15 Most Emotionally Intelligent Dog Breeds For A Close Bond

A good friend knows what you're feeling just by looking at you, and depending on the breed, your dog may, too. Certain breeds are famous for possessing a high degree of emotional intelligence. These are the pups that give you extra cuddles on rough days and the dogs that erupt into major tail-wagging zoomies when you express joy. You know that moment when you come home from work or school, eager to talk about the day's wins? Perhaps you got the promotion you were vying for or aced a big test. Your emotionally intelligent pup may not understand the nuances of your success, but it can sense that you're happy and love celebrating alongside you.

You might fear that a dog that's in tune with your emotions will be incredibly clingy. However, plenty of savvy dog breeds seem to know exactly when to shower you with love and when to give you a minute alone. Here are 15 of the cutest, sweetest options.

A 2022 study published in Evolutionary Human Sciences noted that all dogs are "known to be very good readers of human communicative cues." A happy Lab, however, can be even more perceptive than the typical pup. Labrador retrievers are sweet, obliging creatures that have a knack for knowing what their owners are thinking. Maybe that's why they were ranked by the American Kennel Club as the country's favorite dogs for a whopping 31 years! Overall, having a good Lab at your side is like having a best friend who will never betray you.

This breed is large and active, so Labs aren't lap dogs that'll happily sit next to you all day. But they do have lapdog-like energy when it comes to how much they love you. Labrador retrievers want to be part of your life, whatever that involves. They'll take a break to go chase a squirrel or shred a chew toy, but they'll come back to you and feed off of your emotions to be in tune with you. As such, they thrive in environments full of life and affection.

Beagles are independent creatures, yet they deeply love their owners and can form incredible bonds. Beagle owners posting on the Reddit board r/beagle have repeatedly noted that their pups have a "big personality" and are "very sensitive." Because they read human emotions so well, they can often even tell when you're angry or disappointed. Another beagle lover posting on Reddit warned that these dogs "will forgive but not forget." This breed is unlikely to respond well to rigorous training sessions, so focus on using positive reinforcement. You'll likely be rewarded with the happiest little wiggles imaginable.

Beagles are soul dogs who throw their whole bodies into their emotions. They romp, cuddle, and howl with excitement, and a well-socialized beagle tends to get along with everyone who comes around, whether other dogs or new family members. Many families with children adore this small dog breed precisely because it's so sociable. If you're ready to make a beagle your new best friend, make sure you're ready for an active lifestyle. Beagles were originally used as hunters, so they were bred to have plenty of energy.

The deep, soulful eyes of a basset hound aren't a trick; these dogs really are in tune with the people around them. Basset hounds have a calm, friendly energy that can help turn your home into a welcoming space. There's nothing better than opening a door and being greeted by your long-eared, wrinkly-faced hound. This breed is perfect if you want a furry friend that's emotionally intelligent but not too demonstrative. Basset hounds aren't known for their zany antics or bouts of wild energy. Instead, they show love in a million small ways. An affectionate basset hound may sleep curled up at your feet or trot after you as you move from room to room.

Basset hounds love to please, but this desire clashes with their innate independence. You may need to use your own emotional intelligence to successfully train one. Still, this slight stubbornness can actually be a boon for pet parents. Basset hounds think for themselves and usually have no trouble with a little alone time.

Golden retrievers are so sensitive and sweet that even the police recognize their emotional power. For instance, multiple Pennsylvania police departments use golden retrievers as emotional support dogs. The dogs are tasked with comforting people who have just experienced a trauma, and programs like this exist across the country in various forms. There's just something about petting the soft, fluffy head of a golden retriever that can make you feel warm and supported. When it's your own dog, the feeling can be even stronger.

Pet owners on Reddit's r/goldenretrievers have reveled in how supportive their pups are. One wrote that golden retrievers are "the purest souls on earth," while another commented that their dog's love "heals so many wounds." Golden retrievers aren't choosy with their love, either; they can be affectionate with every creature in the room, including other animals. They're also highly adaptable and can be happy in many different family situations. What does a golden retriever need to be content? Just food, exercise, and plenty of love.

