The last few years have seen many of us welcome a new four-legged friend into our homes, as the Kennel Club has seen dog ownership soar to record levels.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your perfect pup – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
While every person has different needs, for budding dog owners who live by themselves it can be worth looking for a dog with a particular range of attributes.
Breeds that form a particularly strong and protective bond with one person, that can be left alone for a few hours, and who don’t need constant stimlulation, are perfect companions for solo dwellers.
Here are 10 of the breeds that tick all of these boxes, according to the American Kennel Club.
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5. Bernese Mountain Dog
If you're lucky to have a fair bit of room at home then a Bernese Mountain Dog could be a perfect companion. Large dogs with small levels of energy, Berners need little more than a 30 minute walk each day and are naturally devoted to their owners. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

6. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is the perfect breed for city dwellers living alone. They have great personalities, are quite happy to entertain themselves for a few hours and are perfectly happy living in a flat. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

7. Pug
While they shouldn't be left alone for more than four or five hours, the Pug is a great dog for a solo city dweller. They are happy living in a flat, are very loving and adaptable, and make the perfect pet for a novice owner. Photo: Canva/Getty Images

8. Shiba Inu
Another traditional hunting dog, this time from Japan, the Shiba Inu suffers very little separation anxiety so doesn't mind being left alone for a few hours and thrive in flats or apartments. They can be tricky to train and need a good daily workout, but once they form a relationship with their owner it's an unbreakable bond. Photo: Canva/Getty Images