Not every dog wants to be glued to your side 24/7.
We know, we know!! That sounds wild in a world where Golden Retrievers exist, and French Bulldogs literally follow you to the bathroom.
But hear us out… some dog breeds are just different! They are independent dog breeds. They are cool with their own company. And honestly, they kind of prefer it that way.
These are NOT the pups who will whine at the door the second you leave for work. They are not prone to separation anxiety or desperate for constant attention. Instead, they are perfectly happy spending a few hours (or even long stretches) entertaining themselves, doing their own thing, and living life on their own terms.
Today, we are talking about seven dog breeds that prefer solo activities over human company.
Fun Fact!
Did you know?
Certain breeds like the Basenji are so independent they were used by the African hunters because they could work WITHOUT constant human intervention. As per American Kennel Club, these dogs were bred to think for themselves and make decisions on the hunt, which made them very skilled hunters.
Real self-sufficient pups.
Dog Breeds That Prefer Solo Activities over Human Company
1. Greyhound
You think a dog breed for racing would be high energy and constantly demanding exercise, right?
Nope.
Greyhounds are actually super laid back when they are not running. They are known as “40-mph couch potatoes” for a reason.
As per Chewy, these dogs are perfectly happy lounging around the house for hours, napping, and doing their own thing generally. They don’t need constant attention or human companionship to feel fulfillment. But, they can run off, as they are a dog with high speed. So, you should only let them off-leash in a secure area.
A few walks, some playtime, some high-energy sprints, and then they are good to sleep the day away.
Greyhounds have an independent nature that makes them perfect companions for pet owners who work long hours. They are not clingy. They don’t freak out when you leave the house. And, they are totally cool to spend time alone without developing separation anxiety.
Many Greyhounds come from racing backgrounds, which means they are usually available as rescue dogs. If you bring home a retired racer, expect a calm, gentle, and low-maintenance dog when it comes to companionship needs.
They do form strong bonds with family members, but they are not overly affectionate. They will greet you when you get home, sure. But, they are NOT going to cry at the door or follow you from room to room.
They are just… chill.
2. Chow Chow
One of the oldest dog breeds in existence, the Chow Chow is the cat of the dog world.
Seriously.
These large dogs are independent, aloof, and content doing their own thing without needing human companions around every single second.
Chow Chows were originally bred in China for guarding and hunting, which means they are used to working independently and making their own decisions.
That independent streak runs deep, and it shows in their day-to-day life.
Chow Chows are not the type of dogs that crave constant attention. They are loyal to the family, yes, but they are also totally fine being left for alone time to their own devices for a few hours.
As per PetPlan, they might develop separation anxiety at some point if you are away for too long, but that can be managed with desensitization cues. Plus, they are not going to bark or whine if you step out.
These dogs tend to be reserved with strangers. They are protective of their house and their people, but they are not social butterflies like some other breeds.
Chow Chows need mental stimulation and exercise, but they are not high-energy dogs. Regular walks and some training sessions are enough to keep them happy.
And, when they are done, they will find a comfy spot to relax, no human companion needed. As per PetMD, not very “cuddly dogs”.
3. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu, an Asian dog breed, basically invented the concept of independence. These puppies are confident, self-assured, and totally comfortable being alone. For some hours, at least. They are not clingy, they are not needs and they definitely don’t need you hovering over them 24/7.
Shiba Inus were originally bred in Japan for hunting in mountainous terrain. Their job nature needed them to think independently and work without constant human direction.
That independent dog breed mentality is very much alive. Even today.
Shiba Inus are famous for having a cat-like personality. They are clean, quiet, and prefer to spend time on their own terms (although that “Shiba Scream” is a menace).
They will play when they feel like it, they will cuddle when they are in the mood, and otherwise, they are happy entertaining themselves.
These dogs are also good at handling alone time. They tend to develop separation anxiety, and they are not prone to destructive behavior, as noted by the American Kennel Club, but when you leave them for a few hours.
They will be fine, hanging out.
Training a Shiba Inu needs patience because of that independent streak, but once done, they are reliable and loyal dogs. They were perfect companions for people who appreciate a dog with personality and independence.
