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Some dogs wag their tails. These ones wag their entire soul. If you’re dreaming of a dog who lives to love you, who follows you into every room, and stares at you like you’re their whole universe, this list of 25 most affectionate dog breeds is for you.
I’ve rounded up the most loyal, clingy, cuddly dog breeds out there. From tiny fluffballs to massive lovebugs, these pups don’t just like attention… they demand it.
7 Small But Snuggly: Lap Dogs That Live for Love
These small dogs may not take up much space, but their need for affection is anything but small. If you’re looking for a devoted lap companion, these breeds are all-in on love, loyalty, and constant closeness.
1. Bichon Frise
Friendly and fluffy, the Bichon is a sociable lap dog that blends affection with charm.
Bichons are bright, cheerful, and exceptionally people-oriented. They love cuddles, routines, and being the center of attention without being overly clingy.
With their happy demeanor and love of togetherness, Bichons make wonderful companions for nearly any household. Their hypoallergenic coat also makes them great for allergy-sensitive homes, though regular grooming is essential.
Bichon Frises are small doggos with an extra fluffy coat. Their coat is plush and velvety to the touch, and they have huge forever puppy dog eyes.
Bichons are curious, playful, and super sweet. Despite their small size, they are sturdy and resilient and have a lot of playful personalities packed into their tiny body.
They are renowned for their comical and clown-like character, providing tons of entertainment for the whole family. This stems back to their history as entertaining street and circus dogs seeking to coax some coins from passersby.
These happy-go-lucky dogs are charismatic and even draw in strangers for cuddles. This little pup wants to be friends with everyone they meet.
2. Brussels Griffon
These expressive little dogs are as emotionally intense as they are affectionate.
The Brussels Griffon has a striking face and a serious need for attention. They bond tightly with their humans and often become little emotional mirrors, tuned in to your mood and eager to snuggle.
Griffs are happiest when included in everything and can become anxious if left out or alone for long stretches. For those looking for a quirky, humanlike companion, this breed fits the bill.
The Brussels Griffon is one of the least known dogs on this list, but their iconic face, complete with a big bushy beard and mustache, is one that people adore. They have large human-like eyes and give off a “distinguished gentleman” aura.
Brussels weigh between 8 and 10 pounds and measure between 7 and 10 inches tall. They have two coat types, smooth and rough, and come in four different colors.
Despite their serious-looking facial expression, they are secretly sensitive. If you can offer it, Brussels show their favorite humans affection, happiness, and loyalty.
These pups do best with families with older children or none at all because they don’t tolerate rough or clumsy play with young children. However, their playful and energetic nature surprises those who take them on.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Elegant and affectionate, Cavaliers are among the most loving lap dogs you’ll ever meet.
Cavaliers are the definition of a companion breed. They’re not just content to sit in your lap; they prefer to be as close to you as possible, all the time.
They’re calm, kind, and incredibly responsive to emotion, which makes them ideal for families, seniors, or anyone needing emotional support. Their patience and charm match their affectionate nature.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is the best of the athletic and active Spaniel world and the sweet attentiveness of the toy dog universe. So, if you’re after a fun and animated pup but one who craves human attention, you can’t do much better than this pooch.
Although they are linked to the royal family, they are happy to get down and dirty with their family on adventures. These affectionate dogs love a cheeky snack (or ten), so be sure not to let them become overweight.
King Charles Spaniels have four coat colors and have a medium to long soft coat with a slight wave. They get along well with children and other dogs as long as they are adequately socialized as a pup.
4. Chihuahua
Fiercely loyal and packed with personality, this tiny dog bonds deeply with one person.
Chihuahuas may be small in size, but they are intensely affectionate. Once they choose their favorite human, they become constant shadows, curling up in laps, burrowing under blankets, and following you from room to room.
Though they can be a bit sassy or standoffish with strangers, their loyalty to their chosen person and the rest of their family runs deep. They thrive in quiet homes and do best with patient, consistent affection.
