Trait guide

All Gentle Dog Breeds

Compare dog breeds associated with gentle tendencies and use ratings, care details, and full profiles to understand the tradeoffs.

Browse 76 matching profiles. Only breeds with photos. Extinct breeds are hidden.

Breed tendencies are a guide; individual dogs vary.

Family-friendly Apartment-friendly Low-shedding

76 breeds • Showing 12

Trait: Gentle

2 photos

American Foxhound

HoundRareUnited States

Gentle

The American Foxhound is a medium to large breed known for its speed, endurance, and friendly nature. Originally bred for trailing foxes, they require ample exercise and thrive in active households.

Family-home friendlyLighter cleanupHigh-motion routine

120 min/day

3/54/5

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Basset Bleu de Gascogne

HoundRareFrance

Gentle

The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is a rare French breed known for its affectionate nature, distinctive blue-ticked coat, and history as a hunting companion.

Family-home friendlyLighter cleanupSteady movement

Basset Hound

HoundCommonFrance

Gentle

Basset Hounds are short-legged, friendly dogs known for their exceptional scenting ability and gentle nature. They thrive on companionship and are great with children.

Family-home friendlyLower-key rhythmPatient training plan

Bedlington Terrier

TerrierUncommonEngland

Gentle

The Bedlington Terrier is a medium-sized, intelligent breed known for its unique lamb-like appearance and affectionate nature. Originally bred for hunting vermin, they are loyal companions that thrive on exercise and socialization.

Shared-wall friendlyChild-friendly fitGrooming project

Bernese Mountain Dog

WorkingCommonSwitzerland

Gentle

The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, affectionate breed known for its striking tricolor coat and gentle temperament. Originally bred as a working farm dog in Switzerland, they excel in various roles, including herding and companionship. With a calm demeanor and strong loyalty, they make excellent family pets, especially for those who can provide them with regular exercise and social interaction.

Family-home friendlyLower-key rhythmEasier first month

Black and Tan Coonhound

HoundUncommonUnited States

Gentle

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a loyal and independent breed known for its exceptional scenting abilities and strong hunting instincts. With a calm demeanor indoors and a love for outdoor activities, they make excellent companions for active families.

Child-friendly fitLighter cleanupHigh-motion routine

Bloodhound

HoundCommonBelgium/England

Gentle

The Bloodhound is a large, affectionate scent hound known for its exceptional tracking abilities. With a noble lineage and gentle temperament, they excel in search and rescue roles while being loving family companions.

Family-home friendlyLighter cleanupSteady movement

60 min/day

5/53/5

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Blue Picardy Spaniel

SportingUncommonFrance

Gentle

The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a gentle and intelligent breed known for its striking blue-grey coat. Excellent with children, this versatile hunting dog thrives on exercise and companionship.

Family-home friendlyHigh-motion routineEasier first month

Borzoi

HoundUncommonRussia

Gentle

The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a large, elegant sighthound known for its speed and grace. With a gentle temperament and moderate exercise needs, Borzois make wonderful companions for active families.

Lower-key rhythmPatient training plan

Bouvier des Ardennes

HerdingRareBelgium

Gentle

The Bouvier des Ardennes is a rare Belgian breed known for its herding abilities, loyalty, and protective nature. With a rugged appearance and a calm demeanor, they make excellent family companions and watchdogs.

Child-friendly fitHigh-motion routine

Bouvier des Flandres

HerdingUncommonBelgium

Gentle

The Bouvier des Flandres is a powerful, loyal, and intelligent breed known for its herding abilities and protective nature. Ideal for active families!

Child-friendly fitHigh-motion routine

Bracco Italiano

SportingUncommonItaly

Gentle

The Bracco Italiano is a large, affectionate hunting dog known for its athletic build, gentle demeanor, and strong bond with families. With a rich history in Italy, this breed excels in hunting and retrieving while being a loving companion.

Child-friendly fitHigh-motion routine

90 min/day

4/54/5

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How to use this gentle breed guide

Open a few breed profiles, compare energy and trainability, and check the care sections before treating a single trait as the whole story.

Family-friendly Apartment-friendly Easy to train Active & playful