While every dog breeds needs human interaction, there are some that are a little bit more independent than others. Every dog is an individual, but certain dogs were bred to work alongside humans all day long, such as herding and hunting dogs, and others were used for solitary work, such as guard dogs. Many breeds do fine with regularly amounts of human love and attention, but some are a little bit more high-maintenance in this area.
#1 – Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is, despite its name, an American dog breed originally used for ranch dogs. The breed is still actively used as stock dogs today, either on working farms or competing in herding sports, and does best with an active and attentive owner. They are intelligent, driven dogs that excel at many dog sports such as agility and obedience. This breed does not do well when left alone for extended periods of time and is prone to separation anxiety.
#2 – Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever has been America’s favorite dog for many years. They were originally bred as hunting dogs, retrieving game for their owners. Because of this, they are used to working alongside humans for hours on end. Although not all Labradors are hunting dogs today, they still maintain the need for human interaction. Labradors do not do well when left alone for extended periods and benefit from active homes or additional services like dog walkers or doggy daycare.
#3 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel originated as a lapdog – a job it still excels at today. Because of this, Cavaliers want nothing more than to be by their human’s side and they do not do well when left alone for long periods of time. The breed may not be very active, but they do require adequate affection and care from their owners to maintain a happy and healthy life.
#4 – Border Collie
The Border Collie is a herding breed that has been working alongside humans for many, many years. They are very active and intelligent and succeed in a variety of venues including herding, agility, obedience, search and rescue and more. Border Collies enjoy being trained and spending time with their owners. This breed does not do well when not provided adequate human attention and they can become destructive if under-stimulated and lonely.
#5 – Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a toy breed most notable for their huge heart and desire to be with their owners. They are excellent lapdogs and companions and require a significant amount of human care and attention to be happy members of the family. They are playful and inquisitive and do not do well when left alone for long periods.
#6 – German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a masterful hunting dog, still widely used for this purpose today. These genetics make them desire human companionship more than many other breeds. They prefer to stay alongside humans, even if it means they are just sleeping on the floor at your feet. German Shorthaired Pointers are prone to separation anxiety due to their desire to be with their families and do best in active homes.
#7 – Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels, both the English and American varieties, were bred as hunting dogs. They are very affectionate dogs that enjoy being with their families and make great companions for people of all ages. They are excellent lapdogs and are sometimes prone to separation anxiety, so they do best with families that are able to provide adequate attention and care.