The Chihuahua is one of the world’s best-known small breeds. They make brilliant watchdogs thanks to their vocal nature, and they like to think of themselves as family guardians, too.
Chihuahuas are charming, with an equal measure of grace and sassiness. Although they can live with children, they aren’t the best option for families with small toddlers who don’t understand how to play with a tiny pup.
They only weigh up to 6 pounds and are commonly known as purse dogs. This is just as well because they hate being left alone and like spending as much of their day with (or on you) as possible. They have smooth or long coats with plenty of colors to choose from.
5. Dachshund
Independent but deeply attached, Dachshunds love warmth, comfort, and familiar company.
Dachshunds have a reputation for being bold, but they’re also serious snugglers. Many are known to burrow into blankets, snuggle under clothes, or lie directly against their owner’s legs.
While they have a streak of independence, their devotion runs deep, especially once they’ve established trust. They thrive with gentle handling and consistent companionship.
There are two types of Dachshunds: standard and miniature. Standards weigh between 16 and 32 pounds and measure up to 9 inches tall, and miniatures weigh 11 pounds and under and are no more than 6 inches tall.
Doxies have three different coat types, too, with plenty of colors and markings to choose from. Their long body and little legs mean you must take extra care when they jump down from heights.
No matter your wiener dog’s size, they are all equally affectionate. As a Dachshund owner, I have never received so much love from a dog. They have to be with you at all times, if not on you, and mine loves to sit on my shoulders like a Parrot when I’m on the couch.
They make fantastic watchdogs and can be stubborn, so experience is necessary to get the best from them. But their loyal and active personality makes them an all-round excellent family pooch.
6. Pug
Comedic and clingy, Pugs are full of personality and love physical closeness.
Pugs are small clowns with big hearts. They form strong emotional bonds and aren’t shy about expressing their need for love, whether flopping into your lap or sighing dramatically when ignored.
They thrive on human interaction and are known to follow their owners around like loyal little sidekicks. Pugs are best suited to relaxed households where their affectionate personalities can shine.
This lovey-dovey snuggle bug is sweet, loving, and incredibly charming, and Pug owners often call them the perfect housedog. But they can also be mischievous and stubborn.
They know what they want, and that is to be spoiled. And when do they want cuddles? Right now. This demanding doggo needs to be the center of attention to be happy, but in return, you can’t ask for a better cuddle companion.
Pugs are brachycephalic breeds, which means they have flat faces and often struggle with breathing, especially in the heat or during strenuous activity. They are small enough to travel with you but sturdy enough to handle play with children and adults alike.
7. Shih Tzu
Bred for royalty, these dogs are gentle, calm, and love being pampered.
Shih Tzus are companion dogs through and through. With a natural affection for people and a love of relaxed environments, they fit perfectly into homes that enjoy quiet snuggle sessions.
These dogs don’t need intense exercise, just plenty of petting and attention. Their flowing coats require regular grooming, but their sweet nature makes up for the maintenance.
Shih Tzus are playful, affectionate, and outgoing. There’s nothing sweeter than a Shih Tzu who has formed a close bond with their family. They are incredibly easygoing and adaptable and do well with most families.
Shih Tzus are one of the original lapdogs who served Chinese emperors, and they still do it so well. They hate to be left alone and suffer from separation anxiety, so you must dedicate a lot of time to them to keep them happy.
Shih Tzus are in the toy group, and they only weigh between 9 and 16 pounds. They have a lot of hair but are one of the few hairy breeds considered hypoallergenic. They have a typically very long lifespan, too, so if you’re after a snuggle partner for as many years as caninely possible, this is a great choice.
6 Gentle Giants: Big Dogs With Even Bigger Hearts
They may look intimidating, but these large breeds are softies at heart. Known for their calm temperaments, patience, and surprising sensitivity, these dogs prove that the bigger the pup, the bigger the love.
