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The 27 Dog Breeds That Live for Affection

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| October 24, 2024

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For many dog lovers, there’s nothing better than a pup that craves affection. Some dog breeds are known for their boundless love and devotion, always ready to snuggle up or give their owners endless kisses. These dogs live for attention and affection, making them perfect companions for those who want a loyal and loving friend. Whether small enough to fit on your lap or big enough to make it a bit of a squeeze, these breeds are happiest when showering you affectionately.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is often considered the ultimate companion dog due to its loving and affectionate nature. These dogs were bred to be lapdogs and live for human interaction. Cavaliers are small, gentle, and incredibly affectionate, always eager to sit on your lap or curl beside you on the couch. Their big, expressive eyes seem to say, “I love you” with every glance. They thrive on attention and are happiest when close to their family. Cavaliers are perfect for people who want a devoted, affectionate companion who is always ready for a snuggle.

Golden Retriever

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Golden Retrievers are known for their friendly, outgoing nature and unmatched love of people. These dogs are big, fluffy bundles of joy, always eager to please and offer affection. Goldens are famous for their gentle demeanor and affectionate personality, making them perfect family pets. They thrive on human interaction and will go out of their way to get attention, whether it’s leaning against you for pets or nudging you with their nose for a scratch. Goldens are also incredibly patient, making them great companions for children. Their constant need for affection ensures they’ll always be by your side.

Labrador Retriever

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Like the Golden Retriever, Labradors are known for their affectionate and friendly nature. These dogs love everyone they meet, and their wagging tails clearly show their happy, loving personality. Labs are loyal, social, and always ready to show affection. Whether cuddling on the couch or sitting at your feet, Labs are all about being close to their owners. They’re also known for being great with kids and other pets, making them ideal family dogs. Their affectionate nature, intelligence, and playfulness make Labs one of the most beloved breeds in the world.

Bichon Frise

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The Bichon Frise is a little bundle of love known for its happy, affectionate nature. These fluffy dogs are friendly, social, and always eager to be close to their owners. Bichons are natural entertainers, often charming everyone they meet with their playful personalities and love for affection. Their small size makes them perfect lapdogs, and they are always up for a cuddle. Bichons are also great with children and other pets, making them wonderful family companions. Their affectionate nature means they’ll follow you around the house, ready to give you endless love and snuggles.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus are known for their sweet, affectionate personalities and love of human companionship. These small dogs were bred to be lapdogs for Chinese royalty, and they still carry that love for cuddling with them today. Shih Tzus are incredibly loyal and love being close to their owners. They’re often found curled up on laps or snuggled under blankets, content to spend the day in close contact. Shih Tzus thrives on attention and affection, making them the perfect companion for anyone who loves a dog that lives for cuddles and closeness.

Pug

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Pugs are small, sturdy dogs with big personalities and even bigger hearts. They are known for their affectionate nature and their love of human attention. Pugs are incredibly loyal and always want to be near their owners, whether that means sitting on your lap, following you around the house, or snuggling up in bed with you. They have a playful, clownish side, but their true joy comes from being close to their humans. Pugs are natural cuddlers and thrive on affection, making them a perfect choice for anyone looking for a dog that lives for love.

Cocker Spaniel

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Cocker Spaniels are known for their sweet, affectionate personalities and love being close to their families. These medium-sized dogs are incredibly loyal and always eager to give and receive affection. Cockers are gentle and patient, making them great companions for families with children. Their soft, silky coats and expressive eyes only add to their charm. Cocker Spaniels thrive on human interaction and are happiest when spending time with their owners, whether playing in the yard or cuddling on the couch. Their affectionate nature makes them one of the most loving and devoted breeds.

French Bulldog

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French Bulldogs may be small but have big hearts and love human companionship. Frenchies are known for their playful, affectionate personalities and desire to always be close to their owners. These dogs are natural cuddlers, always eager to sit on your lap or snuggle beside you on the couch. French Bulldogs are also known for their loyalty and devotion, often forming strong bonds with their families. Their affectionate nature and love for attention make them perfect for anyone looking for a dog that is always ready for some quality snuggle time.

Boxer

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Boxers are high-energy dogs with a deep love for their families. Known for their playful, goofy personalities, Boxers are also incredibly affectionate and love being close to their humans. Despite their muscular build, they’re gentle giants when it comes to showing affection. Boxers are known for their “leaning” behavior, where they’ll press against you just to be close. They’re also great with kids and are known for their patience and protective instincts. Boxers thrive on attention and affection, and their loving nature makes them a perfect fit for active families who want a loyal, affectionate dog.

