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A border collie in northern England chases after a flock of sheep to herd them. A new study finds that only about 9% of the variation in an individual dog's behavior can be explained by its breed. Edwin Remsberg/Getty Images hide caption

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A border collie in northern England chases after a flock of sheep to herd them. A new study finds that only about 9% of the variation in an individual dog's behavior can be explained by its breed.

Edwin Remsberg/Getty Images

Labrador retrievers fetch, border collies herd, huskies howl: It's conventional wisdom that many dog breeds act in certain ways because they've been bred to do so over the course of many generations.

But a new study to be published Friday in the journal Science finds that though some dog behaviors are indeed associated with particular breeds, breed plays less of a role overall than that conventional wisdom holds.

"We found things like German shorthaired pointers were slightly more likely to point, or golden retrievers were slightly more likely to retrieve, or huskies more likely to howl, than the general dog population," says Kathryn Lord, a researcher at the UMass Chan Medical School and an author of the study.

Researchers surveyed the owners of more than 18,000 dogs and analyzed the DNA of about 2,100 animals to see if physical traits and behaviors can be correlated with dog breeds.

Overall, the study found that about 9% of the variation in an individual dog's behavior can be explained by its breed.

Border collies, for instance, were more likely to be responsive to human direction, a trait called "biddability." Owners of beagles, bloodhounds, coonhounds and Siberian huskies will not be surprised to learn that those breeds had a tendency to howl.

The same was true of mixed-breed dogs, the researchers found — the higher the percentage of border collie in a mutt, the more responsive it was to human commands.

"From a genetic standpoint, that's fantastic. That means there are real behavioral differences that are connected to breeds that we can go and study," says Elinor Karlsson, a professor at UMass Chan Medical School and another author of the study.

Why dogs may not behave like others of the same breed

Across individual dogs of the same breed, the researchers found huge variations in behavior.

For instance, although golden retrievers are, on the whole, more likely to fetch than many other dogs, there are plenty of lazy goldens that sit and watch as their owners fruitlessly toss tennis balls.

And no behavior is unique to any single breed, the researchers said. German shorthaired pointers are not the only dogs that point.

"Genetics matter, but genetics are a nudge in a given direction. They're not a destiny," Evan MacLean, the director of the Arizona Canine Cognition Center at the University of Arizona, who was not involved in the research, tells NPR. "We've known that for a long time in human studies, and this paper really suggests that the same is true for dogs."

The most likely explanation for the relatively low correlation between behavior and breed, the authors of the paper said, is that many modern dog breeds are relatively new, in the evolutionary scope of things.

Organized dog breeding, with kennel clubs and other groups that regulate physical traits and track lineage, has existed in its current form only since the mid-19th century.

By contrast, humans have been helping to shape dog behaviors for thousands of years, the researchers said — first by giving helpful dogs food and shelter, thus allowing them to more easily have puppies, and then later by intentionally breeding.

"The thing about complex traits is that selecting on them takes time," Karlsson says. "And so the idea that they've been created in the last 160 years when these breeds came up didn't make any sense."

Dog owners were a big help in the study

To create their data set, the researchers set up a website called Darwin's Ark that allows dog owners to upload data about their dogs and answer questions, both about physical traits — how tall their dog is, how long its fur is — and about their dogs' behavior: Do they shake toys? Do they avoid getting wet? Do they howl?

The study's reliance on owner surveys is both good and bad, says MacLean of the University of Arizona.

On the one hand, owner surveys allow for massive sample sizes — well over 18,000 survey responses in this case — but on the other, the information gathered from surveys is almost always less reliable than results from a laboratory environment, he says.

"We like to put dogs in a situation that we can control and we can administer in the same way to every dog, and be a little bit more objective about the behavior that we see," MacLean says.

The researchers say they hope the paper can help aspiring dog owners shift their mindsets about how to choose a dog.

"I don't think that we should really be deciding that breeds are the things that will tell us whether we will be happy with a dog or whether a dog will be happy with us," says Marjie Alonso, another of the study's authors and executive director of the IAABC Foundation, an animal training organization.

Instead, she suggests that potential owners make a list of what they'd like to do with a dog and then try to find a dog that meets those needs.

"We do have to accept that our dogs are individuals. Each dog is a study of one," she says. "We want to accept our dogs for who they are."

