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The 10 Most Cuddly Dog Breeds

Written by: Scott H
Scott Haiduc is the Director of Publishing for iHeartDogs, iHeartCats and The Hero Company. When not working, Scott spends his time on the farm, taking care of his animals and crops.Read more
| Published on January 5, 2019

While we all love to cuddle our dogs, there are some who are more receptive to it than others – and some that just put up with it because they know it makes us happy! Then there are certain breeds whose crazy soft fur, sweet personalities, and snuggable faces are just irresistible when it comes to giving hugs. Whether they love to give cuddles, take cuddles, or both, these pups have that “it” factor when it comes to cuddling. So if you’ve ever wondered what dogs breeds like to cuddle most, read on!

#1 – Coton De Tulear

The Coton De Tulear is so soft and fluffy that it’s coat is considered hair instead of fur! Those fluffy locks are so remarkably cuddly that the breed was even named for them! This eager-to-please breed goes head-over-heels for human affection and attention. It will take all you have to give any time you want to give it! The Coton De Tulear is also considered a no-shed breed. However, it needs frequent brushing to keep it mat-free. That means fewer hairs on your clothes after a cuddle-sesh! Who wouldn’t just love to have one of these sweet cuties curled up on their lap for a nice brush?

#2 – Pomeranian

Were you the kind of kid who was attached to your teddy bear when you were younger? A pomerianian isn’t too far off from your favorite childhood toy! These little balls of fluff have a thick, poofy coat that’s irresistibly cuddly. Not to mention that little face that resembles a small toy bear! They love being the center of attention and will definitely let you know if they aren’t getting enough! These dogs are a lot of personality in a little package! And the best news of all? Keep up with their grooming and general wellness, and these dogs can live to snuggle in your lap for up to 16 years!

#3 – Golden Retriever

We never run out of good things to say about the Golden Retriever. These dogs are friendly, smart, confident, affectionate and make great assistance dogs. It’s no wonder they’ve been the #1 most popular breed all around the world! These dogs love to be in the company of others, whether that be other animals, or people, especially children. Their patience with children makes them excellent family dogs. They especially enjoy all the extra hands hanging around for extra attention! This big breed makes a great snuggle buddy and is happy on the couch or out for a run. So long as he’s with you!

DOES SIZE MATTER? Here are 11 small breeds just waiting to call your lap home!

#4 – Australian Shepherd

If these dogs love anything more than they love being active, it’s attention! These dogs start as teeny balls of fluff, and grow into even larger balls of fluffier fluff with a coat that you can get lost in! Although they prefer to be busy, running, playing and jumping, they’ll happily soak up all the love and cuddles you have to give them – once they’re good and worn out. These dogs need all your attention and for you to keep your hands free – you’re gonna need them for games of fetch and pats while cuddling on the couch!

#5 – Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are another breed that makes excellent family dogs. They get along great with children, adults, other pets – anyone willing to give them all the attention they deserve! They’re easy-going dogs that love to be around people – strangers included!  If you need someone to take up the extra room on your couch while watching a movie, a Lab will be quick to fill the empty couch cushion! If given a choice, your Lab would probably spend all day snoozing on the sofa, but this dog will need regular exercise to keep him fit.

#6 – Pug

If you have a Pug, you have a clown, a charmer, and a world-class napper on your hands. These snuggle-machines love the feel of a cozy bed, a warm lap, and a soft blanket – just don’t ask him to share it! These wiggle worms are surprise bed-hogs! The moment your Pug is awake, be ready with kisses and cuddles – he’s going to want them! It’s said that Pugs are very intuitive dogs that can tell how their owners are feeling, so don’t be surprised if your Pug is there, offering kisses and cuddles when you’re feeling down.

#7 – Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu has a soft, silky coat that makes them look regal when it’s grown out long and well-groomed – but they still look downright adorable with it clipped short! They love attention and are happiest perched on a lap basking in the adoration and affection of the people they love. Shih Tzus are friendly with strangers as well and love to make new friends. They’re extremely affectionate dogs and will repay any love given to them back times a hundred!

Looking for a pup to pal around with? Check out this list of the best companion dog breeds!

#8 – Dachshund

Dachshunds are “burrowers” – this means that a pile of clothes or blankets you have on the floor in a home with a dachshund is almost guaranteed to have a dog in it! Strangers should be patient when meeting a Dachshund, no matter how much you may want to scoop them up and cuddle, but these dogs are loyal and devoted to their families. They’ll happily be held and cuddled as much as possible by the people they trust.

#9 – American Eskimo

American Eskimos are loving, intelligent dogs that are quick to make friends when introduced to humans and other animals. These dogs are the kind of pups who are happy when their people are happy. They have gorgeous dense coats just begging to be pet and are very affectionate pups. Their sweet disposition plus their poofy coat makes them an ideal snuggle-partner!

#10 – Collie

This large dog with a flowing coat and well known as “the Lassie dog,” is a wonderful household dog and a ready cuddler. Bred in the Scottish Highlands, their thick coat was meant to keep them warm in the chilly climate. In fact, they make a great pillow on cold winter nights. But don’t let the glamourous coat fool you: Collies are also super smart, serious athletes and great working dogs. They do great in herding jobs and activities like flyball, agility, and tracking.

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