What dog breed is not loyal?
12 Most Loyal Dog Breeds (with Pictures)
As pack animals, all dogs have an inborn sense of loyalty because they feel the need for companionship, love, security, and friendship. Since they share these needs with humans, dogs have cemented their place as man’s best friend over the years.
However, some dogs never seem to care or know who feeds them, bathes, or walks them and may end up loving anybody that crosses their paths. But not the breeds listed here.
You are about to explore dog breeds with stronger loyalty instincts, who’ll pick you out of a crowd, and their stories of they’ve protected, saved, or stuck by their owners.
The 12 Most Loyal Dog Breeds
1. Labrador Retriever
According to the American Kennel Club, a Labrador Retriever is a listener, a keeper, a lover, and a devoted one. This is the reason it has topped the list of the most popular dog breeds since 1991.
Initially bred to be loyal pups and for retrieval purposes, Labs can naturally bond with humans and develop a stronger connection with particular family members. Their loyalty is unshaken, and they are not timid about protecting the people they love.
Labs are renowned for their happy dispositions, boundless energy, intelligence, calmness, loyalty, and ease with kids. They are excellent family companions and wouldn’t mind stepping in to save their owners from difficult situations.
2. The Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees were initially herding dogs, and this function shaped their loyal guardianship traits and protective instincts. The Appalachian Great Pyrenees Rescue concludes that this large, densely coated, and powerful dogs are inherent guard dogs committed to protecting sheep, livestock, goats, children, and their favorite humans against any real or imaginary predator.
They have unmatched intelligence, a muscular build, and an exquisite physique that exudes elegance and majesty. The Great Pyrenees is a man’s friend, sensitive, affectionate, hardworking, and independent.
He likes to stay active, and just like other herding breeds, be sure to provide him lots of physical and mental stimulation. Pyrs, as they are also known, are hard-core barkers, though!
3. Akita
Akitas, Japanese national treasures, are large, dignified dogs that enjoy close family companionship and stay aloof to strangers. These dogs are alert, courageous, and fiercely loyal to their family members.
Initially used as working breeds, Akita dog breeds can be formidable guard dogs as well. Puppy Akitas are all cuddles and play and resemble bears.
An Akita dog breed known as Hachiko remains Japan’s symbol of loyalty and love, and it’s the world’s most loyal dog breed. The legendary Hachiko displayed commitment by accompanying his owner to the train station daily.
And when the owner passed on, the dog held a vigil at the train station every day for ten years, waiting for him to come back before dying later in 1935. Who wouldn’t want such loyalty?
4. Rough Collie
A list without a Collie, no way! The roughly long-haired Collie is a herding dog breed with Scottish origins. The AKC suggests that Collies have gained a reputation as loyal and devoted pups, with a history of protecting their owners.
This trait, and the fact that they are sensitive, intelligent, and can foresee their owner’s needs, makes them excellent working and therapy dogs, even though they also love staying at home with their families.
Rough Collies are good-natured, friendly, but suspicious to strangers.
5. German Shepherd
You must have seen this one coming, right? While you may know German Shepherds as intimidating hounds, these dogs are loyal to their pack and anyone they love.
The AKC describes German Shepherds as ‘gentle, caring, and loving towards their humans, noting that they’d love nothing more than their owner’s company.
These pups are so active, intelligent, and employable that they remain a favorite for the military and the police force or service dogs to their families. Besides being loyal pups, German Shepherds are also among the dogs with the most ‘followers’, with most owners tending to commit to this breed for life.
6. Brittany
Brittany, an enthusiastic worker, is a loyal and family-oriented pup that would do anything you’d tell them to do.
Brittany dog breeds love staying active and may need daily exercises for mental and physical well-being. Brittany dogs would gladly play fetch with your kids, go hunting, or compete in canine sports such as agility and flyball.
They are notable for being sweet-natured, sensitive, and easy to train. Initially bred for bird hunting, these dogs are increasingly popular family dogs and companions. You can’t resist their immense loyalty, lovable personality, and their size.
