Safest Dog List

While no dog is 100 percent safe, there are specific breeds which are universally accepted as being gentle-natured. Dogs raised with love and patience are naturally safe by virtue of their upbringing. Dogs raised with kindness will respond in kind. And, no matter the breed, dogs raised with cruelty may be unpredictable. Also, dogs that are sterilized having undergone socialization training are much safer in general.

  1. Labrador

    • This breed is friendly with an even-tempered disposition.

      Historically used as hunting dogs, Labradors are bred to be patient. They make wonderful house pets and are known for their kindly, extroverted personalities. The breed is popular as a family pet, a guide dog or working dog in the police and army. The American Kennel Club rates the Labrador among its top 10 most popular dog breeds in the U.S. The dog's gentle disposition extends to other animals as evidenced by the tender friendship that developed between two residents of the Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee. A cross-species friendship developed between an elephant and a Labrador, in which the Lab preferred the elephant's company over the people and the other dogs at the sanctuary.

    Keeshond

    • The Keeshond is the national dog of Holland.

      The Keeshond is a medium-sized fluffy breed that often looks like it is smiling. Originally hailing from Holland, it is sometimes called the "Smiling Dutchman." It is a companion dog with an affinity for children, notes Dr. Dawn Ruben in her article "Choosing a Keeshond." The breed is affectionate and loyal and loves to participate in all family activities. The Keeshond is typically good with other pets, especially if socialized early. They are also good watchdogs and bark when strangers approach.

    Standard Poodle

    • The original purpose of the poodle was to be a water retriever.

      Standard Poodles are intelligent and affectionate and their patience makes them a good choice for families. According to Pet Place, the poodle is one of the most popular breeds in the world and a symbol of elegance and opulent luxury. The poodle is good-natured and needs constant company. It hates being left on its own and prefers to be around people instead of other dogs. The breed does not like to be ignored is intolerant of being viewed as "just a dog," say staff members at Pet Place.

    Pug

    • This oriental breed served as a guard dog in ancient Chinese temples.

      This breed is sociable and, like the standard poodle, prefers being with humans to other dogs and pets. They also take to children easily and are playful. While many small dog breeds can be snappy and cranky, pugs seldom behave in this way. According to Pet Place's Irreverent Vet, pugs are funny dogs with lots of personality and charisma as well as being sweet, happy, loyal and energetic.

    English Bulldog

    • The English Bulldog is the symbol of tenacity and stubborn determination.

      The English Bulldog is a character in the dog world. As it snorts and snores, much to the delight of children, this loyal family pet is as stubborn as it is docile. They don't need a lot of exercise and prefer to lounge around the house, although they will jump into action to be guard dogs should the need arise.