American Pit Bull Terrier

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Pit Bulls often get a bad rap, but those who know the breed understand they’re incredibly affectionate and loving dogs. Pit Bulls are known for their loyalty and strong desire to be close to their owners. They thrive on human attention and affection, snuggling up on the couch or following family members around the house. Pit Bulls are playful and energetic, but their true joy comes from being loved and giving love in return. Their affectionate nature makes them wonderful companions for those who understand the breed’s true, loving nature.

Havanese

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The Havanese is a small, fluffy dog known for its affectionate personality and love of human companionship. These dogs are incredibly social and thrive on attention from their owners. Havanese are natural lapdogs, always eager to snuggle up with their humans and give plenty of kisses. They’re great with children and other pets, making them perfect family companions. Havanese are also known for their playful nature, but they’re happiest when they’re close to their owners, soaking up as much love and affection as possible. Their friendly, loving nature makes them one of the most affectionate breeds.

Shetland Sheepdog

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Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate personalities. These dogs are incredibly devoted to their families and love being close to their owners. Shelties are gentle and loving, often seeking out attention and affection from their humans. They’re great with children and other pets, making them wonderful family companions. Shelties thrive on human interaction and are happiest when spending time with their family, whether playing in the yard or snuggling on the couch. Their affectionate nature and love for their humans make them a perfect choice for anyone looking for a loving companion.

Great Dane

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Great Danes may be known as “gentle giants,” but they’re also some of the most affectionate dogs. Despite their large size, Great Danes love being close to their owners and often try to curl up in your lap, even if they don’t quite fit. These dogs are incredibly loyal and gentle, often leaning against their humans for comfort and affection. Great Danes thrive on attention and love, making them perfect companions for families or individuals who want a big dog with an even bigger heart. Their affectionate nature and gentle demeanor make them a joy to be around.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds may be small, but their love for their humans is enormous. Known for their playful and lively personalities, Dachshunds form strong bonds with their families and thrive on physical affection. These little “velcro dogs” love to snuggle up on laps, burrow under blankets, and follow their owners everywhere. Despite their stubborn streak, Dachshunds are loyal and crave attention from their loved ones. Their affectionate nature makes them perfect for people who enjoy spending time with their pets, as Dachshunds are happiest when they’re showered with love.

Maltese

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The Maltese is a charming, affectionate breed known for its gentle and loving personality. These small dogs love to be the center of attention and thrive on affection from their families. Maltese dogs are often described as “lap dogs” because they adore cuddling and spending time close to their owners. Known for their sweet nature, they bond deeply with their humans and tend to form close attachments. Maltese dogs are happiest when they’re surrounded by love and warmth, making them ideal companions for those looking for a loyal, affectionate pet.

English Bulldog

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English Bulldogs may look tough, but they have a heart full of love for their families. Known for their calm and gentle disposition, Bulldogs adore being around their humans and thrive on affection. These dogs are loyal and will happily lounge next to their owners for hours, relishing any bit of attention they can get. Bulldogs enjoy physical closeness and are known to nuzzle and cuddle with their families. Despite their laid-back nature, they have a deep need for companionship, making them one of the most affectionate breeds for those seeking a snuggly companion.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas are tiny but mighty when it comes to their love for their owners. Known for their loyal and affectionate nature, Chihuahuas form incredibly strong bonds with their families and often choose one favorite person to shower with devotion. These little dogs love to be close to their humans and will happily curl up on laps or snuggle under blankets. Chihuahuas crave attention and affection, and their small size allows them to be constant companions. They may have a big personality, but their love for their family is just as large, making them perfect for anyone seeking a highly affectionate pet.

Pekingese

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Pekingese are known for their regal appearance, but they have a heart that lives for affection. These small dogs form strong attachments to their families and enjoy being close to their humans, often following them from room to room. Pekingese are gentle and affectionate, and they are known for their love of snuggling and being held. They can be a bit reserved around strangers, but with their families, they’re warm and loving. Their strong loyalty and need for closeness make Pekingese ideal companions for people looking for a dog that craves attention and affection.

