7 Dog Breeds That Like Humans Better Than Dogs
Your pup doesn’t have to be dog aggressive to simply prefer the
company of humans (or, in my dogs case, the company of cats). Some
doggies simply enjoy the pats, treats and cooing that only a human can
provide and may gravitate towards them, even when in the company of
other dogs. A friend of mine and I often take our pups to the dog park
together and laugh as we watch our socially awkward little guys wander
around from human to human owner, sniffing and pleading for a ride home.
Anything to get them away from all these other dogs, chasing them and
humping their butts! It’s hilarious… and adorable.
While it’s impossible to say if certain breeds really seem to lean
this way or that (since, as we all know, many personality traits are
more dog-to-dog than breed-to-breed), there are some breeds that seem to
be more human-centric than others. So while we’re sure you’ll have
plenty of your own thoughts in the comments below (and we can’t wait to
hear them!), here’s our list of breeds that seem to enjoy the pleasure
of the two-legged company over their own furry “friends.”
7. German Shepherd
Everybody knows that GSDs be brilliant. The second most popular dog breed in the US (according to the
American Kennel Club),
German Shepherds are loyal, brilliant and often seen working with the
police and military. If their stupendous reputation for working with
humans doesn’t tell you everything you need to know, check them out at
the dog park. They’re often super friendly with everyone around, but
will likely be seen playing fetch with their hooman or tracking the area
for fun smells. Doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy a romp with their fellow
furballs every now and then, they just might prefer to stick close to
you!
6. Australian Shepherd
Like GSDs, Aussies are super intelligent and possess tons of energy.
Most of the ones I’ve known in my day were all around love gurus, but
preferred the company of their human counterparts over fellow pups.
Maybe it’s because they’re so food driven in nature, and they know who’s
gonna be providing that next meal! Though they’re often slow to warm up
to strangers, Aussies are known for their love of children, likely
because kids keep them active and they love nothing more than having a
job. Huge fans of nooks and crannies, you can often find your Aussie
under your feet or tucked between you and the nearest wall.
5. Beagle
Being pack dogs, Beagles often get along with other pups. But it’s
you who they really love, as they see you as their leader in life. Scent
dogs, Beagles have 220 million (!) scent receptors and are always
looking for the next trail to follow (making them excellent hunting
dogs… whether they’re hunting actual animals or whatever crumbs might be
in your purse). Because they’re often on the hunt for a good sniffing
trail, trips to the dog park might not prove to be entirely social. That
is, unless they find humans with treats in their pockets. Then you can
be sure they’ve found their new best friend for life.
4. Great Dane
Great Danes are, you know,
huge. And while this doesn’t stop
them from running around and enjoy other puppies, the ones I’ve known
have always preferred the company of humans. Often while sitting on them
(seriously, what is it with these dogs an sitting on your lap, DON’T
THEY KNOW THEY’RE HUGE?). Eager to please and super calm, Danes are
super affectionate and love leaning in on their families for ruvin’ and
attention.
3. Maltese
A lot of the toy breed dogs (and many of the smaller breeds in
general) are known to stick close to their owners. While a Labrador or
Pittie might hit the dirt as soon as they get to the dog park, out to
sniff butts and chase tail, a Bichon Frise, Brussels Griffon or Maltese
pup will likely want to stay close to you. Like, in your lap. Or leave
for five minutes and come back to check on you. While there obviously
aresome
tiny breeds that love the attention of other dogs (every Chihuahua I’ve
ever known shakes their entire body in the presence of another Chi),
these three and many others of their size seem to prefer the comfort of a
warm pillow and constant petting.
2. Bulldog
Going to high school in Athens, Ga. (home of the UGA Bulldogs), I
knew plenty of Bulldogs. And by plenty, I mean that every other person I
knew who had a dog had a Bulldog. Maybe it was written into the town
legislature, I don’t know! All I knew was that I found these
wrinklebutts both awesome and funny mascots for sports teams,
considering Bulldogs are some of the most friendly, people-pleasing dogs
around. Patient and mellow, Bulldogs don’t mind if your two-year-old
tiny hooman pulls on their ears (or if you accidentally roll over on
them in bed). Meaty and heavy breathing, they may not always enjoy tons
of rough-housing at the dog park, but you can rest assured they’ll be
right beside you for your next
House of Cards marathon.
1. Collie
It should come as no surprise that the dog immortalized in
Lassie loves humans.
Loves ’em.
This sweet-natured breed may be the most people-pleasing of all dog
breeds, always looking to care for their hoomans. While they can be
quite proud, a Collie is so super loyal that while they may enjoy the
dogship of another pup, they’ll want to check in with you often. Plus,
they let you put flour on them and pose them for pictures, only looking
moderately irritated.
