A dog trainer has named three dog breeds that are generally considered the calmest and 'rarely' have behaviour problems, though warns that any dog can go wrong without proper socialisation.
Choosing the Right Breed for a Calm Lifestyle
Selecting a dog breed can be challenging, particularly for first-time owners. However, it's essential to consider your lifestyle before committing to a canine companion. If you're after a high-energy dog, you'll want an enthusiastic pooch requiring plenty of walks and playtime. But if you prefer a more laid-back lifestyle and desire a calm dog, then you might want to look at these three breeds.
On Will Atherton's TikTok page, fellow dog trainer Ellie highlighted three dog breeds that 'rarely' experience any behavioural issues. She cautioned, though, that any dog in 'the wrong hands' can become problematic, stressing the importance of ensuring you can meet all its requirements before committing, and encouraging thorough research prior to adoption.
'Any dog can go wrong. With the wrong handling, lack of structure, or bad socialisation. But these three are generally stacked in your favour,' she reassured.
English Mastiff
She said: 'When they're bred well and raised with calm leadership, they tend to be naturally steady, affectionate, and emotionally soft. They're not looking for conflict. Most of the issues you see are actually size-related and have to do with management.'
The American Kennel Club characterises the English Mastiff as 'A massive, heavy-boned dog of courage and prodigious strength, the Mastiff is docile and dignified but also a formidable protector of those they hold dear.' It's important to bear in mind that Mastiff breeds can frequently outweigh humans, with male dogs possibly reaching as much as 230 lbs. They require approximately 30 to 60 minutes of walking each day.
Retrievers
Ellie championed labradors and golden retrievers as they're 'typically brilliant with people and other dogs.' She said: 'If they do struggle, it's usually excitement. Pulling, jumping and over-friendly behaviour. Things that are very fixable once you add structure, and impulse control.'
Pet Plan writes: 'With a friendly, playful temperament and willingness to please, we can see why these dogs are family favourites. The Golden Retriever's history as a gundog means this highly intelligent breed is popular as a guide dog, and also as a member of search and rescue teams.' They require one to two hours of exercise daily.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Ellie said: 'They're generally really sweet, sociable, and easy to live with. Good energy levels, great family dogs, and they rarely come with that intense edge you see in some other small breeds.' They require 45 to 60 minutes of exercise each day.
She did highlight that all these dogs need structure, calmness, manners, and proper socialisation to transform them into well-balanced, pleasant companions. Please note that thoroughly researching before committing to a dog is absolutely essential.
