Best Dogs That Can Be Left Alone — our top picks
Chow Chow
Ancient Chinese breed with blue-black tongue and lion-like mane. Independent and dignified with strong protective instincts.
Saluki
Ancient Persian sighthound with feathered or smooth coat. Independent, gentle, and built for endurance running.
Shar Pei
Chinese breed with distinctive wrinkles and blue-black tongue. Independent and loyal but can be aloof.
Sloughi
Ancient North African sighthound. Elegant and noble hunter with aloof dignity.
Afghan Hound
Ancient sighthound with flowing coat and aloof dignity. Independent, elegant, but requires experienced handling.
Akita Inu
Large Japanese spitz breed with dignified bearing. Loyal and protective but requires experienced handling.
Basenji
Barkless African hunting dog with cat-like cleanliness. Independent, intelligent, and unique.
Komondor
Hungarian livestock guardian with distinctive corded coat. Independent, brave, and devoted protector.
Pekingese
Ancient Chinese breed with lion-like mane and dignified bearing. Independent and somewhat aloof companion.
Saarloos Wolfdog
Dutch wolfdog with reserved temperament and primitive instincts. Requires expert handling and extensive socialization.
Shiba Inu
Smallest Japanese spitz breed with fox-like appearance. Independent, clean, and alert with strong personality.
Sloughi
North African sighthound with smooth coat. Reserved, loyal, and built for endurance in desert conditions.
How this ranking works: each of DoggyQ's 343 breeds is scored on the traits that matter most for this lifestyle — energy, size, temperament, grooming and trainability — using our vet-reviewed breed database. Read more about our methodology, or take the free quiz for a ranking personalised to you.
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Find your perfect matchFrequently asked questions
- Which dog breeds can be left alone during the workday?
- Based on temperament and care needs, the Chow Chow ranks as the top choice for owners who work away from home, followed by the Saluki and Shar Pei.
- How was this list of dogs for owners who work away from home chosen?
- Each breed is scored on the traits that matter most for owners who work away from home — such as energy, size, grooming and temperament — using DoggyQ's breed database. For a recommendation tailored to your exact situation, take the free quiz.