Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Different breeds of dog also tend to have very different personalities – with some dogs wary of strangers and happiest staying at home with their family.
Others are happy to get on with everybody – both human and canine – and thrive on meeting new people and making new friends.
Here are the 12 most naturally sociable breeds of dog.
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1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the UK for good reason - it has a wonderfully sociable temperament. In fact, a potential problem with Labradors is that they love people too much, finding it difficult to keep their distance if somebody is scared of dogs - or if other dogs are less than friendly. | AFP via Getty Images
2. Boxer
The Boxer may be built like a gym enthusiast, but they behave like excited toddlers when meeting somebody new - canine or human. Boxers adore people so enthusiastically they occasionally forget to put the brakes on, so make sure you brace yourself for their welcome. | Getty Images
3. Samoyed
The Samoyed is a breed traditionally used in Siberia to herd animals. Rare in the UK, they have a deep love of human companionship and excitably greet strangers into their home - making for very poor guard dogs. | Getty Images
4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Staffies often believe they’re tiny lapdogs despite being made of pretty much pure muscle. Hugely affectionate and clownishly sociable, they can usually win over even those sceptical about the merits of dogs. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken