Golden Retriever

If dogs had a "most likely to be everyone's best friend" superlative, the Golden Retriever would win unanimously. Developed in 19th-century Scotland to retrieve waterfowl for hunters, these gentle, intelligent dogs have evolved into one of the world's most beloved family companions, therapy dogs, and service animals.

Goldens are the eternal optimists of the dog world—they greet each day (and each person) with boundless enthusiasm and a wagging tail, maintaining their goofy, puppy-like personality well into adulthood. They need substantial daily exercise (at least an hour of vigorous activity), love water and fetching games, and will happily carry random objects in their mouths throughout the day.

Fair warning: they shed constantly, require lots of social interaction (loneliness is their kryptonite), and make terrible guard dogs because they'll probably invite burglars in for belly rubs. But for active families who want an endlessly affectionate, patient, and joyful companion who'll enthusiastically join every adventure, it's hard to beat a Golden Retriever.