Introverts aren’t hermits, but they do need their down time to recharge, especially after being social.
But just because an introvert needs a break from people doesn’t mean they need to be completely alone.
In fact, snuggling and petting a furry friend can help introverts regain their energy even faster.
Read on to learn about the best dog breeds for introverts!
SHIBA INU
The loyal, confident, and affectionate Shiba Inu originated as a hunting dog from Japan. Shiba Inus belong to the “Spitz” group of Japanese dogs. And though this particular breed happens to be the smallest it is considered a “small-to-medium size” dog. Deemed as “alert and lively,” the Shiba Inu is known for bonding tightly with its owner. Shiba Inus have an ultra-thick double-coat of fur and pointy, fox-like ears. Thanks to their sturdy physique, this dog breed makes for quite an affectionate, cuddly companion dog. This is perhaps the biggest reason that Shiba Inus speak into the hearts of introverts. Your Shiba Inu will bond to you as a puppy and remain loyally by your side for life.
BASSET HOUND
Known as the Sherlock Holmes of the canine world, the Basset Hound dog breed has a sensitive soul and keen sense of smell. Some even say that the Basset Hound can “smell” your mood! As a gentle and investigative hound dog, the Basset Hound makes a lovely companion dog for introverts who appreciate the solitary peace and quiet of the home, as well as a meditative stroll through the neighborhood. Leisurely contemplation best describes the Basset Hound’s temperament, which makes them a perfect companion dog for the introvert who needs to recharge in solitude but also wants a furry friend to snuggle.
GOLDEN RETRIEVER
Not only is the Golden Retriever a medium-sized Scottish breed with an award-winning temperament, it’s also a #1 choice among single people who like living alone but don’t want to completely live alone. Golden Retrievers are most commonly known as excellent family dogs, but we’re here to proclaim that this sweet-hearted breed is also the perfect choice for introverts and single-person homes. Hailed as a versatile companion dog, the Golden Retriever can have boundless energy when out for a walk, jog, or play session with its favorite person; and it can also enjoy a quiet evening of relaxation at home without getting fussy or frustrated. Whatever mood you’re in, your Golden Retriever will match you, truly staying in-step with you as your loyal companion.
GREAT DANE
Have you ever looked at a horse and asked, “Why can’t you be a dog?” If you have, there’s good news! There’s a dog breed that’s pretty much the size of a small horse! Thanks, Germany! Contrary to its immense size, the Great Dane breed is a docile, low-energy companion dog that feels content and happy in small living spaces as well as large estates. Ask any Great Dane owner and they’ll tell you, their gentle giant has a “lovey-dovey” temperament and horse-like spiritual sensitivity. Many Great Danes are so affectionate that they forget their own size and venture to sit on their owners’ laps! What makes this large dog breed so compatible with introverts is its emotional capacity to bond with its owner and its desire to accompany its owner through the high highs and low lows of life. You will never feel alone with a Great Dane in your home!
GREYHOUND
Gentle, noble, and sweet-tempered, the Greyhound dog breed is a bonafide snuggle-bum who lives to curl up with its favorite person on the couch when it isn’t sprinting at impressive speeds whenever it’s outside. Though the Greyhound can run at top speeds, it actually does not require a lot of time exercising. A brief 20 – 40 minutes will do the trick and you’ll notice that your Greyhound uses the majority of his exercise session prancing and sniffing close to you rather than sprinting off into the sunset. Greyhounds are a particularly good choice for introverts because they love being at home with their favorite person, and they behave more like a companion lap dog than the “working dog” category that they hail from. As any Greyhound owner will tell you, living with a Greyhound is like living with a “40 mph couch potato.”
LABRADOR RETRIEVER
Whether black, brown, or yellow, Labrador Retrievers are known as friendly, high-spirited and outgoing companion dogs. They are among the easiest to train thanks to their eager-to-please nature, moderately-high intelligence, and highly obedient temperament. Being a top choice for both Service Dogs and Emotional Support Dogs, the Labrador Retriever is very in-tune with the mood and needs of its owner, as well as the family it belongs to. Whether you’re an introvert who lives by yourself or one that’s part of a big family, your Labrador Retriever will be eager to meet your needs and remain by your side. This dog breed has a lot of energy. And as a medium-sized dog breed, you’ll need to train him throughout puppyhood. Training your Lab puppy won’t be too challenging, though, since this breed picks up commands quickly.
CHIHUAHUA
As an introvert, you know that the word “introvert” isn’t a synonym for shy or low-energy. Many introverts can be the life of the party and live an on-the-go lifestyle. If this describes you, one of the best dog breeds for you is the Chihuahua. This small breed is considered feisty and energetic at times, and yet can be calm and snuggly at other times, just like you! Chihuahuas come in a variety of coat lengths, from long-haired to short-haired to even hairless. They only need about 30 minutes of exercise per day, and thanks to their very small size, they can discharge pent-up energy by playing around the house if need be. Your Chihuahua will be a loyal lap dog companion and a true best friend.
Those are Petland Kansas City’s best dog breeds for introverts. What introvert pet blog would be complete without a list of introvert celebrities and their furry friends? We have no idea, which is why we’re concluding this article with famous introverts throughout history and the dogs that love(d) them:
- Abraham Lincoln had a Yellow Labrador Retriever
- Sir Isaac Newton had a Pomeranian
- Charles Darwin had Terriers and Retrievers
- Keanu Reeves has a Beagle
- Mark Zuckerberg has a Puli, a type of Hungarian Sheepdog
- Audrey Hepburn had a Yorkshire Terrier
- Elon Musk has a Shiba Inu
- Lady Gaga has French Bulldogs
- Eleanor Roosevelt had a Scottish Terrier
We hope you found this blog informative and we’ll see you soon in Overland Park!