Are some dog breeds really more playful than others? According to scientists, hunting and herding dogs are more playful while toy dogs like Chihuahuas tend to be less playful. This is because people who domesticated working dogs used playing to bond and train their dogs!
So if you're looking for a playful and fun-loving dog, the following five breeds are in the top tier.
1. Boxer
A medium to large dog, the boxer is a breed native to Germany that was bred to help control cattle on farms. They range from 50 pounds for a female and up to 80 pounds for a male. Not only are boxers a more playful breed but they are also active, energetic, bright, friendly, and loyal. They can be silly but don't let that fool you, boxers always act with courage. As an added plus they are also great with children!
2. English Springer Spaniel
This breed is a medium-sized compact dog with a medium-long coat and was developed by hunters to flush game birds or small animals by “springing” at them. Their doe-like eyes make for a gentle face. Add a friendly wagging tail and you have a sweet-looking and hard to resist dog! Springers have tremendous stamina and energy. They are friendly, obedient, and very playful. These pups love being around their people so make sure you help them get accustomed to you being gone if you don’t work from home.
3. Jack Russell Terrier
This is a breed of dog that is small and originally bred for fox hunting in England. They are predominately white with any color markings. Jack Russells love to play and have a high activity level. They need a lot of exercise and attention to keep from being destructive with all that energy. Jack Russels are great companions for playing with other dogs and their family!
4. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador is a medium to large retriever and gun dog with a sweet appearance. Outgoing, friendly, and vivacious, the Labrador is easy to train and a very human-friendly dog. They are very playful and make friends with people of all ages. Their high activity level means hours of playing fetch and romping.
5. Pembroke & Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Famous for their short legs and cuddly, cute appearance, this cattle dog is native to Wales. Their adult size ranges from 28 to 30 pounds. Both breeds are intelligent, affectionate, playful, and easy to train with the Cardigan known as the clown of the two. They are very friendly and love their family (albeit often attempting to herd them). Corgis make great companions without being needy. But be prepared for their high activity level and "big dog" bark in a small package.
Let us know in the comments if your dog is any of the breeds above or if you have another playful breed!
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