7. St. Bernard
Anyone looking for a loyal and devoted dog can’t go wrong with a St. Bernard. And if there are things dog enthusiasts learned from the “Beethoven” movie, it is that St. Bernards are by far the most loyal, caring, and loving family dogs.
Raised initially as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps, this imposing breed could keep their owners trapped by avalanches warm and pull them to safety thanks to their vast size.
All St. Bernard’s tend to serve generously is gentleness, friendship, and protection. Their rescue instincts tend to push them to protect and look out for their families and even play “nanny” to kids. Their loyalty is attributed to their eagerness to please their owners.
8. Rottweiler
Rottweilers are honest and deeply devoted to their humans. The AKC describes these dogs as “powerful, protective, and loyal” and instinctual guardians.
They are hugely territorial of their surroundings and the people that inhabit it-and it is an innate trait. These sturdy guardians were initially used as herding and working dogs and will show up for your job to display loyalty. Their loyalty is a matter of inborn personality and how you raise it.
A Rottweiler will stay by your side and protect you to bits as long as you are committed, loving, and give them attention. Despite being a feared breed, these dogs are sensitive and susceptible to separation anxiety if you leave them alone for long.
9. Dachshunds
Dachshunds trace their origins back to Germany and are widely known as one of the most loyal and amusing dog breeds. People often refer to them as a wiener hound, sausage dog, or hot dog due to their small but long body.
They have stubby legs and huge digging paws suitable for hunting badgers, rabbits, and other rodents.
Dachshunds are reputable for protecting their owners, saving them from fires and even bear attacks. They love fun and play and retain their curious hunting nature, even if they can be a bit stubborn.
This dog is a jealous one, capable of developing attachments to one person and making others feel left out.
10. Chihuahua
Just like Dachshunds, Chihuahuas pick favorites, and when they do, they’ll stick with you till the end. While these pups tend to be smaller than most on this list, they are immensely loyal and have a big personality, which could be why they are so appealing.
Although they tend to latch onto one lucky human most of the time, they can open up to other people as long as you train and socialize them. But their tendency to being mean to strangers stems from their inborn traits to protect their humans.
11. Kuvasz
Kuvasz dog breeds have Hungarian roots and guarded livestock for Hungarians for years. Today, they are renowned house pets with admirable intelligence and a clownish sense of humor.
These pups are loyal and faithful to the people they love and appreciate the attention, even though they display aloofness and independence too. Kuvasz dog breeds blend their large sizes, intelligence, strength, and loyal traits to protect and guard their people from strangers.
Be sure to socialize and train them from a young age, though. The canines can be overly aggressive and may not understand boundaries. A bored Kuvasz is a wandering and destructive Kuvasz.
12. Dobermann Pinscher
One man called Karl Friedrich Dobermann from Germany developed the Dobermann Pinscher dog breed because he wanted a pup that would stay by his side during his dangerous tax collecting profession.
Although their exact ancestry remains a mystery, Dobbies are thought to have the Rottweiler, Black and Tan Terrier, and the German Pinscher’s strains. They are highly energetic and intelligent dogs favored in the military, canine sports, and family guardians.
These dogs have aristocratic features, sleek coats, athletic body builds, and fierce reputations. They are reputably known as aggressive and vicious dogs and a natural protector to kind family members.
Final Thoughts
As a dog-fancier, all you want is a dog that loves them right back. If you have an Akita, a chihuahua, or a German Shepherd, chances are you have the for-better-for-worse dog in your midst.
This doesn’t mean that pups missing on the list aren’t loyal breeds, though. All dogs are inherently reliable and can portray great loyalty. All you have to do is treat them right!