1. Doberman Pinscher
Loyal, alert, and emotionally tuned in, Dobermans bond hard with their humans.
While often misjudged as just guard dogs, Dobermans are deeply affectionate with their families. They thrive on closeness and will frequently lean their entire body weight into their favorite person.
These dogs are intelligent, responsive, and crave purposeful interaction, making them ideal for active owners who also want a loyal cuddle companion.
Doberman coats come in four colors, all with rust markings, and are short and sleek. Their grooming regime is super simple, too.
Those who don’t know the Doberman breed often steer clear of them because they look intimidating and are one of the best protection dogs in the world. But those familiar with the breed know that they are lovey-dovey pups who do anything for their humans and nuzzle into you at every chance.
The saying “Don’t judge a book by its cover” has never been more accurate with the Dobie and their secretly sweet personality. Families looking to take this dog on must be prepared to take them everywhere because they hate to be alone.
2. Great Dane
The “gentle giant” nickname exists because Danes are affectionate couch potatoes.
The Great Dane is one of the largest dog breeds in the world, and they are also one of the biggest lapdogs. Despite their towering size, Great Danes are famously calm and affectionate.
Danes are happiest when they can stretch out next to or on you and are content to spend hours snoozing at your side. Their sweet disposition and love of human company make them excellent indoor pets for those with enough space.
They are friendly, patient, and dependable family companions with a hint of playful silliness. They love to lick and snuggle whenever the chance comes, but they also make imposing guard dogs with super loud and piercing barks.
Great Danes have a short and sleek coat that comes in all kinds of colors and is relatively easy to maintain. The only grooming aspect you need to keep on top of daily is their drooly jowls.
Although they are patient and great with children, they are better suited to older children who can handle their larger-than-life size.
3. Irish Wolfhound
Calm and soulful, Irish Wolfhounds are quietly devoted to the people they love.
These massive hounds are among the most even-tempered dogs you’ll meet. Irish Wolfhounds are gentle, dignified, and highly affectionate with family.
While not overly clingy, they are happiest in peaceful homes where they can quietly share space and be close without fanfare. Their presence is calming, and their loyalty runs deep.
The Irish Wolfhound is the tallest breed on this list, and males are at least 32 inches tall. They have a wiry, medium-length coat. Their vast and rugged appearance and powerful bark are often enough to scare intruders away. But overall, they are too tranquil and gentle to make effective guard dogs.
As their names suggest, they originate from Ireland and were once big game hunters capable of taking down a wolf single-handedly. But don’t let their history put you off.
They are serene, patient, and great companions for families with children. Instead, they focus their time on snuggling up to their owner’s feet or waiting patiently for belly rubs. Their wiry coats shed surprisingly less than other dog breeds, and it doesn’t “blow” during the shedding seasons.
4. Mastiff
Protective and profoundly gentle, Mastiffs are giant snuggle bugs once bonded.
If you’re looking for an enormous love bug, look no further than the Mastiff, sometimes known as the English Mastiff. They are slow-moving and sensitive giants. Though initially reserved, they become affectionate and almost clingy with their inner circle once they feel secure.
They are often content to simply lie at or on your feet all day. Mastiffs are great for calm households and people who appreciate love delivered in quiet, steady ways.
They weigh anywhere between 120 and a whopping 230 pounds, sometimes more. They measure a minimum of 27.5 inches, too, so you need plenty of room to accommodate this pup.
Mastiffs have a short and double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year. But because they are so huge, you are bound to notice a lot of hair floating around, so it’s essential to keep up with grooming. Sometimes, they have a fluffy coat, too.
They are super docile when they’re satisfied that there’s no danger around. They think they are the size of a Chihuahua and jump onto your lap at any opportunity. Mastiffs adore their humans and like to be with them at all times.
Slobbery kisses are the order of every day, so if you don’t like doggy slobber, this might not be a good match for you. But if you don’t mind it, you’re in for a treat with this colossal companion.
