Every dog has the ability to become your best mate, but some breeds are well-known for being extremely devoted companions. So, what are the distinguishing characteristics of a loyal four-legged companion?
According to Gina DiNardo, executive secretary at the American Kennel Club, “key characteristics of a faithful dog include being calm, dedicated, and affectionate.” One of the main reasons people choose faithful dog breeds is their loyalty. “Many breeds with faithful qualities are very adaptive, owing to their intellect and deep proximity to their humans,” DiNardo says.
There are some things to weigh when committing to a faithful dog, as there are in all breeds with a dominant personality trait. “Because certain faithful breeds can be protective of their family and fearful of outsiders, good teaching and socialization at a young age is critical,” DiNardo says. And inside the household, she recommends, “giving your dog one-on-one time with each family member...is vital to prevent your faithful breed from being too protective of one person.”
- German Sheepdog
German Shepherds are well-known for their wisdom and adaptability to a wide range of tasks. This brave, self-assured breed is as trustworthy on the frontline of military service members as they are at home defending their families. “Their distinguishing characteristic is...the courage to throw their lives on the line in support of loved ones,” DiNardo explains. “German Shepherds can be gentle family dogs and steadfast guardians,” regardless of who they are guarding.
- Collie is a dog.
For good cause, “Lassie” made this breed synonymous with fidelity. “The breed is a wonderful companion dog, cheerful and active, as well as being excellent with children and other dogs,” says Bill Lambert, director of health and wellbeing at The Kennel Club, the official kennel club of the United Kingdom. Collies take a lot of movement, but they are ideally fit for healthy households.
- Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is one of the most common dog breeds, thanks in large part to its affectionate and outgoing personality. DiNardo describes labs as “companionable housemates that associate with the whole family.” “They socialize well with neighbor dogs and people alike,” as opposed to any of the more intensely loyal dog breeds.
- Chihuahua
A little dog with a strong attitude. These pint-sized pups, weighing 4 to 6 pounds, are full of confidence and usually enjoy accompanying their parents everywhere they go. Lambert explains, "They were raised to be companion dogs, so they crave attention." Remember that even small dog breeds need exercise. There are no height restrictions when it comes to good etiquette!
- Rottweiler
Rottweilers are best known for their defensive temperament, which has earned them a reputation as a watch dog. They need “a cool, stable, and firm ‘pack leader,'” DiNardo advises, or they will assume that position for you. However, if you're able to put in the effort, you shouldn't be put off by this tough, faithful dog breed. “Rottweilers are self-assured, dominant, and affectionate companions,” she says. Lambert agrees, noting that with a caring handler, a Rottweiler will be a "wonderful family friend."
- Newfoundland
Lambert describes these gentle giants as "known for being a patient and faithful family companion." In fact, since they are always good with children, they are commonly referred to as "nanny dogs." These working dogs used to specialize in saving drowned victims at sea, but now many Newfies happily serve as caring family pets. The devoted Newfie is the most dedicated dog breed on our list, weighing 100 to 150 pounds.
- The Pyrenees
This magnificent breed is not only a natural guard dog, but it is also sweet and friendly with children. Their big body runs with pace and stamina, but they have a cool temperament. The Great Pyrenees, according to DiNardo, is "a mellow friend and careful defender of home and family."
- Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Don't be fooled by their muscular appearance; many Staffordshire Bull Terriers are sweet-natured friends that "feel most at home with a partner," according to Lambert. “They are known as a breed to be trustworthy, intellectual, and affectionate, particularly with children.” To maintain positive behaviour with other people and dogs, socialize this breed as early as possible.
- The Golden Retriever.
It's easy to see why Golden Retrievers are one of the most common dog breeds. “Goldens are outgoing, trustworthy, eager-to-please family dogs that are reasonably easy to train,” says DiNardo. The Golden Retriever, as one of the most laid-back dog breeds on our list, is a "devoted family dog" that would make a perfect addition to many households.
- Akita
This Japanese breed is one of the most devoted on this list. “Akitas are always fearful of strangers and other creatures, but they depend on human companionship,” DiNardo explains. “We are hard-wired to defend others they care about.” Given their greater size (70 to 130 pounds) and autonomous nature, it is important to socialize Akitas with both other dogs and people outside of the family from a young age.
- Recommendations for Loyal Dog Breeds
Although all of these dog breeds are known for their loyalty, keep in mind that each dog is an entity. “Anyone thinking about getting a dog should keep in mind that temperament is unique to each dog and their upbringing, and preparation is essential, particularly if the dog will be a family companion,” Lambert says.
Lambert emphasizes the importance of early training and socialization, especially for super-loyal breeds. “It is vital to get all dogs, but particularly those who are highly loyal, accustomed to being left alone when you are not there to prevent them from suffering from separation anxiety when they get older,” he says.
- Indications of Credelio
Credelio removes adult fleas and is recommended for the treatment and prevention of flea infestations, as well as the treatment and management of tick infestations (lone star tick, American dog tick, black-legged tick, and brown dog tick) in dogs and puppies 8 weeks and older, weighing 4.4 pounds or more, for one month.
- Important Credelio Safety Information
Lotilaner belongs to the isoxazoline drug class. This class has been linked to neurologic side effects such as tremors, incoordination, and seizures. Seizures have been identified in dogs given this type of medications, including in dogs that have never had seizures before. In dogs with a history of epilepsy or neurologic conditions, use with caution. Credelio has not been tested for safety in raising, breastfeeding, or lactating puppies. Weight loss, elevated blood urea nitrogen, increased urination, and diarrhea are the most often recorded adverse reactions. For full safety detail, click here.
- Indications for Interceptor Plus
Interceptor Plus avoids heartworm disease and eliminates and regulates adult roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and tapeworm diseases in dogs and puppies aged 6 weeks to 2 pounds.
- Important Safety Information for Interceptors
Treatment of less than six monthly doses after the last mosquito exposure could not offer full heartworm prevention. Dogs should be screened for known heartworm infections before receiving Interceptor Plus. Interceptor Plus has not been tested for protection in breeding dogs or lactating females. The following side effects of milbemycin oxime or praziquantel have been identified in dogs: vomiting, diarrhea, reduced movement, incoordination, weight loss, convulsions, fatigue, and salivation.