Dog trainer names ‘friendliest dog on the planet' — not for first-time owners (2025)

A dog trainer has named the 'friendliest' breed of dog - but it's not for everyone (Image: Getty)

A dog trainer has revealed what they believe is the "friendliest dog on the planet". Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, with different temperaments, preferences and ideal home set-ups.

While some breeds thrive off human interaction, others are quieter around people they don't know well. If you're looking for an ultra-friendly dog that loves meeting new people and spending time with all the family, Adam Spivey, director and head trainer at Southend Dog Training, has just the breed in mind. Posting to their 2.3 million TikTok followers, the expert said: "Friendliest dog on the planet by a landslide with people and children is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.

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Staffies are known for being great family dogs (Image: Getty)

"But here's why I do not recommend them for first-time owners. Despite being incredibly tolerant, patient and gentle around children, despite having very little stranger danger, they can be somewhat combative with other dogs and won't back down when they're challenged.

"So if you have dreams and aspirations of taking a dog to a dog park on a daily basis and letting it run around, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier definitely isn't the best option for this."

He continued, adding: "Yes, there are exceptions to the rule, but to own a Staffordshire Bull Terrier does come with a certain level of responsibility."

According to the PDSA, Staffordshire Bull Terriers are "lively and energetic dogs who love company and cuddles from their owner (once they've tired themselves out). They love to be at the centre of anything going on in the home."

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Echoing the dog trainer's comments, they explained that Staffies are very people-orientated dogs who "are likely to want to say hello to everyone out and about".

They highlighted that the breed can be "strong-willed at times", so first-time owners or those who are new to the breed should consider taking their pup along to training classes and working on their recall from a young age.

Those who want a Staffie should be prepared to invest time in proper training and socialisation.

Adam concluded: "It is one of the best family dogs, if not the best family dog, on the planet. I have, in 10 years working with dogs, never met a dog that's capable of going through so much trauma and still finding joy in new people."