15 Big Dog Breeds That Are Okay With Solitude
With separation anxiety in dogs becoming increasingly common, the popularity of independent dogs that can spend time alone is rising. In general, dogs bred for work are more self-sufficient than dogs bred for companionship.
This does not mean they do not like spending time with their owners. It is just that they enjoy their own personal space and appreciate alone time. In this article, we will review 15 large breed dogs that tolerate being alone.
1. Bullmastiff
This Bulldog-Mastiff mix is a large and muscular dog with a tough appearance and a gentle heart. The breed comes from England, where it was originally used to pursue poachers. The history of the Bullmastiff is summarized in its popular nickname - The Gamekeeper’s Night Dog.
Personality Traits: Affectionate, Brave, Loyal
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
2. Akita
The striking-looking and determined Akita is native to Japan. The breed has an interesting history. Namely, at one moment, it was facing extinction and then became the national pride of Japan. The government designated the breed a Japanese Natural Monument.
Personality Traits: Alert, Aloof, Dignified
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
3. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a powerful and compact dog with a snobbish expression and a dignified demeanor. The hallmarks of the breed are the lion’s-mane ruff and the distinctively blue tongue. As an ancient Chinese dog, the Chow Chow is believed to be one of the oldest dog breeds in the World. Interestingly, this breed has two extra teeth, making 44 in total, unlike other dogs with 42.
Personality Traits: Bright, Serious-Minded; Dignified
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
4. Otterhound
Born in Medieval England, the Otterhound’s initial purpose was hunting otters. The dog has webbed feet, a shaggy coat, and an immense love for swimming. Its muscular build allows it to swim without getting tired, and the water-resistant coat offers protection. Sadly, today the Otterhound is one of the rarest dog breeds and is in danger of extinction.
Personality Traits: Boisterous, Amiable, Even-Tempered
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
5. Tosa
The Tosa is the largest Japanese dog breed and is best known for its calm yet protective and watchful nature. The dog is robustly built, with expressed muscles and a wrinkly forehead. In its early history, the Tosa was used for dog fighting and today makes an excellent watch and guard dog. During WWII, the breed almost became extinct.
Personality Traits: Fearless, Patient, Vigilant
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
6. Rhodesian Ridgeback
Best known for its ridge, or backward-growing hair on the back, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is native to Africa. The breed's original purpose was tracking and baying lions, hence its nickname - African Lion Hound. Even today, modern Rhodesian Ridgebacks kept as pets retain much of their ancestral prey drive.
Personality Traits: Affectionate, Dignified, Even-Tempered
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
7. Broholomer
The Broholomer is a strong and well-built Mastiff-type dog coming from Denmark. Often spotted in front of butcher shops, the breed was popularly nicknamed The Butcher’s Dog. Originally it was used as an all-purpose dog and today makes an excellent companion. However, it is relatively rare outside its native country.
Personality Traits: Loving, Watchful, Friendly
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
8. Doberman Pinscher
Powerful, noble, and intimidating, the Doberman Pinscher is an intelligent dog. The breed was developed in Apolda, Germany, with a unique purpose - to protect tax collectors, thus being called The Taxcollector’s Dog. Today, it makes a great guardian and is used as a police and military dog. Compared to other breeds, the Doberman is relatively new.
Personality Traits: Loyal, Fearless, Alert
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
9. American Foxhound
As the name explains, the American Foxhound was developed in America with the initial purpose of hunting red foxes. True to its hunting heritage, this breed has a strong prey drive even when raised as a pet dog. The American Foxhound is famous for being vocal. President G. Washington loved the breed and owned 36 American Foxhounds.
Personality Traits: Sweet-Tempered, Independent, Easy-Going
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
10. Great Pyrenees
White, big, and thick-coated, the Great Pyrenees was bred to protect sheep from wolves and other predators. It was developed in the snowy Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France. The exact history is unknown, but it is believed that the breed's ancestors came from Central Asia or Siberia. During the reign of King Louis XIV, the breed became a court dog.
Personality Traits: Patient, Smart, Calm
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
11. Borzoi
The Borzoi is a slender dog with long legs and a unique aristocratic demeanor. The breed was developed in Russia sometime during the 17th century as a mix between Russian and Arabian Greyhounds. For many years, it was the favorite dog of Russian nobility. The breed is also known as the Russian Wolfhound.
Personality Traits: Affectionate, Regally Dignified, Loyal
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
12. Anatolian Shepherd
The Anatolian Shepherd is a rugged and muscular dog with a strong working ethic and devotion. They are very protective of their humans, kids, and even other family pets. The breed was developed in Asia Minor - the peninsula forming the Asian portion of Turkey.
Personality Traits: Independent, Reserved, Loyal
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
13. Karelian Bear Dog
Bred to hunt aggressive game, the Karelian Bear Dog is a smart, self-confident, and spirited dog. The breed originates from Finland, where it is also used as a sled dog, search and rescue dog, and in obedience competitions. Outside its native country, the Karelian Bear Dog is rare.
Personality Traits: Loyal, Courageous, Independent
Alone Time: 5 out of 5
Conclusion
These large breed dogs are independent and do not mind spending time alone. Therefore, they are suitable for singles and people who spend significant time away from home.
However, because of their independence, they can be a handful in training. Also, they can have socialization issues. Luckily, with a proper approach, these problems can be solved.
