15 Dog Breeds That Thrive in Pairs (And 10 That Prefer Being the Only Pet in the House)

Some dogs love having a buddy to chase, wrestle, and nap with. Others? Not so much. While certain breeds thrive in social environments and practically demand a doggy partner-in-crime, others prefer ruling the roost all by themselves.

Whether you’re considering adding a second pup or choosing your first, it’s important to know which breeds are happiest in pairs—and which ones will resent the intrusion.

From super-social retrievers to fiercely independent guardians, we’ve rounded up the dog breeds most likely to bond with a canine companion—and those that would rather have you all to themselves.

Here’s your guide to 15 breeds that thrive in pairs and 10 that do best flying solo, so you can create the perfect home dynamic for your next four-legged family member.

1. Beagle

Beagles are pack animals by nature. Originally bred to hunt in groups, they’re happiest when surrounded by fellow canines. Their boundless energy and curiosity mean they’re always looking for a buddy to explore with—whether it’s the backyard or a trail.

While they adore human companionship, a second dog often prevents boredom and destructive behavior when left alone. Beagles tend to communicate through barks and howls, and having a dog friend nearby can help them feel less anxious.

They’re also known to form tight bonds with their doggy siblings, often curling up together or engaging in extended play. For a Beagle, being part of a duo (or even a trio) just feels right—it’s in their DNA to thrive as part of a team.

2. Border Collie

Border Collies are brilliant, intense, and bursting with energy. They excel in working alongside other dogs and often perform better in pairs—especially when there’s a job to be done or a game to win.

Their mental sharpness means they need constant stimulation, and another dog can be the perfect outlet for that never-ending drive. A second pup becomes a playmate, a co-worker, and even a calming influence when needed.

They often mirror the behavior of their companion, learning routines and boundaries faster with a buddy to model from. While they still crave human interaction, Border Collies flourish when they have a four-legged partner to share the daily workload—and the fun.

3. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are the social butterflies of the dog world. Gentle, eager to please, and famously friendly, they bond quickly with other dogs and genuinely enjoy shared company—especially with another retriever or a similarly playful breed.

They’re emotionally intelligent and often help guide younger or more timid dogs through new experiences. In homes with two Goldens, you’ll find mutual grooming, side-by-side naps, and synchronized tail wags that melt your heart.

These dogs are so people-oriented that they can struggle with separation anxiety. But when they’ve got a buddy, they relax more easily and stay content while you’re away. For a Golden, a doggy sibling isn’t just a companion—it’s part of the pack they live for.

4. Labrador Retriever

Labs are known for their playful energy, gentle nature, and easy-going attitude, making them a dream in multi-dog households. They’re naturally friendly and non-confrontational, getting along with just about any dog they meet.

Having a second pup gives them an outlet for their exuberance—especially if that pup can match their zoomie sessions in the backyard. Labs can be big goofballs, and it’s even more entertaining when they have someone to clown around with.

Their adaptable temperament helps avoid jealousy or dominance issues. Instead, they often become nurturing, even protective of their fellow canine. For a Lab, life is just more fun when it’s shared with a partner in slobbery crime.

5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These sweet, gentle lapdogs crave companionship, whether it’s human or canine. While they’re wonderfully affectionate with their people, they often bond just as closely with another dog—especially one of their own breed.

Cavaliers don’t like being alone. When they have a doggy friend, they’re more emotionally balanced and less prone to anxiety or clingy behaviors. Two Cavaliers will often nap touching, follow each other around, and seek comfort in one another.

Their quiet and agreeable nature makes them unlikely to fight or dominate. Instead, they thrive in harmony, offering warmth and affection without drama. If you want a peaceful, loving duo, a pair of Cavaliers is hard to beat.

6. Siberian Husky

Huskies were bred to work in teams pulling sleds across frozen terrain, so being part of a group is second nature to them. They rely on social dynamics, communication, and cooperation—which makes them ideal candidates for multi-dog homes.

A solo Husky can become bored or destructive, especially without an outlet for their energy. But when they’ve got a buddy, they’re more likely to engage in healthy play and exercise rather than chewing your shoes.

Huskies also “talk” a lot, and another dog keeps the conversation going when humans aren’t around. They play rough but fair, and they bond fast with other high-energy dogs who can keep up with their wild side.

7. Australian Shepherd

Aussies are smart, busy, and bred for teamwork. Whether herding livestock or herding the other pets in the house, they’re happiest when they have a job—and a partner—to share it with.

Their brains never stop ticking, and a second dog provides a playmate, co-worker, and distraction when you’re not available. Two Aussies will often invent games together, chase each other endlessly, or lie side by side in perfect sync.

They’re also deeply affectionate and protective of those they bond with. In pairs, they tend to be more confident and less likely to act out from boredom or frustration. For these whip-smart dogs, companionship is key to contentment.

8. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds may look sleepy, but they’re surprisingly social dogs. With their pack-hunting roots and laid-back personalities, they bond easily with other dogs—especially ones that match their mellow energy.

