From sensing our emotional and physical ailments and stressors to becoming our bedtime cuddle buddies, the most loyal dog breeds and their beauty stand in their light within our lives. As the common canine was the first domesticated animal in history, it’s no surprise that these magnificent animals are nicknamed “man’s best friend.”
The most loyal dog breeds of today, selectively bred over millennia, are recognized for their breed-specific physical attributes, sensory abilities, and behavior. Each is known for its home and fieldwork characteristics. Some guard precious livestock, others stand tall and proud next to police offers to protect the public, several have been trained to assist the disabled, and the nicest of boys have been given therapeutic roles. Whatever their purpose, it’s safe to say that many of us have selected our friends based on short introductions and recommendations regarding the most loyal dog breeds.
1_Akita
This independent yet powerful breed may appear whimsical or reserved in front of strangers yet affectionate with family members. As this breed is especially dominant, training should commence as early as seven to eight weeks.
2_German Shepherd
These self-assured dogs have been bred for their intelligence – able to learn simple tasks after as little as five repetitions. These beautiful and loyal dogs have an eagerness to find a purpose – to love a family, perhaps? If trained poorly, they may become overprotective.
3_Kuvasz
Historically, the kuvasz have been protectors of royalty as well as livestock for centuries. In other words, they have been bred for their independence and work ethic. Nonetheless, these dogs will become loyal to an owner once a bond of trust has been established
4_Bulldog
The American Kennel Club has noted that the bulldog is “equable and kind, resolute, and courageous (not vicious or aggressive), and demeanor should be pacifist and dignified. These attributes should be countenanced by the expression and behavior.” They are seen are family pets due to the strong connections these dogs form with children.
5_Chinese Shar-Pei
As the breed has been used as protection for centuries, the Chinese shar-pei still maintains a watchdog mentality. If trained early, the shar-pei will be an affectionate, devoted family dog that can become amenable with strangers given time.
6_Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian ridgeback is native to Africa, revered for its tracking and howling abilities, and known to even face down lions. Proud owners should be aware of this dog’s innate sense of tracking and independence.
7_Whippet
Before you even meet the dog, the “whippet” name is synonymous with “streamlined grace.” This gentle and amiable animal is known as the “poor man’s racehorse.” If you’re looking for a workout friend, you’ve found him.
8_Shikoku
Awaiting any command from a trusted master, the Shikoku is known for its energy and alertness. These dogs are avid hunters and have keen senses
9_Golden Retriever
For their loving, devoted, and beautiful coats, the golden retriever is one of the country’s favorite breeds. If not working in the field, these dogs will enjoy a family with a carefree nature.
10_Labrador Retriever
Not to be outdone by its golden brethren, the friendly and outgoing Labrador retriever is America’s most beloved dog. For families seeking a larger dog, this highly energetic animal will bring enough love to the entire family.
11_Great Dane
As males can reach up to 175 pounds, the great dane may not be the perfect family dog in smaller spaces. If given the room, however, this dane will provide its family with a large amount of patience and dependability.
12_Basset Hound
Given his physical stature, it’s not surprising to learn that the basset hound is a low-key but charming breed. While stubborn, they’re still considered a favorite breed around the world.
13_St. Bernard
With roots in the Swiss Alps, St. Bernard is loved worldwide. Even at their massive size, ~150 pounds, they’re gentle with small children, watchful, and playfully charming.
14_Irish Wolfhound
In times past, the Irish wolfhound was viewed as a big-game hunter, even capable of combating single wolves. Today, this calm and dignified breed is known for being agreeable and peaceful pets.
15_Welsh corgi
Though bred for controlling cattle, this smart and affectionate breed also became known for its sweet and endearing face. Work or not, the Welsh corgi can easily become a cherished friend.
16_Beagle
Whether you use a beagle’s inbred hunting abilities, they love company. They were bred to act as a pack during hunting expeditions. The beagle is curious and merry in its happy-go-lucky demeanor.
