For about as long as humans have been sharing cuddles with doggos, we’ve been obsessed with discovering the most loyal dog breeds. We just love a doggo that can love us right back, and there are some breeds who are happy to step into the role of most loyal companion. According to the experts, these are the puppers who will pick us out of a crowd, follow us to the ends of the earth, and wiggle adorably when we pick them up from their trusted Pet Sitter.
So, who are they? You might be surprised by some of the faithful furbabies that made the list!
Top 10 Most Loyal Dog Breeds
#10: Akita
Akitas have a reputation for being somewhat aloof, especially towards strangers. But as any Akita Owner will tell you, these dogs are also fiercely loyal to their beloved humans.
An Akita can be a formidable guard dog and valiant working dog. When it comes to their adored Owners, though, they’re all cuddles and play. Once you gain the trust of an Akita, you’ll have a companion for life.
#9: Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are known for creating strong bonds with one lucky human in the family. And in the right circumstances, they’ll add a few more people to their inner circle.
That doesn’t mean that Chihuahuas can’t be friendly with strangers or their dedicated Dog Walker. Having said that, don’t expect them to roll over for anyone other than their chosen humans.
#8: Yorkshire Terrier
This little doggo is one of the sweetest and gentlest pooches you can find. But don’t let that tiny frame fool you. Yorkies have a history of stepping up for their Owners, making them one of the most loyal dog breeds around.
Yorkshire Terriers got their start helping coal miners keep their work areas free of rodents. Indeed, one very special Yorkie accompanied a WWII pilot into combat. To any Yorkshire Terrier Owner familiar with this dog’s unwavering loyalty, these acts of bravery are not surprising.
#7: Dobermann Pinscher
When this breed was developed in the 19th century, it was because one man needed a dog that would be loyal even in the dangerous profession of tax collection.
All these years later, the Dobermann continues to be one of the most loyal dog breeds you’ll ever meet. While they still enjoy a reputation as guard dogs, they’re so much more than that. They adore those in their family circle, and are some of the easiest doggos to train.
#6: German Shepherd
Now, you knew this one would be on the list, didn’t you? German Shepherds are the quintessential loyal companion. Whether they’re working long hours in law enforcement or as a service dog for a family in need, this breed goes the distance for their beloved Owners.
This is not only one of the most loyal dog breeds out there, but also a breed with one of the most loyal followings. German Shepherd Owners tend to commit to this breed for life.
#5: Golden Retriever
Loyal? Yup. Endless energy? Of course. Adorable puppy smile? The Golden Retriever has it all. This dog loves life, and above all, they love their family. Golden Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds because while they’re friendly to everyone, from the delivery person to their Dog Walker, their true affection will always go to their beloved family.
#4: Staffordshire Bull Terrier
The Staffordshire Bull Terrier earns the nickname “nanny dog” because of this doggo’s love for their humans. They’re gentle with children, devoted to their family members, and all-around one of the most loyal dog breeds out there.
Although this breed has a reputation for aggression, the truth is, this dog is more interested in love than war. They’re unwaveringly loyal to their beloved Owners, and social with nearly everyone else.
#3: Labrador Retriever
This dog is so loyal that they would fearlessly jump into the icy, rough waters of the Labrador Sea just to retrieve a single fish that escaped from their Owner’s fishing net. These days, Labrador Retriever may not be much of a fishing boat dog. However, the breed retains the same loyalty traits that made them such valuable crew members back in their early days.
#2: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel could teach any number of dog breeds about loyalty – and royalty! Originally, breeders evolved them to be steadfast companions to the wealthiest and most powerful people in Europe. And we mean “steadfast” literally – these pups were experts at sitting through hours of aristocratic pomp and circumstance, not making a peep or moving from the throne of their beloved royal Owners.
#1: Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as the Mexican Hairless, this dog has been a loyal companion to humans for more than 3,000 years. Xolos can take a while to come around to new people, but once you’ve earned their trust, they’ll be devoted to you for life.
The Aztecs believed so whole-heartedly in the loyalty of the Xolo that they depended on them to guide them in the afterlife. That’s loyalty that extends beyond a single lifetime!
Didn’t see your doggo on the list of most loyal dog breeds? Not to worry!
If you didn’t see your pup’s breed above, that doesn’t mean they’re not among the world’s most loyal dog breeds. In fact, dogs in general are pretty devoted animals, and the science suggests that they might even love humans more than they love others of their own species.
So whether you’ve got a Dachshund or a Kelpie or a loveable mix, chances are you’ve got a loyal dog in your midst. Tell us about your devoted doggo in the comments!
27 comments
My Maltese X , follows me everywhere and always patient and is my best mate so loyal
My dog Trixie is a Pomeranian ! And she is the best dog ever ! She is the most loyal dog I’ve ever had in my life ! She’s the best ! Trixie means the world to me !
Thanks, Trixies pal Diana
I think mini aussie are the most loyal and smart!!
You forgot herding breed Australian CattleDog and Border collies
Yes indeed! They are the most loyal, loving, protective dogs you can find. I love my Heeler/Border Collie mix dogs!! Highly recommend. Way out here near a wildlife refuge; these dogs ward off hogs, coyote, black bear, & many smaller critters. They are fearless & can be your best sweet buddy beside you watching movies. Vet says mine have a great Hybrid Vigor. They are a powerhouse of energy so be ready to burn that off daily. I highly recommend for an active family or farm family. (Not for Apartment dwellers or small yards) They have to run.
