There is a lot to be said about dogs is there not? I can’t imagine not having one in my life. Dogs are great companions, affectionate, and protective, just to name a few. But which ones are compassionate? We have a top ten most compassionate dog breed list for you today.
Dogs become part of the family, and we love them just as much as our human family. We form special bonds with our dogs, and they give us all the love, affection, and compassion that a dog can provide. Most dogs are known to be happy and affectionate; however, some breeds get along with people more than others.
Many dog breeds are compassionate, some more than others. The most compassionate dogs are a mix of small, medium, and large dogs. These dogs belong to the working group, terrier group, hound group, non-sporting group, and sporting group.
If you are looking for a dog that is loyal, compassionate, affectionate, and gets along great with children, then take a look at our list below. These dogs are all that and more! YOu are pretty much guaranteed to fall in love with them! Just remember that the way a dog is brought up has an impact on how well your dog will interact with humans.
Beagle
The Beagle belongs to the hound group and has been around since the 1300s! These little guys love to play and are incredibly kind.
They love being around their human families and are always looking to please. The Beagle also gets along quite well with other dogs, household pets, and strangers.
Beagles were bred for pack hunting, so they need a pack, whether it’s human or you get them a fur friend. This canine loves the outdoors and is always ready for an outdoor adventure. The Beagle makes an excellent dog for a child since they are compassionate, gentle, and highly tolerant.
This dog needs daily exercise, which can be a long walk or some playtime in a well-secured back yard. The Beagle may run off if they see something of interest in the distance, which is why they need to be in a secure yard if they are off-leash. They do not require a lot of coat care and only need occasional baths.
General Beagle Stats
- Life Expectancy: 12-15 Years
- Weight Male: 10–11 kg
- Weight Female: 9–10 kg
- Height Male: 36–41 cm
- Female: 33–38 cm
Boxer
The Boxer is from the working group and has been around since the 1800s. A medium-sized dog breed that is very compassionate and loves to play. Boxers are a perfect canine for an active family because of its love for playing its outgoing nature and sensitivity. This dog is a big teddy bear; however, it does not take well to strange dogs. But this dog will get along with other dogs and pets that are part of the family.
This dog was bred to be a guardian, so it is very protective and will take care of its family if in a dangerous situation. The Boxer is a very high energy dog, and therefore needs to have a lot of daily physical and mental exercise. The Boxer is best suited for an active outdoor family.
Boxers do not require a lot of coat maintenance, so it only needs occasional brushing to remove any dead hair. If you have some family members that snore, then this dog will fit in perfectly as they are known to snore!
General Boxer Stats
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 Years
- Weight Male: 27–32 kg
- Weight Female: 25–29 kg
- Height: Male: 57–63 cm
- Height Female: 53–60 cm
Collie
The Collie is part of the herding group and has been around since the 1800s. This dog is very playful and loves to spend time with children that are past the toddler stage. They were initially bred to herd sheep so, they may nip at the feet of smaller children. Compassionate, sensitive, loyal, and devoted, this canine makes for a great family dog. This breed does well with other family pets and dogs. They also make excellent watchdogs.
This dog requires daily exercise, so a pleasant long walk or a dog sport like herding that keeps them physically and mentally healthy is an excellent idea. The Collie is always looking to please, however, can be stubborn from time to time.
Collies require weekly brushing to keep their coat looking healthy, free from mats, and to remove any dead fur.
General Collie Stats
- Life Expectancy: 14-16 Years
- Weight Male: 20–29 kg
- Weight Female: 18–25 kg
- Height Male: 56–61 cm
- Height Female: 51–56 cm
Dalmatian
This classic dog breed belongs to the non-sporting group and has been around since ancient times. The Dalmatian is truly a compassionate dog breed. This dog is very energetic and not the best for young children, even though they love them. However, they do well with older children who are big enough not to get injured while playing with the large dog. They are friendly towards other dogs and household pets. They can make good watchdogs.
The large dog breed was once used as a coach dog for horse-drawn fire engines, giving them the name “fire-dog.” The dalmatian requires a significant amount of exercise to keep happy and healthy. They can run forever and are best suited for active families. Dalmatians may be aggressive towards dogs they are not familiar with, but they do get along with other animals, especially horses.
