What is the Enneagram?
The Enneagram of Personality is a system that provides a powerful tool for understanding and navigating the complexities of human behavior. It divides people into nine distinct character numbers, which are then compartmentalized into triads. At the top layer of interpretation, each character type reflects a unique combination of physical traits, emotional tendencies, cognitive functions as well as spiritual inclinations. It delves deeper into the patterns of the human psyche by assigning a “wing” number, which is represented by the number on the left or the right of a person’s primary character number. You can learn more about the Enneagram if you are interested in finding out how each character type functions. Many people use this test to have a better sense of what career path they should choose or how to best interact with someone they know.
The Enneagram Symbol
Speculation exists on its origins, but most agree on how the Enneagram Personality Test offers valuable insights into our motivations, core beliefs, fears, and values. Its numerical system is deeply woven into the history of mankind. For example, numerology's foundation is based on a single-digit system of the numbers 1 through 9. The circular structure represents totality and completeness, and the circle is one of the most significant shapes in the studies of geometry and mathematics. Interestingly enough, the Enneagram diagram is extremely similar to Da Vinci's drawing of The Vivarium Man, showing 2 loci for each hand, 2 loci for each foot, and 1 locus for the head, summing to 9 points.
By recognizing how we think, feel, and act differently from one another based on our type, we can gain greater self-awareness and better relate to others, including our furry friends! Read through Pawrade’s comparisons of which puppies fit which descriptions! Take a free enneagram test in order to discover more about yourself! At the end of the test, you will have an assessment of your Character number and your Wing number. If you match, then you may have found the perfect breed for you! If you had fun with this, then check out these two other Pawrade blogs: “The Perfect Dog For You, According To Your Myers-Briggs Personality Type” and “Find the Dog Breed that Matches Your Zodiac Sign”.
Enneagram Personality 1 - The Reformer
People with Type 1 Enneagram personalities tend to be highly responsible, detail-oriented, and principled individuals. They have a strong sense of right and wrong and are driven by a desire to do things perfectly. They strive for equilibrium in all aspects of their lives, whether it's their work, their relationships, or their personal endeavors. At their best, Type 1s are ethical, honest, and fair-minded. They are dependable and committed to their values, and they work hard to make the world a better place. However, when Type 1s are under stress, they can become critical and judgmental, both of themselves and others.
Type 1, Wing 9 - The Lawyer - English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are easily comparable to Type 1 Wing 9s in multiple ways. They are most often seen as calm and balanced. Valuing harmony and unity comes naturally as they use a level-headedness approach. because the Type 1 Wing 9 personality is known to think before they speak. It may take some time for them to make a final decision, and this may come off as slight procrastination, but you are in good company with this Enneatype. English Bulldogs are just like this! They are not known to be loud or very active. Sometimes lazy and sometimes nonchalant, English Bulldogs are a great breed for people that prefer easygoing lifestyles.
Type 1, Wing 2 - The Idealist - Rottweiler
Rottweilers and people with Type 1 Wing 2 personalities are motivated by a desire for excellence, and they tend to set high standards for themselves and those around them. They have a protective attitude toward ethics and morality and may struggle with perfectionism. They want to be of service to others and strive to make a positive impact on the world. They are empathetic and can be supportive, but they may also struggle with boundary-setting and taking care of their own needs.
Enneagram Personality 2
People with Type 2 personalities are motivated by a need to be loved and appreciated. To achieve this, they derive their self-worth from their ability to be of service to others. They have a great ability to understand other people's emotions and are always ready to lend a helping hand. Intuition plays a large part in their interpersonal relationships, as they can read people well and know just what they need to feel better. Type 2s are selfless, great listeners, and have a great capacity for empathy and compassion. They have a strong desire to create meaningful connections with others and are often seen as the glue that holds groups of people together. The risk of their altruism is they become overly invested in the lives of others and neglect their own needs. They can become resentful when their efforts to help are not appreciated or reciprocated. When under stress, they may become manipulative or passive-aggressive in their attempts to get the love and attention they crave.
Type 2, Wing 1 - The Servant - Golden Retriever
Both Golden Retrievers and Enneagram Type 2 Wing 1s share qualities such as loyalty, dependability, empathy, kindness, attentiveness, generosity, a desire to please others, as well as a tendency to put the needs of loved ones ahead of their own. Commitments are taken very seriously, and the Type 2 Wing 1 Enneatype is known to offer tailored, individual attention to others. Similarly, Golden Retrievers are one of the most common breeds used for emotional support dogs due to their natural ability to adapt to one person's specific needs. The core fear of a Type 2 Wing 1 personality is being wrong or making mistakes, which can lead to a sense of self-doubt and insecurity. In order to keep a healthy bond with this personality type, and with Golden Retrievers, you must be emotionally available to offer consistent and tangible signs of appreciation.
