All dogs are loyal and have the capacity to show great loyalty, but some may have stronger instincts for loyalty than others. Throughout history, there have been numerous stories of dogs displaying great valor in order to protect, save or remain alongside their owners.
We’ve made a list of what we believe are the top 10 loyal dog breeds. Based on breeding and history, temperament, and owner experiences, these particular breeds have proven time and again to be loyal and brave.
1. German Shepherd
Commonly used by the police and military, German Shepherds originated from Germany dating back to the late 1800s. These highly active dogs have a willingness to learn and serve a purpose. As a working dog breed, German Shepherds are naturally loyal and bond well with familiar faces. They have a tendency to become overprotective of their family and territory, strong guidance and training is a necessity.
2. Rough Collie
It should come as no surprise that Lassie tops our list! The Rough Collie is a herding breed that originated in Scotland. Just like the famed pooch was on the big and small screen, these friendly dogs are intelligent, active, and good with children and other animals. Rough collies have a history of being incredibly loyal and protective of their owners, making them excellent family dogs.
3. Beagle
A hunting breed, Beagles are often used by homeland security personnel because of their incredible sense of smell. The modern breed has its origins in Great Britain but has even been mentioned in references dating back to Ancient Greece. They are known to be merry, kind, and gentle. They are pack animals and for this reason, they are very attached to their owners.
4. Kuvasz
Originating from Hungarian roots, this breed was known to guard livestock. In recent years, Kuvasz’s have served well as house pets. Kuvasz’s are an intelligent breed that has a clownish sense of humor. They are loyal pets that appreciate attention with a streak of aloofness and independence. The combination of their large size and loyalty to their family makes this breed a suitable guard dog.
5. Labrador Retriever
With roots dating back to Newfoundland off the east coast of North America, The Labrador Retriever is one of the most popular breeds of dog in the world. It is known for its happy temperament, boundless energy, intelligence, gentleness, loyal and ease with children. The lab, as they are affectionately known, was bred for the superior game retrieval instincts, as well as to provide superior companionship, which has made them great family pets and hunting buddies.
6. Brittany
Developed in the Brittany province of France in the 1800s, the Brittany is a hunting/gun breed that was originally bred for bird hunting. Brittanies are noted for being easy to train, sensitive and sweet natured. Their size and loveable nature have made the Brittany an increasingly popular family and companion pet to have.
7. Boxer
The Boxer is a breed developed in Germany and originally used as a hunting dog on the large wild game. Its powerful jaws and bite allowed it hold down boars and deer until the hunters arrived. Boxers are energetic, fun loving, extremely loyal, and low maintenance. They are harmless around family members but can be wary of strangers. This makes them good watchdogs, as they often will alert their owners when there is a stranger near their home. These faithful and affectionate dogs love to be outdoors.
8. Dachshund
The Dachshund can be traced back to Germany and often referred to as a wiener dog or hot dogs because of its long body. They were originally bred to hunt badgers, rabbits, and other small prey because of its strong stubby legs and large paws that were made for digging. A dachshund loves to have fun and play. These dogs may be small, but they are very protective of their families.
9. St. Bernard
Beethoven, the title, and star of the movie are by far the most well known St. Bernard. But all St. Bernard’s tend to have the gentle and friendly nature portrayed by the dog in the film, which makes them a great family pet. Originally bred as a rescue dog in the Swiss Alps, this breed’s huge size and resistance to cold it was able to keep people who were trapped by avalanches warm when it pulled them to safety. These instincts tend to translate over to protecting and looking out for their family, even if they are a pet, not a rescue dog. Their loyalty is attributed to their eagerness to please their owners.
10. Bulldog
Bulldogs were originally bred in England and used in bull baiting, hence the name. The sport was so savage that it also required the dogs to be vicious and brave. However, it is also known for its stamina, strength, speed, intelligence and many came with their owners when North America was being colonized. Bulldogs are steady and dignified, with calm dispositions. They form strong bonds with children while being gentle and protective. They also have a strong sense of dedication to their families.
