What are the least affectionate dog breeds?
That’s what a friend of mine asked me a couple of days ago.
We’ve already talked about dogs that love to cuddle, and the most affectionate small dog breeds but what about the other way around?
So, I decided to compose this list of 9 independent dog breeds who are not your typical cuddling buddies.
Related: Naughty Dog Breeds
9 Least Affectionate Dog Breeds
Let’s make something clear. All dogs love and cherish their owners in their own way.
However, some dog breeds are freethinkers and value their personal space as much as you value yours.
It doesn’t mean that they are cold, distant, or unsociable. These dogs love their people, but they are just not quite as eager to show it as other breeds.
Are you ready to see which dogs fall into this category? Let’s begin.
#1 Chow Chow
When I see a Chow Chow all I can think about is that I want to hug, squish, and cuddle this fluffy dog.
Unfortunately, Chow Chow is not fond of cuddling, petting or somebody fussing over him. He has a strong, independent spirit and cat-like temperament.
Chow Chow can be aloof and reserved towards strangers, but this bear-like pooch bonds strongly with his owner.
He might not like physical affection much, but he will be next to you when you need company.
In addition to this, Chow Chow is one of the best dogs for a single working man or woman because he is a fierce protector of those he values.
#2 Afghan Hound
Being one of the oldest dog breeds, the Afghan Hound embodies beauty, elegance, and strength.
Bred to hunt large animals, the Afghan had to rely on his wits which shaped his independent thinking.
While puppies can eagerly seek human attention, grown-up Afghans offer affection on their terms and can be quite stubborn to cooperate during training.
Usually, these dogs bond with a single person and will be aloof of strangers.
Moreover, they are so sensitive that they do not react well to rough handling or harsh training.
#3 Basenji
Another dog in our list of the least affectionate dog breed is Basenji. He is also known as “the barkless dog” because the Basenji doesn’t bark but yodels.
This pooch is not one of those dogs willing to do anything to please their owner.
A Basenji will mull over your command before he decides whether to comply or pretend he doesn’t hear you.
While not being overly affectionate, Basenji considers himself part of the family and is loyal and devoted to his humans.
He is often aloof with strangers, and small animals/other pets are a fair game unless the Basenji recognizes them as part of the family.
The Basenji do well when left alone, but an unsupervised Basenji in a yard is often a missing Basenji.
These dogs are escape artists, and even an electronic fence might not be enough to deter them.
#4 Chinese Shar-Pei
People often choose a Chinese Sharp-Pei as a pet because of his distinctive wrinkled body.
However, these dogs used to guardians, hunters, and fighters in the past. As such, they have a strong protective instinct, independent thinking, and fierce temperament.
As such, they have a strong protective instinct, independent thinking, and fierce temperament.
In other words, they are not cuddling buddies.
Shar-Peis might not be as affectionate as Golden Retrievers, for example, but they still love and appreciate their owner.
They are highly protective of their family and prefer the company of their owner to that of other dogs.
But when it comes to strangers and dogs, the Shar-Pei is aloof and might be hostile. So, he needs a firm owner to keep his temperament at check.
#5 Shiba Inu
One of Japan’s native dog breeds, Shiba Inu amazes with his intellect, boldness, and agility.
He’s not a dog that follows commands obediently or does as you say. That’s why some people consider it to be a less affectionate dog breed.
The truth is that the Shiba Inu is a freethinking dog who values his independence and doesn’t like sharing his toys, food, or territory.
Nevertheless, Shiba Inu could be an excellent companion as long as you don’t get frustrated by his stubbornness and strong-willingness.
# 6 Alaskan Malamute
With its wolf-like appearance and a fluffy tail, the Alaskan Malamute is one of the most magnificent representatives of the canine world.
It’s also one that will challenge your position as the head of your household and take advantage of an inexperienced owner and boss him around.
Despite its size and looks, the Alaskan Malamute is not aggressive towards strangers, so he is not going to be of big help against thieves and intruders.
Luckily, his wolf-like appearance ensures that the Malamute is rarely challenged.
While Malamutes are friendly and easygoing, you might have to earn their trust before they shower you with affection.
#7 Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Like Labrador and Golden Retriever, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever has a happy, playful disposition.
Unlike other Retrievers, the Chesapeake Bay is more reserved towards strangers and is so willful that inexperienced owners might be out of their depth.
The Chesapeake Bays value human companionship, but they are not one of those breeds to demand attention.
They are happy to be on their own and will find entertainment wherever possible.
#8 Pekingese
A big dog in a small body is one way to describe a Pekingese.
Bold, energetic, and intelligent Pekingeses were Chinese Emperor’s pets, and they have not forgotten it.
Don’t let their cuteness fool you. This handsome fellow is no pushover!
If you allow your Pekingese to get away with misbehaving, he will rule the household without asking for permission.
#9 Saluki
Last in our list of least affectionate dog breeds is the Saluki. We often admire Saluki’s exotic features, graceful body, and quiet personality.
However, people often underestimate the independence and stubbornness of this breed.
Since they were bred to be hunters, even the tiniest movement can trigger a Saluki’s chasing instinct.
Without a firm grasp on the other end of the leash, this beautiful dog can get hurt in traffic.
In addition to this, Saluki is not a dog that gives his affection easily to his owner. You have to work to earn his respect beforehand.
Don’t expect that your Saluki will demonstrate his affection for you 24/7. He is more of a silent companion who will be next to you when you most need him to.
But due to his hardy breeding, the Saluki is a healthy dog with few genetic or inherited conditions. In addition to this, it’s one of the dog breeds less likely to develop hip dysplasia.
How to teach my dog to be affectionate?
How affectionate a dog is will depend on his character and personality and how well he/she has been socialized as a puppy.
Unsocialized puppies or abused and mistreated ones are more likely to be reserved and aloof of their owners and shy for touch if nobody has handled them gently before.
However, you can remedy that and encourage your dog to be more affectionate towards you. Here’s what to do:
- Show your dog that he can trust by being consisted and meeting her basic needs.
- Teach your dog that your presence equals good things, such as treats. Then your furbaby will be the one seeking your company all the time.
- Place puppies in your lap regularly and pet them everywhere as much as possible.
- Pay attention to your dog as much as possible every single day.
- Don’t isolate your dog for long or she is going to be miserable.
- Go for a walk just the two of you.
Don’t let what I’ve told scare you off these 9 least affectionate dog breeds.
Even dogs from affectionate breeds might need time to warm up to you before they show you their cuddly side.
The important thing is to make efforts to bond with your pooch and show him that you’re worthy of his devotion and trust.
Then even the least affectionate dog will grace you with rare moments of true affection.
