4. Golden Retrievers

Probably one of the most popular breeds among families is the Golden Retriever, a type of hunting dog bred for retrieving gamebirds and waterfowl during hunting and shooting expeditions. These dogs are highly intelligent and gentle animals that love swimming and getting wet, an inborn trait that allows them to do their jobs just as well in the water as they do on land. Their excellent sense of smell makes them excellent dogs for search and rescue, and detection jobs.

Golden Retrievers are loving and friendly dogs, too friendly in fact that they do poorly as security or guard dogs. However, their mild demeanors make these adorable pooches great assistance dogs, serving as eyes and ears to people who have impaired senses.