Type 2, Wing 3 - The Host/Hostess - Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs (nicknamed Shelties) and Type 2 Wing 3 personalities alike tend to be ambitious, extroverted, and goal-oriented. This combination can make them very successful in their relationships with love and labor. Unlike many other types of people and dogs, they are able to balance their desire to help others with their desire for achievement. As a result, they both are ready for leadership roles and advance themselves to a competitive edge of expertise. This could explain why Shetland Sheepdogs are highly recognized in the American Kennel Club's herding group. At their best, Shelties and Type 2 Wing 3s are caring, efficient, and successful, however, at their worst, they become anxious and feel overwhelmed by their responsibilities.
Enneagram 3 - The Achiever
As the nickname "Achiever" asserts, the Type 3 Enneagram personality is results-oriented. They have a can-do attitude that enables them to quickly reach their goals. Type 3s are outwardly confident and inspirational to those around them. Not only are Type 3s highly organized, but they possess excellent problem-solving skills. Achieving high standards is not always for their own sake, though. Oftentimes their performance is motivated by the recognition and pleasure of people they know they can impress. This comes easily with their ability to present themselves in a positive light. It is important to reciprocate attention and not turn a blind eye to Type 3s because they may nag you for your approval.
Type 3, Wing 2 - The Charmer - Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are similar to Type 3 Wing 2 personality types because of their need for approval. Shih Tzus are known to be vocal dogs and may tend to bark, but as Bark Busters puts it, it is more like a "please pet me" bark. The Type 3 Wing 2 types experience a strong internal struggle to achieve things in order to find both outwardly and inwardly validation. Just like Shih Tzu dogs, they use their charm and charisma to build relationships that can help them reach their goals. Without such things, both may also wrestle with feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt. They crave attention from the people around them, but they can get frustrated or aggressive if they don’t receive it. A major goal of theirs is success in helping others, which warrants the admiration that feeds their soul.
Type 3, Wing 4 - The Professional - French Bulldog
French Bulldogs and Type 3 Wing 4s are highly individualistic and tend to express themselves through unique and unconventional means. For example, French Bulldogs are known for their variety of extraordinary looks and colors, including lilac French Bulldogs, merle French Bulldogs, blue French Bulldogs, fawn French Bulldogs, and fluffy French Bulldogs. Both Type 3 Wing 4s and French Bulldogs have the desire to stand out and be recognized for good reasons. In fact, French Bulldogs topped the list of most popular dog breeds in 2022. Due to their smaller size and social capabilities, French Bulldogs do well in different environments and can be lured by new experiences. A commonality between Type 3 Wing 4s and French Bulldogs is highly influential and larger-than-life temperament. Things aren't always so perfect as they can find it hard to balance their drive for achievement and their need for personal fulfillment. They do well in the spotlight but you should know that most French Bulldogs and Type 3 Wing 4s recharge better in silence and solitude.
Enneagram 4 - The Individualist
People with Type 4 Enneagram personality types are introspective, emotionally sensitive, and borderline self-absorbed. They have a strong need for self-expression and authenticity, and they often feel that they are different from others and have a unique perspective on life. Type 4s are highly attuned to their emotions and have a rich inner world of thoughts and feelings. Without a feeling of distinct significance, Type 4 personalities can fall into feelings of inadequacy, leading to moodiness and melancholy. Creativity is important to them and they seek ways to fight the status quo in art, music, and literature. It won't surprise you that Type 4 celebrities include Bob Dylan, Stephen Hawking, and Elon Musk. In peak performance, Type 4s use their creativity and sensitivity to make a positive impact on the world. This leaves them vulnerable to immense amounts of criticism, so they may feel misunderstood by everyone else. These people are truth-seekers and revolutionary leaders, learning the hard way that it can be lonely at the top.
Type 4, Wing 3 - The Aristocrat - Dachshund and Mini Dachshund
Dachshunds are a distinguished breed with many fun nicknames, like Doxens, Doxies, and Weiner Dogs. They are whimsical and intelligent dogs in their own right, but also demand tender love and care from their human friends and furry friends. Social media posts of Dachshunds on Instagram and TikTok frequently show them in pairs and groups, enjoying one another's presence. Both Dachshunds and Type 4 Wing 3s have a rich inner world and always want to fit in. Watch the adorable TikTok below of a Dachshund figuring out how to carry a hula-hoop up some stairs! This video perfectly resembles how this type won't admit defeat and problem-solves internally to produce something magical. Socially, Dachshunds and Type 4 Wing 3s deeply depend on impressing others, but do so by first making sense of something in their own scope of life.
