The term cuddle bug gets thrown around a lot in the dog world, but what exactly makes a dog qualify as one? While there isn’t any official classification system, we think that any dog that won’t leave you alone. A dog that always wants to be close to you fits the bill, big or small, short or tall!
But some breeds are more huggable than others, not because it’s fluffier or has longer hair (or fur). It’s hard to say what it is about some dogs that makes them much more cuddly than other breeds.
But we’ve done our best to round up some of the most cuddly dog breeds. These dogs will wrap their bodies around yours with the kind of love only a furry friend can give you!
What Is A Dog That Likes To Cuddle?
Every dog has a unique trait that makes it stand out, and it’s often something we can’t help but love. Some dogs are naturally goofy and love to play, while others are more serious and are excellent guard dogs. Most of these innate traits date back to when people produced puppies for roles that would benefit them in their daily lives.
For instance, the American pit bull terrier served as guardians or sentinels of property and animals to alert in case of intrusion. In contrast, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels warm the laps of kings, noblemen, and monks (most have a calm temperament).
A cuddly dog enjoys its owner’s company and can be a comfort to its master. It is easy to train and is also loyal to its owners.
Note: Don’t select a dog breed based on only the animal’s innate desire to cuddle. Over time, your dog’s behavior may change due to several factors, such as unanticipated health difficulties.
Top Cuddliest Dog Breeds
#1. Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkie is a joy to have around, but it can be hard to housebreak due to its small size. The Yorkshire Terrier does get along with children, strangers, and other dogs, so it’s easy to see why so many people want one for themselves.
It’s a solid choice for families or first-time dog owners. This breed doesn’t do well in hot climates and needs shelter from harsh conditions if it lives outdoors year-round. It also doesn’t deal well with being alone for long periods. Its high level of intelligence makes them more eager learners than many other breeds on our list!
#2. Rottweilers
There are many reasons why Rottweilers have earned such a soft spot in our hearts. For starters, it’s affectionate and loyal to its families. It’s playful but harsh and doesn’t get along well with kids and other pets.
And because Rotties were originally herding dogs, many of them love to chase balls or play catch. Although your friends might call you crazy for welcoming such a large breed into your home, its cuddliness will soon win them over!
#3. Boxers
The Boxer is one of America’s most popular dog breeds, with over 10 million owned in America alone. This breed makes a great companion, as it’s very playful and makes good playmates for other pets in your home. It’s also similar to nanny dogs and protective of its family.
If you have children, Boxers tend to be very gentle with them and can even become big brothers to new siblings when needed. Boxers need a lot of exercises (expect to take yours on daily walks!)
#4. Pembroke Welsh Corgis
The first thing people notice about Pembroke Welsh Corgis is its tails which are its dockers or stumpy legs. It’s that tail that makes these gentle dogs so friendly. Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a loyal disposition and make great companions.
These loving little dogs even have a reputation for being nurturing to people, other animals, and children alike. It’s perfect for families with kids because it’s non-aggressive toward them (even small ones).
The only downside of owning a Pembroke Welsh Corgi is that it may try to nurse on your hair or clothing!
#5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel got its name after King Charles II, who ruled from 1660-1685. It is often called the English Toy Spaniel and is a favorite breed of Queen Elizabeth II, which makes it all the more popular.
These pups are very playful and affectionate dog breeds. It enjoys spending time with its family but doesn’t need excessive exercise to stay healthy and happy. These little dogs will cuddle next to you whenever possible and enjoy indoor and outdoor play.
It tends to gain weight if not well cared for, so keep it on a strict diet if that becomes an issue.
#6. Bernese Mountain Dog
These dogs are often referred to as Swiss Army Knives due to their incredible versatility. It pulls carts, herds cattle and other livestock, tracks people, and partakes in competitive sports such as carting.
Today’s Bernese Mountain Dogs were originally draft dogs used by farmers in the Swiss Alps. Since it has natural protective instincts for children, it makes an excellent family pet as long as you ensure it gets enough exercise.
But if you can provide it with daily activities like swimming or playing Frisbee, it doesn’t mind spending time at home alone.
#7. Cocker Spaniels
Known for its playful personality, Cocker makes a great family dog. It tends to be fond of children and other animals but is usually too friendly to fend off a burglar. If you want a dog who will fetch your slippers or bring you a newspaper, get yourself a Cocker Spaniel.
It also enjoys long walks on chilly days and will greet anyone at your door with affection. You can count on it to snuggle up against your legs like a fluff ball during bedtime.
Besides, several hair colors and ear types are available with Cockers, so there’s no shortage of cuteness in your neighborhood!
#8. Vizslas
The sleek golden-rust coat of the Vizsla makes it immediately recognizable. It’s the epitome of a lean, agile hunter’s companion, standing between 21 and 24 inches at the shoulder. It has a facial expression that is tender and loving when at home and intense when at work, framed by long, silky ears.
This breed is for families that love open spaces. It has a close attachment with its owners and detests being alone because it is a hunting breed that must cooperate closely with people. It often runs alongside its owners or plays fetch for hours.
One note: This breed sheds a little, so if you have allergies, keep that in mind before adopting one of your own.
#9. Newfoundland
As a large breed, these canines are very affectionate and loyal. It has a sweet personality and loves to be petted and cuddled in return. Its low-shedding coat also makes it a good fit for families with allergies.
Of course, it is still a dog and needs lots of daily exercises! These canines also tend to drool, which might not make it seem that cuddly. But it can be comforting to curl up next to one of these furry giants on your couch. Just try not to get any Fur on your new sweater!
#10. Greyhound
Greyhounds are specifically for fast pursuit. It is the best dog in the world at sprinting, but don’t be fooled by speed. Its fur is short but soft; you’ll want to cuddle it all day. We don’t recommend you get one if you live in a tiny apartment or have limited space.