Bichon Frises exude personality with every tail wag. They're ultra-charming and often seem to react to their owner's emotions, so your Bichon Frise might give you extra kisses when you're stressed after, say, a tearful phone call. This breed lives for being coddled on laps, which may explain why it becomes so connected to its people. A Bichon Frise might spend the most important parts of its day immersed in human company, and the emotional exchange can go both ways. You may not be ready to call yourself the new dog whisperer, but you can learn to sense how your pup feels.

If you want a truly deep bond with your dog, provide plenty of attention. Bichons thrive when they're embedded into the family's daily routine. Are you going to get the mail? Bring your dog. Resting on the couch? Make room for your furry friend. The dog can sit on the floor if you're worried about ripped leather or hair on the upholstery, but either way, it just wants to be around you.

Great Danes are among the biggest dogs in the world, so they look like tough, physical protectors. However, they're actually giant cuddle-bugs that ooze love and will do anything for you. Their protector status is more fitting if you think of them as emotional support dogs. Whisper your troubles to a great Dane, and you might feel supported by the calm presence alone. This quiet affection is perfectly suited for people who are ready to handle the devotion of an emotionally intelligent breed but don't want to commit to satisfying heavy exercise needs.

Large, ungainly great Danes have moderate to low energy levels as they age. They still require daily walks and play, but they're just not as athletic as retrievers and some other breeds on this list. If you're thinking about moving a great Dane into your home, think about its size. This dog is big enough to knock over small children despite its patient and loving personality.

There's a reason border collies are dogs that enjoy life on the farm: These loyal, hardworking canines demonstrate a high degree of emotional intelligence. Just as the great Dane is ideal for laidback households, a border collie is a match for active families that are always on the go. This breed is far too intelligent to sit idly around the house all day. Your border collie needs a job, whether gathering sticks in the yard or herding sheep like its ancestors. When the task is done, your pup can focus on its other role: connecting with you.

According to a 2021 study published in Animal Cognition, dogs can read many human facial expressions, at least to a certain degree, and may be able to sense when humans are happy, angry, and disgusted. As far as breeds go, border collies noticeably possess these emotionally intelligent skills. Their herding background means they're used to watching attentively for changes in behavior. It could be a sheep inching away from the flock or you starting to cry — either way, a border collie is ready to respond.

You might fall in love with a red-furred vizsla at first sight. If you do, expect your admiration to deepen as you realize how tender and sensitive this breed is. The mighty vizsla can easily go from tearing across a field alongside a hunter to sweetly licking your hand and begging for more cuddles. Its inner athlete only reappears when it's time to run, and the rest of the time, you'll have an affectionate pooch who just wants to snuggle by your side. Reddit's r/vizsla board is full of pet parents calling their pups "Velcro dogs" that hate to be alone. Fortunately, that intense love can be very rewarding. One of Reddit's vizsla lovers described how their dog is known for "burrowing" into their body for hugs. How sweet!

To keep your vizsla fit and happy, you'll need to satisfy its dual natures. A 3-mile run can deplete its physical energy, while gentler play will meet its emotional needs. Respect your vizsla's sensitive side by lavishing it with praise, and you'll have a happy pup.

In 2022, the French bulldog became the breed that ended the Labrador's 31-year reign as America's most popular dog. How did these large-eared, spunky little dogs claim the top spot? Their endearing, emotionally intelligent personalities make them perfect companions. They were bred in 19th-century France to be well-behaved ladies' dogs. Their immense popularity blossomed in Paris and eventually spread worldwide. Often called Frenchies, these bulldogs want nothing more than to be around their humans. Their exercise needs are minimal, so a short walk once a day should be enough to keep them healthy. In fact, strenuous exercise is discouraged because French bulldogs have flat faces and can experience difficult breathing.

Because they don't need a lot of exercise or vigorous play, it's easy to spend all day lounging with your Frenchie. You can pour affection into this breed and be repaid with unconditional love. On days when you have to work and can't snuggle, you'll come to a devoted friend who's excited to see you every time.

If you want a dog that's gorgeous, social, and easy to please, find a Havanese. Havanese dogs are happiest when they're with their families, and emotional bonds with them can develop quickly. In fact, it's hard not to become best friends with one. This is one of those dog breeds that's overwhelmingly affectionate and expresses its emotions in dramatic ways. A Havanese may demand attention — and not let you off easily. Anyone who adopts a Havanese should be prepared to have an extremely close connection with their dog. You shouldn't expect your Havanese to make a great watchdog, but it'll pay a lot of attention to you.

