20 Most Loyal Dog Breeds

Loyalty is a key trait that defines a dog’s bond with humans. While some breeds are naturally more devoted and loyal, training, socialization, and environment play an important role in shaping a dog’s personality. How you train your dog will determine their attachment to you, and with the right care, nearly any dog can be made into a steadfast companion.

History has given us remarkable examples of loyalty in dogs, from Hachiko’s years of waiting to dogs who have dug through rubble to rescue their trapped masters. But what truly makes a dog loyal? Most importantly, how do you pick a dog breed when every choice sounds better than the last?

This guide is here to help. Get valuable insights into 20 of the most loyal dog breeds, their training and socialization needs, and how you can bond with your new best friend.

The 20 Most Loyal Dog Breeds

German Shepherd: The Protective Guardian

Three words describe the German shepherd the best: loyal, smart, and energetic. They were bred to be working dogs, so it is little wonder they form deep, loving bonds with humans. They are among the most protective dogs, steadfast, and always by your side.

Breed Overview

• Size: Males weigh between 65 and 90 lbs and measure about 26 inches at the withers.  Females are slightly smaller.

• Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, and reserved

• Energy Level: High; needs daily exercise

• Lifespan: 9–13 years

German shepherds were bred to herd sheep and livestock. They easily follow commands and use their instincts. Their intelligence and dedication also make them suitable for police, military, search/rescue, and therapy work. They are observant by nature and do not trust strangers easily. This makes them reliable guard dogs.

You could consider getting a German shepherd if you are an active individual. Large families or those requiring a protective companion or guard dog can also consider one. Be prepared to provide your pet with a lot of mental and physical stimulation, ongoing training, and socialization. They also need a lot of grooming.

Labrador Retriever: The Ultimate Family Dog

If there’s one thing to know about Labradors, it is that they are loyal—almost too loyal. Your Lab will follow you everywhere, even to the bathroom! They can sense when you need their companionship. The best thing is that they do not expect anything in return.

Breed Overview

• Size: Males 65–80 lbs, 22–25 inches; females slightly smaller

• Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, playful, and eager to please

• Energy Level: High; needs daily exercise

• Lifespan: 10–12 years

Labs were originally bred for fishing and hunting. The qualities required for this job were intense focus, the will to keep on the move for long hours, and the ability to follow commands. No wonder that Labradors are incredibly smart dogs. They are highly trainable and also find use in police work, search and rescue work, and as guide dogs.

Labrador retrievers are universally loved and seem to fit into any lifestyle. They are among the most loyal dog breeds suitable for elderly owners, single adventurous people, and families with young kids.

Golden Retriever: The Gentle and Loyal Companion

Golden retrievers receive special recognition among dog breeds known for their loyalty. These devoted golden companions show us their caring nature by looking after us during our illness. A Golden retriever can be your first pick if you want a dog that will show you the highest level of loyalty.

Breed Overview

• Size: Males 65–75 lbs, 23–24 inches; females slightly smaller

• Temperament: sweet-natured, very friendly, eager to please, confident, and outgoing.

• Energy Level: High; needs daily exercise

• Lifespan: 10–12 years

Golden retrievers were trained to help hunters because of their heightened sense of smell. Because of this hunting background, they are quick to obey and grasp commands. Their sharp intelligence and sense of smell also find use in law enforcement. 

Golden retrievers are friendly, loving, and compassionate dogs. They make fantastic assisted dogs and therapy dogs. They are able to work across varied fields because of their obedience and intelligence.

Golden retrievers are ideal for families and hate being left alone. They are energetic dogs and need active owners who will spend time playing and exercising them.

Doberman Pinscher: The Fearless Protector

Some movies have portrayed the Doberman Pinscher as a vicious, fearful, and aggressive dog. The dark coat, muscular and agile body, and piercing gaze that sees right through your soul all add to the infamy of the breed as a devil dog. In reality, the Doberman is a beautiful and brainy dog that is loyal, affectionate, and reliable, especially around children.

Breed Overview

• Size: Males typically stand 26 to 28 inches tall and weigh between 75 and 100 pounds. Females are slightly smaller.