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Your dog is a good boy, but that’s not necessarily because of its breed

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A new study based on thousands of DNA sequences and owner surveys finds that less than 10% of a dog’s behavior — like howling, herding or retrieving — can be explained by its breed.

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When our dogs meet another of their own species, how does each know what the other is thinking? Why do some dogs bark and lunge when they meet other dogs, or try to run away? Why might our dogs want to play with some dogs and not others?

Dogs communicate in many ways, and so quickly, that we must learn these signals if we are to understand how they interact.

Dogs greet one another with a familiar pattern, circling one another and sniffing each others muzzle, then genital area. Ideally this is a calm interaction as the dogs learn about one another through their sense of smell. It might seem odd to us humans, who tend to use what we can see to gather information.

Dogs and other animals have a special 'scent' organ known as the Jacobson's or 'Vomeronasal' organ, within their nasal cavity. This allows them to analyse chemicals as they sniff, detecting odours which provide them with information about male or female, breeding availability as well as identification. This subtle and highly sophisticated ability gives dogs ways to communicate in ways that we humans can only imagine.

Body signals are the next important communication method. Traditionally, a dog with a wagging tail was always supposed to be friendly, but this is far from the truth. We learn to look at the whole of the dog's body. A dog can become very tense and wag its tail high over its back, a sign the dog may be alert or defensive (this may vary for dogs with tightly-curled tails, such as Pugs). Dogs ears move forward, showing signs of interest or agitation, or they may become pinned tightly back against the dog's head if the dog is worried or stressed. Their eyes may stare hard when concerned or defensive, or, gaze softly and expressively when relaxed. A snarling mouth, with lips drawn back and teeth exposed, can mean that the dog is very upset and may bite next.

Barking is another signal, but barks can vary in tone and intensity. Take a look at what your dog is barking for. Who are they barking at, when, and how? This will give you clues as to what they are trying to communicate. Is it excitement at playing with the other dog, or frustration that they can't reach them? The bark pattern will sound quite different. Dogs also vocalise with plenty of other grunts, yaps and howling. Each has its own specific intent.

It takes two (or more dogs) to have a 'conversation', so do look at the other dog's body language, too. You will see one dog respond to the other, back and forth. A relaxed interaction involves a lot of 'give and take' body conversation, with friendly, familiar dogs taking turns to advance, retreat, offer play signals such as front paws pouncing and side to side prancing.

An undesirable interaction is one we must learn; dogs that rush in a straight line towards others can be seen as confrontational and they may not engage in gentle interaction. Any kind of force; pinning without allowing the other dog to escape, chasing without taking turns, are examples of a one-sided conversation from a dog that is simply not listening to the other. This can be harmful.

Above all, teach yourself the specific signals your dog gives in a variety of situations, so that you can be sure you know what he, or she, is truly 'saying'.

This information can also help us to understand how our dog may see us too.

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How do dogs communicate with each other?

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When our dogs meet other dogs, how does each know what the other is thinking? Why do some dogs bark and lunge when they meet other dogs, or try to run away? Why might our dogs want to play with some dogs and not others?

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If you've ever heard a person say they like a particular type of dog, there could be a scientific reason behind it. Just as there are many different types of personalities, there are many different types of pet personalities, some of which are more compatible with yours than others.
The good news is that it isn't hard to find a dog that fits your personality. Many dogs are mixed-breeds (mutts), which means they have a combination of the best-of-the-best qualities from all of the breeds that influence their genetic make-up.
Use this guide to figure out what primary doggy personality traits to look for when you want to bring a new friend home. This guide also highlights a few breeds that possess those traits as well as breed-specific rescues, making it easy for you to meet lots of new friendly faces and personalities that are just right for you.

1. Inquisitive, Hardworking Orderly Types

While everyone likes to let loose and have fun, you're at your happiest when things are in order. You appreciate traditional values and respect hard work (you're not afraid of hard work either). You believe everyone has a role to play to keep society operating well. Quiet-time with a good book or a favorite podcast is how you recharge.

Dog personality matches:

Your ideal dog will be confident and self-assured. Though possibly difficult to train at first, your ideal match will be respectful, reliable and polite once trained.

Dogs with these qualities:

Pekingese, Japanese Chin, Tibetan Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel, Boston Terrier, Chinese Crested, Bull Terrier or Shih Tzu

2. Giving, Helpful Doer Types

You're the first to volunteer, love giving back, and thrive on helping others. You try to observe what is going on around you and go above and beyond to fill in the gaps.

