Known for their loyalty and companionship, some dogs thrive on human interaction. They constantly prefer to stay by your side in your lap. However, some breeds are less expressive and tend to be reserved.
They seek less attention from their human companions. They do not need plenty of time from you and prefer spending some time by themselves. While a dog’s personality is not completely determined by its breed, several breeds are more independent than others.
They prefer solo activities over human company. An independent dog breed may like to lie down in the corner while you are watching TV instead of cuddling up next to you. However, they are loyal and loving but express their affection differently.
Here are some dog breeds that prefer solo activities over human company.
Dog Breeds That Prefer Solo Activities over Human Company
1. Basenji
Often known as “barkless dogs,” Basenjis are fastidious dogs having a lot in common with their feline counterparts. This independent dog breed has an aloof temperament and a reserved nature. These low-maintenance dogs are perfectly content spending some time alone.
Their independent nature means they often lose interest in training. Basenji was originally bred in Africa for hunting at great distances from their owners, which has contributed to their self-sufficient personality.
Basenjis need regular training and exercise like all other breeds for physical and mental stimulation. According to PetMD, they are very intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based training methods.
They are loving towards their family but are standoffish towards strangers. Early training and socialization are important for helping a Basenji dog thrive.
2. Shiba Inu
Hailing from Japan, the Shiba Inu is an extremely intelligent canine who tends to be the happiest when it has a little bit of time to relax and play on their own. This ancient dog breed loves exploring things as well. Thanks to their history as hunters, Shiba Inus are very self-sufficient dogs.
This ancient dog breed has a muscular and sturdy body with a bold and confident personality to match. They do not require constant interaction but are quite loyal and form strong bonds with their owners. Shiba Inus make playful companions and have a strong prey drive.
According to PetPlan, Shiba Inu has a stubborn streak, so they are best kept on a lead. They can be very vocal and use some pretty peculiar forms of communication. Shiba Inu is not a good choice for first-time owners or homes with children who might test their patience.
Shiba Inus are very intelligent and relatively easy to train, but their strong-willed personality can make training a bit challenging.
3. Chow Chow
Chow Chows are loyal and intelligent canines who form strong bonds with their family members. However, they have an independent personality and tend to enjoy their personal space. Chow Chows are recognized by their blue tongues and lion-like manes.
Chow Chows are protective of their owners and are immensely loyal and affectionate to them. Although they look like teddy bears, snuggling and squeezing are just not their thing. Chow Chows have an aloof and composed personality, much like a cat.
Chow Chows are not very active and do not require extensive exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Despite having an independent personality, they can sometimes become prone to separation anxiety if left alone for more than a few hours.
These dogs do not easily trust new people or dogs. WebMD recommends engaging Chow Chows in early training and socialization to prevent such behaviors.
4. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds were initially bred to hunt independently in the mountainous terrains of Afghanistan. This historical background has contributed to their personality as an independent dog breed. Afghan Hounds are alert and dignified dogs having an elegant appearance.
They have a strong prey drive, due to which they often end up chasing small animals. Afghan Hounds have a stubborn streak and do not like listening to commands. It can make training a bit difficult, but patience is the key to success.
Positive reinforcement is the best way to engage an Afghan Hound. They are better suited for experienced handlers. Afghan Hounds may not have an outgoing and friendly personality, but they form strong bonds with their owners.
Afghan Hounds are quite athletic, and short walks may not suffice for them. You can take your leashed Afghan Hound on long runs.
5. Akita
Akitas are extremely loyal dogs who tend to defend their human families at any cost. They form deep bonds with their humans and make wonderful guard dogs. These steadfast and intuitive canines are one of the most independent dog breeds.
These large and muscular dogs are very aloof towards strangers, so they need proper socialization from an early age. Due to their strong-willed personality, Akitas make a good fit for experienced dog owners. These self-sufficient dogs have webbed feet, which enable them to walk on snow.
Akita are very clean pooches. These fastidious dogs tend to clean themselves like a cat. With an Akita in your home, housebreaking is not a problem. These highly intelligent dogs respond best to respectful commands and positive training methods.
6. Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is one of the few breeds that can handle alone time fairly well. Independent and confident by nature, they don’t rely heavily on constant companionship to stay content.
One of the most independent dog breeds, Scotties tend to be a bit stubborn. These small and sturdy terriers may be a bit headstrong, but are unwaveringly loyal to their humans.
Known for their courage, Scotties make wonderful companions with their family members and get along nicely with children. They are perfectly fine spending some alone time, but they can become destructive or anxious when left alone for too long.
Scotties have a feisty and excitable personality. They require moderate exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Scotties have a dignified, almost human-like aura, and their terrier persistence has earned them the nickname “the Diehard.”
7. Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred in Alaska to pull a sled in harsh weather. They were also used to hunt seals and scare polar bears. Due to their working role, they have been bred to be strong and independent. They love their family and are fond of their people, but tend to be a bit strong-willed.
Being an independent dog breed, Alaskan Malamutes can be a bit stubborn and need training from an early age. They learn quickly, but their headstrong personality can be a hindrance in the way of training. Malamutes don’t mind spending some time alone.
These pooches have a friendly and dignified demeanor and are great in cold climates. Alaskan Malamutes are playful and confident dogs. They look very similar to other arctic breeds like Huskies and Samoyeds.
Conclusion
While some dogs thrive on constant attention, others prefer solo activities over human company. Some dogs tend to be independent and strong-willed. Independent dog breeds are content spending alone time, but are very loyal to their owners.
They even form deep bonds with their humans and can develop separation anxiety if neglected for too long. Due to their independent streak, they may be a bit difficult to train but are better suited for experienced pet parents.