• Temperament: intelligent, bold, alert, firm of character, loyal, and confident.

• Energy level: powerful and energetic dogs that need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy

• Lifespan: 10–13 years

The Doberman Pinscher is the only breed in the world to have been specifically created to guard man. To this day, they have retained this characteristic. The smart, athletic Doberman is also highly trainable and has quickly transitioned from being a guard dog to working with the military and police forces.

The ideal owner for the Doberman breed is an athletic, active family or individual who can spend time training and exercising their dog daily. They are an asset to families with kids, as there is no better guardian, companion, and protector for them.

Boxer: A Playful but Loyal Watchdog

Boxers are active and fun-loving dogs. They don’t tire quickly and are always ready to play. They make loyal watchdogs and are extremely affectionate towards kids.

Breed Overview

• Size: Males are between 23 and 25 inches at the withers. They weigh between 65 and 80 pounds, while females are slightly smaller. 

• Temperament: intelligent, high energy, playful, and loyal

• Energy level: moderate to high

• Lifespan: 10–12 years

The first Boxer was bred in Germany to hold down large game animals. Later, they were used as protection dogs and watchdogs. Boxers are ideal for families; no other breed loves children as much as the Boxer. They are not a good fit for someone who spends a lot of time outside, expecting their dog to stay alone at home all day. 

Unfortunately, many insurance companies have restrictions on Boxers and categorize them as other aggressive dog breeds. In reality, Boxers are not aggressive. With proper training and socialization, these eager-to-please and affectionate dogs can easily win Good Citizenship Certificates!

 Akita: Fiercely Devoted to the Owner

You might know Hachiko’s story. He was a fiercely loyal Akita Inu who waited patiently for his owner, Professor Ueno, at the Shibuya train station for over nine years following his death. This endearing and heartwarming story seals the breed’s position in the list of the most loyal breeds.

Breed Overview

• Size: Males are between 26 and 28 inches tall and weigh about 120 pounds with smaller females.

• Temperament: courageous, independent, loyal, alert, dignified, and self-confident.

• Energy level: moderate-to-high but needs daily exercise of at least one hour.

• Lifespan: 10–12 years

Akita Inu were bred to be working dogs. They were used for hunting large game animals like bears. They also played a role as guard dogs and protection dogs for their families. 

If you plan to adopt an Akita Inu, be prepared to spend time socializing and training your pup. They are not a good fit for inexperienced dog owners due to their high prey drives. They need an active owner who can provide them with mental and physical stimulation. Akitas don’t have a lot of patience for young kids, but once properly trained and socialized, they become fiercely protective and loyal towards their young wards.

Collie: The Classic Family Protector

Collies are known by different names, including Scottish Collie and Scottish Sheepdog. This is an excellent family dog known for their loyalty, guarding, and protective instincts. They get along well with children and are active and intelligent. Collies are friendly and outgoing. They are also highly trainable and energetic dogs that do well in herding and agility competitions.

Breed Overview

• Size: Height between 22 and 26 inches and weight between 55 and 80 pounds

• Temperament: Loyal, friendly, outgoing, active, intelligent

• Energy level: Collies are large, strong dogs that need a lot of exercise.

• Lifespan: 10–14 years

Collies were bred as multipurpose dogs. They performed various tasks like herding, guarding, and doing other jobs on farms. After Queen Victoria fell in love with a Collie, the breed became a popular companion dog.

Collies do well with active families with kids in suburban or rural homes. Give your Collie a job to do (guarding, fetching items, or participating in dog sports like agility and herding), and they will be grateful.

Dachshund: Small in Size, Big in Loyalty

The Dachshund is a special dog, long on cuteness and style! Do not let their small size fool you; Dachshunds are bold, feisty, and tough. They are affectionate and loyal and will love you deeply.

Breed Overview

• Size: Dachshunds come in two different sizes. The miniature Dachshund is about 6 inches tall and weighs about 11 pounds. Standard Dachshunds weigh between 16 and 32 pounds and measure about 9 inches at the shoulders.

