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Dogs didn't earn the title of "man's best friend" just from being cute and cuddly companions. Many people cite their pup's loyalty as a reason they love their dog, but the breed of dog you get may affect just how loyal they really are.
Whether you're thinking of getting a furry friend of your own or wondering just how loyal your pet is, these are 10 of the most loyal dog breeds.
Great Pyrenees
According to the Applachian Great Pyrenees Rescue, these large and fluffy dogs are natural guard dogs and do all they can to protect both their owners' families and other animals in the family's care, making them great for farms. "He feels responsible for you and your family and your property. He is your friend and not your slave. This characteristic makes for a dog that is very protective of his territory and everything that is in it," the AGPR states on its website.
Collie
Most people are probably familiar with the most famous collie: Lassie. Similar to Great Pyrenees, rough-coated collies had a history of guarding livestock in the 1800s, according to Dogster. The breed has also been used to help herd sheep. Possibly due to its loyalty, a handful of notable figures like Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, Lyndon Johnson, and Queen Victoria have owned collies.
German Shepherd
While large German shepherds may seem intimidating to those they don't know, they become loyal companions once they warm up to you. The American Kennel Club describes the breed as "gentle and loving" towards their own families, noting that they like to be in their owners' company.
Beagle
Beagles are one of the most common and popular breeds in the country, but they tend to dedicate their loyalty to just one person. According to Beagle Care, this is due to the breed's long history has a hunting dog, often accompanying people as an aid to sniff out and hunt prey.
Labrador Retriever
Labs are one of the breeds most commonly known for their loyalty. According to Wag, these pups are often trained to be loyal from birth, with some being used as guide dogs or by law enforcement, both of which require staunch loyalty.
Rottweiler
Similar to some other breeds mentioned here, rottweilers are often used for herding, but that's not the only job they're known for. The American Kennel Club notes that rottweilers enjoy having jobs, and centuries ago they were used to protect butchers' money when they would step out of the shop.
Akita
Similar to German shepherds, the Japanese-breed Akitas can be hesitant with strangers, but enjoy close companionship with their families. Dogtime points out, "[Akitas] protect against anything they perceive to be a threat."
Chihuahua
While chihuahuas tend to be smaller than some of the other breeds on this list, they are still immensely loyal, which may be part of the appeal besides their small stature, which makes them easy to take on the go. According to Wag, chihuahuas have a tendency to latch onto an individual rather than being sociable to other people and dogs, but they can be trained to be more sociable while maintaining attachment to one person.
Dachshund
Like chihuahuas, dachshunds also tend to develop attachments to a single person. Despite becoming easily jealous, according to the ASPCA, dachshund are still lively and playful, even if they're a little stubborn.
Boxer
Even though boxers can be large and daunting to the unfamiliar, they're often playful and happy dogs. Like other breeds, boxers had working roles centuries ago, often pulling carts, herding and more. According to the Pet Health Network, boxers usually connect well with children and become attached to their families and other animals around.
