Dogs are friends, confidants, coworkers, and family members. Often prized pooches, our pups enjoy unconditional love from their humans. What is it that makes dogs so appealing to people? Many breeds exhibit an unwavering devotion to their owners. Their steadfast companionship and willingness to stand by their human counterparts through thick and thin exemplify a level of loyalty that often touches hearts and serves as a testament to the remarkable connections between humans and their canine companions. Our list of the top five most loyal dogs could lead readers to discover a new true-blue buddy.
The link of loyalty that can develop between some humans and canines is nothing short of remarkable. In fact, a recent study shows that half of American pet owners consider their pet to be their soulmate. Fifty-three percent believe their pet knows them better than anyone else in their life, including their best friends, family members, or even their significant others.
And it isn’t a one-way street in pet ownership. People are similarly loyal to their dogs just the same. A new survey reveals that one in four pet owners would sacrifice their own life to save their dog. A staggering 82 percent of Americans say it was “love at first sight” when they first met their dog. That’s more than the number of people who say it was love at first sight when they met their significant other (77%)!
With the overwhelmingly sweet give-and-take of love between dog and owner, it’s no wonder that pop culture is filled with tales of loyal beasts like Lassie or Rin-Tin-Tin. All it takes is time and dedication to earn a hound’s undying devotion. Our sources helped us discover the top five most loyal breeds of dog. Let us know your favorite loyal pups in the comments below!
The List: Most Loyal Dog Breeds, According to Experts
1. Akita
Akitas are a high energy breed that exhibit fierce protective behavior for their human family. Akitas often seem cool and standoffish to non-family members, but they are widely lauded as one of the most loyal breeds of dog. “We’d be remiss to not start with the Akita, which the American Kennel Club describes as ‘profoundly loyal.’ They descend from ancient Japanese lineage and symbolize good health, happiness, and long life,” according to Southern Living.
The Spruce Pets adds, “This breed has existed in Japan for centuries where they were employed for hunting and guarding duties. Akitas bond very closely with their families and are extremely loyal, but they can be willful or stubborn at times, so they need a family with experienced dog owners. They are naturally protective but never aggressive toward people when properly socialized. Akitas do best with older children who are taught how to interact with the dog responsibly.”
Pure Wow claims, “If an Akita isn’t part of your household, don’t expect them to welcome you with open arms. They are incredibly protective and territorial dogs… Akitas are working dogs from Japan (where they are seen as symbols of health and happiness) who shed like the dickens. Socialize early to ensure well-behaved adults!”
2. German Shepherd
German Shepherd dogs are well-loved in the United States, and the across the world. These dogs can be seen as guards or with law enforcement officers because of their legendary loyalty. Country Living posits, “The most loyal dog breeds who will always stick by your side have been uncovered— and German Shepherds top the list. According to Rover’s study of 1,000 dog parents in the UK, almost half of British owners (57%) believe their four-legged friends are more loyal than their parents. Meanwhile, a further 38% confessed they value quality time with their dog more than their spouse because pups show more affection.”
“Like the Rottweiler and Boxer, the German Shepherd hails from Germany and makes an excellent service animal. From the police to the military, German Shepherds serve as search and rescue dogs, guard dogs and much more. They’re curious, intelligent, energetic and make great pets with the proper training and an active lifestyle,” according to Great Pet Care.
“You may recognize Rin Tin Tin from TV shows, but the original German shepherds were bred to be the perfect work dog for their human companions. These intelligent, well-trained, and confident pups are huge family dogs (great with kids!), and their loyalty definitely lies with their humans over other dogs,” offers The Pioneer Woman.
3. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of America’s most beloved breeds. Nearly all our sources have something positive to say about these hot dogs! The Pioneer Woman writes, “There’s a reason Lucy is so loyal! ‘A great choice for families with young kids or other dogs, Labs get along with everyone and love their owners endlessly,’ Munden [AKC Vice-President] says. According to the AKC [American Kennel Club], they are the number one most popular breed and are as high in happy energy as they are loyal.”
“According to the American Kennel Club, a Labrador Retriever is a listener, a keeper, a lover, and a devoted one. This is the reason it has topped the list of the most popular dog breeds since 1991. Initially bred to be loyal pups and for retrieval purposes, Labs can naturally bond with humans and develop a stronger connection with particular family members. Their loyalty is unshaken, and they are not timid about protecting the people they love,” adds Pet Keen.
“This list would not be complete without this quintessential family dog. They’re retrievers, after all. They always come back to you! Lab people know that these sociable, hardworking water dogs love their people to the point of wanting to lick their feet at all times,” writes The Dog People.
