If you’re thinking about a dog, chances are you’ve already been daydreaming about life with your new best friend. And if that involves lots of cuddles and hugs, kisses and snuggles, then you’ll want a dog breed that is known for its affection, friendliness, and loyalty.
In that case, we’ve got just the list for you! Here we rundown the dogs whose idea of heaven is to nestle right up to their fur parents. From small lap dogs like the Maltipoo and the Bichon Frise, to medium-sized expert snugglers like the Cavalier King Charles and the Collie, all the way up to large canine pillows like the Retriever and Greyhound, you’re sure to find the perfect four-legged cuddle canine buddy that fits your lifestyle.
21. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon may not be a very well-known dog, but those who do have the pleasure of having one will gladly stand testament to the loyal and clingy nature of this breed. The intelligent eyes and luxurious beard may seem incongruous on the small body and flat face, but the effect just renders them more adorable.
Griffs are happiest when at their human’s side (or their lap). With their loving nature and sweet personalities, no one would be surprised if this breed rises to popularity.
20. French Bulldog
The comical appearance of the French Bulldog matches perfectly with its charismatic personality. A compact but well-built dog, Frenchies make entertaining companions who love nothing more than to lounge around with their humans.
While Frenchies are couch potatoes by choice, be sure to give them daily exercise because they are prone to obesity. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight means keeping your dog healthy!
19. Staffordshire Terrier
The one thing aggressive about a Staffordshire Terrier is its owner if this breed would be excluded from this list. Staffies are devoted dogs who do anything for their fur parents. With smiles big enough to brighten the whole room and muscular bodies that are comforting to hug, they make professional grade cuddlers.
Staffies thrive on activity and the attention of their beloved humans, so be sure to shower them with affection, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical exercise from an early age.
18. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are the very definition of gentle giants. Their bulk might be intimidating, but one look at that peaceful face and gentle eyes tells you all you need to know about this breed. If you want a giant cuddle buddy, this is the dog for you.
A Newfoundland can quickly grow larger and heavier than their fur parents, so starting training and socializing them while they’re still pups.
17. Vizsla
The Vizsla is a strikingly beautiful dog with a consistent coat of bronze. They bond strongly with humans on account of their history as a hunter’s dog. Vizslas make loyal companions who intuitively understand their fur parent’s needs.
To keep a Vizslas happy, give them lots of physical and mental exercise. With a sharp mind and a strong body, there’s not much this dog can’t do!
16. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The fact that the royal family has favored Pembroke Welsh Corgis for decades says volumes about this breed’s character. This herding dog is known for its quick mind and affection nature just as much as its stubby legs and perky ears.
Don’t let the Pembroke Welsh Corgi’s short stature fool you. This is a well-built dog with the energy to lead herds through the fields. Exercise and mental stimulation will do them well.
15. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature schnauzers may look like gruff grandpas, but in reality, they act more like little babies. This dog’s idea of fun is spending time with their humans, whether it’s curled up on a couch, or running circles around in the park.
Mini schnauzers are one of the few breeds who adapt well to both city and farm living. Just make sure to get their double coat the TLC it needs to look its best!
14. Greyhound
Greyhounds may best be known for their speed, but people who have the privilege of living with them will wax poetic about their affectionate nature. They are happy to sit and watch the world go by, but jump at any chance to do something exciting with their humans.
The greyhound has a strong prey drive, so you’ll have to work hard on getting them to follow you instead of their instinct. But once you’ve given them love and affection, they’ll return the favor a hundredfold.
13. Havanese Dog
The Havanese dog may not be as well-known as others on this list, but that’s likely to change once people realize what funny little fellows they are. As if mirroring the warm culture of their origin country, Cuba, they are furry extroverts who love to meet new people.
Havanese dogs need moderate exercise that preferably involves being by their fur parent’s side. But they are just as happy to settle on a warm lap and have their luxurious fur brushed.
12. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers that a small body can house a big personality. These dogs boast of a vivacious temperament that provides endless laughs for their owners. They enjoy short walks and a small space to run free, but otherwise would prefer to snuggle up to their humans.
Yorkies are a great addition to families who live in the city. With regular professional grooming, their beautiful coat paired with their foxy face is sure to turn heads on the street.
11. Collie
The popularity of the Collie may have started with the Lassie movies, but it continues to live on because of the breed’s friendliness and gentle affection towards owners of all ages. They derive their life’s joy by being close to people, and are easy to train because of their eagerness to please.
Historically, collies are herding dogs who are made to run in the fields. So don’t be surprised it’ll take quite a lot of exercise before their energy burns out.
