Dogs don't have the title of "man's best friend" for no reason. These adorable furry creatures are probably the most loyal and loving companions on earth, and their pet parents are the lucky ones who get to be the objects of all this affection!
Although every dog is cuddly in its own right, some breeds require very little affection, and others relish in a cuddle, a hug, and a pat on the head. We've compiled this list of the most cute and cuddly dogs you'll ever want to squeeze.
How much does your dog "love" you?
Love (as they say) is much like beauty, which is "in the eye of the beholder." While some pet parents love it when their dogs shower them with sloppy kisses and wagging tails, others might say being a loyal helper on the farm is the best sign of affection.
However you look at it, there are dog breeds that are naturally more affectionate than others. Breeds like Golden and Labrador Retriever, Shih Tzus, and Lhasa Apso are a few breeds that show the most love.
It is rumored that selective breeding may be why certain dog breeds seem to be more affectionate in particular ways. Some give their pet parents more "paws-on" affection, and others just want to please them (like those farm dogs!)
Scientists have even started to narrow the genetic lineage as to why some dogs behave differently than others. Although this research is not conclusive, we do know that some dog breeds love cuddling more than others.
What is cuddling to dogs?
Do you know if your dog really likes to cuddle? There is a distinct difference between a dog getting a hug and cuddling your dog. Let's focus on cuddling since this is all about the most cuddly dogs!
Cuddling involves those precious moments when your dog wants to sit right beside you or snuggle up in bed and lay down with you getting your undivided attention.
Why are dogs so cuddly?
There are various reasons why dogs enjoy cuddling. Let's take a look at some of the more common reasons why Fido feels the need to be closer to you:
Warmth - Dogs have a fur coat, but they still get cold! Cuddling up with you on a cool winter night is just what they need to maintain the right body temperature to be comfortable.
Comfort - Dogs are pack animals. In the wild, they'd naturally huddle together for warmth and survival. Even though they're now domesticated, they still want to feel that sense of security they get with a pack, and so you become their pack!
Affection - One of the more important reasons is that a dog will express themselves through body language. Spot can't tell you how much he cares in words; to your furry buddy, cuddling is a way of saying, "I love you."
So, what are the most affectionate dog breeds? Here's our list of what we consider to be 10 of the cuddliest and most affectionate dog breeds ever!
10 Of the best cuddly dog breeds
#1. Golden Retriever
This breed is one of the top dog breeds in the U.S., and for a good reason! Golden Retriever dogs are also some of the most affectionate, fun-loving, intelligent, and gentle dogs around.
Full of energy, with a need to play, they are easily trainable and after a full day of exercise will want nothing more than to sneak onto the bed with you for a long cuddle.
#2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Another one of the popular cuddly dogs, breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, are also one of the more popular companion dogs.
A peaceful and fun-loving dog with a mild temperament, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been cuddling people since the early 17th century when they were popular with royalty. These days they make great cuddlers in family homes worldwide.
#3. Pomeranian
What can be more cuddly than a super fluffy pup? Our list needs fluffy dogs, and that's exactly what the Pomeranian is! However, don't let their cute and soft appearance fool you.
These dogs are not only fluffy and cuddly, but they're also incredibly loyal and brave. Centuries ago, Pomeranians traveled in packs to keep warm. It may be where their need for cuddling began!
#4. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Although pit bull dogs are not exactly cute and fluffy, Staffordshire Bull Terriers can make excellent family pets who love to cuddle. A devoted dog to its human owners, the Staffie will shower you with love and sloppy kisses if you let it!
This medium-sized dog will search out the best spot on your lap for cuddle time. Give this loving furry friend a gentle belly rub from time to time to show him you feel the same way!
#5. Newfoundland
If you like the idea of big cuddly dogs, a Newfoundland pup is a great choice. This large dog's size matches its heart! Known as a "nanny dog," these dogs make loving and devoted furry family members.
This dog loves to cuddle family members, especially little children. This breed is usually a gentle giant that needs a ton of attention; perfect for a hands-on, loving family!
#6. Greyhound
If you can catch it, you'll see that Greyhounds are not all about running! They love to lie around and snuggle up to their pet parents more than anything else.
You'll find that this lanky dog will love to climb all over you to show how much they love you. Although Greyhounds are typically one of the most gentle and calm dog breeds, they do have a "chase" instinct, so watch them with smaller pets!
#7. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are one of those small cuddly dogs that are also one of the best companion dogs. With loads of charm and sass, these pups develop strong bonds with their owners. They like nothing more than snuggling after a long day of fun.
Even though they are tiny dogs, Chihuahuas need a good amount of exercise! Many people prefer to carry them, but too much carrying will prevent these cuddly doggies from getting fit and strong.
Carrying them around may also create behavioral issues such as fear, if not allowed to mingle with other people and their environment.
#8. Pug
Pugs have a ton of energy and a well-mannered disposition. Full of character, these dogs make great family pets and get along well with children. With some training and socialization, they even get along with other animals.
Pugs love to jump up on your lap for a snuggle or crawl in beside you to get extra close. Even if they have only a paw touching you, they'll be comforted from having that connection. Pugs will seek out attention and even give you a nudge if you don't notice them right away!
#9. Bichon Frise
With its adorable puffball appearance, the Bichon Frise simply has to have a star spot in our cute, cuddly dogs list. This sweet-tempered dog is full of energy, so it makes an excellent pet for someone with an active lifestyle.
Bichon Frise dogs love to play, so a family with children is ideal for this doggie to get the loving, active attention it needs. Run around, and play fetch with Buster the Bichon Frise! In return, pet parents and children in the family will get tons of snuggles and cuddles.
#10. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
An intelligent and energetic dog that creates a strong bond with its owner, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi simply loves to cuddle. Once fearless herding dogs, these pups are accustomed to the pack life, which involves closeness for a sense of security.
On a cold and snowy day, you'll find that Corgis will appreciate the warmth and comfort of being close to their pet parents. They love to be so close to you that they may get a bit clingy. A little bit of space will keep them independent enough as long as you give them tons of love in between.
Does your dog like to cuddle?
We've listed only some of the cuddly breeds in the world. Many mixed-breed dogs also love to snuggle! No matter what breed you have, if you are affectionate with your dog from an early age, it will respond with love.
Some breeds don't typically like the physical signs of affection, like cuddling. These dogs tend to be the more intelligent, independent, or stubborn breeds. However, since every dog is different, even those dogs may want a cuddle now and again.
If your dog loves cuddling, get a bed ramp for dogs to help them get up on the bed for a lovely long cuddle. Cuddling makes dogs feel warm and secure, and you'll also feel great getting all the doggy love, enjoy every minute of it!
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