5. Newfoundland
These sweet-hearted giants are natural caregivers with an instinct for closeness.
Newfoundlands are known as “nanny dogs” because they’re affectionate, protective, and extremely gentle, especially with children. They love water and people and lie across your legs like a furry-weighted blanket.
With their calm nature and eagerness to please, Newfies are one of the most affectionate large breeds out there.
This large canine thinks they’re toy size, but this time with a longer and shaggier coat. Newfoundlands can weigh 150 pounds and more, so they need plenty of space.
Newfies are another slightly slobbery dog, but they make up for it in sweet cuddles. They hate being left alone, and if they know you are in another room, a gate or door won’t stop them from getting to you.
The Newfoundland was bred to retrieve struggling people and boats from the water, and they divebomb into the water at any chance. You need a hairdryer and plenty of towels if you’re considering welcoming one of these dogs into your home.
6. Rottweiler
Strong but tender, Rottweilers are intensely loyal and loving to those they trust.
Rottweilers are known for their protective instincts, but those who know the breed well recognize their deeply affectionate side. Once bonded, they become calm, cuddly, and incredibly devoted companions.
They thrive in homes where they feel secure and involved, and their love language often includes leaning into their people or gently resting their heads on your lap.
The Rottweiler is a sucker for cuddles and kisses. They might look mean and stand guard around strangers, but they are big goofballs in the home and consider themselves lapdogs. So, if you want a protective and loyal teddy bear, you can’t do much better than the doting Rottie.
Rottweilers are large dogs that can weigh in excess of 130 pounds. They have a short and sleek double coat that requires minimal grooming. All they need is an active and experienced family and plenty of companionship, and they are happy pups.
The 6 Best Cuddly Dog Breeds for Families & Kids
These affectionate breeds are as good with children as they are with adults. Gentle, playful, and emotionally attuned, they’re the perfect companions for homes filled with love, energy, and lots of snuggle opportunities.
1. Boxer
Playful and protective, Boxers are affectionate goofballs with a soft spot for kids.
Boxers are energetic, friendly, and loyal to the core. They love being involved in everything the family does, whether it’s a walk, a play session, or a good couch cuddle.
While their high energy needs a proper outlet, their affectionate and patient nature makes them excellent with children and a dependable source of fun and love in the home.
The Boxer is a comical canine with a super goofy nature and is also active, fun-loving, and bright. However, they can also be extremely stubborn and need an experienced owner to get the best out of them. They need consistent training to keep them well-balanced.
Boxers are also alert, make excellent watchdogs and guard dogs, and will fearlessly protect their family. But when it comes to their family, they have so much love and slobbery kisses to give.
Boxers have brindle or fawn coats, usually with black and white markings. They have a very square face and frame, and they “box” as they play, hence their name.
2. Golden Retriever
Friendly, forgiving, and full of heart, Goldens are famously great with families.
Golden Retrievers are known for their affectionate personalities and intuitive connection with humans. They’re eager to please, highly trainable, and incredibly gentle with kids.
Whether it’s playtime or nap time, a Golden will be there, tail wagging and heart open. Their smarts, sweetness, and snuggle-ability make them one of the best family dogs.
The Golden Retriever is one of the most thought of breeds for family doggos and consistently ranks among America’s favorite dog breeds.
They are intelligent, friendly, devoted, and surprisingly tireless hunting and retrieving breeds. They are Scottish gun dogs, but after a good romp, they worship family time. This second shadow pup forms a close bond with the entire family, usually whoever shows them the most fuss.
Golden Retrievers’ happy-go-lucky nature and puppy-like personalities stay until they are well into adulthood, making them fun family companions. Swimming is a huge pastime of theirs, so you are sure to earn extra affection points for a dip.
3. Greyhound
Calm and surprisingly cuddly, Greyhounds are sweet, low-maintenance companions.