Type 4, Wing 5 -The Bohemian - Giant Schnauzer and Mini Schnauzer
Individuals with a Type 4 Wing 5 personality, just like Schnauzer dogs, are very perceptive. Life is worth living with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge like these two. Their intellectual side does not go unnoticed, and the Schnauzer temperament is best described as confidently solid and quietly analytical. Characteristics like this make Giant Schnauzers wonderful guard dogs and Mini Schnauzers attentive watchdogs. Overall, Type 4 Wing 5 individuals can be complex and multifaceted, with a strong desire to understand themselves and the world around them. They may struggle with feelings of alienation or disconnection from others, which is important to know if you are asking the question "Do Schnauzers have social anxiety?" because the answer is yes, they do. So, make sure your lifestyle allows you to stay around the house if you plan to buy a Mini Schnauzer puppy.
Enneagram 5 - The Investigator
The Type 5 Enneagram type is impressive and limitless. As the leading number in the Thinking Triad, are objective, clear-minded, and innovative, able to bring unique perspectives to problems and challenges. It is common for a Type 5 to think outside the box and become deeply absorbed in their pursuits. Intense curiosity is a cornerstone of Type 5s, leading to innovation that benefits others. However, they can also become withdrawn and isolated, struggling with anxiety and feelings of insignificance. In relationships, Type 5 individuals can struggle with intimacy and may prefer to keep their emotional distance. They may struggle with expressing their feelings and can be seen as cold or unfeeling by others. However, they can also be deeply loyal and supportive once they have established a connection with someone. It takes a special person to complement Type 5s; someone who can respect their need for privacy and autonomy, and their desire for knowledge and understanding.
Type 5, Wing 4 - The Iconoclast - Great Pyrenees
Great Pyrenees dogs can be characterized by their intense focus, their analytical abilities, and a need for privacy that may appear detached or aloof to others. Similar to Type 5 Wing 4s, the profound tranquility of the Great Pyrenees eludes a Zen-like persona. Bred as a working dog, the duty of a Great Pyrenees is to analyze its surroundings and protect its territory at all costs. In December 2022, it was reported that a 20-month-old Great Pyrenees dog killed 8 coyotes to protect the sheep on a farm in Georgia. Such a feat was worthy of the national attention it received! The steadfast devotion shown by the Great Pyrenees dog, named Casper, is comparable to the intellectual depth of Type 5 Wing 4 personalities. If you're looking for an awesome Great Pyrnees-mix, then check out the Great Bernese!
Type 5, Wing 6 - The Problem Solver - Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu Dogs are a famously loyal and independent breed of dog. They boast a Type 5 Wing 6 personality because of their quick wit and inspective tendencies. Both Shiba Inus and Type 5 Wing 6s engage their active minds with curious thinking and alone time, which is why they do best in homes with only one or two people they are already familiar with. They are also quite active dogs who enjoy daily exercise and love spending time outdoors exploring nature. Another comparison is that Shiba Inus may take a bit longer to warm up and trust others because of their sense of independence, much like someone with a Type 5 Wing 6 personality.
Enneagram 6 - The Loyalist
People with the Type 6 Enneagram personality type are known for their strong desire for security and stability, a strong sense of responsibility and duty, and a desire to be part of a group or community. Type 6s can make good planners because they seem to anticipate potential problems and prepare for them. Since safety is so important to them, structured and routined decisions offer them the best lifestyle. Although Type 6s can be very supportive and dependable friends and coworkers, this comes with a cost. Type 6 personalities may struggle with self-doubt and anxiety, paralyzing them when it comes to change and uncertainty. Without the assurance of those around them, Type 6s lose themselves in a pool of self-pity and focus on unhealthy what-ifs. Nevertheless, the loyalty of a Type 6 personality is heartfelt and easy to match in full.
Type 6, Wing 5 - The Defender - Belgian Malinois
Belgian Malinois dogs are incredibly resilient and obedient, making them an ideal choice for those looking for a loyal companion. In fact, they are one of the best-suited dog breeds to be police and military K9s, making them trusted defenders. It is known that enforcement dogs are paired with one handler while performing their duties. This bond becomes so strong because they likely depend on one another's bravery in the face of danger. Belgian Malinois dogs and Type 6 Wing 5 personalities have other similarities. Both are highly intelligent and have a strong desire to please the significant others in their lives, on top of responding well to training and direction. At the same time, both Belgian Malinois dogs and Type 6 Wing 5 personalities can be prone to overthinking things which can lead to anxiety or obsessions with certain tasks or activities if not managed properly by an attentive companion. Despite this potential downside, both are incredibly loyal that bond strongly with those closest to them, making them excellent companions for those who can provide them with quality attention on a regular basis.
