Today we look at some of the most affectionate dog breeds known for making their owners happy and supplying endless cuddles and love.
Obviously, I am biased but Pugs win hands down. Kilo is a complete love bug who gives pug hugs and kisses (some dogs do not like hugs). He is a “Velcro dog” and demands attention and affection. Pugs were bred to be lapdogs and definitely fulfill their purpose as he uses me as a cushion.
Take our fun Breed Quiz to see what your best match is (luckily I get Party Pug LOL). Learn more about each breed in our Breed Library.
The Most Affectionate Dog Breeds
#1 Pugs
Of course, I am biased but Kilo the Pug is a complete love Pug. He is always ready for pug hugs and kisses, I even call him my velcro dog. I love pugs inquisitive and loyal nature. You can’t help but see their wrinkly faces as charming and cute, they are also very playful and mischievous dogs.
Although this breed of dogs was bred for Chinese nobility they currently serve as family dogs for many families. Pugs were apparently one of the most searched breeds on the internet last year according to Google.
Click HERE to learn more about the Pug Dog Breed
#2 King Charles Spaniel
Another royal breed first dubbed the King Charles Spaniel was once the favourite dog breed of King Charles II of England. They are popular family dogs thanks to their gentle and affectionate spirits and high intelligence. They make great companions and therapy dogs known for their friendliness and patience and are great with children and other pets.
Click HERE to learn more about King Charles Spaniels
#3 Labrador and Golden retrievers
The Golden Retriever is also one of the most popular dog breeds in North America. Both the labrador and golden retriever known for their sweet and loving dispositions. Too generous of a spirit makes the breed all too welcoming to be a true guard dog. That’s why they make amazing family pets and are highly respected and popular therapy, guide, and assistance dogs.
Click HERE to learn more about Goldens
Click HERE to learn more Labradors
#4 Bichon Frise
Originating in Spain, the Bichon Frisé’s cheerful disposition gained him popularity among the aristocracy. 18th Century French royals even dubbed the breed the epitome of a “lap dog”. One look at these living teddy bears and you’ll see why. They are so happy and gentle that they are a desirable guest in hospitals and nursing homes, as they bring joy to patients.
Click HERE to learn more about the Bichon Frise
#5 Boxer
Sometimes called the “Peter Pan” breed of dogs, Boxers are fearless and intelligent, but most of all friendly, patient and gentle especially children. Don’t be fooled by the brusque name! This active breed enjoys walking and running outdoors, but they love cuddling up to their family once inside the house. This breed of dog will amaze you with its gentleness, clownishness and loyalty!
Click HERE to learn more about the Boxer
#6 Pomeranians
Pomeranians or Poms became popular when Queen Victoria fell in love with the breed while holidaying in Florence. Pomeranians make great companions and stellar show dogs due to their outgoing, cheerful and affectionate personalities combined with natural skill at agility. Pomeranians are very affectionate and loyal to their owners. They love to be cuddled and carried.
Click HERE to learn more about Pomeranians
#7 Bulldogs
Whether it’s an American Bulldog or an English Bulldog this breed loves to give endless slobbery kisses. Bulldogs are known for their loyalty and being a highly people-orientated breed. Bulldogs have become an extremely popular breed, used throughout history and make great companion dogs, as they are sweet and very humorous. They usually enjoy human companionship and get along well with other pets and children.
Click HERE to learn more about English Bulldogs
Click HERE to learn more about American Bulldogs
#8 Labradoodles
Labradoodles, like our pal Bocker (RIP) are playful and very loving dogs that are perfect for first-time owners. They are incredibly loyal and affectionate towards their families and tend to get along well with other breeds.
Click HERE to learn more about Labradoodles
#9 Shih Tzus
The Shih Tzu (meaning “lion dog” in Chinese) was owned by Chinese royals and prized and pampered as palace pets because of their association with Buddha for thousands of years. They are small dogs known for being generally playful, friendly, affectionate and making great family pets.
Click HERE to learn more about the Shih Tzu
#10 Havanese
Bred to be a companion dog to the Cuban aristocracy in the 1800s, the Havanese has earned the nickname “Velcro dog”. The share their affectionate personality with everyone, including strangers, children, other dogs, and even cats. They make wonderful pets due to their easily trainable and surprisingly energetic nature. This has helped the breed excell in dog sports and canine careers ranging from circus performer to assisting the handicapped.
#11 Boston Terriers
Boston Terriers have been popular for over a century now. Their cuddly nature makes them a good pet and family member. Like a true “Gentleman’s dog”, they are sometimes mischievous and very energetic and playful. Their behavior is funny and unique and always entertaining to anyone who spends time with the breed.
Click HERE to learn more about Boston Terriers
#12 American Pit Bull Terrier
Although these poor dogs have gotten a bad rap in recent years, the American Pit Bull Terrier is a great companion and family dog breed. Sadly rampant misinformation and fear caused by a minority of dogs have provoked legislation against the breed in a number of cities and countries around the world. But anyone who has owned the breed knows they are incredibly loyal, sweet and affectionate. Known as America’s dog for it’s “nanny” role in families -because they were so gentle around children. Everyone knows Pittie kisses are like no other!
