Get a Breed Based on Your Personality Type?

Getting a dog is a big decision, and no two breeds are exactly the same. For example, a lazy basset hound may be content chilling all day on his doggy bed, but that frisky golden retriever isn’t going to entertain himself. You might want to rethink which dog is right for you.

PEKINGESE

Sure, she might look like an ottoman, but this confident and self-possessed dog doesn’t care what you think about her. She likes to assert control, and she’ll ignore your scolding with little regard for the consequences. Rest assured: Once you gain this breed’s respect, they are reliable and well mannered.

GERMAN SHEPHERD

It would be difficult to find a more loyal breed. Watchful, obedient and intelligent, they want to serve a purpose and keep everyone safe, which often leads them to be overprotective of their families. If you can relate, a German shepherd might be the perfect companion to share the load of responsibilities.

AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD

Originally bred to herd sheep, Aussies are workaholics that try tirelessly to tackle any task put in front of them. Energetic, intelligent and loyal, helping others is their main purpose…and it’s probably yours, too.

JACK RUSSELL TERRIER

Smart but possessing a mind of their own, these agile and energetic terriers will always move to the beat of their own drums. They are great dogs for families, but they also enjoy alone time.

RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK

These handsome and athletic dogs are known for their exploratory and active personalities. They love to get their paws dirty and experience the world…and they can even be a bit daredevilish, unafraid to break from the pack.

SHIBA INU

Fox-like in appearance with upright ears, this Japanese breed is easygoing, peaceful and alert. Though they make great companions, they’re happy minding their own business, laying on a patch of grass and contemplating the ways of the world.

TIBETAN TERRIER

These guys are notoriously aloof and reserved to strangers, but they grow to be very affectionate of the people they trust. Sound familiar? Though he’ll rarely curl up on your lap, he’ll follow you around the house like your shadow.

CHOW CHOW

Is that a lion!? No, it’s just a chow chow--although, this breed’s aloof and pensive personality is closer to that of a feline. Chow chows tend to be intelligent, but given their indifferent personalities, they may appear to have their heads in the clouds. That said, these fluffy giants prefer to be by your side than alone.

BEAGLE

Beagles are playful and active, constantly searching for new adventures. As a result, they’ll get into trouble if not given frequent attention and activity. But at the end of the day, they’re amiable and love constant social interactions.

CORGI

Just look at their constantly smiling faces: Corgis are the life of the party, and they’re always ready to play. They’re so playful, in fact, that they often have trouble focusing on one task at a time.

LABRADOR RETRIEVER

Warm, compassionate and intelligent, but also built for sport and activity, these big dogs are always looking for a new adventure. A dip in the ocean, a jaunt in the mountains--they’re game for whatever escapade you take them on.

FRENCH BULLDOG

This lady may be small in stature, but she’s got a big, lively personality. Don’t let her frowning face fool you: She’s friendly and lovable, albeit a bit feisty. Her stubborn personality may make her inclined to go against your wishes--like chew on your sneakers or jump on the off-limits sofa.

SIBERIAN HUSKY

Ah, the active, outdoorsy husky. He is always looking for action, especially in cold weather (hence, his common role as a sled dog). While these wolfish animals are generally good-natured and very dependable, their personalities can be domineering.

BICHON FRISE

The “cheerleader” of the dog world, these little white bundles of joy are, above all, social creatures. Gentle, playful and loving, they thrive on human interaction and will do their best to make people happy.

GOLDEN RETRIEVER

Passionate, charismatic and hands down the cutest pups, goldens are constantly standing up for the people they love. They’re impressively tuned in to the needs of others around them and live for social connections with others. They’ll be the first to dive into the pool after you or fall asleep on the foot of your bed.

TIBETAN MASTIFF

Charismatic and confident, these giant, furry creatures are intelligent and determined, and they love a good challenge. Be warned, they can often be commanding and fairly difficult to train, so definitely keep an eye on who’s actually the leader of pack.