Despite their racing history, Greyhounds are laid-back dogs who love lounging and staying close to their people. They’re quiet, affectionate, and sensitive, all traits that make them well-suited for gentle children and first-time dog owners.
Their sleek appearance hides a huge heart that’s all about soft touches and silent loyalty. They are one of the oldest breeds in the world, dating back 5,000 years. So they’ve had plenty of time to perfect their cuddling techniques.
They are independent and can be aloof with humans outside of their family. But with their family, they are loving and gentle, and you can depend on them for snuggles on the sofa.
Greyhounds are the fastest dog breed and have a very high prey drive. Just like kings, poets, and artists have always been fascinated with this breed, owners quickly succumb to their sweet charms.
4. Jack Russell Terrier
Energetic and bold, Jack Russells love their people fiercely and cuddle hard after play.
Jack Russells are small but full of personality. While they’re known for being high-energy and a bit mischievous, they’re also extremely affectionate with their families.
Once they’ve burned off some steam, they’ll be the first to hop on the couch and curl up in your lap. With proper structure and attention, they’re an affectionate, spunky addition to any active family.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small but mighty pooch who is often called the “Teflon terrier.” The Jack Russell Terrier is a faithful companion and sticks to his humans like glue.
They were bred to hunt foxes and get into small holes to catch vermin. This means that they are expert diggers, and they are very vocal, too. But after a few hours of getting up to mischief, they love to be pampered by their humans.
Jack Russells look very similar to the Parson and Russell terriers, but they have many subtle differences. They have a short and thick double coat that doesn’t need too much grooming, and they mainly come in white, tan, and black colors.
Although they are super affectionate, they can be very stubborn, too, so you need to be persistent with their training to make them into polite pups.
5. Labradoodle
Friendly, sociable, and eager to connect, Labradoodles are great for playful families.
Labradoodles are a mixed breed and combine the energy of a Labrador with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of a Poodle. They are affectionate and people-oriented and thrive in family settings where they can be part of the action.
These dogs enjoy both play and relaxation, making them ideal for homes that want both fun and cuddle time.
Although many mixed breeds are very loving, the Labradoodle is a firm family favorite with lots of love to give. They are warm, loyal, and caring and do well in therapy settings.
They are large canine teddy bears who are suckers for a lazy evening snuggle and sit closest to whoever spoils them the most with belly rubs and paw rubs. But they have much more energy than people think, so you must be relatively active.
Labradoodles typically weigh between 30 and 65 pounds and measure between 21 and 24 inches. Sometimes, they are crossed with miniature Poodles, making them much smaller, so if their size is important to you, ask your breeder what size Poodle their parent is.
Their medium-length, curly coat might be hypoallergenic, depending on which parent they take after. But a low shedding coat is not always guaranteed. Their other parent, the Lab, is one of the biggest shedders in the canine kingdom.
6. Labrador Retriever
Outgoing and endlessly loving, Labs are a family favorite for a reason.
Labrador Retrievers are affectionate, adaptable, and full of joy. They’re eager to bond with every family member, kids included, and are known for their gentle patience and enthusiastic tail wags.
Labs require consistent exercise and stimulation, but their loving nature makes them one of the most loyal and cuddly companions in the dog world.
The Labrador Retriever is one of America’s favorite Fidos. Not only are they fun, active, and playful, but they are also gentle, obedient, and very affectionate. They can be a little stubborn at times, but with consistent training, they can make some of the most trainable dogs in the world.
If you like large, solid dogs that give some of the best cuddles, the Labrador Retriever is a top contender for you and your family. Like the Labradoodle, they make brilliant therapy and assistance dogs and do well in search, rescue, and similar jobs. The Labrador is an all-rounder with lots of energy and love to give.
6 Underrated Snugglers You Probably Didn’t Expect
These breeds often fly under the radar when it comes to affection, but their loyalty and cuddle potential might surprise you. Whether overlooked due to their looks, reputation, or energy levels, these dogs are secretly some of the most loving companions you’ll ever meet.
