12 Extremely Loyal Dog Breeds
Loyalty is what most people think of when they think of dogs, and it’s an honest generalization to make. While some dogs are certainly more independent than others, most dogs are loyal to their families in one form or another. In fact, some are even faithful to strangers. If you are looking for a dog known for its attachment and devotion to its owner, look no further than this list!
#1 – Pointers
Pointers are one of the oldest hunting dog breeds and have been recorded since 1650. They are loyal, short-tempered and affectionate. They make great family companions provided they get enough exercise to keep them busy.
#2 – Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier is a very small terrier that is derived from the larger, standard Smooth Fox terrier. They are very active and strong-willed dogs, true to the terrier heritage, but very loyal to their owners and family.
#3 – Skye terrier
The Skye Terrier is a short but well-built hunting dog that was originally used to hunt foxes and otters. They are independent but very loyal to their owners. They are one of the rarest dog breeds available today, but make excellent companions in the right active home.
#4 – Akita
The Akita is a large breed of hunting and guardian dog from Japan. They are known for their loyal devotion to their owners as depicted in the recent feature film Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. In this story, an Akita waits for its owner’s arrival on a daily train long after its owner’s death, always hoping to see it again. This trait is still evident in the Akita temperament today.
#5 – Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian is a breed of livestock guardian dog from Turkey, where it is used to guard livestock as well as property. Although they work independently, they are extremely loyal to their owners and will do whatever it takes to get their work done. This is an active breed that needs to be done even without living on a farm, so they are suitable only for active homes.
#6 – Boxer
The Boxer is a German working dog breed known for its social temperament and loyalty to family. They are prized for being harmless in the household but aloof and wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. They are a very active breed, making a great choice for an active family.
#7 – Bullmastiff
Though large and imposing, the Bullmastiff is a gentle giant of the canine world. This breed is strong, suspicious of strangers but deeply loyal to its family. They make great companions and need very little exercise, despite their size. In fact, this breed is a great choice for apartment dwellers as they don’t require a large yard.
#8 – Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is a notable guard dog breed used in both the police and military in the past. Today, however, they are more appropriate as active family companions. The breed remains an excellent guard dog, aloof and aloof from strangers, but devoted to family.
#9 – Kuvasz
This large breed is a breeding guardian dog of Hungary, where it is used to work independently but still under the direction of its owner. They are extremely loyal, courageous and strong dogs that still need a job today, even when they are not on farmland. They make a great companion for those looking for a strong, active breed.
#10 – Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is often unparalleled in its devotion to its owner, making it a suitable companion for those looking for a true working breed. Males are less sociable than females, but both are generally wary of strangers and protective of their families and territories. This breed is often a bad choice for beginner owners, but is an incredible choice for those with experience in breeding.
#11 – Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh Corgis is the older and larger of the two Corgi breeds, although it is still a dwarf breed. Used as general purpose farm dogs, Cardigans are very loyal and attached to their owners and despite their strong will they are eager to please. Therefore, they make a great companion for those looking for a smaller active breed.
#12 – German Shepherd Dog
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and devotion to their family. Originally used as herding dogs, the breed is often found as a family companion or working alongside police and military efforts. They are eager to please, very active, and a great choice for a family that enjoys spending time outdoors.