Dog personality matches:

Your ideal dog will be loyal, obedient, hardworking, intelligent, gentle, fond of human interaction and eager to please.

Dogs with these qualities:

German Shephard, Dutch Shephard or Belgian Sheepdog if you want a large dog; Bichon Frise, Maltese, Havanese or Bolognese if you prefer a small dog.

3. Ambitious, Social and Adaptable Types

You're an optimistic achiever. You work hard but like to have fun. You naturally attract people, have a skill for reading others and can perform in whatever situation life throws at you. You have lots of people who want to be your friend and are well-liked.

Dog personality matches:

Your ideal dog is adventurous, playful, active and social. They are curious and crave stimulation and activity.

Dogs with these qualities:

Beagle, English Foxhound, American Foxhound, Rhodesian Ridgeback, Harrier, Brussels Griffon, or Basset Hound

4. Individualistic, Creative Original Types

You sometimes feel like an outlier. You're unique and often creative. You have a different way of seeing the world. You love to surround yourself with beautiful and meaningful things. You have a good sense of humor and can laugh at yourself.

Dog personality matches:

Your ideal dog is laidback, peaceful, relaxed and companionable. This dog knows how to mind his own business but is also alert, hardworking and bright.

Dogs with these qualities:

Shiba Inu, Australian Shepherd, English bulldog, Hokkaido, Akita, Kishu Ken, Shikoku, Border Collie, Miniature American Shepherd or Dutch Sheepdog

5. Intellectual, Investigative Thoughtful Types

When confronted with a challenge or a new topic, you don't just find the answer¾ you immerse yourself in the subject often becoming an expert. You love learning new things and can talk at length on topics you're passionate about. Alone time doesn't bother you.

Dog personality matches:

Dog personalities that suit you can be aloof and pensive...almost like a cat. They are smart and seemingly indifferent, but they enjoy intimate companionship with someone they trust. You might also enjoy a more energetic breed that is smart, self-sufficient and happy with alone time.

Dogs with these qualities:

Chow Chow, Chinese Shar Pei, Greyhound, Tibetan Mastiff, Jack Russell Terrier, Wire Fox Terrier, Rat Terrier or Parson Russell Terrier

6. Loyal, Trusting Security-Oriented Types

You are a faithful friend who believes in the virtue and the goodness of those you care about. You work well with others and are happy to do your part in group projects. You don't mind labels and are happy to strongly identify with whatever political party, religious group or social cause you support.

Best personality matches:

Your best dog match will be good-natured, dependable, loyal, outgoing and curious.

Dogs with these qualities:

Siberian Husky, Akita, Samoyed, Pug, Greyhound, Alaskan Malmute or Chinook

7. Enthusiastic, Curious Adventurous Types

You are easily excited about new people, new things and new ideas. You might be a jack of many trades and a master of none because you quickly move from one new passion to another. You enjoy new experiences and have boundless energy.

Best personality matches:

Your ideal dog is playful, affectionate, smart, happy and curious.

Dogs with these qualities:

Pomeranian, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Dachshund or Teddy Roosevelt Terrier.

8. Challenging, Truth-Seeking Leader Types

You are quick to take up a cause when you detect an injustice. You aren't afraid to lead the pack especially when it comes to seeking justice. You may not always stand up for yourself, but you speak out for friends and others. You are passionate and hardworking, often preferring to rely on your own resources.

Best personality matches:

Your best dog match is charismatic, confident, intelligent, strong-willed and a born leader. You are also well-suited for adventurous, warm, compassionate and playful dogs.

Dogs with these qualities:

Tibetan Mastiff, Tibetan Terrier, Maltese, Tibetan Spaniel, Papillon, Mastiff, Labrador Retriever and other retriever breeds

9. Peaceful, Easy-Going Non-confrontational Types

You are a go-with-the-flow type who really would prefer if everyone just got along. It is not hard for you to find joy in the world around you, and you are generally easy-to-please. Conflict exhausts you, and so you strive to avoid it in all of your relationships.

Best personality matches:

Your perfect dog match is loving and loyal, passionate, charismatic, social and is attuned to people's needs and emotions.

