What are The Most Loyal Dog Breeds?

This article is as difficult for us to write as the one titled ‘Cutest Dog Breeds’. If we play a game with 100 random people to say the first word that comes to your mind when you hear the word ‘Dogs’, we are sure that more than 90 of them would say ‘loyal’. And the others probably ‘cute’. 

Ever since our ancestors first figured out that a four-legged companion could help guard the cave, fetch dinner, and provide warm snuggles on cold nights, dogs have been our ride-or-die buddies. Since then neither we humans, nor our canine buddies have left each other’s side. But when it comes to loyalty, dogs have mastered it in a way that we humans can only dream of having one day. And that day is not coming any soon for sure. 

Picture this – You come home from a tough day at work, cursing your manager and the company for not giving you the raise or the promotion you deserved after years of work. And the moment you open your door, there’s a four-legged bundle of joy wagging its tail, jumping all around, licking you and making you feel like the most special person in the world. And all this just for coming back home! That’s the level of loyalty our canine buddies have shown.

While every dog breed can be said to be loyal, some have taken it to the next level. We’ll discuss them in this article. 

What is the Most Loyal Breed of Dogs?

Here are some breeds that proved to be exceptional in a world where almost all dogs can compete in the loyalty competition – (the list is in no particular order. It was difficult enough for us to shortlist these out of more than 360 recognised dog breeds out there) 

Great Pyrenees

The majestic, calm, smart and very fluffy dog breed, Great Pyrenees, are undoubtedly among the most loyal dog breeds out there. In the 17th century, the breed became royalty when they were designated the Royal Dog of France by King Louis XIV. Then in the 19th century, England’s Queen Victoria proudly added the Great Pyrenees to her royal family. Well, they had earned it. ⁽²⁾

Collie

While ‘Lassie’, the star of films, television, novels, cartoons, and comic strips was a fictional character known for its courage and devotion, Collies in real life have proved to be the same. They are extremely loyal and intelligent. They will follow you like a shadow everywhere you go. ⁽²⁾

Akita

Lassie may be a fictional hero but ‘Hachiko’, the ‘Akita’ from Japan wasn’t. Till date, the dog is remembered as the epitome of loyalty and dedication. A dog that waited on the station every single day for 10 years for its master to return when the master had tragically died at work. ⁽¹⁾ The breed’s loyalty needs no further justification. 

Other dog breeds that can make to the list are – 

What is the Most Protective Dog Breed?

Loyalty often comes with possessiveness in dogs. While most of the dogs feel possessive for their owners, some express it way more than others. Apart from that, some dogs can even be great protectors of your house and family.

Here’s a list of the most protective breeds out there – 

Belgian Malinois 

Belgian Malinois are brilliant dogs that love to work. They are fiercely loyal to their human families. They won’t think twice before protecting you from anything that they perceive to be a threat. That doesn’t mean that won’t mingle with other pets and adults. With proper training and socialization, they can add them to their protection list too.

German Shepherds

The most employed dogs out there, German Shepherds are great at police and military work. They excel at search and rescue operations and are highly trainable. They are eager to please their humans but only their selected ones. For others, they will act like the security guards you first need to pass to access the owners. With noses like theirs that can easily sniff out bombs and drugs, they can very well smell threats and will protect their owners from every one of them.

Doberman Pinschers

The natural guard dogs, Doberman Pinschers, will defend their packs against anything and not just bark but even attack if needed. With their fierce looks, they won’t even need to do much to scare strangers away. As tough and aggressive as they look, they are softies for their owners, especially babies. They are gentle, affectionate and playful.

Other protective dog breeds include – 

What Breed of Dog Attacks the Most?

Every year, an estimated 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs in the United States. While most of these bites may be nothing more than minor scratches, an estimated 800,000 people each year require medical help after a bite.  ⁽³⁾ When loyalty and protective instincts go to the next level, they show up in the form of attacks in some dog breeds. Here’s a list of dog breeds that have been seen to attack the most – ⁽⁴⁾

Pit Bulls

More than a breed, Pit Bull is actually an umbrella term for breeds that have descended from bulls and terriers. They include the American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, American Bully, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and sometimes the American Bulldog. the American Animal Hospital Association reports that these dogs were responsible for 22.5% of bites across all studies. They are less likely to back down from a fight and will most probably attack without a warning.

Chihuahua

Do not be deceived by their tiny size. Chihuahuas are like a big bomb wrapped in a small package. They have a reputation for aggressiveness, behavioral issues, and grumpiness. Because of their size, their aggression may seem harmless, but they can still cause harm with their bites, growls, and barking. 

Rottweilers

These dogs are fiercely loyal and hence, protective. They also have a very strong prey drive. Without proper training and socialization, they can be quite aggressive. And their size and feisty looks are enough for you to take a guess on how strong their bites would be.

Other breeds that can be quite aggressive are – 

More About Spot Pet Insurance

Even if your dog is among the most powerful, aggressive and protective breeds out there, they can be prone to several medical illnesses during their lifetime. These include – ⁽⁶⁾

During such times, your savings can take a serious hit if the illness turns out to be severe. With pet health insurance, you can save up to 90% of all the costs. 

Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more.

Learn more about dog insurance or get a free quote!