Featured Image: Spike Summers, Pixabay
Lead Pet Expert & Pet-ditor in Chief
Nicole is the proud mom of 3 rescue fur babies, Baby, a Burmese cat; Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway; and Mac, a Lab/Mastiff. A Canadian expat, Nicole now lives on a lush forest property with her Kiwi husband and new baby daughter in New Zealand. She has a strong love for all animals of all shapes and sizes (and particularly loves a good interspecies friendship) and wants to share her animal knowledge and other experts’ know ledge with pet lovers across the globe. . Read more
Top 10 Most Loyal Dog Breeds in the World
As the 19th-century American humorist, Josh Billings once said, “A dog is the only creature on earth who loves you more than you love yourself”—and nothing could be more accurate. Dogs didn’t get the title of “man’s best friend” by being anything but boundlessly dependable companions. They could even teach us a thing or two about how unconditional love works.
Each dog spends their life dedicating themselves faithfully to their families without a nod of hesitation. They protect and adore us, even when we don’t deserve it. Some breeds are more inclined to show their commitment over others. So, which ones make it into the top 10 for being the most loyal of all?
The Top 10 Most Loyal Dog Breeds in the World
1. Akita
Here at the number one slot, we have the powerful and vigilant Akita. They imprint on an owner for the long haul. There is nothing more important to this breed than their family, and they aren’t afraid to let anyone know it.
They have a solid reputation for not caring much for strangers. They can be aggressive and territorial when others come around, even if they have met them before. Because of their stubborn, suspicious traits, they will likely need separation from visitors.
While it can be hard to get your curly-tailed furball accustomed to newcomers, you’ll never have to worry about a threat. Akita’s are always on high alert, ready to defend their hearth and home. They will take excellent care of you, devoting all they have. When it comes to a steadfast heart of gold, they win the prize.
2. Beagle
This little patchy dog is a cheerful ball of love. Known to be extremely friendly, the Beagle will do anything to please. They are exceptionally good with kids, making them wonderful childhood friends. They also fare very well with other pets and unfamiliar people.
They may not be the best guardians. While they tend to bark a lot, they don’t attack by any stretch of the imagination. So, protecting the household may not be their strong suit.
They’re hunting dogs by design, so it’s already in their blood to listen to commands. But it goes even deeper than that. The Beagle is a warm, caring breed that will be there for you when push comes to shove.
3. Brittany Spaniel
Brittany Spaniels are very high energy, willing to run and play at any given time. They are pointer dogs bred for bird hunting, so they are fast on their feet. They require moderate exercise and daily walks.
While they have zeal and enthusiasm outside, they tend to be very calm and relaxed indoors. Brittanys are inherently sensitive and soft, wanting your support always. This can lead to neediness or separation anxiety because they just want to be near you.
Brittanys adore their owners and are very eager to please. They are gentle and sweet with children but can be quite nervous if they are around people who are too boisterous. Overall, they make intensely trustworthy companions and peppy playmates.
- Related read:Why Are Dogs So Loyal to Humans? What the Science Says
4. Doberman Pinscher
Dobermans may look fiercely intimidating. They are large and muscular with sharp features that will make anyone stand down quickly if confronted. They are guard dogs, so their appearance serves them well.
Aside from their unapproachable exterior, they are usually giant darlings to family members. Dobermans are so exceedingly loyal; however, that they may only bond to one person. They will be forever ardent and always at your side.
That doesn’t mean they won’t be kind to other people or children. If trained properly, these dogs will be very tolerant of others. However, because of their intensity, it’s imperative to get a handle on any early behavioral concerns.
5. German Shepherd
Shepherds are widely renowned for being intensely loyal and obedient. Sometimes aloof, these highly intelligent dogs are terrifically intuitive. They are quick to pick up on tricks and training, performing with precision and efficiency.
There is a reason they do so well with K9 work. Their keenness and attentiveness help them serve as great protectors, acting fast and competently. They make fantastic watchdogs and will go great lengths to keep their families safe.
Shepherds will be nothing short of faithful their whole life through. They are excellent family pets. Training can even help them focus on specific individuals, acting as a therapy animal to a child or adult with a disability.
