The Best Breeds of Dog for Leaving Alone

Dogs are naturally social animals, but to live with people they have to learn how to be comfortable alone sometimes. Don't choose a very high-energy breed, such as a Border collie or Jack Russell terrier, if you plan on leaving it alone for long stretches of time. Breeds that are used to living and working in a pack, such as beagles or foxhounds, can get distressed and vocal when they are alone. Choose low-energy breeds used to working in solitude.

  1. Great Pyrenees

    • The Great Pyrenees, or "Pyr" is a livestock guardian breed. Like most dogs in this category, they are used to spending a lot of time alone guarding their flock, and tend to be active at night when predators are more likely to strike. If you have the space and time for a very large, furry dog, the Great Pyrenees can make a gentle, low-energy family dog. The American Kennel Club (AKC) states that its temperament is "confident, gentle, and affectionate," and that excessive shyness, nervousness or aggression towards humans is "unacceptable." Give your Great Pyrenees regular walks and exercise to keep him calm and quiet when left alone.

    Boston Terrier

    • Bred as a companion and pet, the lively, intelligent Boston terrier is an ideal house dog, according to the AKC. Bostons are small, weighing no more than 25 pounds, and their short coat requires little care. They don't bark much as a rule, and need some daily exercise and training to stay fit and use their intelligence. They are a native American breed and dubbed the "American Gentleman" because they are such well-mannered companions and house dogs.

    Greyhound

    • The fastest dog in the world has also been called a "60-mph couch potato." While greyhounds do need daily exercise, they are calm and low-energy house dogs and can happily spend all day sleeping on your couch. Most states have Greyhound rescues, where you can adopt a "retired racer," and they typically make very sweet-natured family dogs. However, greyhounds should not be left alone with a cat or very small dog, as a general rule. They have a high prey drive and small, fast-moving animals can trigger the instinct to chase and kill.

    Poodles

    • From the little toy poodle to the dignified yet playful standard poodle, these dogs make excellent house pets and are not prone to being destructive or anxious, as long as they get enough training and an opportunity to play and run. The AKC states that poodles can "accommodate almost any size living quarters." Although poodles were originally bred for hunting, retrieving and scent dogs, they do not tend to be a hyperactive breed, and have primarily been bred as companions for many generations. Poodles are highly intelligent and easy to train, although their thick, curly coats require some maintenance.