You don’t have to worry too much about coat maintenance on this canine. They only require occasional brushing. Dalmatians are generally clean and do not need much bathing unless they go for a romp in some wet mud. If you are looking for a classic traditional dog breed for your family that is extremely affectionate and compassionate, then look no further.
General Dalmatian Stats
- Life Expectancy: 10-13 Years
- Weight Male: 15–32 kg
- Weight Female: 16–24 kg
- Height Male: 58–61 cm
- Height Female: 56–58 cm
English Bulldog- A Compassionate Dog Breed
Another classic, the English Bulldog is part of the non-sporting group and has been around since the early 1200s. These little tanks are incredibly playful and affectionate. The English Bulldog is an excellent dog for children and gets along with them quite well. This breed is generally friendly to other people and animals. However, they may be aggressive towards dogs they are not familiar with. This dog may have a pouty face, but they are funny, jovial, and the most docile of the dog kingdom.
The English Bulldog is not a very energetic dog and, therefore, does not require a lot of physical exercise. These dogs will be happy just walking around the block a few times a day.
These dogs cannot handle the heat, so they should never be left outside in the warm weather. They do not do well on long walks, and should not be expected to run or jump from any height. Their coat does not need a lot of work, brushing once a week should be good. However, they do need their face cleaned daily because of the wrinkles that can hold bacteria and cause health issues.
General English Bulldog Stats
- Life Expectancy: 8-10 Years
- Weight Male: 23–25 kg
- Weight Female: 18–23 kg
- Height Male: 31–40 cm
- Height Female: 31–40 cm
Golden Retriever
The good old Golden Retriever is a large dog breed that belongs in the sporting group and has been around since the 1800s. This dog was originally bred for retrieving, so they are great swimmers, and enjoy it. Once a retriever is in the water, it may be tough to get them to come back on land! The golden retriever is America’s top family dog. They are devoted to their family and extremely compassionate. The golden retriever gets along swimmingly with other dogs, pets, and strangers. Gentle and affectionate with children, they really are the perfect dog.
These canines require a lot of daily exercise to keep them healthy and out of trouble. A golden retriever that does not get the exercise it needs may end up with behavior problems. That being said, this breed is best suited for a family that is active and has the time to give this dog the exercise it needs.
Their coats do not require a lot of maintenance and do not tend to mat. But, they do require brushing every two weeks or so.
If you are looking for a trustworthy dog that will love you and bring joy to your entire family, then the golden retriever is just the breed for you.
General Golden Retriever Stats
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 Years
- Weight Male: 30–34 kg
- Weight Female: 25–32 kg
- Height Male: 56–61 cm
- Height Female: 51–56 cm
Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is the largest dog breed out there, even bigger than the Great Dane. They are part of the hound group and have been documented back to ancient times. This large friendly giant seems to think it is a lap dog. They love their humans so much they just want to curl up in your lap and snuggle. These dogs are a sensitive and compassionate dog breed, so they get along just great with all humans. The Irish Wolfhound does excellent with children and other dogs.
Irish hounds are good with strangers but will be brave and fearless if the occasion calls for it. While they are not the most energetic dog, they do require daily exercise. They love going for long walks with their human companions.
To keep this friendly giant’s coat in good shape, it requires brushing or combing twice a week, and some cutting from time to time.
If you have the room and are looking for a large compassionate dog, then definitely go with an Irish Wolfhound. I would have one if I had the room. I think these dogs are lovely!
General Irish Wolfhound Stats
- Life Expectancy: 6-10 Years
- Weight Male: 54-70kg
- Weight Female: 48-61kg
- Height Male: 81 cm
- Height Female: 76 cm
Labrador Retriever
Another popular dog breed is the Labrador Retriever. They are part of the sporting group and have been around since the 1800s. This dog is highly playful and extremely compassionate and affectionate. These dogs will curl up at the end of your bed at night just to be near you. And will stay by your side when watching your favorite movie. A well-trained labrador retriever will get along just fine with children, dogs, and other pets.