Right until a bear or coyote decides to rip it to pieces. Around here coyotes will get a dog to chase it and as soon as it’s a away from the house/people they kill it.
Not a Great Pyrenees
My pyre puppy once chased off a beat.
Our Border Collie CHOSE our cat. Great buddies and both would follow us to the bathroom. We called them Mr. & Mrs. Peebuddy…
The Border Collie would sing when I drove into the driveway, and later on, all the time! Alas, all good things come to an end. Looking forward to seeing her again.
The most loyal dog is the Anatolian shepherd or Kangal! They lay down their lives all the time for their flock or owners all the time!
Australian Cattle dog should be on the list, They are smart and loyal most times to one person but ours lives whole family. Only stubborn to some owners that can’t devote the time. Protective of my kids if strangers come on property. Go go go go. That is the Heeler.
I agree whole heartedly!! I have 2 heeler/collie mix. They are so loyal, loving & VERY protective of the family & property. I can’t brag enough on them & I have had about 10 different breeds over the years.
The Rottweiler is absolutely the most loyal dog. Totally misunderstood and only wants to please you.
Truly a wonderful family dog if you’re willing to put in the time.
I completely agree they are so loyal and loving.
Totally agree!!!
Agree 1000% they are so misunderstood and named dangerouse and visciouse but these are so loyal all 7 of mine would never hurt a fly
my hound always follows me to the bathroom
and sits against the door with her tail slipping through the crack while waiting for me 😂😂
Sure our chihuahua is loyal but our Border Collie is equally as so . I don’t believe there is a list I’ve found any bred I’ve had is loving and loyal and I know my family’s and friends dogs are too! As long as they’re loved and well cared for I know any dog will lay down their life for u!💕🙏🏼🐺
My dachshund was so protective of my family, she could hear a noise clean across the house or a vehicle drive up when we didn’t hear it. She was spot on a great dog…very protective of our family…
Who decided this line up? Or #1?? HAVE YOU EVER SPENT 5 SECONDS WITH A PUG?? Lol
I DECLARE THAT PUGS ARE FOREVER #1
Well they do so they understand there are many other loyal breeds of course but I definitely thought I’d see a pug. My older one passed and was rediculously obsessed with our family but my current one practically chokes and loses her mind when I come home even for a few minutes. Stares at door waiting for me when others are still here! Cracks me up and also makes me sad if anything happens to me:-(
I must say the Schnauzer is a very loyal, loving and family oriented dog. My dog, Mr. Bentley, is a Schnauzer and I’m “his person” as most all dogs attach themselves to a person that usually matches their personality, spends a lot of time with him/her, and meets their needs, etc. Mr. B is very loyal to me. He follows me to the bathroom and waits patiently in front of the door for me to come out. He will not come away from the door, if I’m in there, as my husband has even tried to persuade him away with a dog treat!
Bentley knows many tricks and is such a smart dog, but because of his devoted loyalty to me anytime someone ask him to do the “gimme kiss 😘 “ or “hug” (he puts his paws 🐾 on someones shoulders and gives a kiss) command he looks at me first to get the nonverbal “it’s okay” cue before he will do it. If I’m not home he runs from the kids & will not do that particular command 😘 until I return home. It’s loyal, sweet, and funny, but at the same time just weird 😂.
It’s all about “mama”, which is what my name is to him. He can actually mimic that name with the noises he makes and it’s so sweet when he does it that I can’t help but to drop everything I’m doing and come to his rescue (he usually does it if he’s sitting in the sunroom watching me & I’ve been gone too long, according to Bentley ☺️). I’m usually outside in the garden when this happens and he needs me for some attention, to go outside, or because he knows how excited & happy I get to hear him mimic my name, which I do, because it’s so fascinating to hear a dog “talk”, even if it’s only mimicking with noises. However, just like a baby, the other things are a process of elimination and sometimes he wants all the above, but whatever he wants & needs he gets – in regards to love & attention, because it’s all about our sweet, precious, and beautiful Bentley boy. (For what dogs give to us they deserve all the love and attention we can possibly give them.) He’s brought so much joy, love, laughter, happiness and so much more to our family and we were sure blessed when God helped me find loyal Mr. Bentley. He’s 3 years old now and these last 3 years with him have been happy tails!
Boxers are very loving and loyal, our boxer loved are our Granchildren and GreatGrandchildren
@BrandyG
Schnauzers ARE indeed wonderfully loyal and loving.
I’ve had 3 VASTLY DIFFERENT wonderful breeds
I agree with the other comment that most well-loved and well-treated dogs are inherently loyal.
Though a friend laughs and says his Shih Tzus aren’t loyal — they just love EVERYBODY!
Enjoy every moment with your dogs as they leave us FAR TO SOON!
My greyhound is the best dog in my opinion because he’s so goofy when he’s doing zoomies!
My chocolate lab is the most loyal dog ever. She goes everywhere I go!!!
pit bulls are the most loyal dogs, they are just misunderstood, my dog makes sure me and my family is protected at all times, pit bulls are number one, forever.