Dogs with these qualities:

Golden Retriever, Cocker Spaniel, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Flat-Coated Retriever, Labrador Retriever or Curly-Coated Retriever
Again, many dogs have multiple breed influences, which means that the dog is likely to possess not only the great qualities of their primary breed but also of other breeds. This means that it is easy to find a dog that fits your personality. All you have to do is meet to know when you've found "the one".
Keep in mind that as you seek a dog with a personality that best suits you, in addition to reading about pet parenting in general (including nutritional needs), make sure to consider where you live, how big the dog gets and how much space your new best friend will have to play and to exercise.

To conclude, a new dog could be exactly what you need in your life. By getting one with a personality that goes paw-in-hand with your personality, you ensure that you two will have nothing but loving good times.
Every dog has a different personality, and every dog has different dietary needs, which is why Wellness Pet Food makes different natural blends ideally suited for all dogs, no matter their health, their size or their age.

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9 Dog Breed Personalities That Match Our Own

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If you've ever heard a person say they like a particular type of dog, there could be a scientific reason behind it. Just as there are many different types of personalities, there are many different types of pet personalities, some of which are more compatible with yours than others.

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There's a pup out there for every personality, from companion couch potatoes, to social butterflies, to playful buddies that are perfect for active families. And there are some dogs whose genetics combine high intelligence with high energy, so if they're not properly occupied, they may get themselves into some trouble!

To be clear, these aren't the "problem children" of the canine world, they're the dogs who love to work, hike, play, run, excel at agility, and more! But left to their own devices, pup parents shouldn't be surprised if their under-stimulated dogs start to stir up some mischief. There are exceptions to every rule, but generally speaking, these 9 dog breeds are likely to be mischievous if they have too much time on their paws!

1. Border Collies

These energetic pooches have many talents, but more often than not, being lazy isn't one of them! (At least, not until after a long day's work!) These dogs have herding ingrained in their DNA, and if they aren't given a job to do, you may find them "herding" kids, other pets - even you! With that said, Border Collies can use their smarts and stamina to excel in agility, obedience training, and more, plus they make excellent running or hiking buddies.

2. Pit Bulls

It's hard to generalize these pups, since they're not a specific breed - the term represents a grouping that can include American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, and Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and more. But they're worth mentioning on this list because some "Pit Bull-type dogs" are incredibly high energy, and all that spunk needs an outlet!

Many Pitties have a muscular build, making them impressive athletes. What's more, these giant love bugs tend to get so attached to their people, they have a hard time being alone. And when you combine excess energy with separation anxiety, what do you get? A pooch who's likely to get into trouble when left to his own devices!

3. Belgian Malinois

These dogs are known for excelling at police and military work, so it should come as no surprise that they're usually not content as under-stimulated family pets. They're very smart, loyal to their leaders, and have a natural drive that simply cannot be extinguished. Belgian Malinois must have a job to do; if not, they'll find one whether you like it or not!

4. Affenpinscher

Known for resembling monkeys, these canines are furry little clowns who love entertaining people. While Affenpinschers are small, they're good for big laughs, although they have a tendency to be stubborn. When given the opportunity, these spotlight-lovers will show off any way they can, often resorting to mischievous antics in order to get a round of applause!

5. Jindo

This "cat-like" dog is aloof with strangers, and their natural independence means they have no problem venturing out on their own. And, sometimes they do - these pups are known as skilled escape artists! Although adorable, Jindos aren't known to be snuggly dogs, but they make great companions for people who aren't fans of in-your-face affection. Owners of these pups should make sure to secure their yard, otherwise they might be found roaming the neighborhood!

6. Siberian Husky

Huskies are notorious for their antics, and some are more affectionate than others. With that said, these sled dogs tend to have ample energy and love being outside - and they're capable of causing mischief until they get their way. They're also known for being quite vocal, throwing tantrums, and "conversing" with their people! Another breed known for their breakout capabilities, Husky owners better make sure their yards are safely fenced in.

7. Schipperke

Small but confident, Schipperkes were bred to hunt and are known for a natural curiosity that can get them in some sticky situations! With their big personalities, these pooches often do best as the only pet at home, however they're relatively easy to train. They also behave best with regular exercise, which helps keep them out of trouble.

8. Jack Russel Terrier

One of the littlest dog breeds with one of the highest levels of energy, Jack Russel Terriers (especially young ones) may not be the best choice for anyone who can't commit to daily activity - and lots of it. With that said, they're certainly happy to join you on the couch after they've gotten some exercise. Their small size means they're portable for adventures, but without enough stimulation, these petite pups may get into something!

