Dogs don’t have the title of “man’s best friend” for no reason. These adorable furry creatures are probably the most loyal and loving companions on earth, and their pet parents are the lucky ones who get to be the objects of all this affection!
Although every dog is cuddly in its own right, some breeds require very little affection, and others relish in a cuddle, a hug, and a pat on the head. We’ve compiled this list of the most cute and cuddly dogs you’ll ever want to squeeze.
How much does your dog “love” you?
Love (as they say) is much like beauty, which is “in the eye of the beholder.” While some pet parents love it when their dogs shower them with sloppy kisses and wagging tails, others might say being a loyal helper on the farm is the best sign of affection.
However you look at it, there are dog breeds that are naturally more affectionate than others. Breeds like Golden and Labrador Retriever, Shih Tzus, and Lhasa Apso are a few breeds that show the most love.
It is rumored that selective breeding may be why certain dog breeds seem to be more affectionate in particular ways. Some give their pet parents more “paws-on” affection, and others just want to please them (like those farm dogs!)
Scientists have even started to narrow the genetic lineage as to why some dogs behave differently than others. Although this research is not conclusive, we do know that some dog breeds love cuddling more than others.
What is cuddling to dogs?
Do you know if your dog really likes to cuddle? There is a distinct difference between a dog getting a hug and cuddling your dog. Let’s focus on cuddling since this is all about the most cuddly dogs!
Cuddling involves those precious moments when your dog wants to sit right beside you or snuggle up in bed and lay down with you getting your undivided attention.
Why are dogs so cuddly?
There are various reasons why dogs enjoy cuddling. Let’s take a look at some of the more common reasons why Fido feels the need to be closer to you:
Warmth – Dogs have a fur coat, but they still get cold! Cuddling up with you on a cool winter night is just what they need to maintain the right body temperature to be comfortable.
Comfort – Dogs are pack animals. In the wild, they’d naturally huddle together for warmth and survival. Even though they’re now domesticated, they still want to feel that sense of security they get with a pack, and so you become their pack!
Affection – One of the more important reasons is that a dog will express themselves through body language. Spot can’t tell you how much he cares in words; to your furry buddy, cuddling is a way of saying, “I love you.”
So, what are the most affectionate dog breeds? Here’s our list of what we consider to be 10 of the cuddliest and most affectionate dog breeds ever!
10 Of the best cuddly dog breeds
#1. Golden Retriever
This breed is one of the top dog breeds in the U.S., and for a good reason! Golden Retriever dogs are also some of the most affectionate, fun-loving, intelligent, and gentle dogs around.
Full of energy, with a need to play, they are easily trainable and after a full day of exercise will want nothing more than to sneak onto the bed with you for a long cuddle.
#2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Another one of the popular cuddly dogs, breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, are also one of the more popular companion dogs.
A peaceful and fun-loving dog with a mild temperament, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has been cuddling people since the early 17th century when they were popular with royalty. These days they make great cuddlers in family homes worldwide.
#3. Pomeranian
What can be more cuddly than a super fluffy pup? Our list needs fluffy dogs, and that’s exactly what the Pomeranian is! However, don’t let their cute and soft appearance fool you.
These dogs are not only fluffy and cuddly, but they’re also incredibly loyal and brave. Centuries ago, Pomeranians traveled in packs to keep warm. It may be where their need for cuddling began!
