These loyal dog breeds will always stand by your side

Many dogs are loyal—it’s a trait that makes them such popular pets, after all! But the most loyal dog breeds take devotion to a whole new level. These canines are exceptionally connected to and in tune with their family, which means they crave your company and love nothing more than being by your side. Since these trusty companions are highly trainable, eager to please, and super obedient, they make wonderful family pets and loving friends! "Dog breeds that are more loyal usually go hand-in-hand with the best dogs for families," says Brandi Hunter Munden, the American Kennel Club vice president of communications.

According to the AKC, the most faithful breeds tend to be those of the Working Group, Herding Group, Sporting Group, and Toy Group. Dogs that have a history of working closely with humans, either as guard dogs or working ranch dogs, have a stronger bond with them, which is passed down from generation to generation. So, whether you're on the hunt for a large, medium, or small four-legged family member, any pup from this list of most loyal dog breeds will be a lifelong friend!

These adorable dog breeds also make fantastic family pets:

• Best Dog Breeds That Are a Total Joy for First-Time Owners
• Friendliest Dog Breeds That Are Great With Kids and Families
• Calm Dog Breeds Perfect for Families Who Want a Laid-Back Pup

Akita

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!

Boxer

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.

Rottweiler

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.

Yorkshire Terrier

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 Spaniel

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!

Labrador Retriever

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.

Cocker Spaniel

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!

Jack Russell Terrier

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.

Doberman Pinscher

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.

Dachshund

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.

Shiba Inu

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.

Bulldog

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 Retriever

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.

German Shepherds

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.

Beagle

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!

Pug

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.

Irish Setter

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.

Brussels Griffon

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.

Newfoundland

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.

French Bulldog

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.

Collie

The first word that the American Kennel Club uses to describe collies is "devoted." Remember the classic novel Lassie Come-Home? In the story, Lassie the collie treks several miles to reunite with the boy she loves, making this breed's famous for being playful, protective, and affectionate with the kids in the family.

Australian Shepherd

We may have found the Drummond's next dog! These beautiful pups have been called the "cowboy's herding dog of choice." They are trainable, tireless, and remarkably intelligent, and when they've bonded with someone, their loyalty is unwavering.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Retrievers are often among the more loyal dogs, and Chesapeake Bay retrievers are no exception. Go hunting with these dogs or partake in a similar bonding activity, and they will feel very close to you and make great outdoor companions. Fittingly for their namesake, they love the water.

Great Pyrenees

Majestic and vigilant guardians of families, Great Pyrenees dogs are often over 100 pounds! They are generally described as mellow but very protective despite their calm nature. They're dedicated to their humans and their safety and may do better with older children and adults.

Saint Bernard

Talk about a gentle giant! Saint Bernards are actually known for being nanny dogs because they're watchful and patient with children. They are pretty open to strangers and other dogs but are mainly committed to their humans.