What breed of dog will not run away?

Are you wondering about dog breeds that stay in the yard?

You might if you have a big backyard and don’t want to worry about your dog running away.

Fortunately, I’ve got your back with 8 dog breeds that stay close to their owner and won’t wander off looking for an adventure.

Why do some dogs run away, and others don’t?

That’s something you might be wondering while trying to keep your pooch from jumping through the fence.

It’s a combination of factors – breed, training, and temperament.

Usually, hunting dogs tend to get easily distracted by exciting sights and smells, which makes them likely to take off without looking back.

On the other hand, herding breeds are less likely to run away even if they have the opportunity.

Laid-back dogs and low-energy ones are also likely to stay put.

So, for this list, I’ve selected dogs with low wanderlust potential that tend to stay close to their owners.

However, these dogs still need a secure fence, or they might give into temptations.

#1 Chow Chow

Famous for their blue tongues and cat-like personality, Chow Chow dogs are independent, aloof, and highly adaptive.

They thrive well in apartments and yards and tolerate being alone without getting into trouble.

The Chow Chow has the reputation of one of the least affectionate dog breeds.

These fluffy dogs don’t like it when you cuddle or pet them, but Chow Chow still bonds to their owner and prefers to stay home.

While a Chow Chow will likely stay in the yard without trying to escape, you should still have a fence.

This dog is aloof and reserved towards people and doesn’t like it when strangers give them hugs.

Moreover, the Chow Chow’s stubbornness and independence might make them one worst dog breeds off the leash. So, they need a lot of training and socialization.

#2 Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are well-known for their mellow temperament, cheerful disposition, and mischievous streak.

People often describe them as family dogs, and they’re absolutely right.

Golden Retrievers thrive when they’re part of your family’s busy life.

They’re perfect companions for hiking or outdoor adventures because they’re highly energetic dogs that require a lot of mental and physical simulations.

As a whole, Golden Retrievers don’t have a high wanderlust potential, so they will likely stay in the yard.

But you shouldn’t leave your Golden Retriever alone for too long because they’ll get miserable and might escape searching for you.

Since Golden Retrievers have a low prey drive, they’re also one of the best off-the leash breeds.

#3 Old English Sheepdog

People’s first reaction upon glimpsing an Old English Sheepdog is wondering how this dog can see anything through that hair.

With a weight of around 100-pounds, Old English Sheepdogs are bouncy, energetic, and intelligent.

They’re also highly adaptive and can do well in apartments as long as you exercise them regularly.

Since Old English Sheepdogs are family dogs, they tend to stick close to their owners and are prone to separation anxiety.

This scruffy dog also has a low prey drive, which means that they won’t run after a squirrel.

However, Old English Sheepdogs shed a lot and aren’t the best dogs for neat freaks since they drool.

#4 French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are one of the cutest small dogs you’ll ever see. They’re playful, smart, affectionate, and thrive when they’re the center of attention.

In general, French Bulldogs are family companions, so they’re less likely to dig their way through the fence and disappear.

They’re also low-energy and prefer to stick close to their owner’s side. All these make them one of the best small dogs off the leash.

Moreover, French Bulldogs don’t have a high prey drive, are easy to train, and don’t bark excessively.

They’re perfect for houses with small yards, and you’re likely to find them chilling in their favorite spot than trying to squeeze through fence holes.

#5 German Spitz

German Spitz is a remarkable dog with their affectionate nature, playful disposition, and lively spirit.

They’re robust dogs that are don’t mind the weather, which makes them perfect for yards.

Moreover, German Spitz dogs have low wanderlust potential, so they aren’t likely to run off to an adventure.

But they have a high prey drive and love games involving chasing and running.

German Spitz is also a very energetic dog despite the small size.

They prefer to be running and playing outside than cuddling with you, so they’re an excellent choice for active people.

However, German Spitz can be one of the worst dogs off-leash if you don’t curb their chasing instincts with enough training. 

On the bright side, their suspicious nature makes them excellent watchdogs as long as you don’t mind their “yappy” bark.

#6 Shetland Sheepdog

At first glance, the Shetland Sheepdog looks like a miniature Collie, but they’re a distinctive breed.

In the past, Shetland Sheepdogs were farmer dogs who kept gardens free of intruders and took care of the flocks.

Being herding dogs, Shetland Sheepdogs are used to staying close to their owners and herd.

They aren’t likely to stray away on an adventure because they’re working dogs that take their job seriously.

While Shetland Sheepdogs are usually calm and one of the least destructive dog breeds, they still need regular mental and physical stimulation.

Otherwise, they will find something to herd.

#7 Vizsla

Another dog likely to stay in the yard and close to their owner is the enigmatic Vizsla.

The breed was created in Hungary to work as pointers and retrievers. As such, Vizsla dogs don’t venture far from their owners.

Owners often describe the Vizsla as a Velcro dog breed that follows you around the house like a shadow.

They bond so closely with their owner that Vizsla dogs are one of the breeds prone to separation anxiety.

A Vizsla will rarely leave the borders of your yard even though they’ve got an adventurous streak.

Instead, they’re more likely to lean on your legs or sit on your foot while you’re working.

Moreover, these affectionate dogs are full of energy and thrive the best in a fenced yard where they can run.

#8 Doberman Pinscher

Easy to recognize with their sleek coats and pointed ears, the Doberman Pinscher is alert, affectionate, and courageous.

People often talk about them as one of the bravest dogs and for good reasons.

People often think these muscular and athletic dogs are an aggressive breed, but with the right owner, Dobermans are gentle and loving.

However, they’re highly energetic dogs that need a lot of exercise to keep them happy.

That’s why they thrive in homes with yards as long as they can be part of the family.

Since Dobermans love to be close to their owners so that they can shower them with love and protect them from dangers, they’re likely to stay in the yard.

However, Dobermans aren’t a dog breed that doesn’t need a fence.

People often have prejudices against the breed, so you need a wall to keep your dog and strangers safe.

Dogs often run away from yards and houses because they’re bored, distracted by smells/sounds/sights, or badly trained.

You shouldn’t ignore obedience training when you’re thinking about keeping your dog in the yard.

Chaining your dog in the backyard isn’t the solution.

While there are dog breeds that don’t need a fence when well-trained, I don’t recommend leaving your dog in a fenceless yard.

People might steal your pet, especially if they’re a popular dog breed.

What do you think about these dog breeds that will stay in the yard? Do you agree with our list? Tell us below!