Our relationship with dogs is unique and impressive when compared to other domesticated animals. Their love and loyalty set them apart. Over thousands of years, dogs have been both naturally and artificially selected for their companionship and loyal nature. There are many stories of a dog's loyalty, from the ancient tale of Argos to the early 20^thcentury account of Hachiko the Akita.

If you're looking to add a dog to your life and want a loyal companion, you can consider certain characteristics and breed types that lend themselves to a Lassie-level of loyalty. However, any dog breed or breed mix will be the most loyal companion if you treat them with respect and compassion. They're all dogs, after all.

Most Loyal and Protective Dog Breeds

Some dog breeds are renowned for their above-and-beyond level of loyalty, which is rooted in their overall ethological breed group. Breeds bred to guard people and property tend to bond closely with their human family and will often put themselves in harm's way to protect.

Great Dane

Once upon a time, Great Danes were used for boar hunting, but today, they are known as gentle giants who are devoted to their families. Although they are friendly and playful, they are also vigilant, and given their massive size, they can seem quite intimidating.

Doberman Pinscher

Originally bred to be a personal bodyguard, the Doberman Pinscher is naturally inclined to protect their people. Despite their strength and fearlessness, Dobermans are also incredibly friendly and cuddly. This is an intelligent and high energy breed that requires training and is happiest with a “job.”

More Loyal Dog Breeds

Beyond the guardian breed group, there are other breeds that lend themselves to being loyal companion dogs. Dogs whose historical jobs included working closely with people tend to have a close relationship with their families. These breeds include the gun dog group and some of the herding group.

Whether working alongside a hunter or a farmer, gun dogs and herding dogs needed to listen closely to their person's instructions on what to do, when, and where. This creates a close relationship and bond, learning to read each other's body language and communicate clearly. These things are crucial for loyalty.

Corgi

There are two breeds of Corgi, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Corgis are a popular breed, not only because of their loyalty but also because of their small-but-mighty size and lovable personalities.

Rottweiler

This breed started off as a herding breed but transitioned into working as a family guardian due to their loyal nature.

Labrador Retriever

Labs are well known for their friendly and loving nature. Their loyalty is rooted in their strong desire to please their owners and their love of human companionship.

German Shepherd

German Shepherds are not only incredibly intelligent and protective but also highly loyal. Similarly to Rottweilers, while they are herding breeds, they excel at protection, making them an easy choice for a loyal companion.

German Shorthaired Pointer

German Shorthaired Pointers are versatile gun dogs who are excellent hunters and loyal companions. Known for their boundless energy and enthusiasm for work, these dogs form strong bonds with their owners.

Cocker Spaniel

One of the smaller spaniel breeds, Cocker Spaniels are not only excellent at their gun dog job but are loving, loyal, and a great size for cuddling.

The toy breeds are also excellent options for loyalty. A toy breed's job is literally to provide companionship. Toy breeds are also excellent at alerting people to things happening nearby, and, in some cases, work in tandem with larger guardian breeds. This is how Tibetan monks used Lhasa Apsos and Tibetan Mastiffs in their monasteries.

Building Your Relationship with Your Dog

These are some of the most loyal dog breeds, but building loyalty from any breed can be achieved through clear communication, compassion, and respect. Positive reinforcement is key to building a strong bond and loyalty. Compassion and empathy are essential in understanding your dog's needs, emotions, and boundaries. Respect your dog as an individual with their own personality and preferences, allowing them to have choices and autonomy within safe boundaries. This, above all, creates a lasting and loyal relationship.