Want a Second Dog? Trainers Say These 7 Breeds Fit Into Any Home So Easily

There's no denying that choosing a second dog breed can be tricky as narrowing down the best dogs for multi-dog households isn't as simple as it may seem. Because of that, bringing a new dog into a home with other pets can be an exciting, but sometimes a challenging experience as well. While proper training and socialization play a major role in how dogs interact, some breeds are naturally more inclined to get along with others. Their temperament, history and instincts often make them more adaptable in group settings. To help you out, we rounded up seven dog breeds that are perfect if you already have a dog, according to a trainer.

Expert say dog breeds that get along with other dogs easily are especially known for being friendly dogs with an easygoing personality. They tend to approach other animals with curiosity rather than tension, which can make introductions smoother and daily life more peaceful. That way, by choosing one of these social pups, adding another dog to your home won't be super stressful.

So, if you want to know what the best dogs for families with other dogs are, keep reading. From lovable big dogs to sweet-natured small dogs, these dog breeds are good with other dogs, and make adding a new furbaby into your household easy. I fact, they are happy to make new pals wherever they go and rarely meet a stranger. Check them out, below!

Related: Experts Name the No. 1 Companion Dog: A ‘Highly Intuitive, Sensitive Breed'

7 Dog Breeds That Get Along Well With Other Dogs

Trainers emphasize that setting up a harmonious environment in a multi-dog home starts with finding the right personality match. These seven dog breeds that get along well with other dogs are renowned for their gentle, sociable temperaments, making them the perfect companions for your existing dog.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers were bred to be social and cooperative working dogs, so it's no surprise these are dogs that fit into multi-pet homes. "They're naturally friendly and thrive on connection with other dogs, humans and even other species," says Michele Tate, certified dog trainer at Warrior Canine Connection.

Their temperament makes them one of the most popular family dogs in the world. Labradors are known for their outgoing personality and eagerness to interact, which helps them adapt well to living with other dogs. "Labs tend to approach life and other dogs with enthusiasm and playfulness," says Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert at Rover. "This makes them highly adaptable and easygoing dogs."

Breed Stats:

• Personality: Active, friendly, outgoing
• Height: 21.5-24.5 inches
• Weight: 55-80 pounds
• Lifespan: 11–13 years

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are another breed widely recognized for their gentle and friendly nature, making them dog breeds that get along with other dogs. "Golden Retrievers weren't bred for aggression and rarely exhibit aggressive traits," says Brant Waller, owner and certified dog trainer at The Trusted Companion. "This makes them a little more laidback than dogs bred to interact more with their environment."

Their calm and patient personality also makes them particularly well-suited dogs for homes with multiple dogs. Another perk? Golden Retrievers tend to be tolerant and easy to read, which helps prevent conflicts during play or in shared living spaces with other pets. Their affectionate nature also means they actively seek companionship, making them more likely to enjoy the presence of other dogs.

Breed Stats:

• Personality: Intelligent, friendly, devoted
• Height: 21.5-24 inches
• Weight: 55-75 pounds
• Lifespan: 10–12 years

Border Collie

Border Collies are known for their intelligence and strong work ethic, but they also have a unique approach to social interactions. "Most Border Collies are so fixated on playing with their owners that they don't care about other dogs," Waller says. "But for those that enjoy it, they do well." Because of this trait, they are considered one of the best dogs for families with other dogs and recommended by trainers.

Even though these pups are highly focused and tend to prioritize tasks or games with their owners over other animals, when properly socialized, they can form positive relationships with other dogs. Their high energy level means they do best with dogs that can match their activity and play style. When paired appropriately, Border Collies can thrive in multi-dog households.

Breed Stats:

• Personality: Energetic, affectionate, smart
• Height: 19-22 inches
• Weight: 30-55 pounds
• Lifespan: 12-15 years

Beagle

Adding another dog to your home? Beagles are dogs that get along with other pets. Originally bred as pack animals for hunting, Beagles are wired to live and work alongside other dogs. This instinct makes them highly adaptable and generally friendly toward canine companions. "Beagles are naturally social and often thrive in environments where they can interact with other dogs," Ellis says.

This social dog breed is known to be playful and curious which also makes them a great fit for homes with other pets in it. In fact, Beagles tend to enjoy companionship and may not do well if left alone for long periods of time.

Breed Stats:

• Personality: Curious, friendly, merry
• Height: 13-15 inches
• Weight: 20-30 pounds
• Lifespan: 10–15 years

Related: The No. 1 Dog Breed for Busy People Is Cute, Small and Low-Maintenance

Poodle

Available in standard, miniature and toy sizes, Poodles come in a range of energy levels, but they all share a strong ability to learn and adapt. This makes them responsive to training and capable of adjusting to a variety of social situations.

"Highly intelligent and generally well-mannered, Poodles often have excellent social skills and can get along well with a variety of other dogs," Ellis explains. Because of this, she says they are one of the best dogs for families with other dogs. In fact, when socialized, Poodles can become confident and friendly companions who enjoy interacting with other dogs in a calm and controlled way.

Breed Stats:

• Personality: Active, proud, smart
• Height: Over 15 inches
• Weight: 40-70 pounds
• Lifespan: 10–18 years

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

What dogs get along with other dogs best? The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one! This friendly dog breed was bred to be a companion dog, and that history shows in their temperament.

"This social dog breed was developed to be a companion, and their gentle, affectionate nature often translates into being very accepting and friendly with other dogs," Ellis says.

Overall, these lap dogs are known for their sweet and adaptable personalities. They tend to be non-confrontational and eager to please, which helps them get along well in multi-dog households. Their small size and calm demeanor make them especially suited for living with other dogs of similar temperament.

Breed Stats:

• Personality: Affectionate, gentle, graceful
• Height: 12–13 inches
• Weight: 13–18 pounds
• Lifespan: 12–15 years

Bichon Frise

If you're thinking about getting a second dog, Bichon Frises should be on your list as they are generally happy dogs that tend to handle social situations with ease. "Bichons are cheerful, adaptable and non-confrontational," Ellis says, "This helps them navigate social interactions with other dogs smoothly."

Their playful and friendly nature makes them a joy to have in homes with other pets. Bichons typically like being around others and can form strong bonds with humans and dogs alike. Talk about a plus!

Breed Stats:

• Personality: Curious, playful, peppy
• Height: 9-11.5 inches
• Weight: 12-18 pounds
• Lifespan: 14-15 years

Sources:

Michele Tate, certified dog trainer at Warrior Canine Connection

Nicole Ellis, certified professional dog trainer and pet lifestyle expert at Rover

Brant Waller, owner and certified dog trainer at The Trusted Companion

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This story was originally published April 26, 2026 at 4:10 AM.