The 15 Best Companion Dogs to Be at Your Side When You Really Need It

Average Height: 10.5 inches (toy), 13.5 inches (miniature), 17 inches (standard)

Average Weight: 8 pounds (toy), 15 pounds (miniature), 30 pounds (standard)

Trainability: 10/10

American Eskimo dogs, often called Eskies, are some of the smartest, most outgoing canines you’ll meet. The American Kennel Club says these friendly, fluffy white dogs are descendants of German Spitzes and used to be featured performers in circus acts! (You’ll see plenty of spitz family members on this list, as they adore people and train easily.) Eskies learn commands quickly and love being near their human family. In fact, without anything to do or anyone to hang out with for long periods of time, they can become destructive. Perfect for folks in need of constant companionship.

Average Height: 18.5 inches

Average Weight: 38.5 pounds

Trainability: 8/10

Born to herd sheep, the Australian Kelpie thrives when there’s a job to do (and don’t tire if the work is repetitive). They are incredibly smart and pick up new commands with ease. With a loyal personality and eagerness to please, these dogs will stand by your side as long as you’ll let them. Australian Kelpies do best with active owners and families.

Average Height: 25.5 inches

Average Weight: 92 pounds

Trainability: 8/10

One of the softest, kindest breeds is the Bernese Mountain Dog. These are larger animals with calm dispositions, so they’re ideal for folks in need of a soothing presence. Unafraid to show affection with their friends and family, Bernese Mountain dogs might be wary of strangers.

Average Height: 12.5 inches

Average Weight: 15.5 pounds

Trainability: 9/10

In addition to their low prey drive, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are incredibly adaptable and low maintenance. They easily shift gears to fit their human’s routine and energy. Happy to meet new people and pets, they’re quite sociable. Anyone in the market for a smaller companion dog breed should consider these sweet pups first.

Average Height: 6.5 inches

Average Weight: 5 pounds

Trainability: 5/10

Alright, so Chihuahuas are a little more independent and harder to train. But! They can be excellent toy-sized companions for someone who wants to take their pup everywhere. Chihuahuas are known for their loyalty (to one person) and personality (usually cheerful, but sometimes sassy). They’ve been around for centuries, so can you blame them for being a little demanding?

Average Height: 19.5 inches

Average Weight: 45 pounds

Trainability: 9/10

A lovable, affectionate medium-sized dog, the English Springer Spaniel is ready to serve and play. Bred to hunt, they have excellent obedience skills and thrive working closely with humans. Long walks are a favorite activity of these long-eared sweethearts.

Average Height: 23 inches

Average Weight: 65 pounds

Trainability: 10/10

Possibly the most common service and therapy dog breed is the golden retriever. These gentle, affectionate, intelligent and obedient creatures enjoy performing commands and being included in whatever their favorite people are up to. Great with strangers and other pets, they’re pretty much an ideal companion.

Average Height: 17 inches

Average Weight: 27 pounds

Trainability: 9/10

Icelandic sheepdogs are herders and members of the “spitz” family. Nothing makes them happier than spending time with you, as they are playful, smart and hopelessly devoted to pleasing their families. As an energetic breed, these pups require plenty of mental and physical activity.

Average Height: 13.5 inches

Average Weight: 17.5 pounds

Trainability: 9/10

Hello! Another spitz. You may mistake these dogs for American Eskimo dogs—both in appearance and personality. Outgoing and goofy, the Japanese Spitz is game for just about anything. They learn easily and happily follow commands. Plus, that fluffy coat will provide soothing softness to anyone who pets them.

Average Height: 17.5 inches

Average Weight: 40 pounds

Trainability: 8/10

These extroverts were bred to work right alongside humans on the canals of Holland. The Keeshond’s ability to learn quickly, obey willingly and love openly has earned them a solid reputation as terrific therapy dogs. Surprise: They’re part of the spitz family!

Average Height: 23 inches

Average Weight: 67.5 pounds

Trainability: 10/10

Another service dog all-star is the Labrador retriever. Labs are playful, active and friendly. Meeting new people is basically a hobby (aka, they aren’t reactive and will get along well with other pets). Commands and obedience come naturally to these lovable canines.

Average Height: 8 inches

Average Weight: 6 pounds

Trainability: 7/10

While Maltese pups are intelligent enough to learn commands, they might conveniently “forget” them if you don’t use them often enough. Train early and be consistent! These dogs are incredibly sweet-natured and make excellent companions for folks looking for a lapdog or small breed.

Average Height: 10 inches

Average Weight: 7.5 pounds

Trainability: 10/10

Another small but mighty dog on our list! The Papillon is brainy and buoyant, ready to follow through on commands at a moment’s notice. They adapt to just about any environment and have a positivity about them that makes them irresistible. Bred to accompany European royalty about town, these dogs know how to mingle.

Average Height: 10 inches (toy), 12.5 inches (miniature), 20.5 inches (standard)

Average Weight: 7.5 pounds (toy), 16 pounds (miniature), 58 pounds (standard)

Trainability: 10/10

One of the smartest dog breeds, poodles are serious, athletic and dedicated beings. They’re like the brainiacs who not only excel in school but also enjoy learning and are always eager for more knowledge. Don’t let that fool you into thinking they aren’t softies, though. Cuddling is always on the table.

Average Height: 21 inches

Average Weight: 50 pounds

Trainability: 6/10

Again, you may mistake the Samoyed for an Eskie or a Japanese Spitz! These dogs, however, are calmer and slightly more independent. Training them early and firmly, will ensure they retain commands and are obedient. Often called Sammies, they were bred in the arctic by the Samoyedic people of Siberia, so living with humans is their favorite place to be.