These floppy-eared charmers enjoy company during long naps and gentle exploration. They’re not high-strung or territorial, which helps them live peacefully with canine companions, whether it’s one or a few.

A second dog helps keep them engaged and active, especially if the buddy encourages them to move around more. Bassets don’t like being left alone for too long, so a fellow hound can make their day far more enriching—and prevent those mournful howls.

9. Great Dane

Despite their imposing size, Great Danes are gentle giants with soft hearts. They often form strong bonds with other dogs and feel more secure when they’re part of a social unit—even if that unit includes a much smaller breed.

Danes can get lonely and anxious if left alone for long stretches. A second dog helps fill the emotional gap and keeps them calmer and more balanced throughout the day. They’re surprisingly tolerant and affectionate toward their companions.

Having a buddy also encourages more physical activity and play, which is essential for this big breed. When two Danes bond, it’s a truly heartwarming sight—and a whole lot of dog love in one room.

10. Pomeranian

Don’t let the fluff and sass fool you—Pomeranians often adore having a doggy friend around, especially one that matches their energy and drama. These little extroverts thrive on attention and love entertaining a fellow pup just as much as their humans.

When left alone, Poms can become clingy or anxious, but with a friend, they stay stimulated and less needy. They often form tightly knit duos that follow each other, groom one another, and play nonstop.

Their big personalities make them surprisingly adaptable in multi-dog households. Two Pomeranians will often act like a comedy duo, feeding off each other’s quirks and antics in the most delightful way.

11. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russells are energetic firecrackers with big brains and even bigger personalities. They’re natural-born explorers who love to chase, dig, and run—and they do all of it better with a partner in crime.

These little dynamos can become destructive if they’re under-stimulated or left alone too long. But pair them with another spirited pup, and they’ll entertain each other for hours with games, wrestling matches, and barking competitions.

They do best with another dog who can match their energy and isn’t easily intimidated. While their high drive can be a challenge, having a second dog gives them a positive outlet and helps prevent behavioral issues.

12. Miniature Schnauzer

Mini Schnauzers are spirited, sociable, and full of charm. They enjoy being part of a team—whether it’s their human family or a canine buddy—and often do better emotionally and behaviorally when paired with another dog.

These dogs are natural watchdogs and like to alert you to everything. Having another dog in the house not only doubles the warning system but also gives them a built-in buddy to share the responsibility.

They can be clingy or anxious when left alone, but a fellow pup helps ease separation stress. In pairs, they’re often calmer, more playful, and even more affectionate. For a breed that thrives on structure and companionship, two is definitely better than one.

13. Havanese

The Havanese is the ultimate lapdog—with a social twist. These happy, fluffy companions are known for bonding deeply not just with humans, but also with fellow pets. They’re gentle, non-aggressive, and crave company.

While they do fine solo with enough attention, they absolutely flourish when they have a furry friend to shadow around the house. Two Havanese together will often groom each other, nap together, and play gentle games indoors.

They’re emotionally intuitive and often offer comfort to each other when one is anxious or uncertain. In multi-dog households, they bring calm, warmth, and a sweet, cuddly balance that makes them ideal in pairs.

14. Samoyed

Samoyeds are smiley, fluffy extroverts who light up every room—and they love having a sidekick to share their joy with. Originally bred to work in groups and sleep alongside humans or other dogs, they’re incredibly social by nature.

Without company, Samoyeds can grow bored, vocal, or even destructive. But when they’ve got a buddy, especially one who loves to play or snuggle, their world is instantly better.

Their affectionate and friendly demeanor makes them easy to pair with other dogs, even those outside their breed. Whether they’re wrestling in the yard or curling up in a cuddle puddle, Samoyeds just shine in pairs.

15. Papillon

Tiny but mighty, Papillons are surprisingly outgoing and adaptable. Their curious nature makes them eager explorers—and that spirit really comes alive when they have a canine companion to share their adventures with.

Though deeply attached to their humans, Papillons also enjoy bonding with other dogs, especially if they’ve been socialized early. Their agility and energy pair well with dogs of similar size and enthusiasm.

Papillons are prone to anxiety if left alone too often, but another pup helps soothe their nerves and keeps them mentally engaged. Whether they’re chasing butterflies or each other, Papillons are happiest with a playmate by their side.

While some dogs are happiest with a furry sidekick, others prefer having all the love, space, and attention to themselves—no sharing required. We’re going to talk about those dogs next.

16. Chow Chow

Chow Chows are dignified, independent, and fiercely loyal—but they often prefer their own space. Known for their cat-like demeanor, these fluffy lions form deep bonds with their humans while remaining aloof or even standoffish with other animals.

Introducing a second dog can be tricky. Chows aren’t fans of sharing attention or resources, and they tend to be territorial. They may tolerate another pet if raised together from a young age, but many thrive as solo companions.

