9 Best Dogs For Single Guys (2024) + Photos

There’s plenty of information out there for the best pets for families. Kids and dogs are a dynamic that it’s important to research to ensure a good household balance. But what about single adults who want a friend? 

If you’re a guy who’s considering getting a dog, there are a few things to keep in mind as you begin your search.

Keep reading to learn which breeds make the best dogs for single men. 

Best Dogs for Single Men

These are the breeds I encourage solo guys to check out when they’re looking for their fur-ever friend. 

1. Labrador Retrievers 

Fun, smart, and versatile, this is the best all-around good dog that virtually anyone can enjoy. Labs have sweet temperaments so you don’t need to worry about them being too protective or scaring anyone away. 

Choose whether you prefer the look of the white, black, or chocolate Lab. Then start training them from puppyhood, as Labs are eager to learn and will devote themselves to any task you give them. 

2. Pitbulls 

Though they have garnered a bad reputation in the past, dog people know that Pitties are the furthest thing from aggressive that a dog can get. Bring a Pitbull home and you’ll have a companion who will love you with every muscle in their compact, powerful body. 

Since they are such well-built dogs, Pitbulls do take a bit more effort than other breeds to contain their energy. They love to pull on a tug rope with their famous lockjaw technique and run around outside whenever you can hang out with them. 

3. Australian Shepherds 

If you have a good amount of time in your life to invest in a dog, look no further than an Aussie. These bob-tailed cuties live to obey your directions and are some of the most trainable pooches you’ll find. 

Teach your Australian Shepherd a whole book full of tricks to satisfy their curious minds as well as impress your friends. Just make sure you have some time to brush out their gorgeous coats every day, so your living space doesn’t get covered in fur. 

4. Great Danes

This extra-large dog comes with an enormous heart. A Dane is a devoted friend to their human and will turn heads no matter where you take them. These “house ponies” do take up space, but make up for it with the number of hours they sleep every day. 

So, despite their size, Great Danes are perfectly happy to lounge around a small apartment. Be ready for a significant budget for feeding and vet bills, but it’s worth it for these lovable giants. 

5. German Shepherds 

A bachelor deserves a dog who will attach themselves to you as dutifully as you do to them. German Shepherds are some of the most loyal animals you’ll ever find. 

Give your German Shepherd the socialization they need early on so that they strike a healthy balance between protective and friendly. They’re happiest when they have a job to do, whether looking after your place in your absence or chasing a ball. 

6. Poodles 

Another highly-trainable pup is a Poodle. These come in a range of sizes, so if you’re not crazy about the space a bigger dog takes up, you can downsize to a toy or teacup version. 

Fun, entertaining, and clever, Poodles are a great choice for anyone who lives alone and wants an engaging canine companion. 

7. Golden Retrievers 

Similar to Labs, Goldens reside in the mainstream of the dog world. Their beautiful look, affable demeanor, and excellent responsiveness make them an all-around great choice for a pet. 

Golden Retrievers are easy to approach and love people. If you are a single guy who’s hoping to get a girlfriend at the dog park, this might be the best way to go. 

8. Beagles 

Who doesn’t want a Snoopy in their life? Beagles are curious and lively, and will constantly make you laugh with their cute antics. 

This is a good option for someone who lives alone but also craves socialization. Bonus points if you are a hunter, as Beagles thrive there in their native environment. 

9. Huskies 

I include snow dogs at the bottom of my list because their grooming needs are high-maintenance. With a thick undercoat and two shedding seasons per year, this is not the dog for someone who is overly fastidious about how their home looks (unless you can afford a twice-weekly house cleaner). 

That said, the cold-weather energy of a Husky or Alaskan Malamute is perfect for a bachelor who’s the outdoorsy type. Take them on wintry hikes and enjoy a fluffy wolf-like pup by your side for hours at a time. 

Things To Consider

Rather than rushing out to the shelter and bringing home the first pup who catches your attention, give yourself a little time to look around. You might be surprised by what could help you choose the perfect companion. 

Purpose

What’s your reasoning for wanting to get a dog? What are your goals? Ask yourself these questions before you decide which one to bring home. 

For example, guard dogs are not the best choice if you want to be a social butterfly. Though they are impressive, they could intimidate some people who might not be as comfortable around dogs as you are. 

If you want to find a human romantic partner, that’s another factor to consider. Some people love dogs who are smaller or easier to approach for petting. Others will find your dogs’ training impressive and could see it as a reflection of your attributes as a potential mate. 

Space

Where you live plays a big part in your choice of dog. A house with a fenced yard has a lot more opportunity for a pet than a high-rise urban apartment that takes several flights of stairs to access. 

Some dog breeds are perfectly happy to chill out in a small space. Others need a big yard where they can exercise frequently. You might even choose a high-energy breed and install a doggie door in your kitchen so they can let themselves out for fresh air.

Just be wary of their habits to avoid potential escapes or irritating your neighbors with their barking. 

Lifestyle

Do you have more time to devote to a dog than others? Maybe you work from home or have flexible hours that will allow you to be hands-on. Otherwise, remember that you are the only one available for your dog to attach to. 

They will rely on you for all their needs, including exercise and social interaction. This is especially important to consider when you plan your travel. Can you take your dog with you on a road trip, or will you be on a plane frequently? 

Grooming Needs

Finally, there’s the coat to consider. A beautiful dog can have intense grooming requirements. This might not be an issue if you have the time to devote to their hygiene.

But if you spend long hours at work and only have time for a walk later, you might find your house to take more upkeep than you’re used to for purposes of being a fur-free environment. 

Now that you’re aware of what you need to think about when finding a dog, let’s look into which breeds make the best companions for guys who live on their own. 

Final Thoughts 

Naturally, just because a dog is a certain breed doesn’t mean it’s guaranteed to exhibit the look or characteristics you’re after. Each dog has a unique personality and is sure to be a loving companion regardless of their genetic makeup. You won’t truly know what you have until you’re a few months into life with your canine buddy. 

Let’s not forget the mutts of the world, either! There are so many mixed-breed dogs who need homes and make wonderful pets. No matter which pup you choose, I hope you enjoy several years of love and fun with your new best friend.