Top 10 Affectionate Dog Breeds

Kate Barrington
by Kate Barrington
Everybody needs someone to cuddle – why not make that special somebody a dog? You can count on any of these affectionate dog breeds to stay loyal and never stray!


If you want a big kiss or you need to feel loved, nothing beats curling up on the couch with your loyal canine companion. Some dogs simply cannot get enough attention from us, and in turn, show us how much they adore us. In honor of this seemingly endless supply of adorable devotion, we’re pleased to present our top 10 most affectionate dog breeds.


We know dogs have emotions. We know that they have feelings and they feel things and are sensitive to us when we are feeling things. We also know that there are just some dogs that we get along with and laugh and love with more because they seem to get us. Like, really get us.


What is it about certain breeds of dog that makes that happen? What breeds are they, even that are more affectionate and free in their love? Most people look for a pet for those affectionate relationships and sometimes, when choosing a dog that’s less than affectionate by breed and history, they can be disappointed. It’s nothing against the dog, of course…they are who they are. But if you’re looking for an affectionate dog who’s going to love you forever (and show you too)? Check out this list of our most affectionate breeds



(Photo credit: Christin Lola/Bigstock)

Golden Retriever: Helping the Golden Retriever hold its position as a family favorite, this pooch’s friendly personality and people-loving attitude helped secure his place among our most affectionate dog breeds. They form strong bonds with their human family members, so you shouldn’t be surprised to find your Golden following you around the house. In fact, you may want to look for him if he’s not. (Photo credit: graphicphoto/Bigstock)

Havanese: There’s a lot of love to give under all that fur. The Havanese has a friendly and docile personality and he loves to spend time with his people. And if you have kids, even better – this breed loves being around children. Sometimes smaller dogs may be a bit more territorial and possessive, but not the Havanese! (Photo credit: mdorottya/Bigstock)

Bichon Frise: The Bichon Frise is known for its fluffy white coat but equally notable is its people-loving attitude. These little dogs are gentle and sweet, making them a shoo-in for our top affectionate dog breed list. Not only is he a cuddle bug, but he comes with the perk of having hypoallergenic fur. They make a GREAT family pet for all of those reasons. (Photo credit: mikeledray/Bigstock)

Bedlington Terrier: No, it’s not an overly affectionate sheep – it’s the Bedlington Terrier! While many terrier breeds are known for being willful and independent, the Bedlington Terrier has turned to a career as a lap dog. This breed is still considered high energy and boasts a playful attitude, but when it’s time to settle down, he’ll gladly take his place as one of the most affectionate dog breeds around. Truly, you’ll think you have a big old lap dog because truth is? You do. (Photo credit: Vtls/Bigstock)

Bulldog: With his stocky body, wrinkled skin and intimidating overbite, the Bulldog may not be what you picture when you think of affectionate dog breeds. But lovers of this famous breed know better – the Bulldog is gentle and he forms enduring bonds with all family members. So much so that you can’t help falling in love with how sweet and loyal they are.(Photo credit: Johnny Dao/iStockphoto)

Pug: Pugs may be of small stature, but they’re not short on personality. These dogs are outgoing and playful, eager to spend time with their owners. Pugs make great family pets and they love to be around people. They love to be in the middle of things (like your lap and dinner) and they are as loyal as they come. (Photo credit: Melissa711/iStockphoto)

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: In addition to being one of the quietest breeds, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds you’ll come across. This breed is social and craves quality time with its owners. He’ll be content to curl up with you on the couch and will follow you around the house all day if you let him. (Photo credit: bane.m/Bigstock)

Collie: The rough- or smooth-coated Collie makes a wonderful addition to most families. In addition to being super smart, this breed loves to love his owner. He’ll let you spend hours rubbing his belly or curling up with him under the covers. (Photo credit: Ksuksa/Bigstock)

American Staffordshire Terrier: Don’t listen to rumors about the American Stafford Terrier being a generally aggressive dog. In reality, the American Staffordshire Terrier is one of the most gentle and affectionate dog breeds you’ll ever have the privilege to hug. These dogs crave human contact and they have friendly and lively personalities. Often, you’ll hear trainers tell you that they are one of their favorite to train and use for support animals. (Photo credit: Kaliantye/Bigstock)

Shelter Dogs: Alright, so this isn’t an official dog breed, but dogs that are adopted from the shelter have to top our list of affectionate dog breeds. Perhaps that’s because they’ve been abandoned; maybe it’s because they’ve spent so much time alone. When a dog is rescued by a loving person or family, they’ll be rewarded with a lifetime of doggie love and affection. Adopt a dog and find out for yourself – and we’re positive you’ll agree that shelter dogs are the most affectionate dog breeds around! It’s like they know you’ve saved them and they’re forever grateful. You’ll never, ever regret a pound puppy! (Photo credit: Christin Lola/Bigstock)

Kate Barrington
Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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