9. Labrador Retriever

Labs are often known as being gentle and calm by the time they're middle-aged, but as pups and adolescents, they can certainly cause trouble! Stealing shoes, shredding toilet paper, and giving lots (and lots and lots!) of puppy-teeth nibbles are all common Lab antics. What's more, their notorious appetites can have them counter-surfing and trash-scavenging, so beware: aside from causing damage, this behavior can be dangerous, even deadly, if the wrong item is consumed.
Do you have one of these dogs, or think yours should be added to the list? Tell us in the comments on Facebook!

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There's a pup out there for every personality, from companion couch potatoes, to social butterflies, to playful buddies that are perfect for active families. And there are some dogs whose genetics combine high intelligence with high energy, so if they're not properly occupied, they may get themselves into some trouble!

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These adorable and lovable calm dog breeds fit right in with singles, couples, or families who are looking for a mellow and chill furry family member.

The calmest dog breeds you'll want to bring home

When it comes to calm dog breeds, our list includes low maintenance dogs, lazy dog breeds, and the best apartment dogs. Of course, we didn't forget about large dog breeds that, despite their size, love to plop down and sprawl out across your body like a lap dog. These calm dog breeds might enjoy a game of fetch with kids in the backyard or be more inclined to let someone else fetch something-like their yummy treat. Some dogs don't shed much, while others may need regular brushing, but what they all have in common is a mellow attitude that suits families. We spoke with a veterinarian and two professional dog trainers/behaviorists for recommendations. It's important to note that all dogs are individuals, and training and socialization are essential for families and dogs to live happily ever after.

English cocker spaniel

You might not think that an English cocker spaniel that is bred to flush and retrieve game birds would be content being inside and curled up next to the family, but it is. That's not to say it won't be excited to go for an inquisitive walk or retrieve stuffed toy ducks in the yard, but this sporting breed has the "work hard, play hard" mantra nailed. "English cocker spaniels have a happy, wagging tail that rarely stops. They love to love," says Colleen Demling-Riley, dog behaviorist for Dogtopia. English cocker spaniels are a calm dog breed that's eager to please and easy to train. When you're snuggled up close and petting it, don't be surprised if they nuzzle you or lick your face as a gentle reminder to keep going. These are the other dog breeds that love to cuddle.

Whippet

"Whippets adore their family, are kid tolerant, and rarely meet a person they don't adore," says Demling-Riley. That includes winning the hearts of judges at Westminster Dog Show: "Bourbon" and "Whiskey" are siblings who took home best in breed in 2018 and 2019. "With proper exercise, Whippets love spending the day as couch potatoes. Whippets are born to run (they're one of the fastest dog breeds, after all) so having an enclosed area where they can stretch their legs is ideal," says Demling-Riley. They make for a good playmate for the kids because they can tire each other out. And they're not known for being barkers, but they do have high prey drive so a family that has a cat, rabbit, or other small pet in the house should choose another breed, Demling-Riley says.

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Golden retriever

It's no wonder the Golden Retriever is continually in the top 10 of the most popular dog breeds. They are easy-going, affectionate, and playful but gentle with children, making them an ideal family dog. "Their temperament often makes them great service and therapy dogs, and, while they can be playful and have a lot of energy in their youth, a four-year-old golden retriever that's emotionally and physically satisfied is most likely going to be calmer than a puppy of the same breed, says Laura Nativo, CPDT-KA, KPACTP, a certified dog trainer advisor for DOGTV. And because they're eager to please, they respond well to obedience training. Fun fact: they're one of the best dogs for first time owners.

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Tibetan spaniel

"Tibetan Spaniels were originally bred to hang out with monks, so they become very connected to their people. They're also smaller, which often makes them a bit easier to manage in comparison to other small dogs who are very athletic," says Natvio. That's not to say "Tibbies" are couch potatoes. Like most dogs, they like to whoop it up during playtime. Once they get their fix for the day, their two favorite spots are on your lap or perched high on the back of the sofa so that they can quietly keep an eye on things. Does this behavior sound similar to a cat? That may explain why Tibbies are one of the dog breeds that get along with cats.

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St. Bernard

A mountain dog breed known for heroic rescues is presumably calm and collected, but those traits aren't necessarily a given, Nativo says. "If you have an adult St. Bernard, who's been well-trained, well-bred, well-socialized, and is getting their physical and emotional needs met, they're generally going to be a lot more calm and relaxed inside the house." Generally, St. Bernards are well known for being patient, peaceful, and gentle. They have a great time spending time with their humans, especially when they have a job to do. "St. Bernard's were also bred to pull, so you might want to think about giving the dog a jog or having them pull a cart, or going for a walk with a backpack," recommends Nativo.

