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15+ Most Loyal Dog Breeds

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Kerry
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Man hagging his most loyal dog breeds

One of the most favored characteristics of dogs as pets is their un-shaking loyalty. Once a loyal dog has bonded with an owner and their family, they will be very protective of them and will even fight for them if such an action is necessary.

The following are more than 15 of the most loyal dog breeds in existence today. (Not listed in any particular order.)

1. Golden Retriever

A golden retriever looks on
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The golden retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They have been around since the early 1900s and were originally bred to retrieve waterfowl from ponds and lakes.

Today, golden retrievers can be found worldwide and used as service dogs, guide dogs, therapy dogs, and much more.

They are known for being extremely friendly and loving towards humans. However, they also make great guard dogs because of their incredible sense of smell.

The golden retriever’s nose is so sensitive that it can detect the scent of a single drop of blood on the ground.

2. Labrador Retriever

Purebred labrador retriever outdoors in the nature
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Labrador retrievers are another breed of dog that was developed to help people find lost objects.

This makes them perfect for search and rescue missions. Their noses are so keen that they can sniff out a human scent up to two miles away.

Their loyalty is unmatched by many other breeds of dogs. They are highly intelligent and trainable and will follow you anywhere.

3. German Shepherd

Purebred adult dog outdoors in the nature
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German shepherds are among the oldest breeds of dog in existence and are probably the most well-known type of shepherd dog. These dogs were first created by crossing Alsatian dogs with Rottweilers.

German Shepherds are incredibly smart and trainable dogs that are excellent at guarding livestock or protecting children. They are usually large, strong dogs that weigh between 80 and 120 pounds.

4. Great Dane

Great dane sitting on the chair
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Great Danes are considered to be one of the largest dog breeds in the world, weighing between 200 and 300 pounds. They originated in Germany and Scandinavia and are often referred to as “the King of Dogs.”

These giant dogs are known for being extremely gentle and affectionate towards humans. They are also very good with children and are generally easygoing.

5. Siberian Husky

White siberian husky puppy on green grass field
Image Credit: Albina ChamonixDeus, Pexels

Siberian huskies are one of the rarest dog breeds in the world and are native to Siberia. They were originally bred to pull sleds across frozen tundra.

Today, these dogs are mostly kept as pets and are known for being exceptionally loyal and trustworthy. They are also very athletic and agile and are able to endure extreme cold temperatures without freezing.

6. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman pinscher , a good guard dog
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The doberman pinscher is one of the most famous breeds of dog in the world. They were originally bred by German immigrants who wanted a dog that could protect their homes.

This breed is known for its powerful jaws and sharp teeth. It is also one of the only breeds of dog that has been proven to be naturally aggressive. Which is evidenced when someone turns on their owner.

7. Rough Collie

Rough collie waiting on the stairs
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Collies are an ancient breed of herding dog that originated from Scotland. They were originally used to herd sheep and cattle, but today collies are best known for their ability to herd cats.

Collies are known for their intelligence, love of working, and devotion to their owners. They are also known for their high energy levels, which help them learn new things quickly.

8. Beagle

Photo of brown and white short coated beagle lying on a pillow
Image Credit: Dina Nasyrova, Pexels

The beagle is a small, energetic, and playful breed of dog that was originally bred to hunt rabbits. Today, this breed is most commonly seen as a companion animal.

They have a unique bark that sounds similar to a seal pup. The beagle is friendly, loving, and eager to please. However, it does require a lot of exercises and mental stimulation.

9. Brittany Spaniel

Brittany spaniel puppies play together with a soft toy on the grass
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The Brittany spaniel is a medium-sized dog that originated in France. This breed is known for its beautiful coat and friendly personality.

It is also one of the few breeds of dogs that can swim. Their coats are made up of long, thick hair that keeps them warm even during the winter months.

10. Boxer

Boxer dog sitting on the sofa
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Boxers are a popular breed of dog that originated in England. They are known for their loyalty and strength and are highly protective of their families.

In addition to being great guard dogs, boxers are also known for their playfulness and love of food. These dogs are excellent family companions and make wonderful watchdogs.