4. Chihuahua
These dogs might seem like yappy devils to some folks, but to others the Chihuahua is a deeply affectionate companion that will always be at their side. This small breed is highly affectionate and loving with their human companions. Daily Paws explains, “Oh sure, a Chihuahua will slip some sassy shade on you, but she’s also most content tucked into the crook of your arm. This pint-sized pooch looooves her humans, and expects nothing less than glam strollers and gourmet treats in return. Chis are also some of the longest-living dog breeds, so you’ll have plenty of time to treasure one another.”
The Dog People also states, “Chihuahuas are with you ’til the end. According to legend, they’re the breed that guides you into heaven. And they live for so long it seems they’re determined to see their job through. Chihuahuas become very attached to their one person, causing many Chihuahua owners to cry, ‘he’s different when it’s just us!’”
Pure Wow writes “Out of Mexico comes the Chihuahua, a feisty, loyal pup who isn’t afraid to bark at someone they feel is encroaching on their territory (you). Meant to be lap dogs who go with you everywhere, Chihuahuas expect to be involved in everything you do. Be careful with these tiny canines around big dogs or rambunctious kiddos – and hold them close when it’s cold so they don’t freeze (they’ll love it).”
5. Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees dogs are majestic giants that have the look and bearing of protectors. These herding dogs even remind one of our sources of the iconic white dragon from the 1984 fantasy film, “The Never-Ending Story.” The Dog People writes that, “Like many herding dogs, the Great Pyrenees is a loyal guardian with a protective instinct. They’re also basically your very own Luck Dragon—perfect for the name Falkor, perhaps? This breed, and the similar Kuvasz, are majestic, calm, smart, and extremely floofy. Both the Great Pyrenees and Kuvasz are great family breeds, as they are very patient. They do require plenty of early training and ongoing exercise and mental stimulation, like their sheep herding brethren.”
Reader’s Digest states in a whimsical first-doggie quote, “Just last week, I heard a little kid say, ‘Dad look at that big dog. It’s as big as a horse!’ The kid’s right. I am big! As one of the biggest dog breeds, I tip the scales at around 100 pounds, give or take. But hey, a lot of that is due to my abundant, super thick, and waterproof coat. I used to protect sheep from sneaky, sly wolves, so it’s in my blood to feel responsible for protecting my family and property. Yet, you could say I fall into the gentle giant category because I’m pretty mellow, gentle, and affectionate with my human’s family.”
“Great Pyrenees are large and in charge. They’ve spent centuries as guardians of the mountains, protecting both livestock and homesteads. Though incredibly even-keel, they willingly spring into action if they feel their families are threatened. Great Pyrenees are also notoriously patient with little kiddos,” says Pure Wow.
You might also be interested in:
Sources
- The Pioneer Woman
- The Dog People
- Pure Wow
- The Spruce Pets
- Southern Living
- Reader’s Digest
- Daily Paws
- Country Living
- Pet Keen
- Great Pet Care
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
Rotties are THE most Loyal of the Canines.
Period.
A Havanes…they are called velcro dogs for a reason!!
Agreed 100 percent
I have been around many breeds of dogs. I dislike the personality of chihuahua’s. They have too much self preservation to be on this list. They protect but with out knowing what they are doing. Too much a crazy breed.
Chihuahuas are a scourge on humanity like all the other rat dogs. In my region most of the Rottweilers are dumb brutes with health issues where my DDR Shepherds are healthy, happy, fluffy with bushy tails and perfect hips, elbows, temperament and a complete lack of heart or allergy issues. I could not ask for better dogs but once had one mixed with a Great Pyrenees. That was The single most well adjusted and chill dog I’ve ever seen that wasn’t a geriatric dog or under general anesthesia.
I wouldn’t have one. They are too high strung
i think the most loyal breeds are german shepherd and the golden retriever, i love this breeds
Where is the Australian Cattle Dog??? By far the most loyal breed and easy to train.
Agreed. They should totally be on this list.
The German Sheppard is a very loyal dog,my only complaint they shed alot.
Shepherd like sheep shepherds, not Sheppard. That’s some moron’s last name that couldn’t spell.
Sorry to bust your bubble, we have a cross Labordor and Rottweiler. He will defent us with his live.
I have a bully pit bull and he is a lover and very devoted to our family and a fierce protective so don’t forget pitbulls beautiful strong and very loveable
I agree 💯. Growing up we had EVERY BREED except pitbulls. I had my first one at age 48. He was 10 weeks old. He is now 13 soon to be 14 yrs old and Extremely loyal, obedient and great protector. My opinion in this order: Pitbull, Lab/Golden Retriever, German Shepherd.
