One of the most common traits that we look for in dogs is loyalty. Many dog breeds have protective instincts, a desire to stay close to their families, and form close bonds with them. While all dog breeds are loyal, some tend to form strong bonds with their owners.
Loyal dogs are not only closely attached to their humans, but they also have the ability to attune themselves to human emotions. Such breeds are easy to train and have a strong desire to please others.
Breeds with strong herding instincts are likely to be more devoted to their owners. Some dogs are so loyal that they will put themselves in danger to protect you. Most loyal dog breeds make ideal family dogs, but some may be suitable for families with older children.
Here are the top 7 reserved yet loyal dogs who make wonderful family pets.
Reserved Yet Loyal Dog Breeds
1. Akita
Breed Profile
Height: 24 to 28 inches
Weight: 70 to 130 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years
Akitas are bright and happy dogs, but a bit reserved. They are possessive and do not like sharing their toys and food. They should be trained at an early age to avoid overt aggressiveness. Akitas are loyal and affectionate towards their owners.
They are large, powerful, and strong-willed dogs, and may not be an ideal choice for families with young kids. Akitas make excellent watchdogs who do not bark much. They love challenges and are more than happy when they have a job to do.
According to the American Kennel Club, these fastidious dogs are a bit wary of strangers and other dogs. Akitas are fiercely protective dogs having an independent streak. They make excellent guard dogs. They are not highly active and need moderate exercise to stay healthy.
2. Chow Chow
Breed Profile
Height: 17 to 20 inches
Weight: 45 to 70 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8 to 12 years
Chow Chows are an incredibly loyal breed that are loving and affectionate towards their owners. These intelligent dogs are highly devoted, obedient, and always eager to please. However, they are fairly reserved towards strangers.
They are not very outgoing and are wary of other animals. Early socialization and proper training enable them to adapt to a variety of social situations. Chow chows are not playful, and they neither give nor like affection. This could be quite problematic for a breed that looks like a giant teddy bear.
They are well-suited for excellent family dogs, but are a bit difficult to train because of their stubborn streak. Chow chows have moderate exercise needs, and they benefit from daily walks, play time, and training sessions. They are suitable for families with older children.
3. Shar Pei
Breed Profile
Height: 18 to 20 inches
Weight: 45 to 60 pounds
Life Expectancy: 8 to 12 years
Shar Pei is a unique dog breed hailing from China. These wrinkled dogs have a calm and dignified personality. They are fiercely loyal companions who make great family dogs. They have strong protective instincts and tend to bond closely with their loved ones.
They are confident and reserved towards strangers. These highly intelligent dogs are also strong-willed. Consistent and firm training involving positive reinforcement methods is required to make them well-behaved in new social situations.
Shar Peis are not naturally aggressive, but have a territorial nature. These are not highly energetic dogs and rarely take part in agility competitions. However, they require regular exercise of one hour along with daily walks for adequate mental and physical stimulation.
4. Tibetan Mastiff
Breed Profile
Height: Over 24 inches
Weight: 70 to 150 pounds
Life Expectancy: 10 t o12 years
Tibetan mastiff is another loyal dog breed that displays an aloof yet alert temperament. They are powerful, agile, and intelligent dogs, but they lack endurance. If you have regular visitors, Tibetan mastiffs may not be welcoming.
Having a history as livestock guardians, Tibetan mastiffs are protective of their owners. They are a bit standoffish towards strangers and look intimidating due to their large size. These traits make them ideal candidates for guard dogs.
According to PetMD, this mastiff breed has a strong-willed personality. They need a lot of space to roam and are therefore well suited for large homes with yards. These massive and athletic dogs need moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy.
5. Basenji
Breed Profile
Height: 16 to 17 inches
Weight: 22 to 24 inches
Life Expectancy: 13 to 14 years
The infamous “barkless dog,” Basenji, belongs to the hound group of dogdom. This dog is known for having a catlike personality because they groom themselves like a cat. It is an extremely loyal companion, having a strong affinity towards its favorite human.
They have independent personalities and are a bit aloof towards strangers. They are highly intelligent and can get bored easily. That is why it is important to give your Basenji a couple of hours of exercise every day. Otherwise, they will exhibit destructive behaviors like chewing.
Do you know? Basenjis are not completely silent. They are popular for making a unique yodel like sound called a “baroo.”
Basenji is a hunting dog breed that forms strong bonds with their human family. They get along well with children and other pets. However, they have a strong prey drive, which makes them unsuitable for houses with small pets.
6. Shiba Inu
Breed Profile
Height: 13.5 to 16.5 inches
Weight: 17 to 23 pounds
Life Expectancy: 13 to 16 years
The popular face of the doge meme and Dogecoin cryptocurrency, Shiba Inu, is known for its highly intelligent, sociable, and extremely loyal personality. They display an affectionate nature towards their favorite humans. At home, they are companion dogs but do not need a lot of attention.
Shiba Inus are often reserved towards strangers and are unfamiliar with other dogs and pets. They are strong-willed, independent, and headstrong dogs, making them more suitable for experienced pet parents. With proper training and socialization, they can become less hostile towards strangers.
Shiba Inus are a bit difficult to train due to having a stubborn streak. They thrive on play and enjoy daily walks. Due to being hyperactive, they might not be a good fit for families with smaller kids. They are well-suited for homes with older kids who interact with them gently.
7. Belgian Malinois
Breed Profile
Height: 22 to 26 inches
Weight: 40 to 80 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
Belgian Malinois are medium-sized herding dogs, explains WebMD. It is an intense and sensitive individual who is very social. Mals love spending time in the dog park, making new friends.
They are the most loyal dogs known to bond firmly with their humans. However, they are reserved towards strangers.
Proper training and socialization starting at an early age can help overcome social awkwardness. Belgian Malinois does not like living in solitude and tends to work and play in partnership. This dog is not just a pet; it is an ideal canine companion for active individuals.
Belgian Malinois are high-energy dogs who need a lot of exercise for physical and mental stimulation. They are the perfect partners for running, hiking, and biking. They do best at obedience training, herding, tracking, and agility.
Conclusion
Many dog breeds are known for being extremely loyal and affectionate towards their owners, but are a bit standoffish towards strangers. If you want to adopt a dog who does not require 24/7 human attention and affection, one of these breeds might be the best fit for you. Lastly, properly train and socialize a reserved dog before adopting it so that it behaves well when the guests arrive!