• Temperament: Dynamic personality, a bit of a clown, cuddle-buddy, extremely intelligent, and notoriously stubborn.

• Energy level: Moderate energy levels. They need daily physical and mental exercise.

• Lifespan: 12–16 years.

Dachshund is German for “badger dog,” as they were bred to hunt badgers. They became renowned for their hunting and tracking skills. They are loyal, intuitive, and strong-minded. Once trained, they can be obedient and rewarding companions.

The right owner for a Dachshund is someone with a sense of humor. They require owners who will give them constructive ways to occupy themselves. They are also one-person dogs that bond strongly with one individual.

Rottweiler: A Strong and Protective Companion

Just because the Rottweiler is a large, muscular breed does not mean they don’t have a heart of gold. Rotties, as they are fondly known, are protective of their owners and property. They are reserved or aloof with strangers, which makes them excellent guard dogs and watchdogs.

Breed Overview

• Size: Rottweilers measure between 24 and 27 inches and weigh between 85 and 130 pounds.

• Temperament: Rottweilers are calm, confident, and aloof. They have a sense of territory, so every person who enters your property is a natural suspect in their eyes.

• Energy level: very high energy levels. They need daily physical and mental exercise.

• Lifespan: 8-10 years

Rotties descended from Roman mastiffs and were bred to protect and drive livestock. They drove cattle and pulled dog carts. Rottweilers were also used for different tasks during the First and Second World Wars.

The perfect Rottweiler owner is someone in charge—someone experienced in handling large and powerful dogs. They should train their Rottweiler with a firm but gentle hand. They should be active, too. After all, the Rottie is a working dog, and without a job, they will find something to do that humans usually don’t appreciate—digging, barking, or chewing.

Chihuahua: Fiercely Attached to Their Favorite Person

One of the smallest dog breeds, Chihuahuas are adorable, loyal, and intelligent dogs. They are easy to incorporate into families and are extremely loyal to their humans. Chihuahuas tend to be very wary of strangers, and that makes them excellent watchdogs.

Breed Overview

• Size: A healthy, hardy Chihuahua reaches a weight of around 6 pounds. They typically stand between 5 and 8 inches tall.

• Temperament: Chihuahuas are prone to small-dog syndrome, meaning they can be aggressive if not properly trained and socialized.

• Energy level: Low to moderatе. Despite their small size, they still need daily physical and mental exercise.

• Lifespan: 12-20 years

Chihuahuas may be small, but they have one of the longest histories of any dog breed. They may have descended from the Techichi dogs that were companion dogs for the Mesoamerican civilizations.

Because Chihuahuas are small, they easily fit in any home. They are also the easiest dogs to exercise daily, making them ideal for elderly people, kids, and those with disabilities. Chihuahuas do not handle the cold well and need sweaters or clothes to stay warm.

French Bulldog: An Affectionate and Devoted Companion

French Bulldogs, or Frenchies, are loyal and devoted companions. They are intelligent and quickly understand the task at hand. With their bat ears, cute expressions, and just the right size for playing dress-up, Frenchies make a sight to behold.

Breed Overview

• Size: French bulldogs weigh about 17 to 28 pounds and stand 11 to 13 inches tall.

• Temperament: Frenchies are playful, affectionate, and energetic.

• Energy level: French Bulldogs have moderate energy levels. Despite their small size, they still need daily physical and mental exercise. They are prone to overheating due to their short noses.

• Lifespan: 10-12 years

The origins of the French Bulldog can be traced back 150 to 200 years ago. They were originally bred to be companions of lace workers. In the nineteenth century, the Frenchie became popular as a lapdog sought after by artists, writers, fashion designers, and society folks.

The French Bulldog is an ideal pet for elderly people, children, single owners, or family units due to their active nature and friendly disposition. They have low grooming and exercise needs, but they do require early training and socialization.

Beagle: A Loving Pack-Oriented Dog

Beagles are small hunting dogs known for their friendly and sociable personalities. They are also loyal to their packs—their human families.

Breed Overview

• Size: Beagles weigh about 25 pounds and stand 13 to 16 inches tall.

