Dogs that tend to bond with one person are often referred to as one-person dogs. Even in a multi-person household, these dogs tend to pick a favorite person, to whom they stick like glue. One-person dogs are extremely loyal and capable of filling a void of loneliness and despair. They generally bond strongly with one person and do not tend to seek contact with strangers. This, however, doesn't mean they are aggressive, shy, or fearful. Rather, it means they are selective in their social interactions. Dogs of these breeds are literally attached to you and are happiest when right by your side.
Then again, these breed tendencies are just generalizations, meaning they do not apply to every dog of that breed. Herding breeds, for example, are known for their propensities for forming a strong attachment to one person. However, not every dog of a herding breed displays such behavior. But a majority of them do. With that in mind, here are eight dog breeds that tend to stick by their owner's side through thick and thin.
1. Australian Shepherd
Like many herding breeds, the Australian Shepherd was bred to work alongside a master. Wherever their master (the shepherd) goes they go. Wherever their master is there they are. When kept as pets, most Australian Shepherds tend to exhibit this behavior. They will follow you even if it's just a quick trip to the bathroom. In a multi-person household, most Aussies tend to pick a favorite person. Usually, this favorite person is the primary caregiver or someone with whom they spend the most time. Generally, Aussies are loyal and protective of their owners. If you're looking for a loyal dog that'll stick by your side through thick and thin, look no further than an Australian Shepherd.
2. Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog (ACD) is another herding breed known for their strong bonding with one person. To your ACD, you are the world. It'll bond strongly to you and will object to being separated from you. With fierce devotion to their owners, ACDs are loyal to death. Like many
cattle dogs, this is the way the ACD was bred to be. This breed is suspicious of strangers and can be very aloof. Consequently, your ACD may not allow strangers or new people near you whether or not you want it. As with all one-person dogs, the ACD isn't for you if you have a nine-to-five job. However, your search might end here if you're looking for a devoted, loyal, tireless, and trainable partner.
3. Chihuahua
A tiny dog with a larger-than-life personality, the Chihuahua is known for its capacity for devotion to a single person. Chihuahuas tend to bond with one person and treat all other people like foes. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal and protective. They are alert and always eager to defend their favorite person. Your Chihuahua may even become jealous and act aggressively towards people or other animals that it perceives as a threat to its relationship with you. Chihuahuas aren't very good with young children, as jealousy is a big part of their personality. However, their unwavering loyalty and spirited nature make them excellent companions for people seeking a one-person dog.
4. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman pinschers are widely regarded as people-oriented dogs. Each Doberman pinscher has its own personality, though. The breed is described, in terms of temperament, as intelligent, obedient, energetic, alert, loyal, fearless, and confident. If properly socialized and trained, Doberman pinschers are friendly with people. However, some Doberman pinschers bond only to one person. Originally bred as guard dogs, Dobermans are known for their loyalty and tendency to form a strong bond with a single person. They are considered elegant guard dogs, as they don't typically drool much in comparison to other guard dog breeds.
5. Border Collie
Widely regarded as the world's smartest dog breed, the Border Collie usually prefers to bond with one person. Like the Australian Shepherd, the Border Collie was bred to work with one person as a team. As a pet, the Border Collie is loyal and devoted and tends to be a one-person or one-family dog. As such, your Border Collie may be aloof toward strangers, other dogs, or other animals.
6. German Shepherd
The German Shepherd, aka Alsatian in Britain, is a working dog renowned for its loyalty and strong protective instincts. Developed originally for herding and guarding sheep, German Shepherds often form a very strong bond with a single owner. They make great companion dogs and always want to be by your side. German Shepherds tend to attach themselves to one person in a multi-person household, but they can still be a good family dog.
7. Basenji
The Basenji is a hunting dog breed known to be very affectionate with his owner, but not outgoing to strangers. Described by the AKC as "unique and beguiling pets," Basenjis tend to love one person and may tolerate the rest of the family. They tend to become emotionally attached to a single human and may not get along with non-canine pets. Known as Africa's 'Barkless Dog,' the Basenji does not bark but it makes its feelings known with an odd sound.
8. Akita Inu
Akita Inu dogs are known for their dignity, courage, and loyalty. A natural guardian, the Akita often forms a powerful bond with one person. This breed is highly devoted to its humans and always ready to defend them. The Akita is also known for its independent nature, making it a perfect match for introverts.