Boston Terrier

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Boston Terriers, often called “American Gentlemen,” are friendly, affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. These small, lively dogs love being around people and enjoy showing affection through snuggles and playful interactions. Boston Terriers are known for their gentle nature and are often happy to cuddle on the couch with their families. They’re social dogs that crave attention and love, and they form strong bonds with their humans. Their affectionate, playful personality makes them great family pets and ideal for those who want a dog that lives for love and companionship.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

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Staffordshire Bull Terriers, or “Staffies,” are known for their big hearts and love for their families. These muscular dogs are incredibly affectionate and loyal, often forming deep bonds with their humans. Staffies are known as “nanny dogs” for their gentle nature around children, and they adore physical closeness, whether through cuddling, nuzzling, or sitting by their owners’ sides. Despite their tough appearance, they are sensitive souls who thrive on love and attention. Their affectionate nature and loyalty make them wonderful companions for families looking for a dog that’s full of love.

Miniature Schnauzer

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Miniature Schnauzers are lively, intelligent dogs with a strong desire for affection. These small dogs love spending time with their families and are known for their loyalty and playful nature. Miniature Schnauzers form close bonds with their humans and thrive on attention and companionship. They enjoy being part of family activities and will often follow their owners around the house. Their affectionate, friendly disposition makes them great companions, especially for those who enjoy spending quality time with their pets. With their love for snuggles and attention, Miniature Schnauzers bring warmth and joy to any home.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes may be known for their strength and endurance, but they are also incredibly affectionate with their families. These dogs were bred to work closely with people, creating a bond that makes them highly loyal and loving. Malamutes are gentle with children and enjoy spending time with their family members, often showing their affection through cuddles and playful behavior. They thrive on companionship and do not like to be left alone for long periods. For families who can provide plenty of love and attention, the Alaskan Malamute is a perfect affectionate companion.

Italian Greyhound

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Italian Greyhounds are known for their slender, elegant appearance, but they also have a deep love for affection. These small dogs form strong bonds with their owners and thrive on physical closeness, often snuggling up on laps or curling up in bed with their humans. Italian Greyhounds are sensitive and gentle, making them wonderful companions for those who enjoy a calm, affectionate dog. They are highly attuned to their family’s emotions and love being showered with attention. Their loyal, loving nature makes them a great choice for anyone seeking a dog that craves affection.

Pomeranian

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Pomeranians may be tiny, but their love for their family is immense. Known for their lively, cheerful personality, Pomeranians are highly affectionate and enjoy being close to their humans. They are social dogs that thrive on attention and love, often following their owners around and seeking out cuddles. Pomeranians are known for their loyalty and strong attachment to their families, and they love being showered with affection. Their playful, loving nature makes them ideal companions for anyone looking for a small dog with a big heart and an even bigger need for snuggles.

Old English Sheepdog

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Old English Sheepdogs are large, fluffy dogs with a gentle, affectionate nature. Known for their love of family and loyalty, these dogs form close bonds with their humans and enjoy being around them as much as possible. Old English Sheepdogs are incredibly friendly and often seek out physical closeness, whether through cuddles or simply sitting near their owners. Their affectionate and protective nature makes them great family dogs, and they thrive on companionship. For those looking for a larger breed that lives for love and snuggles, the Old English Sheepdog is a perfect choice.

Rough Collie

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Rough Collies are intelligent, gentle dogs that thrive on affection and companionship. Known for their loyalty and sensitivity, they form deep bonds with their families and are very attentive to their loved ones’ needs. Rough Collies enjoy being part of family life and are happiest when they’re close to their humans, often following them around the house. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent companions, especially for families or individuals looking for a dog that will be a constant, loving presence. Their gentle, caring personality makes them a breed that truly lives for affection.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them perfect companions for families and individuals alike. These large, lovable dogs form deep bonds with their families and thrive on companionship, often seeking out hugs and snuggles. Despite their size, Berners are incredibly gentle, especially with children, and enjoy being close to their loved ones. They are loyal, friendly, and have a calm temperament that makes them easygoing companions who live for affection and attention. Their sweet nature and devotion to family make them a true “gentle giant” with an enormous heart.

These dogs Make Every Day a Love Fest

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For those who love affectionate dogs, these breeds are among the most loving companions you’ll find. From the soulful eyes of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the giant heart of the Great Dane, these pups live to shower their humans with love and cuddles. Their boundless affection is undeniable, whether small enough to curl up in your lap or big enough to make it a snug fit. If you’re looking for a dog that thrives on love, these breeds will fill your life with endless snuggles and unwavering devotion.