They are definitely not the best dog for someone who needs a cuddly and clingy pet. But, for independent humans, they are a perfect match.
4. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is one of those breeds that look “perpetually sleepy”. And, actually, that’s pretty accurate.
These puppies are calm, laid back, and perfectly happy lounging around the house for long stretches without needing constant human companionship.
Basset Hounds were originally bred for hunting and tracking, which means they are used to following their noses and working independently. These tracking dogs are not high-energy animals, and they don’t need as much exercise as you’d think.
A couple of walks and some sniffing time. That’s all they need.
Basset Hounds are wonderful companions for people who want a dog that’s loyal but not clingy. They love their human families, but they are also fine being left to their own devices for a few hours. Plus, they won’t tear up your house when you are gone.
These dogs tend to be pretty independent when it comes to entertainment. They will nap, wander around sniffing things, and just chill in their favorite spot.
These low-energy dogs are also good with children and other animals, so they are suited for family life. They are gentle, patient, and unbothered by chaos.
But, they are also perfectly content being the only pet in a quiet house.
5. Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei looks unique and acts even more unique. As per Chewy, these dogs are a unique, ancient, and very rare dog breed from China. They were originally bred as farm dogs and guard animals, which means they are used to working independently and making their own decisions.
That independent nature is still very much part of their personality today.
These pups are independent, reserved, and perfectly happy spending time alone without needing constant human company.
Chinese Shar-Peis are loyal to their family, but they are not overly affectionate. They are more like the strong and silent type. They will protect their house and their people, but they are not going to follow you around begging for attention.
These wrinkly dogs are perfectly fine being left alone for a few hours. They do need exercise and mental stimulation, but they are not high-energy dogs. Regular walks with their dog walker and some training sessions are enough to keep them satisfied.
And when they are done, they will find a quiet spot and relax on their own terms.
6. Central Asian Shepherd Dog
The Central Asian Shepherd Dog, one of the ancient dogs dating back 5,000 years, was bred to work independently. Literally.
These pups were originally bred to protect livestock in harsh conditions for long periods of time without human supervision.
That independent dog breed mentality is still hardwired into their DNA. They are not the type of dog that will need 24/7 human company. They are confident, self-reliant, and comfortable in their own company.
These dogs are loyal to their family members, and they are best suited for experienced owners who understand independent breeds. They need training, exercise, and mental stimulation, but they also need space to be themselves.
They are not the best dog for someone who wants a cuddly lap dog or a constant companion.
Central Asian Shepherd Dogs are protective of their house and suspicious of strangers, which makes them excellent guard dogs. But, they are also calm, laid back when there is no threat. They are just… doing their thing.
7. Korean Jindo
The Korean Jindo is a rare dog breed that is known for its loyalty and serious independent streak. These pups were bred in Korea for hunting and guarding, which needed them to work independently and make their own decisions.
A bit smaller dog than other dogs on this list, Jindos are devoted to their family, and they are certainly not the type of dog that needs constant attention. They are more like that best friend that is always there when you need them, but also totally fine doing their own thing.
These hunting dogs are reserved with strangers and tend to be protective of their house and their people.
They are not overly affectionate, even with family members. They will show their love in their own way, but don’t expect a Golden Retriever-level of clinginess.
Jindos need regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. They are active when they need to be, but they are also perfectly content relaxing and spending time in their own company.
Once trained, they are loyal, reliable, and wonderful companions for owners who appreciate a dog that respects their space.
Conclusion
These dog breeds that prefer solo activities over human company prove that independence does not mean less affection.
Other independent dog breeds worth mentioning include the Lhasa Apso, Great Pyrenees, and even small breeds like the Chihuahua (which prefer their own company over strangers).
Certain breeds just naturally handle time better than others, and that’s okay.
No matter if you are a busy professional, someone who values alone time yourself, or just looking for a dog that won’t develop separation anxiety when you leave for a few hours, these independent puppies might be your best friend.
Great companions for life and good family dogs. They will all be in all.
