20 Best Companion Dogs of All Time

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the gentlest and most affectionate breeds on the planet. It was specifically bred to provide loyal companionship to multiple generations.

Cavalier King Charles has been the ultimate symbol of a royal pet for many decades now. The modern breeds continue to maintain this symbolism. It, however, sheds a lot and requires high maintenance.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the gentlest and most affectionate breeds on the planet. It was specifically bred to provide loyal companionship to multiple generations.

Cavalier King Charles has been the ultimate symbol of a royal pet for many decades now. The modern breeds continue to maintain this symbolism. It, however, sheds a lot and requires high maintenance.

Centuries ago, people used the Basset Hound for hunting. Thanks to this old bond, the animal has evolved to become the perfect companion. People rarely use it for hunting these days.

The Basset Hound may be goofy in nature, but it can be trained to behave well at home and with kids. Despite its size, the dog requires relatively little physical exercise and maintenance.

Bullmastiff dogs were initially used as guard dogs. However, they have evolved to become gentle and passionate family companions regardless of their gigantic size. They can comfortably live in apartments and other residential facilities. They are also quite lazy in nature and require little maintenance.

It is amazing how a dog that was once used for rat-baiting is now a companion to many homeowners.

Besides being a great companion, the Yorkshire Terrier also fits the description of a lap dog thanks to its light weight and soft fur. It can easily fit in your purse. The dog is moderately active and likes staying indoors with its owner.

Pekingese is one of the best companion dogs to have originated from Asia – China to be specific. Because of its friendliness and affectionate nature, it was reared by the ancient Chinese royalty who used it as an accessory to signify luxury.

Its favorable characteristics influenced the breeding of chic crossbreeds such as the Peekapoo (Pekingese crossed with Maltese) and Peekapoo (Pekingese crossed with Poodle).

The Lhasa Apso was one of the few dog breeds used for spiritual nourishment in the past. It was particularly a favorite of Buddhist monks who lived in monasteries.

Today, it is one of the best companion dogs to spend time at home. It is also a good watchdog – it’ll alert you in case trespassers try to get into your residential property.

Bulldogs were first used as baits for bulls. They eventually become one of the most loyal companion dogs after the bull-baiting sport was outlawed.

The modern breeds have wonderful personalities, require minimal exercise, and quite lazy in nature. They are also muscular in appearance with a unique pushed-in nose and a wrinkled face.

The Shih Tzu also originated from China. This toy breed is loyal, alert, and affectionate. With its small size and soft fur, it can be used as a lap dog. The dog is also friendly towards strangers, kids, and other animals including cats.

Greyhound is one of the oldest dog breeds to ever exist. It was used for hunting and racing in the past. Today, they still have their athletic abilities and are loved by a lot of people for the companionship they provide.

For them to thrive, you need to allow them to indulge in physical exercises regularly.

The Portuguese water dogs were originally bred for retrieving lost items from the sea and herding fish. They make good watchdogs, but their size disqualifies them from being capable guard dogs.

These dogs do not shed, making them suitable for people with allergies. They are also intelligent, loving, easy to train, independent, as well as friendly with strangers and children.

Maltese dogs are some of the oldest companion dogs.

The ancient Greeks used to build tombs for these pets when they died as they were considered magnificent and powerful creatures. They were believed to cure illnesses and relieve different types of pain.  

Today, the Maltese can live in different types of home settings. Their small size and loving nature make them good companions. They are mostly used as emotional support pets​​.

Also known as “nature’s babysitters”, Newfoundland Dogs are loyal and intelligent pets known for being extra friendly to children. They are also good swimmers as they were originally bred for water rescue operations. In fact, there are claims that a Newfoundland dog once rescued Napoleon Bonaparte from drowning.

Originally from Siberia, Huskies are known for their piercing eyes and thick fur. People like them for their impeccable beauty. They also love attention and staying close to their owners. They are light to carry and require very little exercise.

Golden Retrievers are the most loyal and sweetest companion dogs you’ll ever find. They prefer staying close to their owners instead of playing outside by themselves. They are also friendly and tolerant of kids and strangers. If you want to play fetch with your pet, consider getting a Golden Retriever.

Poodles are loyal, intelligent, fun-loving, and lively family dogs. They can be attention seekers at times depending on how you care for them. They don’t like strangers or other animals. If you choose to rear them, you should familiarize your guests with them.

Since 1899, German Shepherds have been known to be one of the best companion dogs in the world. They are always eager to learn, incredibly loyal, obedient, and courageous. They can perfectly accomplish basic dog tasks and do tricks. Other than being used as pets at home, they can be used as guard dogs or detection dogs.

The Pembroke Welsh Corgis has a sweet and playful personality. The Welsh people believe that this breed was used by fairies for transportation. Corgi dogs can be shy with strangers but are very kind to little children. They are also committed to pleasing their owners.

With their big behind, long torso, and huge ears, they are quite unique for the average toy dog. Since they are susceptible to overfeeding, you should monitor their food intake at all times.

Beagles are commonly used at airports by law enforcement officers to sniff out contraband. Their size and alertness make them good watchdogs. They also do well in homes with kids and are less susceptible to illnesses. They can also be trained and tweaked to your liking.

Labrador Retrievers are the most popular pets in the U.S., the U.K., New Zealand, Australia, and Canada. They are loved for being obedient, devoted to their owners, and easy to train. They are never aggressive with children, guests, or other animals.

Though they were originally bred as service dogs or guide dogs for autistic and blind individuals, they are also ideal for teenagers, adults, and elderly individuals. They are playful, charming, and resourceful when it comes to detection – a trait that has made them popular for law enforcement services.