17_Rottweiler
With unmistakable muscles, the rottweiler is known for its aloofness outside of the home but as a local guardian inside. This strong protector will be a gentle addition to any family.
18_English Mastiff
Despite its large and imposing looks, the mastiff is a generally good-natured, courageous, and docile beast. This heavy-boned yet formidable dog will protect family members from threats with its tremendous strength.
19_Australian Shepherd
“Aussies” are well known for being a very loyal breed. They naturally take ownership of their “herd” and that often means their family. They stay with their people and continuously circle back around them while walking to ensure everyone is walking in the same direction. They’re dependable and do very well when given a task.
20_French Bulldog
The French bulldog is easily recognized for its whimsical bat ears and playful, alert nature. This small breed is a great match for those that call the city home. The French bulldog is adaptable, smart, and largely irresistible
21_Coton De Tulear
The Coton De Tulear breed is also known as the “Royal Dog of Madagascar.” This dog will follow a trusted owner around the home and charm with its happy-go-lucky play style. If you would like a dog that will make you laugh, take a deep look at the Coton De Tulear.
22_Schnauzer
The spirited schnauzer comes from a line of farm dogs in Germany. This smart and strong-willed canine is still as reliable as they come. Be sure to enjoy their facial hair.
23_Cocker Spaniel
Large, expressive eyes and gentle personalities bring the impish cocker spaniel breed to life. While originally bred for hunting, they now exist as small, huge-hearted companions.
24_Boxer
“His intelligence and willing tractability, his modesty and cleanliness make him a highly desirable family dog and cheerful companion. He is the soul of honesty and loyalty, and is never false or treacherous even in his old age.” – 1938 AKC Boxer Breed Standard.
25_Brittany
The Brittany, known on both sides of the pond, is a stylishly, upbeat gun dog. These intelligent and tireless dogs require much exercise from those that respect both their play and work-minded attitude.
The 26_Great Pyrenees
This beautiful breed, realized by its long, thick coat, was originally served as livestock guardians. They may act mellow, but these clam and patient animals will keep watch over their families – up in snow-tipped mountains or down in the living room.
27_Dachshund
Lovingly called the “Weiner Dog” for its low and long silhouette, the Dachshund is loved for its natural form factor. Even better, this spunky and alert canine is full of energy. You can’t go wrong letting this little guy into your home.
28_Collie
There’s a reason that television’s legendary loyal dog Lassie was a collie. According to Bill Lambert, head of health and welfare at the official kennel club of the U.K., “Much like the breed’s fictional representation, the breed is a great companion dog, happy and active as well as being good with children and other dogs.”
29_Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire terriers, or Yorkies, pack a ton of loyalty into their relatively small packages. They quickly get very attached to their owners and in turn become skeptical of and slightly hostile towards strangers.
30_American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier, nicknamed Am Staffs for short are generally friendly, alert, and obedient. Their reputation as loyal guard dogs is attributable to their muscled body, and adeptness for physical activity including swimming and jogging.
32_Doberman Pinscher
Doberman pinschers have a reputation for being mean and aggressive, however much of that is due to their naturally protective nature and bad breeding. A normally trained Doberman are loyal and loving… unless their owners are threatened.
33_Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are well-known for being strongly committed to a singular owner. Their loyalty is so well-known that it’s a part of folklore. According to some Spanish-speaking traditions, they’re the breed that “guides” their human to heaven.
34_English Cocker Spaniel
English Cocker Spaniels are loyal and friendly to humans that, according to most experts, they don’t make good guard dogs because – on the whole – they’re generally not aggressive enough.
35_Newfoundland
Viewers familiar with Peter Pan already know that Newfoundland has a reputation for being nanny dogs. Dogtime.com goes on to further explain that “They’re happiest when they’re with their families, and need lots of exercise and training to help satisfy their curiosity and intelligence.”
36_Giant Schnauzer
Giant schnauzers are deeply loyal to their families and instinctively territorial, to the point that they have a reputation for being inherently mean to those they don’t know. However, to their owners, they’re incredibly loyal and protective.