They’re happiest in quiet households where they can relax without interruption. For Chow owners, the reward is a devoted, calm, and noble dog—but one who’d rather not share the throne.

17. Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus march to the beat of their own drum. Independent and intelligent, they often view other dogs as competition rather than companions. Their strong-willed nature means they like things done on their terms—including interactions with fellow pets.

While they might tolerate another dog, they rarely seek out play or affection from their canine housemates. In fact, many Shibas get stressed or combative when forced to share their space, especially with pushy or dominant breeds.

They bond deeply with their humans but prefer a peaceful, solo environment. For people seeking a loyal, low-maintenance companion, the Shiba is perfect—as long as it’s an only-dog kind of home.

18. Akita

Akitas are powerful protectors who often do best when they’re the center of your attention. While they’re deeply devoted to their human families, they can be dominant and aloof with other animals—especially dogs of the same sex.

Their strong territorial instincts and no-nonsense attitude make multi-dog households a challenge. Unless socialized exceptionally well from puppyhood, Akitas are better off as the sole furry resident.

They’re not aggressive without cause, but they don’t back down either. For homes with no other pets, they become incredibly loyal, calm, and affectionate companions. But throw another dog into the mix, and tension often follows.

19. Alaskan Malamute

Despite being bred for teamwork, Malamutes aren’t always eager to share their home turf. These dogs are confident, headstrong, and sometimes stubborn. In packs, hierarchy matters—and Malamutes often want the top spot.

They can live peacefully with other dogs in some cases, but it takes careful training and constant management. Many owners report tension or rivalry, especially between dogs of the same sex or similar size.

Malamutes love their humans and thrive when they don’t have to compete for affection or resources. They’re best suited to homes where they can be the star of the show—and won’t have to share the spotlight.

20. Basenji

The Basenji is an independent spirit wrapped in a sleek, silent frame. Often dubbed the “barkless dog,” they’re not bark-free when it comes to asserting dominance or expressing frustration around other pets.

They don’t usually seek out the company of other dogs and can be aloof or intolerant, especially in close quarters. This breed bonds tightly with their human but doesn’t always appreciate another four-legged presence in their space.

Their stubbornness and strong prey drive can make them poor candidates for multi-pet homes. If you want a quiet, clever companion who keeps to themselves—and prefers it that way—the Basenji fits the bill.

21. Dachshund

Dachshunds are bold, loyal, and full of personality—but they don’t always play nice with others. Bred for hunting alone and going after burrow-dwelling prey, they often carry a strong territorial streak and a “mine, mine, mine” mentality.

While they can be sweet with familiar pets, many Dachshunds are possessive of their toys, food, and favorite humans. They may nip or growl when they feel crowded or challenged, especially if another pet tries to take their spot on the couch.

With consistent socialization, some can adjust—but most Doxies shine brightest when they’re the only star of the show.

22. Shar Pei

With their signature wrinkles and serious expression, Shar Peis are quiet, loyal, and extremely devoted to their family. But their strong guarding instincts and natural aloofness often make them wary of other pets—especially unfamiliar dogs.

They’re not overly playful or affectionate toward other animals and may view fellow dogs as threats rather than friends. While early socialization can help, Shar Peis typically prefer a calm, stable environment where they don’t have to compete.

They bond deeply with their people and thrive in peaceful one-dog households. For those who appreciate a watchful, low-drama companion, a solo Shar Pei can be a perfect match.

23. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos were once monastery sentinels, and that ancient guarding instinct is still alive and well. These tiny but fierce watchdogs are independent thinkers who like things quiet, orderly, and all about them.

While not usually aggressive, they can be possessive of their space, people, and belongings. Lhasas may tolerate another dog but rarely seek companionship—and can grow annoyed with boisterous or clingy pets.

They’re best suited to adult-only or low-activity homes where they don’t feel threatened or crowded. A solo Lhasa thrives when they have a loyal human to dote on them and no one else to steal the spotlight.

24. Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan Mastiffs are calm, imposing, and incredibly loyal—but they’re not known for their social skills with other dogs. Bred to guard flocks and property alone, they often see other animals as unnecessary intrusions rather than companions.

They can be dominant and territorial, especially in their own space. Multi-dog households require a strong, experienced owner, early training, and constant supervision to keep the peace.

These majestic protectors are much more at ease when they’re the sole guardian of their domain. If you want a fiercely devoted companion who takes loyalty to heart, a Tibetan Mastiff as your one-and-only is a powerful choice.

25. Cane Corso

The Cane Corso is confident, commanding, and bred to protect—and that protector mindset doesn’t always play well with others. They tend to be wary of unfamiliar dogs and can become territorial when another pet enters their space.

Though affectionate with their people, they don’t often crave dog-to-dog interaction. Adding a second pup may spark jealousy, dominance issues, or anxiety in this already serious breed.

With experienced handling and firm leadership, some Corsi can adjust to living with other dogs, but many simply prefer to be solo. In a one-dog household, their loyalty and devotion shine at full strength.