Dogs are considered by many to be best friends, companions, and partners. The bond between pooch and human runs deep, and it’s a special relationship you share with your dog. If you’re the affectionate type, then you like to show your dog how you feel by giving all of your affection to it, hoping that your dog will return the same.
Not all breeds are affectionate, though. That doesn’t mean they don’t love you. A dog can be extremely loyal and love you deeply without being overly affectionate, just like people can.
Dogs are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, but certain breeds are often considered more affectionate than others. Here are some of the most affectionate dog breeds.
These Top Breeds Of Dogs Are Known For Displaying Their Affection
The following 15 breeds are known for displaying their affection, so if you know you’re a highly affectionate person, these breeds might be a good fit for you.
1. Golden Retrievers
Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds around, and part of the reason for this is the affectionate personality common to the breed. They’re known for being loving and loyal, but they’re also very smart dogs, making them quite easy to train. Great with kids and calm in demeanour, Golden Retrievers are commonly used for service work because of their many great qualities. They are known for their love of cuddling and being close to their owners.
2. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Many small house dogs act like they’ve got something to prove, with aggressive attitudes and ankle-biting annoying antics, but the Pembroke Welsh Corgi isn’t hiding any inner demons. These dogs are sweet all the time, and they’re one of the most affectionate breeds around, though they’re seldom needy or pushy. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are a small breed of dog that are known for being intelligent, active, and loyal.
They are also known for their affectionate and loving nature, which makes them great family pets. Corgis are often described as being very social and outgoing, and they love to be around people. They are often called "big dogs in small bodies" because of their big personalities and loving nature.
3. Pugs
Pugs have long been adored by many prominent figures, including royalty! Chinese emperors loved these little dogs, and they were even made the mascot of the royal House of Orange in Holland. Small but muscular, Pugs pack a lot of personality into their little bodies. They’re the kind of dogs that always want to be part of what their owner is doing. You’ll find that Pugs love to receive affection and dole it out in equal amounts.
Pugs are very social animals and thrive on human interaction. They are known for being great companions and often develop strong bonds with their owners. They love to cuddle and snuggle and are often called "lap dogs" because they enjoy being close to their owners.
4. Boxer
Sleek and muscular, Boxers are a highly athletic breed that comes as an entire package. They’re known for their incredible loyalty and work ethic, and anyone who’s ever owned a Boxer knows that they’re one of the most loving, affectionate breeds you could ever meet.
Boxers are a medium-sized breed of dog that are known for their playful, energetic, and affectionate personalities. They are often described as being loyal, friendly, and great with children, making them a popular family pet. Boxers love to be around people and crave human interaction, often following their owners around the house and trying to get as close to them as possible.
5. Collie
Collies have been well-loved for many years. They have faces and expressions that scream of intelligence, and their long, flowing coats are as beautiful as any in the canine world. Part of why so many love these dogs so deeply is the breed’s fierce devotion to their owners. They’re one of the most loyal breeds around, and the bond they share with their owners is very deep, being shown in affectionate behaviour and supreme loyalty.
6. Great Dane
Great Danes are the definition of gentle giants. These are some of the biggest dogs in the world, but they’re also the biggest sweethearts. Known for being as loving as they come, Great Danes are the dogs that don’t realise their size. Rather, they’re the world’s biggest lap dogs, always trying to curl up in a too-small lap.
7. Pomeranian
Long loved by royalty and currently one of the most popular breeds in the world, Pomeranians are alert pooches with exceptional intelligence. They’re easily trained and make great pets, though they have an awful lot of personality stuffed into their toy-like bodies. These dogs are lovers of the first degree, and they never want to be away from their owners. When you see someone carrying a little pup in their purse, it’s often a tiny toy Pomeranian.
8. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu breed is known for its highly affectionate and outgoing personalities. These playful pups make no bones about showing their love for their owners. They’re lap dogs through and through, and they love nothing more than cuddling up on the laps of their family members. Small in stature but large in personality, Shih Tzus have been called “lion dogs” for centuries!
9. Bulldogs
The sour face of a Bulldog might not look that inviting, but if you’ve ever seen an excited Bulldog, you know there are few things cuter in the world. These dogs are compact and muscular, with adorable faces surrounded by loose skin folds. They bond closely with family members, and they’re the type of breed that wants to be on top of you rather than beside you.
10. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are ankle-biters. They often suffer from small dog syndrome, and they try to act much larger than they are. But with their family members, these dogs display a totally different temperament. They’re loving, affectionate, and want to be carried around with you everywhere you go.
11. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise dogs resemble sheep in a way, thanks to their puffy, curly white coats. They’re known for their charm and wit, making incredible companions that will keep you laughing with their constant antics. Despite their sheep-like coats, they’re considered to be hypoallergenic, which aids in their popularity. These dogs get along with just about everyone, and they’re incredibly affectionate with those they love.
12. Pit Bulls
Pit Bulls often have a negative reputation due to their past association with dog fighting. However, it's important to remember that any dog's behaviour is largely influenced by their upbringing and environment. When properly trained and socialized, Pit Bulls can be loving and affectionate pets. They are known for their loyalty and love for their owners and often bond closely with their families.
Pit Bulls are also energetic and playful, which makes them great companions for active individuals or families. Pit Bulls are one of the most affectionate and loving breeds imaginable. They are constantly seeking love and attention from their family members, and they’ll lick you to death if you let them, which is the only real danger that most Pit Bulls pose!
13. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The 18th most popular pooch in the world, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel wears a soft expression that endears many to the breed. They’re small, weighing about 6-7 kilos on average, and they’re known for their gentle tempers and easy-going personalities. Graceful and athletic, these dogs are highly adaptable and will match your lifestyle. This breed is often called a "love sponge" because of their affectionate nature. They love being close to their owners and are great lap dogs.
Don't forget that every affectionate dog loves their Farmer Pete's treats!
14. Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gigantic dogs that can weigh up to 70 kilos. Despite their bear-like stature, these dogs are gentle and sweet. They’ve even earned the reputation as a “nanny dog” because the breed is so good with kids. Majestic and sweet, the breed is renowned for its calm temperament. They’re also easy to train and show undying loyalty to their family. Despite their large size, they love being close to their owners and enjoy cuddling.
15. Labradoodle
Labrador Retrievers are the most popular breed in the world, and Poodles are considered to be one of the smartest breeds around. Put them together, and you get an amazing companion pet with a hypoallergenic coat. They’ve become very popular thanks to their super-affectionate demeanour, always trying to cuddle, and never wanting to lie its head anywhere other than your lap! They are extremely affectionate and often enjoy being the centre of attention.
Conclusion: What's Your Favourite Dog Breed That You Love to Cuddle?
Remember, all dogs need love and attention, regardless of their breed. It's important to spend time with your dog, give them plenty of affection, and make sure they feel loved and appreciated. Every dog has its own unique personality and temperament, so even if a breed is known for being affectionate, it's important to choose a dog that matches your lifestyle and personality.
There are many other breeds that are cuddly, and affectionate, who are not on the list, one may very well be yours.