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Pug

Your family will have to draw straws for who gets to cuddle and snuggle this adorable smushed-face muzzle. And the pug is so easy-going it won't play favorites-just as long as someone is lavishing attention on it. Yet they're not just selfishly soaking up long cuddle sessions all day. Calm dog breeds like the pug, still like to be the center of attention once in a while and entertain the family with their playful and happy-go-lucky antics." The Pug has a proven track record of being calm, well-adjusted, and easy-going family pup," says Demling-Riley. "It needs minimal exercise, loves kids, quickly turns strangers into friends, and thrives in a variety of environments from small apartments to larger properties," says Demling-Riley.

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Newfoundland

Dubbed the nanny dog, you won't find a more devoted and empathetic fan of your kids. This is great because as a parent, there are times when you're certainly not a fan of your kid's behavior. "Newfies are 100-plus pounds of fur and drool, but people who are fans of the breed love the affectionate and good-natured temperament of these dogs. They love kids and are easy to train," says Demling-Riley. You might think their larger-than-life size equates to being a watchdog, but they lean more toward the "guard and protect" side and keeping a vigilant eye on the kids. They're also excellent swimmers and renowned for their lifesaving skills of pulling people out of the water to safety.

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Biewer terrier

Calm dog breeds and dogs from the terrier group, generally don't go hand-in-hand, but this one does. Pronounced "Beaver," this adorable little nugget looks more like a Yorkie than a beaver. At just under a foot tall and around 8 pounds, the mellow pooch is ultra-portable, with the sweetest disposition that just melts your heart. Though they look super dainty, they are actually quite athletic and an energetic walker, hiker, or competitor in the agility ring. "They are always willing to please and are very trainable," says veterinarian Marthina "Marty" Greer, DVM., member of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and co-owner and medical director of Veterinary Village in Lomira, Wisconsin. Another bonus, they'll be a loyal part of your family with a life expectancy of around 16 years. Here more lovable dogs with long life spans.

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Bulldog

We're not sure what's more swoon-worthy-the bulldog's distinctive swagger from the stout and stocky body, or the (mostly) delightful snoring that emits from its cute smooshed-in nose. "The English bulldog is a delightful companion for the family that does not want the demands of an athletic or hyperactive dog after a long day at work. They tend to be relatively calm, hanging out under the dining room table," says Dr. Greer. They might not seem like lap dog material with their 50-pound muscular physique, but that won't stop them from trying to be a lapdog. While the bulldog's smooshed-in snout is adorable, it can make it more challenging for them to stay cool in hot weather and raise the risk of heatstroke.

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Cavalier King Charles spaniel

If there's one thing your family will agree on, it's the irresistibly cute face and sweet demeanor of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel. Just one look into those big dreamy eyes, and you're cooked. "Most dogs of this breed are quiet, gentle, love people, and get along with other dogs, " says Dr. Greer. They fit right in with active families or homebodies. If they had a doggy profile, it would read, "I'm happy when you're happy and content with whatever the family wants to do. We can curl up and watch TV, or I'll be your silent co-worker while you're on Zoom. Or if you prefer, I'm ready to rock and roll with the best of them and chase some balls in the yard."

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Corgi

Both the Cardigan Welsh Corgi and the Pembroke Welsh Corgi are two calm dog breeds that share similar characteristics. The two most important-they love people and happiest when spending time with their people. And you won't find another dog with a unique physique like the Corgi. "Some people have described the Corgi as a dog who looks like they were put together by a committee in the dark'-that is, their parts and pieces just don't quite match," says Dr. Greer. While it's true they do have short legs, what they do match is a family who is searching for a friendly homebody who likes to chill and play inside the house. They'll play hide and seek with the kids, but don't be surprised if the Corgi sneaks up on the seeker first. "As a corgi breeder for 30 plus years, we have enjoyed their quiet nature and keen sense of humor," says Dr. Greer. The Pembroke and Cardigan look very similar, but the Cardigan has a low-set bushy tail while the Pembroke has a docked tail.