1. American Bully
Stocky but sweet, American Bullies are intensely loyal and crave close contact.
Let’s hit things off with the American Bully. Despite their muscular frame and tough appearance, American Bullies are deeply affectionate and people-oriented. They thrive on attention and will happily curl up in your lap, no matter their size.
Known for their loyalty, they form strong bonds with their families and are especially gentle with kids when properly socialized.
This hunky hound is one of the breeds that are a “Pitbull-type” breed. There’s a lot of misconception about these dogs, mainly because of their fighting history and the sometimes unfair press they receive.
However, American Bullies are one of the most affectionate breeds you can hope to find. Most of these love bugs shower their human pack with wet doggy kisses and endless snuggles.
There are four American Bully sizes: pocket, standard, classic, and XL. They can range from 13 to 23 inches tall, from paw to shoulder, and weigh anywhere from 25 to 120 pounds. American Bullies are very muscular with a square head and frame.
They can be stubborn, so owners must have previous doggy-owning experience. Training them fairly but firmly is usually successful.
2. American Pit Bull Terrier
Affectionate to the core, Pit Bulls are often called “nanny dogs” for a reason.
The American Pitbull Terrier is another of the “Pitbull-type” breeds and the one that most people think of when talking about Pitbulls. These Pitties are enthusiastic, expressive, and intensely bonded with their humans.
Though they’ve faced unfair stereotypes, those who’ve owned one know they’re also total lovebugs. They crave physical closeness and often think they’re lap dogs, even when fully grown. Their loyalty and warmth make them incredibly rewarding companions.
Like the American Bully, they have received a lot of unfair press, but most of it is due to misconceptions about the breed. Pitbulls are totally devoted and loyal to their family and often incredibly friendly with strangers, too, so they make terrible guard dogs.
Pitbulls are nicknamed a “nanny breed” because they adore children and often stick close to their younger siblings. You should never leave kiddos alone with any dog, but dog-savvy children may find a best friend in this sweet Fido.
Pitties come in various colors and have a relatively simple grooming regime, but they do need a fair bit of exercise and mental stimulation to deter them from destructive behaviors.
3. English Bulldog
Low-key and low-energy, Bulldogs are couch cuddlers with big hearts.
Everyone knows the English Bulldog breed for their iconic sour mug and goofy personality. But, despite their “don’t mess me with look,” they want to be friends with everyone. English Bulldogs may not move fast, but their affection runs deep.
They love lounging close to their people, soaking up pets and attention. Despite their stubborn streak, they’re gentle, loyal, and thrive on human connection. If you want a snuggler who’s happy to relax beside you all day, this breed delivers.
These dogs want and deserve endless attention, and they don’t need an excuse to laze the day away with their loved ones. Their short snout and flat nose make them vulnerable to breathing problems, so you must take extra care during exercise and hot seasons.
Their skin rolls require additional cleaning and attention to prevent odors and skin infections, but other than that, they are relatively adaptable and easygoing.
If you’re looking for roly-poly affection with a hint of drool, this is probably the pup for you.
4. Bull Terrier
Goofy, quirky, and surprisingly loving, Bull Terriers form strong family bonds.
With their egg-shaped heads and bold personalities, Bull Terriers are unforgettable. But beyond the clownish energy lies a dog that adores their people. They can be intensely loyal and love a good cuddle, especially after a busy play session. Their affectionate side often surprises first-time owners.
If you don’t know this breed, you might avoid them because of their intimidating appearance and bad press. But, and it’s a big but, the Bull Terrier is one of the most affectionate dog breeds on the planet.
As a Bull Terrier mix mom, they are attention-seeking and needing. They do need an experienced owner to get the best out of their wildly stubborn and mischievous personality. But if you can meet their needs, there is no more loyal and loveable canine companion.
There are two types of Bull Terriers: standard and miniature. Standards weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and measure around 21.5 inches tall. Miniatures weigh between 18 and 28 pounds and measure about 12 inches tall. Both types are equally loving, affectionate, and needy.
