Although dogs all have their own personalities, some breeds tend to have specific characteristics. Their genetics can affect their energy levels, health, and how smart they are. This is a list of the 20 dog breeds that will stick by your side through thick and thin.
Labrador Retrievers
There’s a reason why many people think of Labradors when they picture a service dog: they’re highly intelligent and trainable, but also very loyal to their owners. The American Kennel Club states that they “are one of the most popular service dog breeds” and “easy to train and attentive to their owner’s needs.”
German Shepherds
These dogs are so loyal and obedient that they’re often used by the police and even by the military. A German Shepherd is a dog that you can safely entrust your life to, and they’re highly intelligent. As a family dog, they become devoted guardians.
Golden Retrievers
For a slightly less intimidating choice, consider a Golden Retriever. They’re gentle and always eager to please, and are often used as therapy and assistance dogs. As well as being adorable, they’re very affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners.
Beagles
Known for their strong sense of smell, Beagles are also a very loyal dog breed. They love being involved in activities with their owners and may follow you around everywhere you go. Even if they’re on the smaller side, they have huge hearts full of love for their owners.
Boxers
Boxers are wonderful dogs for families with a lot of love to give, and a lot of energy to keep up with them! They’re extremely loyal and protective of their owners. They’re also playful and quite patient with children, meaning they’re excellent for families.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
If you live life at a slower pace, then the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel might be the dog for you. Affectionate but not overly energetic, they’re loyal and gentle lap dogs that thrive on human interaction and nearly always want to please their owners.
Poodles
Poodles aren’t just distinctive-looking dogs – they’re also highly intelligent and can excel in many sports and activities for dogs. These beautiful dogs form strong bonds with their families and have an incredibly loyal disposition. However, handling their grooming can be a challenge for new dog owners!
Shetland Sheepdogs
Also known as the ‘Sheltie’, Shetland Sheepdogs look like a smaller version of the rough-coated collie and get their name from the Shetland Islands. According to Britannica, the breed “is noted for its herding ability and affectionate nature,” making them both excellent working dogs and loyal companions.
Siberian Huskies
Huskies are beautiful dogs that are well-known for their striking appearance and stunning fur. If you can deal with the shedding that comes along with owning a Husky, then you’ll find that they can be very loyal to their owners, and have adventurous spirits.
Rottweilers
Don’t be put off by their intimidating appearance; Rottweilers are softies at heart, and with early socialization and training, they can become powerful guardians. When you put in the work with a Rottweiler, you can gain an unconditional companion who will protect you no matter what.
Doberman Pinschers
This is another breed that suffers from a threatening reputation, but Doberman Pinschers are fearless and loyal protectors when properly trained. They will need consistent attention and socialization to thrive as family pets, but their devotion to their owners is unwavering and they are unquestionably loyal pets.
Border Collies
You may think that Border Collies are most at home in a field herding sheep, but they can make good family pets as well. They’re extremely clever dogs, so you need to keep a Border Collie’s mind occupied. As long as they’re stimulated, they’ll be loyal and attentive companions.
Australian Shepherd
The Guardian suggests that the Australian Shepherd breed is becoming “increasingly popular for its temperament and beauty.” They’re stunning dogs who often perform very well in shows, and they can be highly devoted to their families. However, they do need to play and be walked often so they don’t get bored.
Great Pyrenees’
These massive dogs are gentle giants, and the breed has a strong protective instinct. They’ll become loyal guardians in family homes and are perfect companions for children since they’re known for their patience and calm nature. They’re often used as guard dogs or watchdogs, and have even historically pulled carts!
Akitas
When you meet an Akita on the street, you might think they’re a bit standoffish and aloof. But this proud Japanese breed can simply be quite shy. They’re completely devoted to their families but need to be trained and socialized from an early age to interact well with others.
Saint Bernards
Saint Bernards have a long history of being loyal dogs. CNN states that due to “their great sense of direction and resistance to cold, St. Bernards have been saving people in the mountains since the 18th century.” They’re patient, loyal, and affectionate in the home, especially to children.
Bernese Mountain Dogs
Another dog suited to cold conditions, Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle demeanor and protective instincts. They need a lot of interaction with their owners to thrive, but they’re affectionate and loyal dogs who will become beloved members of a family.
Scottish Terriers
While they can be feisty, Scottish Terriers are also loyal little companions. They can easily become attached to a single owner, but this can cause issues with possessive behavior. They need to be socialized early on to avoid this, but if treated and trained well, they can be delightful family pets.
Cocker Spaniels
Cocker Spaniels are gentle and sweet-natured, making them perfect for families. They can be very loyal to their owners, but they do need regular grooming which can sometimes be difficult or an extra expense. They can also be quite excitable and easily distracted.
Dachshunds
Even though they’re small, Dachshunds are brave little dogs that are often courageous and loyal. They can be wary of strangers and may need training to stop them from becoming stubborn, but the last dog on our list is usually highly devoted to its family.
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