Some dogs are perfectly content to enjoy a bit of alone time, while others follow their humans from room to room like loyal shadows.
A breed’s independence or clinginess often stems from its original purpose, whether it was bred to work solo or thrive on human companionship.
Knowing where a dog falls on that spectrum can help potential owners choose a pup that matches their lifestyle and daily schedule.
This article is for general informational purposes only and draws on guidance from breed organizations and veterinary behaviorists.
While breed tendencies offer useful insight, each dog has its own personality and needs.
Independent Breeds
Let’s begin with the dogs that are known for their self-sufficiency.
These breeds tend to be more comfortable with alone time and less likely to develop separation anxiety.
1. Basenji
Often called the barkless dog, the Basenji has a reputation for being one of the most self-reliant canines you can bring home.
This breed originated in Central Africa, where hunters valued their intelligence and ability to work independently.
Their cat-like grooming habits and quiet demeanor make them ideal for apartment dwellers who work regular hours.
Basenjis can entertain themselves for hours with puzzle toys or simply by watching the world from a window perch.
They don’t demand constant attention and may even seem aloof at times.
However, they still need daily exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom-related mischief when you return home.
2. Shiba Inu
This Japanese breed carries itself with an air of confidence that borders on stubbornness.
Shiba Inus were originally bred to hunt in mountainous regions, developing a strong sense of independence that persists today.
Their spirited personality means they’re comfortable making their own decisions, including how to spend time alone.
Owners often describe their Shibas as having a dignified, almost regal bearing.
They’re not the type to whine at the door when you leave for work.
Instead, they’ll likely curl up in their favourite spot and wait patiently for your return, making them suitable for busy professionals.
3. Chow Chow
With their lion-like mane and distinctive blue-black tongue, Chow Chows are as unique in appearance as they are in temperament.
These dogs were originally bred in China as temple guards and hunting companions, roles that required self-sufficiency and calm composure.
Their naturally reserved personality extends to their relationship with solitude.
Chow Chows don’t typically suffer from separation anxiety the way clingy breeds do.
They’re content to guard the home and relax until you return.
While they form strong bonds with their families, they express affection on their own terms rather than seeking constant interaction throughout the day.
4. Akita
Akitas were bred in Japan to hunt large game like bears and boars, developing a fearless and independent spirit.
These powerful dogs possess a quiet dignity and don’t require constant reassurance from their owners.
Their protective instincts mean they’re alert when alone but not anxious about your absence.
Despite their independence, Akitas are deeply loyal to their families.
They simply express that loyalty differently than needier breeds.
An Akita is perfectly happy spending the day patrolling the house and napping in sunny spots.
They’re best suited for experienced owners who appreciate a dog with a more self-contained personality.
5. Greyhound
You might expect a racing dog to be high-strung and demanding, but retired Greyhounds are actually couch potatoes at heart.
These elegant athletes are content to sleep for most of the day, making them surprisingly low-maintenance companions.
Their calm demeanor means they handle alone time with grace and ease.
Greyhounds typically enjoy a good sprint in a secure area, then happily settle down for hours of rest.
They’re not prone to destructive behaviour when left alone and rarely vocalize their displeasure.
This combination of independence and gentleness makes them excellent pets for people with full-time jobs who can provide short bursts of exercise.
6. Lhasa Apso
Bred centuries ago to serve as indoor sentinels in Tibetan monasteries, Lhasa Apsos developed a watchful yet self-sufficient temperament.
These small dogs take their guardian duties seriously, even when no one else is home.
Their independent streak means they don’t need constant human interaction to feel secure or content.
Despite their small size, Lhasa Apsos have big personalities and aren’t clingy lapdogs.
They’ll alert you to visitors but won’t follow you from room to room demanding attention.
Their ability to entertain themselves and remain calm during solitude makes them suitable for singles or couples who work outside the home regularly.
7. Scottish Terrier
Scotties are famous for their confident, almost stubborn personality that doesn’t rely on constant human approval.
These compact terriers were bred to hunt independently, flushing out prey from underground dens without guidance from handlers.
That self-reliant streak remains strong in the breed today, making them comfortable with solitude.
A Scottish Terrier will greet you warmly when you come home but won’t pine away during your absence.
They’re intelligent enough to keep themselves occupied and dignified enough not to make a fuss.
Their independent spirit paired with moderate exercise needs makes them practical choices for working professionals seeking canine companionship.