Type 6, Wing 7 - The Buddy - Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are among the most beloved breeds of dogs, known for their gentle disposition and good-natured attitude. They share the desire for structured adventures and responsibility with the Type 6 Wing 7 personality. Organized activities and explicit boundaries help both to live their lives to the fullest potential. It is easy to engage with Type 6 Wing 7s because of their willingness to accept reality and be emotionally available. Labradors are similar and are considered one of the best family dogs and a great breed for first time owners. Believe it or not, the Labrador Retriever was America's most popular dog breed for 30 years straight! That is an amazing record of a true buddy. Labradors tend to be more playful and outgoing than Type 6 Wing 7s who excel at quickly gathering facts or data in order to complete tasks efficiently. Overall, Labrador Retrievers and Type 6 Wing 7 personalities are both easily relied upon for companionship and enjoying life together.
Enneagram 7 - The Enthusiast
Type 7 personalities are driven by a desire for new experiences and adventures, as well as a fear of missing out on something exciting. They tend to be energetic, spontaneous, and outgoing, with a contagious zest for life. When they are not able to find new experiences or avoid boredom, Type 7s may become anxious or restless. As a result, they can be impulsive and a bit scattered. Yet, their wild imaginations remain optimistic and inspirational to others. Knowing that Type 7s can struggle with focusing on one thing for too long and that they are most likely to suffer from FOMO, you will be better off in your dealings with them. Despite their potential lack of commitment and follow-through, they will keep you busy, full of energy, and joyful...assuming you can keep up!
Type 7, Wing 6 - The Entertainer - Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers and Type 7 Wing 6 personalities share many similarities in terms of their outgoing, fun-loving nature. Both are extremely social and enjoy interacting with others. They tend to be outgoing and optimistic, making them popular with friends and family alike. They often prefer the company of others instead of being alone, as they thrive in environments where there is lots of stimulation. Boston Terriers are spunky, invigorating dogs that have their many moments of ADD. Since Boston Terriers are a snub-nosed breed they typically breathe in and out through their mouth, but this creates a smiley appearance exactly like the happy-go-lucky attitude of Type 7 Wing 6s! Both of them also come with a strong sense of adventure, as they are always looking for new experiences that challenge them intellectually or physically. With all these similarities between Boston Terriers and Type 7 Wing 6 personalities, it's no wonder why so many people find both types incredibly endearing!
Type 7, Wing 8 - The Realist - Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds, also known as Aussie Shepherds, are fast-paced and constantly on the go, making them the perfect companion for people with Type 7 Wing 8 personalities. Both are highly active and share a strong desire to learn new things and explore the world around them. When expressing ideas, both Australian Shepherds and Type 7 Wing 8s can be assertive and even get aggressive when others disagree. This keen demeanor is why Australian Shepherds are widely used on farms to herd livestock and maintain authority over other farm animals. Australian Shepherds and people with Type 7 Wing 8 personalities share a deep need for connection with those around them; whether it be in the form of companionship or guidance. The similarities don’t stop there – both individuals need clear structure and direction to be successful. Aussie Shepherds thrive with consistent training while Type 7 Wing 8 personalities can also find comfort in having rules or guidelines to adhere to when engaging in any kind of activity or challenge. All of these traits, plus the playful nature and ready-for-anything personality of Australian Shepherds, allow them to be some of the most fun dogs to train, as seen by the TikTok video.
@dynasty_trick_dogs #trickdogsoftiktok #OutlanderChallenge #stuntdog #australianshepherd #dogtrick ♬ Fantasy (feat. O.D.B.) (Bad Boy Fantasy) - Mariah Carey
Enneagram 8 - The Challenger
The Type 8 Enneagram personality desires to control and reach full autonomy. Type 8s are not afraid to speak their minds and express their opinions in a direct and forceful manner. They rely on their own strength and resources to achieve their goals. Confrontation is nothing to be afraid of as a Type 8 personality, but the downside of these attributes is impatience and disagreeableness. As the nickname suggests, they are willing to challenge others to get their way and are empowered by the entirety of their own thoughts, words, and deeds. Type 8s manifest strength, power, and self-confidence. These people are comfortable taking risks and pushing boundaries in order to achieve their goals. Even with a domineering effect in things, Type 8s are still respected for their strong sense of fairness and justice, and will often fight for the underdog or those who are being mistreated.
