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When it comes to finding the perfect companion dog, some of us are looking for a four-legged running partner, while others want a dog to keep watch over their house, and the rest of us, well, we just want an affectionate dog we can cuddle up with in front of the TV.
Let’s be honest, one of the main reasons we get a dog is for cuddling.
There’s nothing better than coming home after a long, exhausting day at work to see your furry friend wagging their tail when you open the door, eagerly waiting for a cuddle – it’s the best feeling in the world!
If you’re one of the unlucky ones who have yet to find their K9 soulmate, today is your lucky day because we have handpicked 11 of the most affectionate dog breeds that are guaranteed to be your next snuggle buddy.
Top 11 Best Dogs For Cuddling (These Dogs Are Affectionate!)
Below we’ve rounded up some big and small dogs that are just waiting for a good hug!
If you’re looking for a super-affectionate dog to be your new best friend consider one of these dog breeds.
1. Labrador Retriever
At the top of our list of most affectionate dog breeds is the Labrador. Labradors love everyone they meet – they don’t judge!
They may not be the best watchdogs, but they make up for it with their affectionate and loving nature.
The Labrador makes for an excellent companion pet which is probably why they’re the number one choice to use as guide dogs and therapy dogs.
Because Labradors were originally bred as hunting dogs they require a good amount of exercise – it’s in their biological makeup, so they love playing fetch and being active as much as possible! But that doesn’t mean they don’t have time for a big cuddle!
2. Golden Retriever
Keeping with the “retriever” theme, the Golden Retriever also makes for a great loving cuddle dog. In fact, Golden Retriever pups are among some of the most loving puppies you’ll find and the cutest!
Due to the friendly nature of the Golden Retriever, they often find themselves chosen to be a working dog; just like the Labrador.
Almost all Golden Retrievers love cuddling up to strangers, so you can expect your Retriever will love their master even more than the strangers they’re affectionate to.
The Golden Retriever makes for an “OKish” guard dog and can keep a watchful eye out while in your yard, but for cuddles, this dog’s a keeper!
3. Bearded Collie
No dog lover can resist the fluffy face of a Bearded Collie. This furry friend is peppy, full of energy, and loves to jump around, gaining the nickname the “happy herder” due to their gregarious nature.
If you’re looking for a very furry snuggle buddy that’s full of life and will soak up all of your attention, the Bearded Collie could be your new best friend!
4. Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier looks like a big ball of fluff, their gray hair and fuzzy face looks more like a sheep than a sheepdog!
These Terriers are independent, but don’t let that put you off because they also love cuddles, and even though they might be pushy, they are the happiest when they are snoozing on your lap.
5. Bulldog
The Bulldog probably isn’t the first dog that comes to mind when you’re thinking about the most affectionate dogs, but these dogs should be at the top of your list!
Bulldogs are extremely loyal and loving, but you should know they also love their food.
Bulldogs can be very possessive over their dog food, so it’s best to feed them away from other dogs, and if you have children, it’s a good idea to keep them away when there’s food around.
However, being so fond of food can be an advantage because you can use food as a tool when you’re training them.
With that said, Bulldogs love nothing more than laying on the couch and make for a great affectionate, cuddling dog that is always there when you need a cuddle.
6. Chihuahua
For those of you looking for the most affectionate dog breeds but have a small apartment, look no further than the cute and cuddly Chihuahua.
These dogs are popular with people with little living space and make great apartment dogs and terrific lap warmers on cold nights.
The pocket-sized pups are entertaining, comical, and loyal.
You’ll find them absolutely brimming with their own unique personality and have an eccentric personality unmatched by any other dog breed.
7. Irish Wolfhound
If you would prefer a larger dog to cuddle, the Irish Wolfhound is a very warmhearted breed to consider bringing home.
Even though they are large, in their mind, they still think they’re a lap dog, and you’ll often find them laying their head on your lap when given a chance.
Almost all Irish Wolfhound’s love being around people but be careful when they are near cats, or other fast-moving small animals because they have a tendency to chase and pounce – in a playful manner, that is!
8. Bichon Frise
If you want the perfect example of the term ‘lapdog,’ you should consider the Bichon Frise. This breed of dog was a popular choice with French royalty in the 18th century, however, nowadays they’ve become an affectionate dog accessible to all dog lovers.
The soft, curly coats on the Bichon Frise make for a great snug blanket when you need to relax and chill after a long day – and let’s be honest, their big, adorable eyes are impossible to resist!
9. Italian Greyhound
Your regular Greyhounds are large dogs, but their Italian cousin is a smaller version that makes a great cuddle buddy.
The smaller version is still fast and loves to run “flat out,” but they enjoy being on your lap rather than chasing after rabbits like their bigger cousins.
Italian Greyhound is an affectionate breed of dog that has dreamy eyes that just say “cuddle me” every time you look at them.
10. Brussels Griffon
This unique-looking pooch is a small dog that loves to trot around your house on “mini” adventures.
They often describe this breed as being full of self-importance, but the Brussels Griffon is actually a spunky, happy, kind-spirited, and comical dog that loves nothing more than laying on your lap and showing fondness.
However, be careful because Brussels Griffon is a climber, and coupled with his imagination, curiosity, and thirst for adventure, he will often get himself in trouble.
11. Great Dane
If you want to “go all-in” and get a super-sized large dog, look no further than the Great Dane.
As the name suggests this breed of dog is big, it’s great and ready to take on anything in the name of love!
Don’t let the Great Danes’s big size scare you because this breed is typically a gentle giant that’s mild-mannered and easygoing.
Due to his size, the Great Dane shouldn’t be cramped inside a small apartment or home where you have a small yard. He needs space but only requires moderate exercise.
Where the Great Dane excels is being affectionate – trust us, you’ll love cuddling this gentle giant!