The average Havanese is so loving that it can be your friends' emotional support dog, too. This breed has plenty of affection to give and typically enjoys meeting strangers. A friend who's a bit glum might feel lighter after spending a few minutes playing with your Havanese pup. Of course, a Havanese doesn't need to meet anyone outside of its family. Its social instincts can be fully satisfied at home.

The American Kennel Club considers poodles to be one of the "smartest dog breeds." That sparkling intelligence leads to an equally remarkable emotional awareness. A poodle owner posting on Reddit's r/poodles board described how their pooch "tends to know the mood and the situation and acts accordingly." Others have shared similar stories about their poodles' ability to read emotions. Many people like these dogs because they act like real friends. Poodles tend to be loyal sidekicks, ready to come along for the ride no matter where you're going.

Poodles can adapt to almost any home life, but their big brains need ample stimulation. In addition to providing extended exercise sessions, offer puzzle games and play together. You'll strengthen your emotional bond and keep your clever poodle too busy to cause mischief. If you love this breed but aren't ready for its high energy demands, consider adopting an older, calmer dog. You'll still experience all of the love a poodle can give.

Don't be fooled by their tough look. Boxers are absolute sweethearts that want to be your closest friends. They're outgoing, loyal, and eager to form real emotional connections. Boxers are often used as watchdogs due to their large size and obvious strength, but they're just as good in the role of an emotional support dog. A boxer's watchful nature is what helps it pay attention to its owner's changing emotional states. The next time you're feeling goofy or extra happy, go play with your boxer — your dog might just catch on to your exuberant mood and be happy to share it.

Hang out with your boxer when you're in the mood to exercise as well. This breed has nearly endless energy, and its playful habits mean it's always ready for a good romp. Your emotional tie will be stronger if you add a physical connection, and your dog will be much happier, too.

Everyone takes note when an Irish wolfhound ambles through. This dog can measure 3 feet high at the shoulder and weigh more than an adult male human. In fact, its massive size helped the breed earn its name. Irish wolfhounds used to be ferocious and skillful enough to successfully hunt wolves. However, the history of hunting dogs has led this breed to become a mild-mannered giant. Irish wolfhounds are now easy-going, happy-go-lucky canines that usually limit their hunting to stuffed toys. They like bonding with their humans and indulging their sensitive natures.

Irish wolfhounds are much too big to be lap dogs, but they can provide a similar level of comfort. Their exercise needs are fairly moderate, and they don't mind spending plenty of time simply hanging out with family. Just beware of letting your chill wolfhound turn into a couch potato. They like being homebodies so much that they sometimes need encouragement to get up and exercise.

From the giant Irish wolfhound, we move on to the tiny cavalier King Charles Spaniel. It's the same amount of affection in a much more nimble package. A cavalier King Charles Spaniel fits on your lap and wants to be there, too. You'll be happy with the arrangement because this dog is lovely to look at and charming to be around. Unlike most of the breeds we've mentioned, cavalier King Charles Spaniels were never bred to be anything but companions. They survived because of their irresistible personalities and keen emotional intelligence. However, they're descended from sporting dogs, so feel free to enroll them in dog shows or competitions. They're also fine getting their exercise via play at home and in the backyard.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are often used as service dogs and therapy dogs because of their warm and accepting temperaments. After all, comforting others comes naturally to them. This breed is also friendly with strangers, another quality that makes them great service dogs, and can typically be in crowds without getting too nervous (though indi.

Your German shepherd is a guard dog, workout buddy, and close friend rolled into one furry package. You might see one of these dogs padding alongside soldiers or chasing after criminals, which can seem at odds with being on this list of emotionally intelligent sweethearts. However, the German shepherd absolutely earns its spot. It's one of the most active dog breeds, and it can work in military and law-enforcement situations because it's smart enough to read emotions and react appropriately. This intelligence will also appear in a German shepherd's relationship with you.

Well-trained German shepherds are typically intensely loyal and will protect their families at all costs. When the stakes aren't so high, this breed shows how sweet and emotionally aware it can be. German shepherds are gentle enough to play with young children and can form unbreakable bonds with their humans. They're often too wary to love strangers, however. Their emotional support is for people they know.