5. German Shorthaired Pointer
High-energy but emotionally connected, GSPs are affectionate athletes.
German Shorthaired Pointers consistently rank as the most popular breeds in America, and a considerable part of their popularity is due to their lovey-dovey nature.
While GSPs are known for their athleticism and need for exercise, they’re also big fans of downtime with their favorite people. They bond deeply with their families and often follow their humans from room to room.
They are very friendly and eager to please their humans and do anything for a reward or praise from their master. They thrive with families who have plenty of time to spend with them.
Yes, they need a lot of exercise to keep them happy, but once they are, you receive neverending hugs, tail wags, and wet doggy kisses. After a good run, they’re more than happy to curl up for some serious affection.
If socialized well, they get along well with other dogs and children, but their high prey drive makes them unsuited to living with smaller household pets. They have webbed paws and are one of the best swimmers in the doggy kingdom.
6. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Nicknamed “the nanny dog,” Staffies are cuddly, expressive, and adore attention.
Last but certainly not least is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, another of the “Pitbull-type” dogs. They are clever, brave, and tenacious like most terriers. But their best qualities include their devotion and affection towards their family.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers are compact, muscular, and bursting with love. They’re affectionate with adults and children and wear their hearts on their faces.
They aren’t that common in America, but across the pond in England, they are one of the most popular dog breeds for families, singletons, and retirees. Basically, anyone who wants an affectionate dog breed.
With proper training and socialization, Staffies become loyal companions who thrive on cuddles and companionship.
Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a short and sleek double coat in a wide range of colors. Well-trained Staffords are so friendly that they make terrible guard dogs and happily welcome an intruder into your home in exchange for cuddles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions we see most often from our readers when they’re looking for affectionate dog breeds. Don’t see yours here? Ask us in our comments.
What Is An Affectionate Dog?
An affectionate dog displays several behaviors that show you that they love you. These behaviors vary from dog to dog, and they can include snuggling up to you, being happy to see you, trying to lick your face or give doggy kisses, wanting to spend time with you, and being sensitive to your emotions. Some dogs show all of these features, and some offer a few. All the dogs on this list are some of the most affectionate breeds you can choose.
Which Affectionate Dog Breeds Don’t Shed?
This is a frequent question for families with allergies. If you’re desperate for an affectionate pup but flare up after five minutes of snuggling with Fido, you might consider a hypoallergenic dog breed. Although no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, some are more tolerable than others. Three of the most hypoallergenic dogs on this list are the Bichon Frise, Labradoodle, and Shih Tzu.
Which Affectionate Dog Breeds Can Be Left Alone?
The thing about affectionate dog breeds is they love people, and because of this, they want to spend as much time as possible with you. If they don’t, they can suffer from separation anxiety, resulting in destructive behaviors and other behavioral issues. Crate training can help, giving your dog a safe space to relax for a few hours. All dogs can be crate-trained successfully. But if you want a more independent pup, the dog breeds above might not be your best choice.
Why Is My Dog Not Affectionate Anymore?
If your dog was once super affectionate but now not so much, there could be a few reasons. They might feel anxious about something, like a change in circumstance, or they might be jealous of a new pet or family member. Their lack of affection might be down to old age, or there could be a health problem that’s causing them discomfort. It could be as simple as the hot weather, or they’re having an off day. If you think their behavior change is worrisome, we recommend contacting your vet. Behavior changes can be a sign of an underlying health issue.
Training Your New Pup Is Key
Finding the perfect pup match personality-wise for you and your family members is so important. Some of the most affectionate breeds make excellent guard dogs, some are incredible assistance pups, and others are hypoallergenic and suitable for those with allergies. However, all dogs need proper training to learn how to behave appropriately in your house, on walks, and while interacting with other dogs and people. Training your dog also creates an even stronger bond between both of you.
