Some people want a dog to hike with, others want a dog to play fetch with, but it’s safe to say almost every dog owner wants an affectionate pup to cuddle with. It’s safe to say there are countless reasons to want a dog, but receiving love from your furry friend after a long day is the greatest reason of all. There’s a reason they call dogs man’s best friend!
And the good news? Size doesn’t matter when it comes to cuddling! Whether you have a small dog or a giant dog, there’s still a lot of cuddles to go around. Some of the dogs on this list may surprise you, but it’s not the size of the dog that counts, it’s the amount of love in its heart. Here are 10 of the cuddliest, snuggliest, most affectionate dog breeds in the world.
1. Great Dane
A Great Dane may not be the first dog you picture when you think of cuddling, but these dogs are big lovers at heart. And with their big size, they will certainly keep you warm during the cold winter months! In fact, the AKC even says they are “a joy to live with.” They are dependable, affectionate with family, and patient, though they should be supervised with young children and other dogs.
By most measures, Great Danes are the largest dog breed in the world, but that certainly won’t stop them from trying to crawl into your lap. They’re also great at sensing emotions, so they will be able to tell when you’re in extra need of a little cuddle. So don’t let their size fool you, these big dogs are just as down for a cuddle on the couch as the rest!
2. Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are one of the most affectionate dog breeds in America, largely due to their gentle and affectionate nature. Intelligent and playful, they make excellent family pets and they’re fantastic with young children and other dogs. They’re also very eager to please their owner, so if they can sense you want to have some quiet time on the couch, they’ll do what they can to make you happy.
Goldens are highly trainable, have a moderate energy level, and need stimulation, but don’t let that fool you. In fact, they are more than willing to chill and cuddle up next to you in your bed. Just make sure they’ve had some time to run around and they’ll be more than happy to relax.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles spaniels are highly affectionate and love practically everyone, so they’re great with family, kids, and other dogs. Plus, thanks to their small stature, they’re the perfect size to snuggle up next to you in bed or on the couch.
So, while Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are playful and good with an active family, they also want nothing more than to curl up in your lap and relax. They love feeling connected to their owners, so spending quality time together is very important.
4. Labrador retriever
The most popular dog in the United States for over three decades, the AKC calls them “America’s favorite dog.” And they get called that for good reason! In fact, Labrador retrievers are probably the most friendly and happiest dogs on the planet. Think about it…have you ever met a Lab that doesn’t have great energy?!
Not to mention, Labs are perfect family dogs, as they are affectionate and good with young children and other dogs. Though they need some playtime and activity, they are more than happy to be a couch potato, cuddled up right next to you. Just make sure you give them some good scratches behind the ear!
5. Bichon Frise
These adorable, small white fluffy balls called Bichon Frise are highly affectionate canines known as great “personality dogs.” They are good with families, young children, and other dogs, so you won’t have to worry about them causing too many problems!
In fact, the AKC calls Bichon Frise an “irresistible canine comedian.” Although playful and full of energy, they’re also happy to just spend time next to you. Plus, their soft, curly coat adds an extra layer of coziness during cuddle sessions. So, throw a movie on the TV, snuggle up with a blanket, and have your Bichon Frise join you on the couch!
6. Pomeranian
These tiny, fluffy balls of fur — and contenders for the world’s cutest dog breed — are the perfect cuddle buddies thanks to their lovey-dovey personality. And, though they’re small in stature, they are full of love for their owners. However, though they do shower their owners with affection, they should be supervised around young children and other dogs.
Pomeranians are inquisitive and like a little bit of activity, but they’re mostly happy to lounge with their owners. They are vocal and have a strong, protective nature, so they want to be by your side. And, because they have a long, double coat that comes in a variety of colors, they’ll keep you warm during those long winter months!
7. Boxer
Despite being extremely athletic, Boxers do make for great cuddlers! Though they do need to let out a good amount of energy every single day, they’re also perfectly happy to spend some time hanging out by your side. Simply put, Boxers are intelligent, active, fun-loving dogs that are highly affectionate with family.
They’re great with young children, and generally friendly with other dogs. They are true family dogs that long to be near humans and want to be part of the pack. So, whether that’s at the park or on the couch, they’re going to be next to you!
8. English Bulldog
Bulldogs are known for their friendly, sweet, docile, and gentle dispositions. These people-oriented dogs actively seek human attention and they love to spend ample amounts of time with their owner. They are very content to cuddle, but they are highly playful as well.
And, although Bulldogs are affectionate with family and view almost everyone as a friend, it is still recommended to supervise them around young children and other dogs. But, once they’ve been able to let out their energy, they’re the perfect dog to cuddle and chill with.
Read More: The Most High-Maintenance Dog Breeds
9. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Pembroke Welsh Corgis are extremely affectionate with family and love to snuggle. In fact, they’re perfectly happy to lay by your feet and snooze for hours on end! Being raised as hunting dogs, they like to be around their “pack” of humans, desiring closeness and security. They just want to know you’re around.
Corgis are mostly friendly with other dogs, but they should be supervised just in case. And, while they do love children, it’s also smart to be careful when a Corgi (or any dog, for that matter) first meets a child. Welsh Corgis are intelligent and filled with energy, which means they are vocal and need a fair amount of exercise and stimulation.
Read More: 10 Best Dog Breeds for Children
10. Newfoundland
These affectionate, gentle giants are good with family, young children, and other dogs. In fact, they are so good with children that they are often called the “nanny” dog due to their gentle, calm, and loving disposition. However, don’t let their name convince you to leave your kids at home unsupervised!
In fact, Newfies have such a strong bond with their owners that they often get separation anxiety if left alone for long amounts of time. So, when you come home after a long day away, there’s nothing they want more than to be cuddled up by your side! And be sure to keep a towel around. These guys are droolers.
Read More: 10 Best Dog Breeds for New Owners
