Top 10 Clingy Dog Breeds

We all know that a big part of being a pet owner is the wonderful sense of companionship that our four-legged friends bring into our lives. Waking up to a living, breathing – and often demanding – furry sidekick is the only way I would ever want to start my day and in spite of the various trials and tribulations associated with pet ownership, its all worth it.

Now, as a room-mate to both dogs and cats, I can tell you that there is a marked difference between the bond I have with my felines and that which I share with my dogs. While my cats seem comfortable simply knowing that I am available to them whenever they see fit, my dogs just want to hang out with me. All the time.

And I won’t kid you, it was an adjustment to how I went about my day. I mean I’ve had cats my entire life, but actually owned dogs for just three years. So, the need to establish meal times (cats just free-range), schedule my outings between walks (cats don’t care), save a spot on the sofa for a dog who needs to cuddle (cats come up from behind and make their own space) and never forget to budget for treats (cats would agree) has been a period of adjustment.

My two dogs are rescues of the Schnoodle-ish variety and while they are what I would consider to be relatively independent little gals, they absolutely love it when they can make me stop work to spend time on cuddles and conversation. Although this can happen frequently throughout the day, I have been able to dissuade them from this and convince them to wait until we all can share a little break and outdoor time. For this, I am thankful.

But it did get me thinking. What if my dynamic duo refused to take no for an answer. Are there actually breeds of dogs that are considered to be super clingy? I mean, what breeds just have to be with you all the time and would love nothing more than to be curled up on your lap from morning to night. They do exist and you might be surprised to learn they aren’t all cuddly little lapdogs. Intrigued? Here are 10 of the super clingiest.

1. 
   

   Vizsla

   
   

When a dog has earned the moniker “Velcro” it kind of speaks for itself, right? While these pointers are active, good-sized hunting dogs that one might assume would want to be outdoors and active all day long, they actually want nothing more than to shadow their owner right in the comfort of their own home. Rumor has it its their natural instincts that cause these Hungarian natives to want to stick close to their owner as, during the hunt, wandering out of sight could be deadly. As a family pet, this beautiful boy still needs regular, vigorous exercise, but constant human interaction throughout the day and frequent cuddles are a must. (photo credit: Ann-Christin Langen/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   French Bulldog

   
   

Who can resist the wrinkled flat-face and oversized bat ears of a Frenchie? This determined little dog is known for having a stubborn streak and for absolutely craving human affection. Note to prospective pet parents: be aware that if sufficient attention isn’t forthcoming, he’ll downright demand it. But don’t confuse this headstrong little guy with being an aggressive dog because he is anything but. Even-tempered and naturally curious, this playful pup is ideal for a single person who can devote all their attention to him and only him. Of course, his love of human interaction means he doesn’t do well when left on his own for long periods. (photo credit: Golden House Studio/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   Chihuahua

   
   

While this pint-sized pooch is considered the smallest dog in the world, many would say he has the biggest personality and perhaps an even bigger attitude. Yes, this wee companion dog is fiercely loyal to his owner and expects to be included in all activities – I mean, why would you leave him out, right? But he packs a mini punch because his devotion to one can make him a tad snappish to strangers or other animals who he senses may be vying for mom’s attention. Though he is a clingy dog, don’t mistake that for lazy or a lapdog. He’s a busy, demanding boy that likes to be active. (photo credit: IvSky/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   German Shepherd dog

   
   

You may expect a dog that craves constant attention to be small (as in an armful-size) but that’s not always the case. With this handsome boy you get a big dog that is super loyal to his human and as a result, his goal is to always be by their side. It’s this same quality that also makes him a great police or military dog. His complete devotion to his handler, intelligence and trainability means he doesn’t allow distractions to deter him from the job at hand. While this indoor dog may be a bit hefty for a lap, he’s always up for a snuggle on the sofa with any member of the family. (photo credit: Sam Wordley/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   Pug

   
   

That face! Yes, the highly expressive, flat-faced, bug-eyed Pug is, in fact another super-clingy dog. In spite of his stocky build and self-confident approach to life, he is a needy little boy who is eager to please his owners in order to secure the attention he demands. Did I mention he was stubborn? Yes, he is totally tenacious when it comes to having fun and earning the praise that he feels he deserves. But this easy-going pooch is also happy to share the spotlight with other animals and because he gets along great with kids (who of course give him the adoration he craves), he’s an ideal family pet. (photo credit: evrymmnt/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

   
   

Here we have the quintessential lap dog. Perfect size, ideal temperament and a constant desire to snuggle up on anyone who will have him. These playful pooches with the big, beautiful eyes adore having fun and crave constant human interaction. In fact, they’re even cool with young kids – as long as they’re willing to play. While not an overly protective dog, he is loyal and totally devoted to his pet parents. So much so, that he is renowned for shadowing his owners throughout the day. As a result, he is ideally suited for a home where there is always someone present to keep him company and indulge his need to cling. (photo credit: Nestor Rizhniak/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   Italian Greyhound

   
   

This spritely little dog with the impish appearance, headstrong personality and need for speed is actually a great little family dog that just thrives on affection. Maybe it’s his tiny size and lightweight coat that has him clamoring to cuddle up with his peeps to stay warm. Whatever the reason, this pooch bonds quickly with his owner (sorry, he’s not big on multi-pet parents) and his world is all about getting 100% of their attention. His slight size means bundling up during colder weather is a must and because his stubborn personality can make house training a challenge, walks are a necessity so plan to stock up on some stylish outerwear. (photo credit: Elena Vasilchenko/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   Golden Retriever

   
   

No surprise here that the affable Golden Retriever is considered a loving albeit clingy, family dog. It’s his keen-to-please personality and need for praise that makes him such a softy when it comes to human interaction. While he is steadfastly loyal to his human pack, the Golden is not made of guard dog material so you won’t find him growling at strangers or barking randomly because he feels threatened. He’s great with kids and other animals and quite frankly feels that he should be involved in all family activities. As a result, this pooch is willing to play and retrieve tossed balls for as long as you’re willing to throw them. (photo credit: Stickler/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   Shetland Sheepdog

   
   

Clingy doesn’t always mean hanging off your lap all day long. For some dogs, it just means lots of interaction with their favorite person – you. These mini-Lassies are known for their gentle disposition and amazingly sweet, need-to-please personalities that have them clamoring for attention 24/7. What makes this need for attention so much fun is that they love to perform for you – from tricks to agility to retrieving and herding; they’re up for anything that allows some one-on-one time. Of course, once he’s done, you’re then expected to reward him with the praise and attention he has just earned, but that’s just part of the fun. (photo credit: BoJack/Shutterstock.com)

1. 
   

   Doberman Pinscher

   
   

Who would think a Dobie could be clingy? My guess is anyone who owns a Doberman. This big, beautiful and powerful dog is actually rather sweet-natured around people and quite affectionate and devoted to his family. Similar to breeds such as the Chihuahua, a Dobie can become highly loyal to just one owner and crave their attention above all others. This can make him a bit “needy” or clingy because its this very human interaction and praise that he thrives on. And after a busy day at the dog park, this dog enjoys nothing more than snuggling in on the sofa beside his best buddy. (photo credit: SIBIN ALEX/Shutterstock.com)