#13 Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds (also known as Aussies) are animated, lively, athletic and intelligent dogs. Originally, this breed was developed to herd livestock, and it still remains a working dog in its heart. Aussies will round up your family for cuddles and kisses if you let them. These dogs need plenty of exercise, and love to play or compete in dog sports which makes them great companions for active families. After all that hard work they want nothing more than to cuddle up on your lap or feet.
#14 Great Dane
Surprisingly, these overgrown lap dogs are the gentle giants of the dog world. Despite their size, Great Danes are one of the best-natured dogs in the world. They are very affectionate and sweet, they love playing with children. These dogs are very people oriented and love to please. Sometimes they will lean their big bodies or head against you to remind you it’s cuddle time.
Click HERE to learn more about Great Danes
Read: Great Dane Therapy Dog Makes A Big Difference
#15 Greyhound
Greyhounds are known for their speedy racing abilities, but they also make wonderful family pets. This doe-eyed dog would rather be giving kisses then winning races. They are a medium energy dog that needs regular sprints, but they can also love to spend time relaxing inside often sleeping for long periods of time. Mellow, intelligent, loyal and gentle in nature, they may have quite a high prey drive and love to chase.
Click HERE to learn more about Greyhounds
#16 Dachshund
Often nicknamed ‘Wiener Dogs’ or “Sausage Dogs” because of their long, narrow, hot-dog like torsos, Dachshunds are “big dogs in little dog bodies”. Originally bred to hunt badgers, rabbits, foxes and other such animals, they are very courageous, intelligent and brave little dogs. Today they are now very popular on social media due to their cute and cheerful, but also funny in an adorable way personalities.
Click HERE to learn more about Dachshunds
#17 Mutt
also rat terriers are very friendly …
Mr. N is allegedly two of those breeds so that makes him super cuddly right?
I really enjoyed learning more about the breeds and your photos are gorgeous. Growing up we have had several different breeds, and quite a few you have listed!. Labradors are one of my favorites, such people pleasers and easy to train.
There are a few of my favourites in this list ~ and we agree that rescues rock!
Very interesting! I think every dog breed has their own way of showing affection. Even my three Goldens show it in different ways. 🙂 Great post!
Not dog people here but pugs always look so cute to us, it’s that or a greyhound – but we need to run it past the 9 cats first!!!
Hey, what happened to Rotties? How come they didn’t make the list? They surely ought to.
Siberian Huskies are very social…and my Gibson was extremely affectionate (he really loved the girls!), although, typically, they dispense affection on their own terms! I totally agree with you about mutts, as I’ve had many, and they sure are affectionate! I always said I think they knew they were rescued, so loved just a little deeper. I also had collies and poodles growing up and they were pretty darn loving, too!
#2 YA BABY! 😉 #3 was my previous dog. Being a Cavalier Mom and meeting other Cavalier folks, a lot of them have transitioned from a golden to a cavalier. Must be the affectionate personality. 🙂
I agree with your awesome list, especially 11! I’m sorry to say, the photo includes two frenchies instead of boston terriers, but they’re super cute too and I’d like to kiss their noses <3
There are so many awesome and loving breeds and mixed breeds!
Ahhhhhhhhhh now I know why Layla is so cuddly cos she is a mix, my HaShiPoo LOL thanks for this post
Oh good, Mutts made the list! We have always had mutts and they have worked out very well for us! Of course, I love all the dog breeds on this list.
I was a little surprised at some of the breeds, but all are special
It is amazing how much diversity exists within the canine species! There really is a dog breed for everyone. I grew up with a black lab/collie mix and she was my best friend! Even though she passed away when I was 12 years old, I still think about her from time to time. I always wonder what she would think of me now that I’m an adult.
I would snuggle with every one of these lovebugs! My dogs are mutts, but I think they really get their snuggliness from lots of cuddles each day. They love being warm and getting attention.
Sorry, but I’ll definitely have to disagree with this list only because Schnauzers aren’t on it LOL Very interesting list though 🙂
Wow, a couple of these surprised me! Phoebe is a Havanese mix; she fits the Velcro Dog stereotype perfectly! She is attached to my hip most of the time & loves to climb into peoples’ laps! Fun list, thanks for sharing.
Love & biscuits,
Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them
Huh, surprised about Aussies being here. They have SO much energy (but I’ve never lived with one, so I can’t dispute the claim). ☺ LOVE that pitties are on the list; I have been licked to oblivion by a couple of those at the shelter where I volunteer. I want one someday so bad! I need to mention that my corgis and chi mix are pretty affectionate, too. Of course, they’re rewarded for it with squeals and smiles and goodies!
I love some of the breeds on that list but it really does depend on how each pet parent brings up their dog.
I guess a dog’s temperament is dependent on its background and whether it’s treated properly and loved. Fortunately most humans love their dogs and look after their needs. There is nothing quite like a dog’s love. Those loving eyes, cute head tilts, wagging tails and occasional mischief are adorable! Also I love the way a dog is interested in the company of a human, the way they sometimes lean against you when you’re sitting, and the way some of them lie on their backs for a belly rub! All so adorable.