15 Dogs That Prefer to Be the Only Pet in the House
Most dogs are social by nature, but not all enjoy sharing their homes with other animals. Some breeds are naturally territorial, others are deeply bonded to their humans, and a few simply don’t tolerate competition. If you’re looking for a loyal companion who prefers undivided attention, understanding their needs upfront can save you a lot of trouble down the road. Let’s look at a few breeds that do best as solo pets.
Akita
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Akitas take independence to another level. They were bred in Japan as hunting and guard dogs and have spent centuries working alongside humans, not other animals. Their loyalty is unmatched, but that devotion comes with a territorial edge. If an Akita sees another dog—or any animal, really—as competition, they won’t hesitate to let them know who’s in charge.
Chow Chow
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Chow Chows have an air of royalty about them, and like most royals, they prefer to rule alone. Dignified, aloof, and sometimes downright snobbish, these dogs aren’t big on sharing—whether it’s their space, their food, or their favorite human. Unlike breeds that crave constant affection, Chows set their own terms. They’ll accept love when they want it, but they’re not the type to tolerate chaos or clingy housemates.
Dogo Argentino
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Considering that they’re built like an athlete and brimming with confidence, it’s no wonder that the Dogo Argentino was originally bred for big-game hunting. That also means they have a strong prey drive and a natural dominance that makes cohabitation with other animals tricky. They aren’t the type to back down from a challenge, and in a multi-pet home, they can become overly territorial.
Irish Terrier
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With a fiery coat to match its personality, the Irish Terrier is one bold, fearless dog. It was bred to hunt vermin and guard property and, thus, has never been the type to back down from a confrontation. If another pet steps out of line, an Irish Terrier won’t hesitate to put them in their place. Despite their scrappy nature, they’re incredibly affectionate with their humans.
Miniature Pinscher
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Don’t let their tiny frame fool you—the Miniature Pinscher carries itself like it’s ten times its actual size. They’re confident, stubborn, and always on high alert, so they want full control of their environment. They don’t appreciate other animals messing with their routine. They like their space, their toys, and their humans all to themselves.
Schipperke
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Schipperkes may be small, but they act like they own the place. These high-energy watchdogs take their role very seriously, constantly patrolling their home for anything out of place—including other pets. They’re territorial by nature and prefer to be the only ones keeping an eye on things.
Tosa Inu
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Although they were bred for dog fighting in Japan, the Tosa Inu carries itself with quiet confidence. They aren’t aggressive without cause, but they won’t tolerate disrespect from other animals. These dogs are strong, disciplined, and incredibly loyal—but they need an owner who understands their dominant nature.
Cairn Terrier
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Cairn Terriers are energetic, feisty, and stubborn. They have a strong prey drive that doesn’t mix well with other pets—especially smaller ones. While they’re playful and affectionate with their owners, they tend to see other animals as competition or, worse, prey.
Chinese Crested
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The Chinese Crested lives for human attention. They form intense bonds with their owners and don’t handle competition well. If another pet starts getting attention, they can become jealous and sulky.
This breed thrives in a home where they can soak up all the love and affection without sharing the spotlight.
Shar-Pei
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Shar-Peis were originally bred as guard dogs, and they take that job seriously. Their protective instincts can make them wary of other pets, and they don’t always play well with others. These dogs prefer a structured, single-pet environment where they can focus on their family without feeling like they need to defend their turf from another pet.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
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Dandie Dinmont Terriers are small but strong-willed. They love their families but don’t feel the need to share their space with other animals. If given the choice, they’d rather be the sole recipient of their owner’s love and attention.
French Bulldog
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Frenchies are social butterflies—with people, not necessarily other pets. They love being doted on and don’t take kindly to sharing attention. If there’s another pet in the house, expect some jealousy-driven mischief. In a single-pet home, however, they’re affectionate, funny, and full of personality.
Great Pyrenees
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Great Pyrenees were bred to protect livestock, and that instinct hasn’t faded. They’re naturally territorial and tend to see other pets as intruders rather than friends. They thrive in a quiet home where they can focus on being loyal, devoted guardians.
Japanese Chin
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Japanese Chins are elegant, charming, and just a little bit possessive. They bond deeply with their humans and often prefer their company over that of other animals. They enjoy being the center of attention and do best in homes where they don’t have to share their humans with another pet.