Another high energy dog, they require daily exercise to keep it physically and mentally healthy. A bored lab is a lab that can get into trouble. This dog loves to swim and excels in obedience.
This dog is best suited for a family that is active and loves swimming!
If you have a swimming pool, then you can expect this dog to jump in and enjoy a few laps, maybe even some water polo with the family. If you do not want the dog jumping in the pool, then you will have to make sure they don’t sneak in behind you, and always keep the gate closed when not outside.
General Labrador Retriever Stats
- Life Expectancy: 10-14 Years
- Weight Male: 29–36 kg
- Weight Female: 25–32 kg
- Height Male: 57–62 cm
- Height Female: 55–60 cm
Miniature Schnauzer- Another Compassionate Dog Breed
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog breed in the terrier group. They date as far back as the 1800s. These little guys are well mannered in the house and are super affectionate. The Miniature schnauzer enjoys the company of small children since they are close in size and their playful nature. Compassionate and curious, the mini schnauzer is the most popular of the terrier breeds. They love to curl up in your lap and give you lots of kisses and snuggles!
The MS gets along great with other dogs and animals; however, it may give chase to a squirrel or two if they cross paths. They are moderately energetic, so they require daily walks and fun games in a secure yard.
Their coat requires combing at least twice a week, and some cutting to keep their face clean. They will require shaping, as well. If you have the time and skill, you could do this yourself. If not, then it is highly recommended you take this breed to a professional groomer.
General Miniature Schnauzer Stats
- Life Expectancy: 12-15 Years
- Weight Male: 5.4 – 8.2 kg
- Weight Female: 5.4 – 9.1 kg
- Height Male: 30-36 cm
- Height Female: 30-36 cm
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkie is a tiny dog breed that is in the toy group. They have been dated back as far as the 1800s. Now, I can say this dog is super affectionate and compassionate ( I have a Yorkie). This breed knows when you are happy and when you are sad. They love to be with you all the time and will follow you wherever you go. Your lap is made just for them since they spend so much time there!
This breed is also highly intelligent, and if appropriately trained, very obedient. This dog is very stubborn and has a little bit of sas and bold. Yes, bold. This little dog will challenge you and talk back. Despite their little quirks, they are a great breed to own. They do not do well around small children but get along just fine with older ones.
The Yorkie can be aggressive towards strange dogs and other small animals. They were originally bred to keep away vermin, and well, they are terriers. And terriers love to chase other small animals. The Yokie loves to bark, so they make excellent watchdogs. This dog can, however, be taught not to bark at everything.
This breed does not require lots of exercise, however, they do need a few daily walks a day. The coat requires a lot of maintenance. Best to seek out a professional groomer for this breed!
General Yorkshire Terrier Stats
- Life Expectancy: 13-16 Years
- Weight Male: 3.1 kg
- Weight Female: 3.1 kg
- Height Male: 18 – 23 cm
- Height Female: 18 – 23 cm
Conclusion
We conclude our list of compassionate dog breeds. I hope this article helped you out a little in your search for the perfect kind, family dog breed. Dogs come in so many shapes and sizes, and it is really up to you on what type of dog you want. Before you go out and get one, make sure you do all your research and make sure that you and your family are ready for a dog. Dogs are a big responsibility but highly rewarding.
Let us know what you think: leave us a comment!
Bibliography
4.Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds- Caroline Coile, Ph. D.
Recommended Dog Gear
Take a look at our Recommended page for a variety of dog products and items. Here are some of the things you can expect:
- Dog Houses – For small dog breeds, medium dogs, large dogs, and even extra large dog houses!
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- Harnesses, Collars, and Leashes – We don’t recommend anything that will harm a dog. At DHT we believe in a harm-free training experience so you won’t find any of those collars that cut into the dog’s neck. And no shock stuff either. But, we do have some very cool tech collars worth looking at.
- Dog Life Jackets and Other Specialty Equipment – Keep your dog safe with you out on the water this summer.
- GPS and Tracking Collars – As mentioned, very cool tech collars worth checking.
- Dishes for Dog Food and Water – No garbage, only decent products. We like stuff that will last and won’t fade in the sun.
- We’ve got more reviews coming at you all the time so stay tuned for more from the Dog House Times team!
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