25 Most Loyal Dog Breeds That’ll Always Stand by Your Side

Bred as hunting dogs, Akitas are extremely loyal to their families. Although they’re naturally protective, they are rarely aggressive toward other people (as long as they’re properly socialized). These large dogs have high energy levels, so they’ll need lots of walks to thrive!

Boxers are one of the most loyal dog breeds out there. They’re also high-energy, fun-loving, and whip-smart—the full package! Given their patient demeanor, they’re excellent pets for families with kids. Despite their protective nature, they’re usually super friendly with strangers.

Rottweilers are the picture of quiet strength. While they might appear slightly aloof to outsiders, they’re playful, sweet, and silly with their loved ones. When they’re well-bred and properly trained, this loyal dog breed will be calm and confident without veering toward aggressive.

Don’t let their small size deceive you! Yorkshire Terriers are some of the most loyal dog breeds. The AKC describes them as super “lovey-dovey” with their family and outgoing with strangers, but they tend to be more reserved with other dogs. Yorkshire Terriers might not shed much, but given their long, silky coat, they’ll need daily grooming.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels make devoted and loving pets. While their loyalty lies with their family, they get along well with everyone—kids, dogs, cats, you name it! Aside from their affectionate and gentle demeanor, their ultra-plush fur makes them especially huggable!

There’s a reason Lucy is so loyal! “A great choice for families with young kids or other dogs, Labs get along with everyone and love their owners endlessly,” Munden says. According to the AKC, they are the number one most popular breed and are as high in happy energy as they are loyal.

Cockers were originally bred as hunting dogs but quickly become what the AKC describes as one of the “world’s best-loved breeds” for being “all-around companions.” They are great with kids and easily trained. Plus, you’d be hard pressed to find softer ears to stroke!

The Jack Russell of Ree’s childhood was named Suzie, and she solidified her love of dogs for life! Both affectionate with humans and other dogs, they are easy to have around and bring a burst of energy with them wherever they go.

Despite their size, dobermans are actually great around children and quite affectionate with their human families. Known as one of the most protective breeds, they are very loyal companions and very easy to train.

Proof that the best things do come in small packages, this mighty little breed still brings a huge amount of spunk and affection to any family. They’re quite adaptable, too, so they’ll do well in pretty much any environment.

The AKC describes this breed as “spirited and good natured.” Once a hunting dog, they are now the most popular companion dog in Japan and gaining in popularity here in the US. They are both protective and affectionate with their owners.

Despite their sometimes gruff appearance, bulldogs are a friendly and calm breed that makes for a great companion. I mean, who doesn’t love that squishy face? They make a popular lap dog, despite their 50-pound size!

Golden retrievers are probably at the top of your list when you think of friendly and devoted family dogs. Throughout history, these dogs have been known to be outgoing, powerful hunting companions with endless energy and loyalty.

You may recognize Rin Tin Tin from TV shows, but the original German shepherds were bred to be the perfect work dog for their human companions. These intelligent, well-trained, and confident pups are huge family dogs (great with kids!), and their loyalty definitely lies with their humans over other dogs.

If you think this cutie looks like some of the Drummond dogs, you’re spot on—the beagle and Ree’s beloved basset hounds both descend from the St. Hubert hound. Used as hunting dogs throughout history, beagles are incredibly loyal, funny, and expressive little dogs!

According to the AKC, pugs “live to love and be loved in return,” making their sparkling eyes and expressive faces irresistible for pet lovers. Pugs are tiny, fantastic family dogs and very adaptable too, happy to live just about anywhere as long as it’s with their person.

Another dog bred to help humans hunt, Irish Setters are very lovey-dovey with their humans. Their outgoing and sweet nature makes them friendly, happy to play fetch with young children, and eager to please adults. Plus, they’re particularly famous for their soft, reddish coats.

This guy might look like a little monkey, but it’s actually a tiny toy-group dog! Brussels Griffons are intelligent and alert but wary of strangers, so they’ll stick by you because they trust you so much. Just note that they aren’t the best with very young children or other dogs.

Beneath the Newfoundland’s bear-like features and fluffy coat is an extremely patient and devoted pup. Friendly is an understatement—they love to cuddle with families and are super gentle. Just don’t underestimate their size: They were originally bred to help fishermen pull up nets and haul wood.

Families really love their Frenchies! These are charming dogs and surprisingly also make excellent watchdogs. While they love making new human friends, their loyalty will always lie with their owners first.