Where are greyhounds, Italian greyhounds especially, yorkie-poos, and Boston terriers(world’s most loving and devoted clowns and stand-up—or sit-down—comedians?) . I’ve had all these, and they were all hilarious cut-ups and adored me beyond belief. Have a list of most comical dogs. Frenchies top the list probably, but in these sad times, I am sure people would love to know which pups would make them laugh the most! Bostons have to be on there, too, and oh my g-d! If you haven’t lived with an Italian Greyhound, you don’t know how hilarious a pup can be! And at a party for owners, about 60 “Iggies” (Italian Greyhounds) were there for about 4 hours—get this — NOT ONE SINGLE BARK OCCURRED IN ALL THOSE HOURS EVEN THOUGH THEY FORMED LITTLE GROUPS WITH EACH OTHER AND PLAYED AND RAN AND KISSED EVERYONE all that time. I promise—not ONE bark!
A Yorkie attacked my cats in 2015 and they ripped it into double digit pieces for fun while my German Shepherds watched with poop eating grins on their faces.
Horrible recommendations
Guy doesn’t know what he’s talkin about
In my opinion, Collies are the perfect dog.
They are loyal, intelligent and beautiful.
I know that I am prejudice about my Collies as I have had the privilege to have had a Collie in my life for over 50 years.
I also have shared my life with a German Shepherd, a Black Lab, a Rottweiler and a Chihuahua.
But for me, a Collie is the best.
I’ve never had a dog that wasn’t loyal. From a sheepdog, lab, chow, a few mutts and currently a shitzu that’s stuck to me like glue.
Amen. If only humans, could be the same way…
Great Pyrenees:
This article states that Pyrs are ‘herding’ dogs.
Nothing could be further from the truth!
To be correct, they are ‘working’ dogs, NOT ‘herding’ dogs.
While Australian Shepherds and Border Collies ARE herding dogs, the Pyrenees are protectors ‘of’ & ‘over’ herds.
Foxes, wolves, etc. are predators that Pyrenees protect herds against.
However, the Great Pyrenees do make amazing pets.
The author of this article should do their research before stating such atrocities!
Thank you for your time and attention.
I had a Welsh Corgi growing up. He was very loyal and loved our cats too. As an adult I had an Alaskan Malamute that was a great dog.
Belgium Malinois the best possible answer all around best k9 hands down!
Cavalier king Charles Spaniels are the most devoted and sweet love dogs ever. Besides being unspeakably beautiful they are the most dedicated ever. My little girl follows me everywhere while being the kindest, most gentle dog ever. They are good watch dogs. They can hear every door open/close and footsteps anywhere in the house. They can’t physically protect you but thy can alert you. They are very gentle with little children and other cats or dogs.
WHY DOES EVERY STUDYFINDS LEAVE THE BELOVED AND THE OLDEST- AND POSSIBLY ALMOST MOST BREEDS OF DOGS HAVE COME FROM- OFF FROM- THE ” THE ENGLISH MASTIFF” OFF EVERY SINGLE LIST ??? IT IS ASTONISHING TO ME ??? AND BAFFLING?
Amen!
English Mastiffs are the sweetest and most loyal dogs ever!
Never heard of a Vizsla I guess!! You want a dog that pics their human and sticks to your side like Velcro
I think ALL dogs have it in their hearts to be perfect companions and friends. If they are owned by a good hearted soul and treated well and cared for, they are ALL wonderful pets and friends.
My is rottweiler
Agree, NOT herding breed! Used as livestock guardian. Very protective, can be overly protective if not properly socialized. Not the eadiest breed to train.
It’s always interesting to me after owning , and rescuing Australian Cattle Dogs for a good portion of my life –
That they are not as widely known for traits like loyalty , and drive as mentioned . They live in their own league however . Maybe the rating scale can’t handle their intensity . Owners of these Velcro dogs know where they rate :).
Shetland Sheepdogs (Shelties) should have made your list! They are super intelligent and loyal.
I take things labeled “by experts”, with a grain of salty but some of these comments….reading comprehension is important.
No need to get offended by an article that the breed of dog you like isn’t on the list.
All dogs have different personalities and can be loyal or something else entirely. Just because a dog is of a certain breed doesn’t mean they’ll behave that way right off the bat with or without proper training.
Some of you aren’t fit to have dogs if you take recommendations off a website with no sources than do proper research yourself.
I NEVER see Dobermans. They are crazy under or wrongly represented. He will not leave my side. Will sit on the property line but no father no matter how long we talk with our neighbor. He’s not allowed and he aims to please! He goes out at nite, no fence no collar, he would never ever leave on his own. He wouldn’t know what we were doing and would lose his mind! They were literally bred for exactly that purpose. Paid, poor, or under researched recommends, sorry. Esp Chihuahua….
Finally another person who knows the Doberman 💜
And another for the Dobie. At my age, I’ve had a lot of dogs, and a Dobe is loyal to the end. They almost try too hard, to be loyal, never letting you out of their sight.