If you’re willing to give your greyhound plenty of attention, it will return your love – plus extra licks!
#11. Pug
It may look like walking mops, but pugs are popular dog breeds in America. It’s affectionate and friendly. These little balls of cuteness love to snuggle and cuddle with their owners. It’s also intelligent and quite trainable, as well as very easygoing.
It is similar to the French Bulldog with cat-like facial expressions (and if you’ve ever owned a cat before, you know how adorably expressive it can be!). Look into those big brown eyes and tell me it isn’t love at first sight! It doesn’t take long to win over everyone’s hearts.
A short lifespan makes every day spent with it precious, and there’s no better way to say I love you than by spending time with these adorable guys. It’s perfect in every way imaginable!
#12. Bichon Frise
No dog breed is as small or cute as a Bichon Frise. These fluffy dogs are, by nature, extremely affectionate and love to be around people. A good Bichon Frise can keep you company while you’re cooking or reading a book because it is one of the best lap dogs.
If you’re an apartment dweller, you may want to look into getting one of these breeds for its non-destructive behavior. It doesn’t bark much, and if any dog breed deserves to be labeled cuddly, it would have to be it!
#13. Maltese
It’s hard to imagine anyone not falling in love with Maltese. This canine is an adaptable pet despite its aristocratic appearance. Maltese are long-lived, low-shedding, and friendly with people of all ages. It was formerly a companion for wealthy people, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have one.
When you get home from work, it’s happy to see you and come over for cuddles or playtime in the yard. It loves being near its owners, so if you work for long, it might be happier with another family member who is home more often.
#14. Coton De Tulear
The Coton De Tulear (pronounced kot-on day too-lar) is a small dog, often described as the perfect family pet. This breed originated in Madagascar, where it guarded crops and livestock.
Today, it’s known for its calm temperament and affectionate nature. It loves cuddling up with its owners on the couch! These dogs are also friendly and patient toward people of all ages.
#15. Great Dane
Danes are watchful home guardians despite their pleasant disposition. The mere sight of these gentle giants is enough to deter invaders, but their affectionate nature means it isn’t always the best guard dogs.
Many owners have reported frequent barking when friends knock on their door but remaining silent when strangers try to break in. These loyal dogs are also well-known for snoring loudly (sometimes sounding like humans), so it might wake you every morning!
#16. Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a relative of the Pekingese and has a similar look. However, that is where its similarities end. The Tibetan Spaniel weighs up to 15 pounds (6.8kg), whereas its cousin only weighs 7 pounds (3.2kg).
It is an indoor dog, and because it can be messy if it gets out, you’ll have to ensure your home can accommodate one. As long as you are willing to spend some time with your dog and keep it company inside, he’ll love having a companion around all day.
Like other small dogs in cold weather, he does need warm clothing because of his heavy coat! This toy dog has thick double fur and a pushed-in face, which gives it a cute appearance.
#17. Boston Terrier
This breed is small, with a short, smooth coat that sheds little to no hair. It comes in nearly every color of fur, making it easy to find in a shelter or rescue group. It loves attention, so if you’re looking for a dog to hang out on your lap at home all day, then Boston terriers are what you need.
It also has a strong personality like the french Bulldog and isn’t afraid to share its opinions. If anything gets too loud (like vacuums), It will bark and let you know! What’s not to love about these cuddle-bug companions?
#18. Golden Retriever
This breed is known for its great temperament, love of learning, and excellent socialization skills. It’s also friendly and affectionate, which makes it among the great family dogs. It is also highly active, so you’ll need plenty of walks to keep it happy!
Don’t forget to make time for regular play sessions as well. Golden Retrievers enjoy games like fetch or tug-of-war. Although it is a medium-sized dog, it requires a lot of exercises! Its coat needs daily brushing as well.
#19. English Toy Spaniel
This small dog is a cross between an English Toy Spaniel and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. It has fluffy, soft fur that feels great. This furry cutie will gladly lie next to you for hours at a time if you let it.
Don’t worry about your couch either; he doesn’t shed much and will only give your furniture a few puffs of hair here and there. These dogs are affectionate and love attention from their owners. It also gets along with kids.
#20. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu dogs are one of the most affectionate breeds. Its nickname is Velcro dogs. This little pup sticks to its owner like glue and follows them everywhere. It Weighs 9-16 pounds, and there’s a good chance you’ll have a lap full of fur no matter what you do!
These charming pups are excellent at learning tricks and commands (especially when treats are involved.) This dog loves to be around people and has been a favorite with royalty since ancient times.
#21. Australian Shepherd
These dogs were bred originally as herding dogs in the western United States. It is affectionate, making it a good pet for families with children and other dogs in the household.
For grooming requirements, these pups also have high demands like brushing and combing to prevent tangles in their coats.
#22. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound is a breed of domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) closely related to the Greyhound and other sighthounds. The name originates from its purpose of wolf hunting with dogs, which was popular in Ireland in previous centuries.
It may also have been a dog used by Celtic warriors and hunters. Although called Wolfdog in English, it is not a hybrid between a domestic dog and a wolf. Recent genetic testing has revealed that it shares more genes with greyhounds than any other breed.
Compared to all modern breeds, it is one of the ancient dog breeds with an estimated lifespan of seven years.
FAQ
Conclusion
No matter the size, there is a dog for you to love. It might even be one of the smaller breeds on our list. No matter what, ensure you put a lot of thought into the dog breed you want to get. Will it be good with kids? Will it scare easily? These things are necessary as they will affect how much you enjoy having your dog around. Few dog parents could go without cuddling with my dogs, but I know that most people love being able to snuggle up with their dogs at night.
Related topic: Brittany dog: Everything you need to know
*photo by IndividualOne – depositphotos