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There’s something about the holidays—twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and an abundance of snacks—that makes everything feel a little warmer and brighter. And for some lucky families, that holiday magic comes with four legs and a wagging tail. Certain dog breeds seem like they were made for the season. They don’t just tolerate the decorations, loud uncles, and gift wrap explosions—they thrive in it. Calm with kids, welcoming with guests, and always ready with a perfectly timed cuddle, these dogs add joy to every jingling, cookie-filled moment.
Golden Retriever
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Golden Retrievers are basically furry holiday cheer wrapped in sunshine. They love being part of the family action and never miss a moment, especially if there’s food, games, or a present to sniff. These dogs are endlessly patient with kids, friendly to guests, and photogenic enough to end up on your family’s greeting card. Whether it’s Thanksgiving turkey time or a snowball fight in December, Goldens are always wagging, always smiling, and always in the center of the fun.
Labrador Retriever
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Labrador Retrievers are holiday MVPs—joyful, loyal, and always down for group activities. They’re gentle with children, excited by visitors, and often found helping with the dishes (read: licking them clean). Their calm temperament makes them excellent companions during busy family gatherings, and their enthusiasm means they’ll play fetch until the tree lights go out. A Lab makes every celebration feel like their favorite day ever—and it usually is.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Cavaliers are the ultimate lapdogs, making them ideal for long, lazy holiday mornings. These sweet-natured pups are gentle, affectionate, and comfortable with all ages, from toddlers to grandma. They’ll happily sit through your family movie marathon or nap under the dinner table as the festivities roll on. Small in size but huge in heart, they bring a soothing presence to the hustle and bustle of holiday life.
Boxer
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Boxers are goofy, affectionate, and absolutely thrilled to be included in everything. They love kids, play well with visitors, and aren’t shy about joining in on the excitement. Expect them to try to “help” unwrap presents, photobomb your holiday selfies, and do laps around the living room when guests arrive. Their expressive faces and joyful personalities can make even a hectic family gathering feel like a party planned just for them.
Bernese Mountain Dog
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Bernese Mountain Dogs were basically built for cozy winter holidays. With their thick fur, gentle eyes, and calm demeanor, they’re like living teddy bears with impeccable manners. These dogs are affectionate with everyone, especially kids, and they’re happiest when they’re included in family activities—even if it’s just lying nearby while the grown-ups talk. They’re also excellent snow buddies, so if your holidays include flurries, a Berner will be your sled-dog soulmate.
Beagle
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Beagles are merry little dogs with big hearts. They love to be where the people are and often act like the self-appointed holiday host, sniffing everyone’s bags and wagging their way from lap to lap. They’re especially great with kids and know how to work a room for pets and dropped snacks. If your family holidays involve backyard games, storytelling, and post-dinner walks, a Beagle will be right there, nose to the ground and tail in the air.
Newfoundland
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Newfoundlands are sweet, gentle giants that make any family gathering feel safe and snug. These dogs adore children, tolerate chaos like pros, and bring an almost magical sense of calm to noisy events. They’re known to be incredibly patient, even if little hands are tugging at their ears or using them as a pillow during a nap. Holidays with a Newfie feel like a warm hug from a dog that thinks love is a full-time job.
Cocker Spaniel
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Cocker Spaniels bring a classic charm to family life, and the holidays are their time to shine. These affectionate, gentle dogs are great with kids and love being part of the family festivities. They’re small enough to curl up on the couch, but active enough to join in outdoor fun too. Cocker Spaniels are also incredibly photogenic, which makes them perfect for those family photos you’ll cherish (and laugh at) for years.
Australian Shepherd
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Australian Shepherds are smart, energetic, and surprisingly cuddly. They’re happiest when they’re part of the pack—whether that means herding the kids during a snowball fight or lying quietly next to you during gift-wrapping. Aussies thrive on interaction and are wonderful with kids, making them great for large, lively households. Bonus: If someone drops a meatball, they’ll have it cleaned up in milliseconds.
Pug
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Pugs are tiny comedians with big personalities and even bigger hearts. They love being around people and have no problem being passed from lap to lap during a holiday gathering. Pugs are sociable, goofy, and great with children, often becoming the center of attention without even trying. Their snorts, snuggles, and unexpected zoomies bring an extra dose of joy to any celebration.
Shetland Sheepdog
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Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are graceful, affectionate, and deeply attached to their families. They love routine, harmony, and being part of every gathering. While they’re not as boisterous as some other breeds, they quietly follow the festivities with alert eyes and wagging tails. A Sheltie might not crash the party, but they’ll be watching every moment like your personal holiday security detail (in the most loving way possible).
The Dogs Who Think Every Day Is A Holiday (and They’re Not Wrong)
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With these holiday-loving breeds in your home, your carefully planned celebration might quickly transform into a dog-centric extravaganza—and honestly, it’s a serious upgrade. They’ll greet your guests with tail wags and kisses, steal hearts (and possibly a dinner roll or two), and claim a prime spot in every family photo like the furry VIP they are. These pups thrive in the joyful chaos, spreading warmth, laughter, and a little extra fur on your ugly holiday sweater. With them around, every gathering becomes a little merrier—and a whole lot furrier.
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