8. Whippet
Whippets are the smaller cousins of Greyhounds and share their laid-back approach to life.
These slender sighthounds are built for speed but prefer lounging to constant activity.
Their gentle temperament and independence mean they’re perfectly content to spend hours resting while you’re away.
Unlike anxious breeds that pace or bark when alone, Whippets simply find a comfortable spot and settle in for a nap.
They’re quiet, clean, and remarkably low-maintenance considering their athletic build.
After a daily run or play session, they’re happy to be left to their own devices, making them ideal for apartment dwellers with busy schedules.
Velcro Dogs
On the other side are dogs that crave constant companionship.
These “Velcro” breeds are happiest when they’re glued to your side, no matter where you go.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labs are famous for their boundless enthusiasm and desire to be involved in every family activity.
These social butterflies were bred to work closely alongside hunters, developing a strong need for human interaction.
Your Lab would happily follow you everywhere if given the choice, from the kitchen to the backyard and back again.
Their friendly, outgoing personality means Labs often struggle with being left alone for long periods.
They thrive on companionship and may develop separation anxiety if isolated too frequently.
If you work from home or have a flexible schedule, a Lab will reward you with unwavering loyalty and constant companionship throughout your day.
3. Golden Retriever
Few breeds embody devotion quite like the Golden Retriever.
These dogs form incredibly strong bonds with their families and prefer to be within sight of their favourite humans at all times.
Originally bred as hunting companions, Goldens were selected for their cooperative nature and desire to please.
Goldens often press against your legs while you cook or rest their heads on your lap during movie time.
They’re happiest when included in daily activities, whether that’s running errands or simply moving from room to room.
Their need for constant companionship makes them better suited for families where someone is usually home or for people who can bring their dog to work.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers were literally bred to be companion dogs for royalty, and they take that job very seriously.
These small spaniels are happiest when draped across your lap or tucked under your arm.
Their entire purpose in life seems to be providing comfort and companionship to their chosen humans.
A Cavalier will shadow you from room to room, always hoping for an invitation to cuddle.
They’re affectionate without being yappy and gentle enough for families with children.
However, their intense need for companionship means they’re not suited for people who work long hours away from home, as they can become distressed when left alone frequently.
5. Chihuahua
Don’t let their tiny size fool you.
Chihuahuas form intense attachments to their owners that rival much larger breeds.
These pint-sized pups often bond strongly with one person and want to be with them constantly.
They’re famous for burrowing under blankets next to their favourite human or riding along in purses and bags.
Chihuahuas can be surprisingly possessive and may even try to guard their chosen person from other pets or family members.
Their small size means they’re portable enough to take many places, which is fortunate because they truly hate being left behind.
They’re ideal for retirees or people who work from home and want a constant, pocket-sized companion.
6. Dachshund
Originally bred to hunt badgers independently, modern Dachshunds have evolved into devoted companion dogs that crave human attention.
These long-bodied charmers are famous for their loyalty and tendency to attach themselves firmly to their families.
They want to be involved in everything you do, from gardening to watching television.
Dachshunds often suffer from separation anxiety when left alone too long, sometimes expressing their displeasure through barking or destructive behaviour.
They’re much happier when they can accompany you throughout your day.
Their small size makes them portable, so many Dachshund owners find ways to include their dogs in errands and outings whenever possible.
7. Pug
Pugs were bred specifically to be companion dogs for Chinese emperors, and they haven’t forgotten their royal purpose.
These wrinkly charmers are happiest when they’re the center of attention, preferably while sitting on your lap or pressed against your side.
Their entire demeanor radiates a desire for constant companionship and affection.
A Pug will follow you everywhere, often making snorting sounds to announce their presence.
They’re comedic, affectionate, and completely devoted to their families.
However, their need for constant interaction means they’re not suitable for people who work long hours.
Pugs thrive in homes where someone is usually around to provide the attention they constantly seek.
8. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were bred as palace pets in ancient China, where their sole job was to provide companionship to nobility.
Centuries later, they still excel at that original purpose.
These fluffy little dogs are quintessential lap warmers who want nothing more than to be close to their beloved humans all day long.
A Shih Tzu will follow you from room to room, always hoping for an opportunity to curl up beside you.
They’re affectionate, friendly, and genuinely distressed when separated from their families for extended periods.
Their small size and moderate exercise needs make them perfect for apartment living, provided someone is home most of the time to provide companionship.