• Temperament: friendly, social, and highly trainable.

• Energy level: Beagles are active, energetic dogs that need at least an hour of exercise daily.

• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Beagles were bred for hunting. Their sharp sense of smell, small size, and agility help them easily track foxes in the dense brush. Thanks to their intelligence and eager-to-please attitudes, Beagles make highly trainable companions and family dogs. They are excellent pets for single owners and families alike.

Great Pyrenees: A Guardian with a Gentle Heart

The Great Pyrenees is a loving, loyal dog with a long working history. They are big dogs with big personalities and soft, gentle, loving hearts.

Breed Overview

• Size: Great Pyrenees weigh about 100 pounds or more. They stand 27-32 inches tall.

• Temperament: Affectionate, great with kids and other dogs.

• Energy level: Moderate energy levels. They require a couple of short walks daily.

• Lifespan: 10-12 years

The large dog’s imposing figure was used to guard flocks of sheep. Today, they are mainly used to watch over children or accompany someone in a wheelchair. Despite being working dogs, Great Pyrenees make excellent companion pets.

They tend to be stubborn, so the ideal owner is someone who can train them with patience. Despite their imposing looks, they are gentle, loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their humans.

Australian Shepherd: Highly Loyal and Intelligent

Want a dog that is smart, agile, and loyal and has striking physical features? Then, look no further than the Australian Shepherd.

Breed Overview

• Size: Australian Shepherds weigh between 45 and 60 pounds. They stand 18 to 23 inches tall.

• Temperament: Aussies are intelligent and loyal. They have strong herding instincts, but are fairly easy to train.

• Energy level: Australian Shepherds have high energy levels. They need daily physical and mental stimulation and a job to do.

• Lifespan: 12-13 years

Despite their name, Australian Shepherds are an American breed. Primarily, they were bred to guard livestock and herd sheep.

Today, Australian Shepherds are known for various talents, including retrieval, search and rescue, narcotics detection, obedience, agility, guarding, herding, and police work. Because of their ability to protect, they make excellent watchdogs. They are among the most loyal dogs and have the instinct to bark and alert their owners when strangers arrive. The right owner for the Aussie is an adventurous individual or family with an active lifestyle.

Newfoundland: The Gentle Water Rescue Dog

Newfoundland dogs, also known as Newfies, are known for their love of water, their loyalty, and their drool. They are “nature’s babysitters” because the sweetness of temperament is their hallmark.

Breed Overview

• Size: These gentle giants stand 28 inches tall and weigh around 150 pounds.

• Temperament:  Smart, loyal, eager to please, and easy to train.

• Energy level: Moderate.

• Lifespan: 8-10 years

The National Geographic program Dogs With Jobs named the Newfoundland dog breed as the strongest dog for draft work. They were originally bred for aiding fishermen and for search and rescue work in water.

Despite their wonderful temperament, Newfoundland dogs are not for everyone. Their large size makes them difficult to keep in many situations. They have deep, fierce-sounding barks, which make them ideal guard dogs.

Saint Bernard: A Loyal Nanny Dog

The St. Bernard dog is known for their loyalty and vigilance and is tolerant of children and other animals. 

Breed Overview

• Size: A fully grown male weighs between 150 and 200 pounds. They measure about 28 to 35 inches at the shoulders.

• Temperament: gentle giants, fond of children, loyal to their families.

• Energy level: moderate. They need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

• Lifespan: 8-10 years

St. Bernard dogs’ history is connected to the hospice at the Great St. Bernard Pass, and it is said they are still loyal to the monks there. Around 1814, a famous Saint Bernard named Barry saved between 40 and 100 human lives on the treacherous Swiss mountains. His body is still preserved at the Natural History Museum in Bern. Saints, as they are fondly known in America, have become popular as family dogs.

Cocker Spaniel: Affectionate and Devoted to the Family

Cocker Spaniels are the happiest breed—loyal and full of love for their families.

Breed Overview

• Size: Most are about 15 inches tall and weigh about 28 pounds.

• Temperament: Obedient, gentle, active, loyal.

• Energy level: Moderate to high.

• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Cockers are part of the Spaniel family, all of which are hunting dogs. They need to be with people and love children. They are active, obedient dogs that love being outdoors with their humans. The ideal owner for a Cocker is an active individual or family who won’t leave them alone for prolonged periods.

Shiba Inu: Loyal And Independent Thinker

Just like Hachiko, there is a wonderful story about a Shiba Inu dog who rescued an elderly Japanese man from the rubble, after an earthquake.

Breed Overview

• Size: Most are about 17 inches tall and weigh about 22 pounds.

• Temperament: Intelligent, independent, stubborn, drama kings and queens, tough, active, escape artists.

• Energy level: High-energy dogs.

• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Shiba Inu were bred nearly 2000 years ago for hunting small game. Today, they make great family dogs and can even be kept in an apartment as they don’t bark too much. Some Shiba even yodel, which can be entertaining!

Chesapeake Bay Retriever: A Hardworking and Devoted Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is fiercely loyal to their owners. Loyalty is a good trait to have, but it sometimes makes them unpleasant towards other animals and strangers they are unfamiliar with.

Breed Overview

• Size: These dogs are 21-26 inches tall and weigh about 55-80 pounds.

• Temperament: Intelligent, independent, good with children and other dogs.

• Energy level: High-energy dogs that love to swim.

• Lifespan: 10 to 12 years

Due to their ability to swim for hours without getting cold, Chessies were used for water work—retrieving and search and rescue. Today, they are mostly family pets. They need an active owner, as without exercise they tend to get bored and depressed.

Brussels Griffon: Small but Emotionally Attached to Owners

Brussels Griffon is a toy dog that is intelligent, alert, and incredibly loyal to their owners.

Breed Overview

• Size: About 10 inches tall and weigh between 6 and 14 pounds.

• Temperament: intelligent, alert, sensitive, and full of self-importance.

• Energy level: low to moderate energy

• Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

Brussels originated in Belgium in the 1800s to control the rat populations in farms and stables. Today, they make excellent family dogs. They are also suited for elderly people, people with disabilities, and kids. Brussels Griffons need companionship and hate being left alone all day.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Loyal Dog for You

How do you sort through different kinds of dogs when choosing the best one for you? Firstly, you must understand that loyalty varies not just by breed but also by training and the environment you provide. The more time you spend bonding with your dog, the more loyalty you will get in return. 

We hope the guide above helps you choose the right breed based on your lifestyle, activity level, and experience in dog ownership. If you are still in doubt, check out some breed recommendations for different owners.

Best Breeds for Different Owners

• Best for Families: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Boxer, Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, St. Bernard.

• Best for Protection: German Shepherd, Doberman, Rottweiler, Akita, Great Pyrenees.

• Best for Apartment Living: French Bulldog, Chihuahua, Shiba Inu, Dachshund, Brussels Griffon.

• Best for Active Owners: German Shepherd, Australian Shepherd, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Collie.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most powerful, fearless, and loyal dog breeds?

German Shepherd, Rottweiler, and Doberman Pinscher are some of the fearless, powerful, and loyal dog breeds.

What are some smart, easy-to-train, and loyal dog breeds?

Border Collies, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Rottweilers are generally smart, easy to train, and loyal dog breeds.

What are the most loyal dog breeds, and which dog would you recommend for a first-time owner?

Labrador Retrievers are not only loyal; they are also good dogs for first-time owners, as they learn fast and are eager to please.

Reference List

1. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/large-dogs/golden-retriever#:~:text=Golden%20Retrievers%20have%20an%20amazing,water%20and%20keep%20them%20warm.

2. https://www.eliteveterinarycare.com/blog/little-dog-syndrome-is-it-actually-a-thing

3. https://bern.com/en/explore/tourist-attractions/art-culture/natural-history-museum?srsltid=AfmBOor6PsOZgYQIO82odiCx4kj3HAuzwu9_Gn27xGflb8jIARWQLSq0

4. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/australian-shepherd/#:~:text=The%20Australian%20Shepherd%2C%20a%20lean,associated%20with%20the%20cowboy%20life.