20 most loyal dog breeds that will always be by your side

Hey there! Can I lick your ice cream cone? Can we see your friends with the kids who drop food? Oh wait, can we see my buds at the dog park? Never mind, I think I want to play fetch, collapse, and then snuggle. I know it seems like I’m the extrovert in overdrive, but at the end of the day, I’m one of the most loyal dogs – and smartest – on the planet. I have so many things I like to do. And if we’re honest, I probably have more friends than you. Just kidding! Ultimately, I always choose you.

Hey, did you see my buddy take first place at the dog show? We’re always the fan-favourite at dog shows because we’re just so darn loveable and friendly. I love that people adore us for our easy-going nature yet appreciate our more serious side as service dogs. We’re basically the whole package: easy-going, smart, cuddly, playful, dependable and trustworthy. Best of all: we’re true-blue devoted to you.

Who knew one of the most loyal dogs would be in such an adorable package? I may only be about 25cm tall and 6kg, but I’m a fearless, spirited and lively companion who is not afraid of the big C – commitment. My pack dog camaraderie gives me an extra helping of sweetness. When humans compare me with other terriers, they say I tend to be a little more outgoing. My close bond with you might make me jealous of other people at times. When I feel jilted, I might start digging holes to let you know!

I bet you thought I was a Lhasa Apso. It’s not difficult to make that mistake. We’re one of those dog breeds everyone always gets confused. I’m bigger than my goofy cousin, who covets being the centre of attention. I’m like a dog with two tails when I’m with my human! Yet, I have enough love to share with other people, too – my sweet and affectionate nature comforts people in nursing homes and hospitals. Whether I’m wearing a therapy dog badge or not, my steadfast devotion to you will always be my top priority.

Go ahead and say what you’re thinking: “You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog”. How can I be a loyal sidekick to you if every time an exciting scent comes my way, I’m howling and barking and chasing it down? My keen sense of smell and curiosity is something I satisfy by exploring. Kind of like what a hobby is for you. Let’s do it together! As a member of a tightly knit hunting breed, I’m genetically geared to be around other dogs or people. I would never be happy as a solo act. My irresistible adorable floppy ears are just the icing on the cake.

As you probably know, I’m not big nor small. I’m known as medium, along with these other medium dog breeds.

I gravitate to the water, no doubt. I love to swim and play in the water, but doing it alone isn’t much fun. Plus, you should never swim alone, right? Even if you’re not much of a swimmer, we can do other things together just as long as it’s physical. I need to expend some energy and get plenty of exercise. By nightfall, I’ll be ready to snuggle up on the sofa. I may be a strong-willed and spirited medium dog breed, but maybe it’s just my way of telling you I want more time with you.

If you’re looking for a companion who will never leave your side, and I mean never, I’m your pup. It has been said that we need to be with our human every minute of the day. We’ll follow you to the ends of the Earth – and to the bathroom. Sounds kind of needy? I guarantee that’s not the case. It’s not like I’m demanding belly rubs and petting around the clock. I’ll return your love with plenty of affection and happily hang out with the kiddos too. I’ll need socialisation when I’m a pup, so I’m not so timid and shy around people outside of our family unit.

I may not give off a warm and cuddly vibe, but any dog parent will attest that I’m a major softy inside. My sense of duty and dedication make me a blue-chip candidate for police work, military patrol and therapy work. It’s that same commitment to my work that makes me so loyal at home – whether I’m a working dog or strictly a companion dog. I have a high-energy drive, but I like to direct that more towards serious things, like obedience and agility training. Admittedly, with my high prey drive (I like to chase things), I’m probably not the ideal breed for families with young children. My unwavering devotion is to one person.

I like to wear a bandana around my neck that says, “I’m with her” (or him!). Kidding aside, I don’t have a roving eye and am faithful only to you. I’m one of the most loyal dog breeds in the terrier group. Here’s another reason why I stand apart from other terriers – I don’t need much exercise. Some of my terrier cousins are in zoomie mode most of the day, but that’s not how I roll. I’m quite content with hanging out at home for long cuddle sessions, but short walks are good for exercise and mental stimulation for both of us. Though, we’ll probably be the talk of the town with my too-cute short-legged swagger.

Even though I’m a popular breed, I still get a bad rap for being aggressive and mean. Truth be told, the “facts” about my breed are totally wrong. If you took a peek inside my house, you would see that I’m good-natured, fun-loving and can quickly pick up new tricks and commands. My bond with my human parents and kids runs deep. I generally reserve my devotion to them above all others. That said, it may take me a little while to warm up to new friends, including dogs I haven’t met and small pets.