7 Best Dog Breeds for Single People, According to Vet
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a dog, from lifestyle and energy level to how much time you spend at home. If you're not dating anyone, you may also be wondering what the best companion dog breeds for single people are. Here's the truth: your dog doesn't care about your relationship status. But if you're living by yourself, it does matter-because you'll be your dog's main caregiver and daily source of connection.
That's why we rounded up 7 dog breeds for single people that are known for being affectionate, loyal, easy to care for and well-suited to a one-person household. These canines are also often easy to bond with and can bring comfort, friendship and emotional support to people living alone.
So, how do you know which dog is your perfect match? "Choosing the best dog for people living alone boils down to one's housing situation, lifestyle and work schedule," says Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel. "Some breeds thrive in situations where there's routine and there's only one person at home."
Ready to find the perfect four-legged roommate for you? While there are plenty of pups great for single women and men, these vet-approved dog breeds for one-person households are a good place to start. The best part is they range from small lap dogs to medium-sized dog breeds to notorious guard dogs.
Related: 7 Best Dog Breeds for Women That Are Loyal, Loving, and Expert-Approved
The Best Dog Breeds for Single People
The best companion dogs for singles are typically those that offer strong adaptability and bond closely with their owner. Whether you live in an apartment or a house, vets say these devoted breeds are well-suited to solo lifestyles-making everyday life feel more connected and less lonely.
Akita
The Akita is widely known as one of the best dog breeds for single people, especially for those living in a single-person household. So, if you're craving a furry best friend, this big dog may be for you.
This Japanese breed is famous for its deep loyalty and strong one-person bond. Because of this devotion, Akitas are often best suited for experienced dog owners looking for a loyal companion in a one-person household. "This breed is perfect for those who have experience owning dogs previously," Warner says.
Warner also notes that Akitas can have strong guard dog tendencies, which may appeal to those seeking a protective companion. However, early socialization and consistent training are essential if you decide to get one of these beauties.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Profoundly loyal, dignified, courageous
- Height: 24-28 inches
- Weight: 70-130 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–14 years
Pug
The Pug is perfect for fun-loving, social single people-and, really, anyone. Because of that, it's often considered one of the best dogs for people living alone. "Pugs can be a great match for some single owners because they are typically affectionate, social and people-oriented," saysLiza Cahn, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance. This pup is happy to play with friends and other guests that come through your home, along with spend some quality time hanging out with just the two of you.
"Their playful, comical personalities can make them especially entertaining companions for someone living alone, and their compact size serves them well in apartments or small living spaces," Cahn says. Just be aware that because Pugs have flat faces, they're prone to breathing and skin-fold issues.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Charming, loving, mischievous
- Height: 10-13 inches
- Weight: 14-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
Related: These 7 Dog Breeds Are Perfect If You Already Have a Dog, According to Trainers
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is hard to resist, with its sweet furry mustache and thick eyebrows. Besides being cute, this small dog gets along with nearly everyone, but has several traits that make it an especially good pick for a single-person household. "Yorkies can be a great match for some single owners because they are small, portable and often deeply attached to their person," Cahn says.
While these pups are tiny, Yorkies tend to have a bold, lively personality. "They can be very engaging companion," Cahn says. They also don't tend to shed or drool, so you don't have to worry about extra cleaning around your place. Their petite size also makes it easy to take them on the road with you if you're want to bring the along, too. It's no wonder they are thought of as one of the best companion dogs for singles.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Affectionate, sprightly, tomboyish
- Height: 7-8 inches
- Weight: 7 pounds
- Lifespan: 11-15 years
Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is another Japanese breed that meshes well with the single lifestyle. As one of the best dogs for singles they are a good fit for people who want a companion, but not one that's overly demanding. "Independent and affectionate, Shiba Inus are said to be not as needy as other dog breeds," Warner says.
Another plus? They are quiet dogs and are't known for being very loud. This breed also tends to form intense bonds with its humans, and enjoys being in its owner's vicinity, Warner says. "They can also live in more compact homes as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation," she adds.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Alert, active, attentive
- Weight: 17-23 pounds
- Height: 13.5-16.5 inches
- Lifespan: 13-16 years
Bulldog
The Bulldog has a well-earned reputation for being relaxed and its loyalty to its owner runs deep. In fact, this highly-affectionate pooch loves spending time alongside its human, whether it's napping at your feet or padding around the house after you. As a result, these are some of the best dogs for people who live alone in apartments as they are dogs that make living alone feel less lonely.
"Some single owners may prefer the English Bulldog because they love calm environments and a predictable home life," Warner says. "Their temperament may suit those who are laidback." Just be aware that Bulldogs are prone to breathing problems and skin fold issues.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Friendly, courageous, calm
- Height: 14-15 inches
- Weight: 40-50 pounds
- Lifespan: 8-10 years
Chihuahua
One of the best dogs for people living alone are Chihuahuas. "They have a ton of personality packed into a tiny body, and they often bond strongly with their person," Cahn says. This companion dog will love to snuggle up next to you once play time is over, too.
"Chihuahuas require minimal grooming and can thrive in small homes and apartments," Cahn says. Short-coated Chihuahuas also have minimal grooming needs and don't need a ton of exercise, just in case long walks aren't your thing and you'd rather have a pup you can chill at home with.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Charming, graceful, sassy
- Height: 5-8 inches
- Weight: Under 6 pounds
- Lifespan: 14–16 years
Basenji
The Basenji is the perfect breed for single people who can't decide between a dog or cat. In fact, Cahn points out that the Basenji is often described as a cat-like dog due to its independent and self-sufficient nature. This breed is even known for its cleanliness, making it a perfect housemate.
"Basenjis can be very affectionate with their chosen person, but still aren't overly clingy," according to Cahn. Just be prepared to do plenty of playtime with your Basenji-or to have lots of entertaining toys around. Cahn points out that this breed is high-energy, smart and easily bored. That's why it's all the more important to keep your Basenji engaged if you have one.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Independent, smart, poised
- Height: 16-17 inches
- Weight: 22-24 pounds
- Lifespan: 13-14 years
Sources:
- Liza Cahn, DVM, a veterinarian at Embrace Pet Insurance
- Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel
- Shiba Inu. American Kennel Club.
- Akita. American Kennel Club.
- Bulldog. American Kennel Club.
- Pug. American Kennel Club.
- Yorkshire Terrier. American Kennel Club.
- Chihuahua. American Kennel Club.
- Basenji. American Kennel Club.
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This story was originally published May 25, 2026 at 4:10 AM.