, because this is what they are bred to do) and training, are not met.
4. BELGIAN MALINOIS
Famous for their intelligence and agility, the Belgian Malinois is one of the preferred breeds trained as Working dogs—for police work, search and rescue, and also sports like agility and Schutzhund.
Having a strong desire to please their handlers, this makes them easy to train as long as positive reinforcement, mixed with firm commands is used. Belgian Malinois are great watchdogs, and are good family pets—they are great with children and can tolerate other species like cats. Because they were bred for herding, they naturally have herding instincts that must be redirected into work and play (with toys). Exercise is also a must—you don’t want this powerful breed to destroy your house.
3. ENGLISH BULLDOG
The flat-nosed, heavy, macho Bulldog is the choice of many, not just because of their strange but adorable appearance, but also because of their interesting personalities. These dignified dogs were once bred for a brutal sport called “bull-baiting” until it was made illegal in the 1800’s.
This explains their brave and wilful characteristics. Looking for a unique dog that does well with children and other dogs? Want a dog that is great indoors and doesn’t need too much exercise? The English Bulldog is just around the corner! But be sure to protect them from hot weather, and always clean those folds – when left dirty it could lead to infection.
2. AMERICAN PIT BULL TERRIER
Although they’ve had a bad rap for years, what many people do not know is that Pit Bulls are actually excellent family dogs. They are good watchdogs, are great with children; they can definitely tolerate rough play, and when socialized properly as a puppy, are friendly towards strangers, other dogs, and even other species like cats or rabbits.
These strong, muscular dogs have been used in weight-pulling sports, and there is quite a number involved in therapy and guide dog programs. When acquiring a Pit Bull, exercise and socialization are vital in order to raise a balanced and confident dog.
1. BOXER DOG
Don’t let these dogs’ strong and muscular appearance intimidate you, because Boxers are actually very playful, puppy-like dogs. This molosser was once bred for hunting, and the breed’s name stemmed from their habit of standing on their hind legs and “boxing” with their front paws when in play. Exercise and positive reinforcement training are required with Boxers because the lack of it will cause boredom, which could then lead to excessive barking and chewing.
Do not over-exercise puppies though, for it could affect bone growth. Adult Boxers, on the other hand, would be perfect jogging partners. Although naturally friendly, their alertness also makes them excellent guard dogs.