10. Pug
Pugs are great little dogs who get along with friends young and old, two-legged or four-legged. They have their bursts of energy, but are more than happy to just snuggle with you at home.
To keep your pug healthy and happy, be sure to clean in between the wrinkles and provide them with lots of rest during hot days out. You might be tempted to let them laze around at home, but give them exercise as this breed is predisposed to obesity.
9. Shih Tzu
This regal-looking breed was once given to Chinese emperors as gifts. And with their lively personality and affectionate nature, it’s no wonder they were regarded so highly. That continues to this day as Shih Tzu owners rave about how sweet and funny their pets are.
A Shih Tzu’s fur can look better than most people’s hair, but it does need a lot of attention. If you cannot groom it regularly, consider cutting it short to avoid matting and irritation.
8. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua may be the smallest dog breed in the world, but don’t let its size fool you. What they lack in stature, they make up for in personality. Chihuahuas are self-assured dogs who love to sit at the right hand of their favorite humans.
With their short legs, even a few square meters of apartment space is ample enough for a Chihuahua’s exercise needs. Once their energy is spent, they’re more than ready to settle down for a cuddle session.
7. Maltipoo
Who says that mixed breeds can’t be cuddly? Maltipoos debunk that fact easily. A cross between the Maltese and a Toy orThese hotdog-shaped dogs Miniature Poodle, this hybrid combines traits from these popular breeds. The Maltipoo is fast becoming a top choice among families for their cuddle-worthy looks and temperament.
Though traits may vary, most Maltipoos are furry, small dogs that do not shed as much as you would expect. This makes them a good option for those who react to dog dander.
6. Dachshund
Dachshunds comes in two sizes and three coat types, but what is common among them is a brave heart, an intelligent mind, and a strong desire to be with their humans. These hotdog-shaped dogs were bred to hunt for badgers, so expect a lot of energy and high prey drive. Just be careful to avoid jumping, as their long spines are prone to damage.
Once their need for adventure has been satiated, dachshunds want nothing more but to curl their long bodies around their fur parents.
5. Pomeranian
Pomeranians take their job as a human companion seriously. They love attention and – with that cute face and jaunty smile – don’t need to work all that hard to get it. Their small size belies their commanding presence, making them surprisingly good watch dogs.
Poms are floofers in the truest sense of the word, with their thick and luxurious double coat. Grooming – like any activity – is something they look forward to, especially if it means bonding time with their human.
4. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise dogs are a source of joy for every family they become part of. These snow white dogs with black button eyes are not only cute, but quickly pick up tricks and love to perform for a crowd. Short bursts of zoomies are interspersed with long periods of calm where they would prefer to be by their human’s side.
Bichon Frises are also great with kids and other animals, being friendly to a fault – these dogs will more likely invite a stranger in that sound the alarm.
3. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds out there, and it’s easy to see why. They are large and solidly built, but even families with kids choose this breed because of their gentle and even temperament. Just look into the eyes of a Lab, and you’ll practically feel the kindness radiating from within.
Labradors make great pets, but remember that they need exercise. These athletic dogs thrive best if they’re given lots of runs, playtime, and of course, swimming!
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a sweet-faced canine with an equally sweet disposition. These dogs conform to their owner’s lifestyle, holding their own at physical activities but quite content to laze around at home too. With their gentle temperament, they’re great for kids and do great as therapy dogs.
Though generally hardy, Cavaliers have a genetic predisposition to several medical conditions. Always choose an ethical and responsible breeder for a healthy pup.
1. Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is like the canine version of a ray of sunshine with its infectiously bright personality. These dogs thrive in the company of their humans, always ready for playtime and exercise. But when the long day winds down, this big ball of fur wants nothing more than to curl up next to you.
The Golden Retriever’s main motivation is to make their humans happy, a trait that they exhibit in their old age just as much as they did when they first entered your home.
Related Questions
Do Dogs Cuddle To Show Affection? Skin-to-skin contact is one way that members of a pack keep warm and stay safe. If your dog is super cuddly, it means that they see you as part of their family. It is an indication that they feel protected by you and also protective of you.
Why Does My Dog Don’t Like To Cuddle? Just because your dog doesn’t snuggle up to you doesn’t mean that they hate you. There are dog breeds who simply don’t like to cuddle but show their respect and affection in other ways. You also have to factor in your dog’s own personality and history, as this may impact how they respond to human contact.
How Can I Get My Dog To Like Cuddles? Getting your dog used to physical touch is the first step. Set a designated period of 10 to 15 minutes every day to pet your dog. Start slow with ear scratches and belly rubs. As your dog gets more comfortable, it may lean into you and allow you to hug them.
