10 of the most loyal dog breeds (that will become your BFFL)

Whether you’re looking for a dependable furry best friend or you just want to know which doggies to offer your hand to at the dog park, we bring you the top 10 most loyal dog breeds. While we’ve done our best to narrow down our selection of the most loyal and protective dog breeds, remember that personality traits are not guaranteed, and there are lots of doggies that will be equally devoted to their pet parents.

What is the most loyal dog?

Everyone knows doggies are a (hu)man’s best friend, but why do some breeds roll over for belly rubs with any old human, whilst others stick like glue to their pet parents (which can be extremely frustrating for dog lovers who don’t have a pup of their own!)? First off, loyal dog breeds come in all shapes and sizes. From feisty little firecrackers to gentle giants, some pups will act as fierce guard dogs whilst others will keep an adoring, yet watchful eye on their loved ones. 

One thing that many of the most loyal dog breeds have in common is that they are classed as working dogs by the American Kennel Club. With a history of working round the clock alongside their master, it’s no wonder these pups formed a close connection to one particular human. Match that with being intelligent and eager to please, and you’ve got one loyal doggo. But how do they decide which human they’re going to have eyes for? Studies show that our four-legged friends identify their loved ones from their smell. While most dogs will react affectionately towards the smell of their pet parents, some can be particularly single-minded when it comes to welcoming just any old human to the pack. Now, let’s take a lot at some of the most loyal dogs.

Great Pyrenees

These gentle giants were originally bred to defend sheep from predators such as wolves and bears in the Pyrenees Mountains. They share the same protective instinct today and are also known for their patience and resilience, skills which came in handy when sat at the top of a cold mountain for days on end. These majestic mountain dogs have a large amount of thick floof, and serve as courageous and loyal guardians for pet parents and well-behaved children. 

Golden Retrievers 

We bet you saw this one coming - Golden Retrievers are famed for being trustworthy family dogs, and their innate jubilance and natural enthusiasm have a habit of rubbing off on pet parents. Not just a pretty face (and not to mention, one of the most popular dog breeds), Goldens are regularly used as service and therapy dogs, their intelligence making them the ideal canine companion. 

German Shepherds

Considered by the AKC as “dog kind’s finest all-purpose worker”, the German Shepherd is favoured by both police officers and military units. But their loyalty did not originate in the police force, as the name suggests - German Shepherds were originally bred as sheepherders. German cavalry officer, Captain Max von Stephanitz, dedicated 35 years to refining the breed so that today it is one of the most versatile service dogs, and of course, an extremely loyal pup.

St Bernard 

This loyal breed is known for its goofy affection and protective instinct which is perfectly encapsulated in the movie Beethoven. But before appearing on the big screen, St Bernards played an important role in search and rescue missions in the Alps, tracking down lost travellers and snuggling up next to them to keep them warm while help was on the way. Nowadays, these gentle giants will keep a watchful eye over the whole family but are particularly well known for their patience around children, earning them the nickname “nanny dogs”. 

Labrador Retrievers

Named the most popular dog in America by the AKC, the Labrador Retriever is one of those dogs that will do anything for their loved ones. Although these social butterflies will get on well with pretty much anyone, don’t worry, they’re entirely devoted to their pet parents and love nothing more than being by their side. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them a top choice as guide and rescue dogs.

Akita

Known for their “dignity, courage, and loyalty”, according to the AKC, Akitas are famous as “family protectors” in their original birthplace of Japan. They are affectionate and loving towards their family members, but they can be a little wary of strangers. The undying loyalty of this breed is perfectly summed up in the story of Hachiko, who waited at the train station every day for ten years, hoping his master would return home. Little did he know, his master had died suddenly at the office. A statue still stands at Shibuya Train Station in memory of this faithful steed.  

Rottweiler 

A breed that is sometimes misunderstood, a Rottweiler that is properly trained and looked after will shake off its guard dog reputation by jumping on every opportunity to snuggle on the lap of loved ones. Under all that muscle is a real softie just begging for some love and affection. They are goofy and playful day to day, but they can be confident protectors when necessary. 

Collie 

Another breed that was born to herd, you will know if there’s a Border Collie dog in the house as they’ve still got a strong working instinct. These doggies make wonderful family pets, although small children and other furry friends may get rounded up in the absence of sheep! The endearing loyalty of the breed is evident in the story of Bobbie the Wonder Dog, a Scottish Collie. Back in 1923, poor Bobbie got separated from his family after being attacked by some other dogs. He was so devoted to his family, he travelled 2,551 miles to be reunited with them, a gruelling journey that took six months to complete. 

Boxer 

Boxers are known to be playful and gentle, earning them a reputation for being excellent family pups, as well as intelligent and loyal enough to serve with military and police forces. Despite their history as fighting dogs, a well-trained Boxer will be affectionate towards its loved ones whilst taking on the role of watchdog with fearless courage.  

Beagle 

Beagles were bred to hunt in a pack, so it’s only natural they enjoy the company of other furry friends, and of course, their human counterparts. When this hound hasn’t got its nose to the ground, it serves as a loyal companion that will stick with its loved ones through thick and thin. 

While each and every one of the most loyal dog breeds make great family pets, it’s important to remember that they enjoy the company of humans (and generally, other furry friends). They don’t appreciate being left home alone for long periods of time, and they can be prone to separation anxiety as a result. If you’re thinking of jetting off on holiday, find a loving dog sitter who will help ease your pup’s anxiety from the comfort of their own home.