The best dog breeds for introverts are always those that enjoy sharing quiet time at home. Check out our top choices of dogs for introverts, and find your best match!
1. Cairn Terrier
These scruffy, rough-and-tumble little terriers are renowned for their sweet, funny, stubborn personalities and fearless natures. They require consistent training, but for the right person, they’re the perfect balance of independent and affectionate.
2. Chihuahua
The quintessential lapdog, Chihuahuas were practically made for introverts, particularly introverts who aren’t too concerned with making friends: Chihuahuas have a reputation for being sassy with new people. They can also be quite charming, and are a good match for the introvert with a sense of humor.
3. Pug
If you’re an introvert-leaning-towards-ambivert the pug could be your dog. These hilarious charmers can be the life of the party, but they need to recharge at home at the end of the day. They’re even-tempered and loving, and will cuddle up next to you at night…just get ready for some snores.
4. Maltese
Maltese are classic lap dogs, but their clever, playful manner means they’ll be a lot of fun to play with and train. They’re notoriously difficult to house-train, but easily take to doggy litter boxes or potty pads, making them a good match for extreme introverts who prefer to rarely leave the house.
5. Shiba Inu
Shibas were known as “the most cat-like dog.” Loyal to their people but aloof with strangers, Shiba Inus are the perfect match for people who like to keep to themselves. They’re also incredibly smart, so training is in order!
6. Basenji
Among the most independent dogs around, Basenjis don’t need a whole lot of affection from their people, making them a good fit for someone who wants a dog friend but values their personal space. The handsome Basenji is known as the “barkless dog,” but they do make a yodeling. Their distinguished good looks and quiet, clean nature make them a great fit for apartment life as long as they have plenty of mental stimulation and exercise.
7. Greyhound
Greyhounds are renowned for their elegant, powerful build. Despite their reputation as athletes, retired greyhounds prefer sprinting to sustained activity, and love to lounge at home. They’re sweet, sensitive souls, and love nothing more than to hang out at home with their favorite introvert.
8. Basset Hound
If you’re a homebody, the basset hound is your new best friend. These affectionate goofballs have a reputation for being low-key and lazy. The only downside of a basset hound for an introvert may be all the attention they get from strangers on walks.
9. Irish Wolfhound
These calm, dignified sighthounds are gentle but reserved, and often prefer to lie at your feet rather than cuddle up. Like some people, Irish Wolfhounds can be watchful and quiet and prefer to calmly look on rather than jump into the fray. Sound like any introverts you know?
10. Norwegian Lundehund
Lundehunds are agile and energetic, and while they don’t love strangers, they’re exceedingly loyal to their people. A Norwegian Lundehund would be the perfect match for an athletic introvert who loves long, solitary hikes!
