A huge number of us decided to welcome new puppies into our homes in the last couple of years – Kennel Club figures show dog ownership soared when the pandemic hit and post-lockdown demand for four-legged friends remains high.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
Before setting your heart on a particular breed it’s important to realise that different breeds have very different personalities and attributes.
Some pups hate to be separated from their owners for even short periods, affectionately known as ‘velcro dogs’, and need constant attention, approval and entertainment.
Meanwhile, others are far more sure of themselves – still loving their human family but perfectly happy to take some time out, entertain themselves, or just curl up by themselves for a nap.
So, here are the 10 most independent breeds of dog.
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5. Greyhound
The Greyhound is an interesting mix. Naturally lazy, they'll happily snuggle up next to you on the couch for hours - but this is purely because it suits them. Try to get them to do something they don't want to do and you'll quickly understand how independent they are. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Jack Russell Terrier
One of the most popular breeds of small dog, the Jack Russell is a lively and fun pet. They have a real independent streak though, which often manifests in them refusing to respond to comands - preferring to do what they like. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Shar-pei
The Shar-Pei is perhaps the biggest loner of the dog world - often actively avoiding their owner in even the smallest of flats. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is beautiful and it knows it - with an aloof attitude that suggests it is merely putting up with its human. Afghans like to have their own space to chill by themselves. Photo: Canva/Getty Images