10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (2024)

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These pups are great for families

By Lisa Joyner
10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (1)

Labrador Retrievers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Newfoundlands are among the safest dog breeds that are least likely to bite, new research has found.

    While any dog can nip, these breeds are known for their particularly sweet-tempered spirit as long as they are treated right. According to The Scotsman, French Bulldogs are unlikely to snap at humans due to their calming nature, meanwhile the Labrador Retriever is renowned for its friendly and loving personality.

    "The Labrador certainly seems to be man's best friend in this country, and has reigned for decades as 'top dog' for good reason," Bill Lambert, Senior Health and Welfare Manager at The Kennel Club, previously told Country Living. "As a firm family favourite, they generally have a fantastic and steady temperament – they are loving and full of personality, great with kids, intelligent and eager to please making them easy to train."

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (3)

    Other pups that are unlikely to bite include Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Bernese Mountain Dogs and Beagles — an affectionate breed that makes them suitable for various owners.

    It's important to remember that even some of the most well-behaved dogs can occasionally bite people. According to the Dogs Trust, some of the most common reasons a dog may exhibit aggression towards someone include feeling fearful or frustrated, being defensive, guarding others or intimidation. Paying close attention to your dog's behaviour will help you spot when things are leading to aggression.

    On that note, take a look at the full list below...

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite

    1. French Bulldog
    2. Labrador Retriever
    3. Boxer
    4. Golden Retriever
    5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
    6. Bernese Mountain Dog
    7. Newfoundland
    8. Whippet
    9. Bulldog
    10. Beagle
    24 indestructible dog toys for aggressive chewers

    Great For Chewing — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (5)

    KONG - Tires - Durable Rubber Chew Toy and Treat Dispenser for Power Chewers - For Medium/Large Dogs

    This tyre-shaped chew toy has been made from durable rubber, so it's perfect for determined chewers. It also gives owners the chance to fill the inside with tasty treats, too. Available in two sizes for you to choose the best for your breed.

    READ MORE: 6 dog games great for training and bonding

    Ring Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    Pet Head Kong Ring Dog Toy

    Built for durability, this bright red dog toy will offer your four-legged friend mental and physical stimulation. Starting from £9, it's a real steal buy.

    Rope Ring Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    Beco Pets Hemp Rope Jungle Ring Tough Dog Toy

    Made from hemp and recycled cotton, this rope ring's tough fibres work to clean your pup's teeth while also being a whole lot of fun to play with.

    Bear Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    KONG Wild Knots Bear

    Soft yet durable, this cute grey bear has minimal stuffing and an internal knotted rope skeleton.

    One of the toughest dog balls on the market, this sweet 'planet' design has been made with award-winning Orbee Tuff material. Certain to provide hours of fun...

    Great For Swimmers — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    RUFFWEAR Ruffwear Lunker

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    Ideal for dogs who love to swim, this floating fabric toy has a handle and is designed with abrasion-resistant materials for increased durability. Make sure not to forget it on your next beach trip.

    Ideal For The Water — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (11)

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (12)

    Planet Dog Orbee-Tuff Squeak

    This is no ordinary ball: made with aggressive chewers in mind, it's perfect for pups who need something firm to hold onto. It is 100% non-toxic, has a fun squeak sound and is infused with a natural mint oil.

    Best For Snack Time — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    Pet-Fun Medium Mango - Safe Fun Durable Rubber Dog Chew Toy for Boredom, Virtually Indestructible Treat Dispenser, Long-Lasting Slow Feeder, Tough Strong Teething Toy for Medium/Small Dogs

    This durable rubber mango toy — which can be filled with dog treats — is sure to provide hours of chewing fun. Perfect for small and medium dog breeds.

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    Good Boy Squeaky Veg Dog Toy

    Keep your dog entertained for hours with this purse-friendly squeaky toy shaped like a carrot.

    Chew Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    Carllg Dog Chew Toys for Aggressive Chewers

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    Give your dog one of their five a day with this sweetcorn chew toy. It has been designed especially for aggressive chewers and is suitable to small, medium, and large dogs in any breeds. We think dogs will love its small sound function.

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    KONG Kong Airdog® Squeaker Football Dog Toy

    Let the fun commence with this long-lasting squeaker football dog toy. Perfect for keeping your dog entertained in the garden.

    Wheel Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    This strong wheel dog toy is perfect for aggressive pulling and tugging. The specially developed soft rubber design helps to clean their teeth and massage their gums, while its engaging shape will provide hours of fun.

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    GoodWood Chewable Stick Coffee Tree Wood Small

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    This durable wooden stick is great for dogs who love to chew regularly. While keeping your dog occupied for hours, it's also great for their dental hygiene.

    Best Squeaking Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (19)

    KONG Kong Airdog® Squeaker Donut Dog Toy

    Built to last, this fun donut dog toy has been made from high-quality material and will not wear down dogs' teeth.

    Fun Crab Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (20)

    Beco Pets Rough & Tough Crab Recycled Polyester Dog Toy

    With a mixture of strong ropes and a soft middle section, this is a great option for dogs who love to play.

    Perfect For Chewers — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (21)

    Pet Qwerks REAL BACON Infused BarkBone

    This durable Bark Bone is infused with real bacon and is perfect for even the toughest chewers. Its non-toxic and non-allergenic materials mean its safe for your pup to enjoy.

    Ideal For Playing Fetch — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

    10 safe dog breeds that are least likely to bite, nip and snap (22)

    KONG Interactive Fetch Dog Toy with Tennis Ball

    This bright orange fetch toy is ideal for interactive fun. It has a squeaker and practical handle for throwing at your pup. We're certain they'll love this!

    Bone Chew Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    TastyBone Roast Chicken Knotted Bone Dog Chew Toy

    This knotted dog bone, complete with a tasty chicken flavour, will help to prevent boredom. Tested to withstand aggressive chewing, it ensures the gums and teeth of your dog stay healthy with every bite.

    Bone — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    Nylabone Dura Chew Plus, Chicken, Medium

    This chew toy encourages healthy, non-destructive chewing habits with dogs.

    Great For Puppies — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    Nylabone Gentle Puppy Dog Teething Bone

    Great for young puppies, this gentle bone will help teething pups who have not yet formed any adult teeth.

    Pineapple Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    Pet-Fun Large Indestructible Pineapple -

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    This durable pineapple toy has been built to last, helping to solve destructive chewing, teething, dental health, boredom, separation anxiety, training, and exercise.

    Great For Heavy Chewers — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    KONG KONG - Jump'N Jack - Durable Rubber Dog Toy

    We love this unique toy, which is great for chew sessions and endless fun. Top tip: fill with peanut butter to extend playtime and satisfy chewing instincts.

    Onion Toy — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    Petface Petface Latex Onion Soft Chew Dog Toy, Large

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    In a blush pink, this large onion toy is surprisingly durable. Best of all, it's just over £4.

    Rubber Frisbee — Best Indestructible Chew Toys

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    KONG - Extreme Flyer - Durable Rubber

    Looking for a durable rubber frisbee? Well, look no further, as this red style from KONG is perfect for keeping your four-legged friends fit and healthy.

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