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Great Pyrenees

"The Great Pyrenees is indeed great. They are a massive (about 100 pounds) but gentle dog," says Dr. Greer. Its zen-like manner and lush coat are better than any teddy bear, so don't be surprised if the kids fight over whose room it sleeps in. Dr. Greer says they can be a bit stubborn at times, but we'll give them a pass on that. After all, they are a devoted guardian of the family. "They tend to be a laid-back dog that is quiet and not very active when in the home. They are great with kids but due to their size, need to be closely supervised to prevent their sheer mass from overwhelming children," says Dr. Greer. If you're looking for more calm pets to add to your family, these are the best low-maintenance pets.

Pekingese

If your family is looking for a small, sweet, fluffy, cuddly breed with a less-than-stellar athletic prowess, then the Pekingese might be the perfect match for you. "The Pekingnese is a quiet dog that does not require much activity or exercise," says Dr. Greer. They have a shorter muzzle, so when they exert themselves too much, they could have a more challenging time breathing, so they're naturally geared to be more sedentary. "This dog makes a great companion for a quiet family but is rarely active enough to be a performance dog, in activities such as agility or obedience," says Dr. Greer. And don't let their long coat scare you off; it can be kept shorter for easier maintenance. These are the most irresistible short-haired dogs.

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Havanese

Adjectives like playful and alert might not seem to fit into the calm dog breeds category, but the Havanese bestows a healthy balance of mellow and playful. This happy and delightful toy breed is so outgoing and affectionate that they are often used as therapy dogs. " All of the Havanese I have met have been wonderful and playful but not too much for a typical family, says certified professional dog trainer Nick Hof of Paws, Look, Listen. Like any dog, they need some form of physical activity every day, but it can be a leisurely walk or playtime inside.

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Bassett hound

With a sniffer second only to the bloodhound, the Basset hound might occasionally ignore the family if it hits on a scent worth investigating. Still, a family can take it in stride and consider it a fun adventure of discovery. "They tend to be lower energy than others and love to follow a smell to their heart's content. This can sometimes make them be considered stubborn or hard-headed, but in the right home, they can be a wonderful member of the family," says Hof. The right home, Hof says, is one where its characteristics of being patient, loyal, low-key, and sometimes stubborn are expected and appreciated. After all, it's not that difficult to accept the Basset hounds' tendency to be a bit bullheaded when it's so lovable and charming.

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Border terrier

Here's another exception to the rule when it comes to calm dog breeds of the terrier group. "Terriers as a whole tend to have a love of energy and tenacity, but the Border Terrier in my experience can be less intense while still having that bouncy energy that many terrier owners enjoy," says Hof. This adorable scruffy, and sturdy terrier isn't as stubborn or independent as some of his terrier relatives and is pretty mellow and affectionate in the home. When it's playtime outside, you might see the hallmark terrier traits of hunting as they might turn from playtime with the kids if they see a squirrel scurrying up the tree. Dogs of all temperaments make better family members with training and socialization. Here's how to find the best dog obedience school.

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Leonbergers

We're not exaggerating when we say the Leonberger is huge-like, even bigger than the Newfoundland. When you welcome a Leonberger into your family, you're getting a gentle giant that weighs as much (or more) than an adult. Females weigh about 140 pounds, while males can weigh up to 170 pounds. Everything is super-sized on one of the largest calm dog breeds there is. There's the big ole heart that loves everyone-and that includes people, other dogs, and animals. Not to mention the tremendous amount of patience and heaps of affection and devoted companionship it readily gives. "I find Leonbergers to be relatively mellow and calm family dogs. I've had the pleasure of working with many of them in loving families and see all the love they bring," says Hof. If the glowing attributes of the Leonberger aren't enough, here are more benefits of having big dogs.

AKC Breed Temperament Guide

Colleen Demling-Riley, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, CDBC, Dog Behaviorist for Dogtopia

Laura Nativo, CPDT-KA, KPACTP, a certified dog trainer advisor for DOGTV

Marthina "Marty" Greer, DVM., member of the Independent Veterinary Practitioners Association and co-owner and medical director of Veterinary Village in Lomira, Wisconsin

Nick Hof, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, KPA-CTP, CSAT, professional certified dog trainer and owner of Paws, Look, Listen

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17 Calm Dog Breeds with Easygoing Personalities

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These adorable and lovable calm dog breeds fit right in with singles, couples, or families who are looking for a mellow and chill furry family member. When it comes to calm dog breeds, our list includes low maintenance dogs, lazy dog breeds, and the best apartment dogs.