There are dogs that enjoy the company of everyone in the family, and there are those who bond closely with one person and form a deep bond with him or her. When dogs decide they have a favorite person, it’s a lifelong commitment for them.
Dogs with the ability to bond closely with one person are very valuable as therapy dogs; this trait helps them pick up their owner’s moods and help them with their anxiety or stress. Having a canine partner by your side who is dedicated and never forgets you can be the most rewarding part of being a dog owner.
If you want a one-person dog who will be by your side and offer a loyal and lasting partnership, read our article to find your best fit.
Dog Breeds that Form Strong One-Person Bonds
1. Akita
Akita is a Japanese spitz-type working dog breed that has been used as a hunting dog, police dog, and guard dog. These versatile dogs tend to be naturally protective and wary of strangers, which makes them great companions for individual owners.
With their fox-like appearance and fuzzy double coat, Akitas are one of the most beautiful dog breeds, as per Britannica. They also make amazing family pets and have a calm and quiet nature. So, if you want a playful and clownish dog, they might not be the best fit.
As watchful dogs, they can get spooked easily by something they see as a threat. Early socialization will help them develop more well-rounded personalities as they grow up. They need some medium-level daily activity, so taking them out on a jog will help you form a more special bond with them.
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherds have a reputation to hold as one of the most fiercely loyal, strong, and enduring canines. With their rowdy look, a black mask, and alert ears, they carry an aura of protectiveness and grace.
German Shepherds love to please their owners and love to develop a bond with their main man or woman.
Originally bred as herding dogs in Germany, these dogs make great family dogs as well as loving companions to their chosen person. They are smart dogs often used in police work and search and rescue missions.
From being badass service dogs to day-to-day companions to their owners, this breed never says no to providing their humans with a reliable companionship.
They need a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation to keep them satisfied. Also, being left on their own for long periods of time can make them destructive.
3. Chihuahua
Despite their small size, Chihuahuas have a big heart and surplus of energy to keep their family members on their toes. These toy dogs make good family pets, but also bond strongly with their chosen person.
Having these lap dogs cuddle with you, looking at you with their big, round eyes that are too cute to handle, can de-stress you in minutes. Chihuahuas aren’t just super cute; their gentle nature makes them a joy to be around.
They’re quite easygoing in nature and become even more cooperative with early and consistent training. All they need is to find you next to them throughout their lives.
Grooming needs of Chihuahuas vary with the kind of coats they have. WebMD mentions two cases: the long-coated Chihuahuas need more frequent brushing and bathing, while those with a short coat need off and on upkeep.
4. Dachshund
One of the most unique in appearance, Dachshunds or “wiener dogs” are hard to miss with their long bodies, short legs, and droopy ears. These compact pups are excellent companions for people who want a dog that can bond deeply with them.
Dachshunds (or badger dogs) were originally bred to corner badgers in closed spaces. They’re energetic dogs with a playful personality; you can have a lot of outdoor fun with this little dog.
Due to a strong sense of smell, they have a fondness for following scent trails and also might try to chase small animals.
Giving them a fenced yard to play, sniff, and dig will keep them happy. They can be suspicious towards strangers but form strong bonds with one specific person they’re buddies with.
5. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are adorable and fluffy dogs with an affectionate and eager-to-please nature. We know they have a penchant for making their owners happy, as they have historically enjoyed the company of Chinese royals.
While their gleaming big eyes with the most gentle expressions can steal your heart instantly, their ability to form close bonds with a single person makes them ideal companions.
These devoted dogs can spend time with their favorite human inside an apartment quite happily due to their background as palace-dwelling small breeds. They won’t get restless and run away when you want them by your side on the couch while you watch your favorite show.
According to AKC, these lapdogs need only minimal physical activity. Indoor playtime or some short walks will do the trick.
6. Doberman Pinscher
Seeing a rowdy dog with its pointed ears perked up as it stands in an alert stance doesn’t give you the impression of it being a loving pet. Doberman Pinschers can defy the “first impression is the last impression” rule once you get to know them.
This working dog breed is as strong and fearless as it looks. Dobies are very alert dogs, but normally keep it hush-hush unless they feel there’s some real danger out there. With their unwavering loyalty, these protective dogs can become a priceless part of any household.
Dobies are very good learners; they don’t just excel at tricks easily, but can also do great in dog sports. Their watchful instinct makes them rather aloof towards strangers, but for their own people, especially that one special person, they have a really soft heart.
7. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are a herding dog breed loved due to their deep loyalty and dense, luxurious coat. They are fiercely protective and love to guard their territory and families while being generally friendly companions.
Aussies love owners who can stay active with them; outdoor activities, including water sports, make them really happy. They have an independent thinking ability, which makes them a challenge to keep up with sometimes. You should have enough time to engage with them daily, or they’ll become destructive.
They can be domineering towards other dogs they’re not familiar with, and unfriendly towards strangers. Proper training when they’re puppies will make them better behaved. Once they’ve bonded with one individual, they’ll want to spend their whole day interacting with them.
Conclusion
Dog breeds that form strong one-person bonds are valuable companions that should be cherished. Once you’ve found your forever furry companion, make sure you give them the quality time they need and deserve.
