If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Kennel Club figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
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Different breeds of dog also tend to have very different personalities – with some more likely to lash out with nips, nibbles and even bites.
Of course any dog is capable of delivering a damaging bite, while most dogs of any breed are unlikely to do any damage unless seriously provoked, but there are certain breeds who have temperaments making them less likely to be aggressive than other.
So, here are the 10 breeds of dog that are least likely to bite.

1. Boxer
Known to be particularly good and safe around children, the Boxer is one of the most patient of all dog breeds - meaning they are unlikely to lash out from frustration. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

2. Newfoundland
There's a good reason that the enormous Newfoundland breed is known as a 'nanny dog'. They may look intimidating but they are incredibly gentle, particularly with children, and the only problem you should have is stopping them from affectionately licking strangers. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

3. French Bulldog
The Bulldog's smaller continental cousin is just as easygoing, if not quite as lazy. The French Bulldog generally doesn't have an aggressive bone in its body and, even if they can occasionally be somewhat stubbon, they are highly unlikely to snap. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

4. Golden Retriever
What's true for the Labrador Retriever tends to also be true of its close cousin the Golden Retriever - including the risk of biting. An affectionate nibble is the worst you tend to expect from this loving and sociable breed. Photo: Canva/Getty Images