6. Irish Wolfhound
At first glance, these dogs may remind you of Falkor on The Never-Ending Story. They are magically massive and shaggy, seemingly too big to be real. Even though they are huge, they are the definition of a gentle giant.
In addition to their large size, they are also slow to act. Even though they can run at astonishing speeds, they are pretty lazy and laid back otherwise. While they may knock down small children due to their enormous mass, they are very loving toward them.
Passive, calm, and nurturing, this dog is an exceptionally docile animal. While it is unfortunate that they only have lifespans between 6-8 years, they are worth each second you can spend with them. They will be your trusty pal, always by your side –if they can fit, that is!
7. Dachshund
This little hotdog-shaped dog is one of great allegiance. They are spunky, finicky, and even somewhat of a spitfire when something annoys them. They aren’t afraid of larger animals and don’t think twice about defending their territory.
While they may be quick to act, keeping all the big dogs in line, they are incredibly compliant with their owners. They may be another breed on the list who bonds to only one person, but whoever that is, you’re a lucky someone.
While a dachshund may look sweet as pie, they’re grandly independent with a mind of their own. You may have to cater to them or pamper them, but they will pay you back with lots of love and affection.
8. St. Bernard
This massive dog has left an impression on many, thanks to popular films. If you have seen Cujo, you may be quite wary of this breed, but hopefully the movie Beethoven made up for it. This lovable pup is friendly and clumsy, unaware of just how big they are.
These slobbery, tender-hearted giants will bring happiness to almost any home. They are doting and patient with children and generally excellent with other pets. While they are typically welcoming, they can sometimes be aloof with strangers depending on the individual dog.
They may need taught manners, as they sometimes don’t realize how much damage they can do. With appropriate reinforcement, they will be quite lady-like or gentlemanly. One thing is for sure, they have goofy personalities that will win you over in a heartbeat.
9. Great Pyrenees
Another big breed on the list, the Great Pyrenees, stands with the best of them. They are calm and patient, having an almost parental nature about them. They care deeply for their owners and are very protective of young children.
While they are even-keeled and passive, they won’t hesitate to rise to the occasion if someone they love is in trouble. This snowy sweetheart will turn from calm to actionable without thinking twice. They will not tolerate maltreatment or shady behavior.
Though they are generally not hostile unless necessary, you may need to channel them correctly. Because of their size, they will need to listen to commands, not feeling they have too much authority.
10. American Staffordshire Terrier
These poor pooches have gotten quite a bad reputation, thanks to not-so-cool humans. A lot of misinformed people fear this breed, thinking they are dangerous and aggressive dogs. Unfortunately, while people have trained some of them for horrible purposes, the breed itself is an amazing one.
The American Staffordshire Terrier is humorous, with a silly smile and soft heart. They are stubborn and adventurous, always ready to get into shenanigans. When well-socialized, they are terrific with children and won’t dither when it comes to shielding them.
They are easy to train and aim to please. Intelligent and fun-loving, these guys will be your best buddy. Once you get past the negative connotation associated with this breed, they will be one of the most unforgettable dogs you will ever own.
But That’s Not All
Even if your favorite breed didn’t make it into our top 10 list, it’s probably just as delightfully unique and loyal to a fault. Practically any dog, mixed breeds included, is 100% in your corner at any given time. It is an instinct they naturally have, and one we should be forever grateful that they do.
In the words of Gene Hill, “No one can fully understand the meaning of love unless he’s owned a dog. A dog can show you more honest affection in the flick of his tail than a man can gather through a lifetime of handshakes.”
- Related Read: 15 Dog Breeds for Emotional Support (With Pictures)
Feature Image Credit: Małgorzata Duszyńska, Pixabay
- The Top 10 Most Loyal Dog Breeds in the World
- 1. Akita
- 2. Beagle
- 3. Brittany Spaniel
- 4. Doberman Pinscher
- 5. German Shepherd
- 6. Irish Wolfhound
- 7. Dachshund
- 8. St. Bernard
- 9. Great Pyrenees
- 10. American Staffordshire Terrier