Type 8, Wing 7 - The Independent - Bull Terrier
The physical appearance of the Bull Terrier breed is exactly what comes to mind when thinking about the Type 8 Wing 7 personality. Bull Terriers are down-to-earth, muscular, strong, and look a bit menacing. The Buller Terrier is known for its strong prey drive and appears intimidating due to their sharp features. It should be mentioned that Bull Terriers and Type 8 Wing 7s differ in their manner of interacting with others. Bull Terriers are much more social and playful compared to the straightforwardness of Type 8 Wing 7s. Still, Bull Terriers love a good game of tug-of-war or something competitive in nature, just like the Type 8 Wing 7s. In reality, both have a kind nature behind the tough exterior shell they put up around themselves. Just remember, Bull Terriers make great companion animals due to their intelligence and devotion while Type 8 Wing 7 personalities can be more difficult due to their independence but still make capable team members if given the right environment in which to thrive.
Type 8, Wing 9 - The Bear - Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are large working dogs known for their strength and power. They were originally bred by the indigenous people of Alaska to pull heavy loads, such as sleds and carts, in the harsh climate of the Arctic. Pyrenees share a strong-willed and assertive nature with Type 8 Wing 9s. Additionally, Alaskan Malamutes are fiercely independent, often preferring to work alone rather than join in a team effort; Type 8 Wing 9 personalities also have a stubbornness that can cause them to stand up for themselves and fight for what they believe in. Both have an instinctual need for freedom, with Alaskan Malamutes loving to roam freely in wide-open spaces and Type 8 Wing 9 personalities needing space to make decisions independently. In conclusion, though Alaskan Malamutes may appear intimidating due to their size and physical strength and Type 8 Wing 9 personalities may seem intimidating due to their confidence and assertiveness, these two breeds have many similarities which make them great companions for those looking for loyal friends who will always be there for them no matter what life throws at them.
Enneagram 9 - The Peacemaker
People with Type 9 Enneagram personality type are generally characterized as easy-going, calm, and agreeable. They value harmony and peace in their relationships and environments and seek to avoid conflict whenever possible. Relaxed moods keep Type 9s comfortable and they are able to connect with others on a deep level, quickly. This is in due part to their ability to empathize with multiple opinions and experiences at once. Type 9s are true mediators and are highly needed as ambassadors in friendship, business, and more. Although Type 9s do not always take a strong stance on something, they are people-pleasers and only want to best outcome for all parties involved. The Type 9 personality offers balance, equilibrium, and sanity even in the most chaotic of times.
Type 9, Wing 8 - The Comfort Seeker - Great Dane
Great Danes have been nicknamed "gentle giants." Their presence alone is enough to keep you in line and well-behaved. They have a deep, detectable bark but usually only use it when it is needed to bring peace to a situation. The large size of Great Danes also makes them dependable furry friends to lean on and rely on. Just like Type 9 Wing 8 personalities, both are known for their gentle nature, loyal hearts, and presence of mind. They both tend to show off a strong sense of self that makes them stand out from the crowd. Great Danes are known for their ability to remain calm and collected in nearly any situation. This trait is shared by Type 9 Wing 8 personalities, who often exhibit a level head in even the most stressful of circumstances. In terms of behavior, Great Danes and Type 9 Wing 8 personalities share many traits. They both appreciate structure and routine, enjoy spending time alone or with smaller groups of close friends, and display a unique intelligence that makes them seem wise beyond their years. They’re also very adaptable creatures who know when to step back and let something play out naturally or when to make a bold move to help things along.
Type 9, Wing 1 - The Dreamer - Beagle
Beagle dogs and Type 9 Wing 1 enneagram personalities are both devoted and gentle. They are curious, detail-oriented, and open-minded. The main difference is that Beagles possess a strong instinct to wander off in pursuit of their curiosity. On the other hand, Type 9 Wing 1 personalities tend to be more laid-back, and content with going with the flow. Still, both are often seen as peacemakers in a group setting, choosing not to engage in conflict unless absolutely necessary. Emotionally speaking, they may feel overwhelmed by the intensity of certain situations or interactions, preferring instead to focus on finding harmony within the group. There is also an element of detachment from their own emotions that can lead to feeling disconnected from others at times. Both Beagles and the Type 9 Wing 1 personality take great joy in connecting with those around them and bringing happiness into any space they occupy.
Find a Pawrade Puppy to Match Your Personality Type
Pawrade offers a variety of puppies for sale to fit every personality type. Whether you know what breed you want or whether you want to choose the perfect puppy based on your personality type, you can call Pawrade any day of the week for assistance. Contact one of our Puppy Concierges today to get started!