11. Bulldog

A portrait of a bulldog
Image Credit: Seaq68, Pixabay

Bulldogs are one of the oldest breeds of dogs in existence. They are known for having short legs and broad chests. These dogs are typically large and muscular.

As a result, they are not recommended for people who want a pet that is more delicate or feminine.

Their loyalty and affection for their owners make them great with children. In fact, bulldogs are often used as therapy dogs because of how gentle they are around kids.

12. Saint Bernard

Adorable saint bernard lying on the grass
Image Credit: Katrina Brown, Shutterstock 1084754648

Saint Bernard is a massive, gentle, and kind-hearted breed of dog that originated back in the 12th century.

Because of their size and temperament, Saint Bernards are often referred to as “Big Berner” or “Little Giants.” They are loyal, gentle giants that make incredible pets.

13. Dachshund

A portrait of dachshund
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 Dachshunds are a small breed of dog with a short body and stubby legs. They originated in Germany and Austria.

This breed is extremely fast and loves to run around. Dachshunds are loyal and intelligent dogs that get along well with children and other animals.

14. Basset Hound

Basset hound is on the grass in the park
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The basset hound is a small, elegant, and graceful breed of dog that originated from Belgium. This breed gets his name from his distinctive low voice.
Bassets are very smart and trainable dogs that are good with children. They are also good at guarding property and making great service dogs.

15. Chihuahua

Adorable running chihuahua
Image Credit: cynoclub, iStock 114390419

Chihuahuas are tiny, adorable, and cuddly dogs that originated in Mexico. They were bred to be lap dogs, but today they are also known for their intelligence and independence.

These dogs are very active and need lots of exercises. Because of their small size, chihuahuas do best when kept indoors most of the time. They are also loyal and love attention.

16. Pekingese

Pekingese standing in flower field
Image Credit: Igumnova Irina, Shutterstock 55504492

The Pekingese was originally bred by Chinese royalty over 2,000 years ago. Today, this is still one of the world’s smallest dog breeds. This breed is very affectionate and cuddly.

They are also known for their playful nature and love of toys. This breed needs plenty of exercises and mental stimulation. They are also good watchdogs.

17. Pug

Pug
Image Credit: Andrey Kanyshev, iStock 1726230819

The pug is a medium-sized dog with a wrinkled face and a flat nose. They originated in China and have been around since ancient times.

Pugs are very loyal and loving dogs that get along well in both indoor and outdoor environments. They are also known for their stubbornness and love of chewing on things.

18. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire terrier on green grass

Yorkshire terriers are a small, energetic, and friendly breed of dog that originated in England. They are known for their high energy levels and ability to adapt to different lifestyles.

Yorkshire terriers can be aggressive towards other dogs and should never be left alone with cats. However, these dogs are excellent family companions.

19. Kuvasz

Hungarian kuvasz dog in the park
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The kuvasz is an old Hungarian herding dog that originates from central Europe. These dogs are very protective and territorial.

They are generally calm and quiet dogs that get along well inside and outside. The kuvasz has a long lifespan and lives up to 15 years.

20. Akita Inu

The japanesse akita inu is in the park
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The akita inu is a large, powerful, and muscular Japanese dog that originated in Japan. These dogs are known for their loyalty and obedience.
They are also very independent and will not tolerate any kind of abuse or neglect.

21. Basenji

A portrait of basenji
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The basenji is a rare and endangered breed of dog that originated on the island of Madagascar. These dogs are extremely agile and fast runners.

They are also known for being exceptionally loyal and affectionate. They make wonderful companion dogs.

22. American Staffordshire Terrier

American staffordshire terrier sitting in the yard
Image Credit: G-ROM, iStock 1164742315

The American Staffordshire terrier is a large, strong, and powerful dog that originated in England during the 18th century.

Staffords are known for being extremely devoted and loyal. They are also very smart and easy to train.

Wrap Up

So, there we have it, a list of over 15 different breeds of the world’s most loyal dogs. I hope you enjoyed it!

Photo of author
About the author

Kerry

Kerry White is an avid dog lover and writer, knowing all there is to know about our furry friends. Kerry has been writing for PetDT for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners. Kerry has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Kerry knows more than anyone how adjusting to new life with a puppy can turn your life upside down, and she wants to ease some of the burdens through her articles.