Dogs are pack animals, and all dogs have an inherent sense of loyalty to their pack. However, many dog breeds are hyper-focused on providing unconditional love, companionship, and security to their human friends.
Loyalty is the trait that binds you and your furry friend closely. Some dog breeds are so faithful that they want to stay by their humans’ side all the time. They stand guard to protect their owners and property from all sorts of threatening situations.
Such breeds are hardwired to love and work in close collaboration with man. They make good family dogs. While expanding their family by four paws, every dog lover wants to opt for the most loyal dog breed.
Have a look at the 7 best loyal dog breeds that never let go.
Best Loyal Dog Breeds That Never Let Go
1. German Shepherd
Having a remarkable history as herding and guard dogs, German Shepherds are fiercely loyal, courageous, and easy to train. Since they were bred to be working dogs, it’s no wonder they form deep bonds with their humans.
German Shepherds are also great with responsible kids who know how to treat a dog nicely. Love for their human companions is reflected in the willingness to put their own lives on the line of danger only to protect their loved ones.
Many German Shepherds have been efficiently serving as police and military dogs thanks to their intellect, desire to please, and alert nature. They are also a part of explosive and drug detection, search and rescue missions.
Their athleticism, high stamina, and strong drive to work mean this popular dog breed requires lots of physical and mental stimulation. Some German Shepherd dogs form a deep bond with one person and become overprotective of them. This behavior can be avoided by ensuring early socialization.
2. Akita
Japanese Akita or Akita Inu is a Spitz-type dog breed famous for its loyalty and ability to establish deep connections with its humans. Their strong protective instincts stem from their historical role as guard dogs and hunting companions.
They are reserved towards strangers but share their silly and affectionate side with family and friends, explains the AKC. You must have heard the story of Hachiko, the most loyal Akita in history. Hachiko used to see off his owner, Professor Ueno, to work at the train station every morning.
Two years later, the professor suddenly died of a cerebral hemorrhage and never came back. Throughout the rest of its life, Hachiko went to the train station every afternoon and sat there for hours, patiently waiting for its owner. And this is only one story of an Akita’s loyalty.
However, Akitas can be willful or stubborn at times, so they are unsuitable for first-time owners. Proper training and socialization can help prevent aggressive behaviors in Akitas.
3. Labrador Retriever
Originally bred in Newfoundland to hunt and retrieve ducks and assist fishermen. One of the most popular dog breeds, the Labrador Retriever, makes a great family dog due to their friendly and easygoing personality.
Labradors are fiercely devoted companions with a strong desire to please. They are so firmly bonded with their humans that they can sense changes in their moods and emotions. That is why Labradors make excellent therapy and service dogs.
They thrive on companionship and are the happiest while spending time with their families. Labs are true social butterflies; they get along nicely with everyone, including kids, adults, other dogs, and even strangers.
Having a playful approach towards life, Labs are highly energetic. They require over two hours of daily exercise for mental and physical stimulation, per PDSA.
4. Golden Retriever
Famous for its striking golden coat and gentle disposition, the Golden Retriever is a fiercely loyal dog breed. A desire to please their owners stems from their loving and affectionate personality. Their high trainability, intelligence, and trustworthiness make them popular service and therapy pups.
Goldens are easygoing and sociable; they are nice to everyone, including children, other dogs, and pets. Owning a Golden Retriever is like having a ray of sunshine in your home. Those soulful eyes and wagging tails will definitely put a smile on your face.
They are devoted and caring and want to spend most of their time with their family members. Your Golden will be your companion through thick and thin. Always ready to cuddle after a long, tiring day, these affable pooches bring warmth, love, and happiness with their comforting presence.
5. Dachshund
Those long, sausage-like bodies, floppy ears, and stubby legs will simply steal your heart. Dachshunds are adorable furry friends, and they may not be large in size, but they have big personalities. One of the most loyal dog breeds, Dachshunds are known for bonding deeply with their families.
They follow their humans from room to room like a shadow and want to do everything together. Dachshunds are so devoted to their humans that they feel jealous and lonely if neglected for too long. In the absence of adequate affection, these sensitive doggos can develop separation anxiety.
Due to their loving and energetic personality, they make wonderful companions and therapy dogs. You can check out this Facebook thread to see how Dachshund dogs make sick people smile in the hospital:
Dachshunds come in two sizes: Miniature and Standard. Both variants have a dynamic personality but tend to be a bit stubborn. They are extremely intelligent and make wonderful cuddle companions.
Dachshunds were bred to hunt in burrows. So, you have to be careful while letting your pup play in a dog park.
6. Collie
Lassie, from the American television show “Lassie,” is the true depiction of how loyal and devoted Collies are.
This herding breed is extraordinarily gentle with kids and other family pets. Bred for guarding flocks, Collies are equipped with strong protective instincts.
Collies are so devoted and loving that even Queen Victoria was their fan. She had her first Collie named Sharp in the 1870s, as noted by the Royal Collection Trust. These affectionate canines form strong bonds with their human family. Their nurturing personality stems from their herding history.
No other breed in the dogdom is as smart as a Collie. They are quick learners and enjoy activities that provide mental and physical stimulation. Collies, including Smooth Collie and Rough Collie, are sensitive to their owners’ emotions.
They offer unwavering support and comfort to people suffering from anxiety and stress. Collies promote a sense of emotional balance in patients with PTSD, autism, and other mental health disorders.
7. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman is a highly intelligent and intensely loyal breed that was developed for guarding. Their sleek bodies, muscular build, and glistening black coats make them look intimidating. But they are softies at heart and form strong bonds with their owners.
One of the great family dogs, Dobermans are very protective of their “pack” and can go to any lengths in the defense of their people and territory. They are highly trainable and make excellent police and military dogs.
Dobermans excel at obedience training and possess high energy levels. These athletic dogs thrive in active households where they can use their intelligence. Dobermans can become destructive if left alone for too long.
Conclusion
Certain breeds, such as the Labrador Retriever, German Shepherd, and Akita, are known for their loyal nature. Adopting such a dog means having a devoted companion who comforts you in distress and is naturally protective.
Their affection, love, and unwavering devotion make them a great fit for family life. They are known for their sharp minds, good manners, and high trainability. If you are looking for a loyal companion who becomes your shield against potential threats, you can adopt one of these breeds.
