Dogs are some of the few animals known to never leave our sides, and some breeds display this sense of loyalty more than others. If you’re looking for a dog that will always be loyal to you and your family, here are 18 breeds to choose from.
Labrador Retrievers
Labradors are known to be extremely friendly and social dogs that bond very tightly with anyone they grow up with, even if it’s an entire family. They show an eagerness to please their handlers and, thanks to their intelligence, are easy to train to fit into any role in the family.
Bulldogs
The Akeso Vet Clinic describes bulldogs as friendly, affectionate, and fiercely loyal. Because bulldogs are dogs with hefty, muscular builds, their calm and affectionate demeanor comes as a surprise to many. They form strong bonds with multiple family members and are known to get along well with other dogs, too.
German Shepherds
German shepherds are natural guard dogs that have been used in various roles within search and rescue operations, for police work, and to support those with disabilities. Their loyalty is almost unmatched among protective dogs, as they’ll protect their owners even to their own detriment.
Golden Retrievers
Affectionate and gentle dogs that fit perfectly into active families, the golden retriever is another canine whose loyalty can’t be questioned. Their intelligence and easy trainability make them great dogs to assist the specially-abled, and they’re also known to be awesome companions for children.
Beagles
The beagle is a friendly dog that’s always eager to explore its surroundings. It’s also a ‘pack’ dog, which means it can show loyalty to multiple individuals. The fact that it’s good with children makes it another perfect dog to have in a family setting.
Boxers
Boxers are energetic and playful dogs that always want to be close to the family and be showered with attention. They’re protective dogs that put their lives on the line to defend their families against strangers, and coupled with their intelligence, these features have made them great inclusions in police forces.
Dachshunds
Despite their small size, dachshunds are brave dogs that won’t shy away from a fight if it means they get to protect you. They’re a playful and energetic breed of dog that’s described as “fiercely loyal” by the ASPCA. They’re also jealous dogs that typically only bond with one person.
Border Collies
The border collie is one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world—some even say it’s the most intelligent—and this makes it excel in obedience training. It’s another breed of dog that’s capable of forming deep bonds with more than one person. Its energetic nature means it needs consistent physical and mental stimulation to keep happy.
Rottweilers
Rottweilers are extremely protective dogs characterized by loyalty, so much so that strangers need to be cautious around them. These dogs show immense affection to the people they grow up with, and they’re strong, confident, and fearless in their roles as guard dogs.
Shih Tzus
From puppyhood to adulthood, Shih Tzus are said to retain the same fun-loving and affectionate nature throughout their lifespan. They prefer to be close to their owners all the time and are also known to be great with children, which makes them family-friendly.
Pomeranians
The Pomeranian is a lively and playful breed that’s a great match for young, active individuals. These dogs form bonds quickly with their owners and dislike being left alone for long periods of time. Despite their small size, their alertness and intelligence make them amazing watchdogs, too!
Doberman Pinschers
Doberman pinschers are friendly, highly intelligent dogs that do great with both people and other pets, especially when socialized properly. Despite this welcoming nature, they’re a loyal breed that typically only forms strong, obedient bonds with a single person. If you want to get one, you should know that they’re also energetic and will need a lot of exercise.
Collies
The AKC praises the collie, saying that its “loyalty, intelligence, and sterling character are the stuff of legend.” Collies are at their happiest when you enjoy close, interactive companionship with them. They also usually bond with only one person and are amazing with children.
Siberian Huskies
Due to their energetic nature, Siberian huskies are best for people with active lifestyles. They are affectionate dogs that always want to stay close to their owners. Given their origin as sled pushers, they’re a social breed that does well with both people and other animals.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Another dog with a gentle, social personality that bonds well with people and other dogs is the Cavalier King Charles spaniel. This breed enjoys sitting on laps and participating in family activities, and due to its warm nature, it’s also often used as an emotional support dog.
Great Danes
The Spruce Pets mentions that Great Danes “have a regal, intelligent, and loyal temperament, bonding closely with their humans and making wonderful family dogs.” These gentle giants enjoy being close to their owners but require more space and food than many others on our list.
Newfoundlands
In spite of their calm demeanor, Newfoundlands are large dogs that will place themselves between their humans and strangers when they feel there’s a threat. Children are safe around them, and they’re an adaptable breed that doesn’t need too much exercise or outdoor time to be happy.
Australian Shepherds
Even though Australian shepherds occasionally form bonds with just one person, they’re a breed that’s loyal to members of the family they grow up with. They care for children, even to the point that it seems like they’re ‘herding’ them, and their energetic personalities make them a good fit for active individuals.
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