15 Most Affectionate Dog Breeds That Will Adore You

Dogs are known for their loyalty, but not all dogs are super affectionate. Dogs who are more reserved will show you their love in different ways, often from a distance. In contrast, dogs who are affectionate will generally stick by your side, follow your every move with intense curiosity, and never hesitate to bring it in for some kisses and hugs.

Keep in mind that all dogs are individuals, but some breeds are known for being more cuddly. Whether you’re looking for affectionate hypoallergenic dogs, snuggly smaller breeds, or simply any furry love bug, the below guide can help you choose the right dog for you. 

Why are dogs so affectionate?

Regardless of breed or mix, many dogs are affectionate toward humans. Scientists have theorized that dogs, as a species, endeared themselves to humans many thousands of years ago to gain benefits such as food, shelter, and protection. 

Canine species don’t tend to stare into each other’s eyes in the animal kingdom (in fact, direct eye contact is perceived as a threat). But domesticated dogs have evolved to make eye contact with humans, and even developed the ability to move their eyebrows up and down expressively — something wolves cannot do.

Recent studies have shown that spending time with dogs can boost levels of oxytocin, the feel-good hormone produced when mothers bond with their newborn babies. Both humans and dogs see increases in oxytocin, so quite simply, it feels good to be affectionate. 

Dogs are social animals. And many dogs truly seem to enjoy physical contact with humans, routinely climbing into laps for some petting or snuggling with you on the couch. However, something to keep in mind: Most dogs, even affectionate dogs, don’t like being hugged. Hugging is a very human behavior that doesn’t translate well in the dog world. Some dogs become very stressed by hugging, since it feels like restraint. Many dogs tolerate hugging (and some very affectionate dogs might actually enjoy it), but other forms of affection like petting, gentle massage, and lap-sitting are usually better choices than hugs.

What are the most affectionate dog breeds?

If you’re hoping to adopt a cuddly, loving dog, consider some of these breeds (or mixes of these breeds) known for their extra affectionate nature. Read on to meet some of the most, extra-loving dog breeds.

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Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are some of the most loving, affectionate breeds around. To a Golden, no humans are strangers, and they bond extra tight with their favorite people. These medium- to large-size dogs have medium-long silky hair that needs regular brushing to keep it glossy and tangle-free. Golden Retrievers are great for active people who can offer them plenty of exercise and attention.

Height: 21.5 to 24 inches

Weight: 55 to 75 pounds

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Brussels Griffon

The adorable monkey-faced Brussels Griffon is often referred to as a Velcro dog because they stick tight to their people. If you’re looking for affection, the Brussels Griffon dishes it out in abundance. They can be shy with strangers and don’t like roughhousing, so they do best with adults or families with older children. Lively but tiny, they need moderate exercise and can happily live in apartments. 

Height: 7 to 10 inches

Weight: 8 to 10 pounds

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Boxer

The Boxer is exuberant with their displays of affection. You’ll never forget how much they love you, because they are always by your side, nudging to be pet while butt-wagging furiously. Boxers love kids and are sturdy dogs, making them excellent family pets. They need a good amount of exercise, but only in cool weather so they don’t overheat.

Height: 21.5 to 25 inches

Weight: 50 to 80 pounds

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Old English Sheepdog

Mellow and loving, the Old English Sheepdog is a heart wrapped up in a great big, shaggy package. These enormous dogs need plenty of space, so they do best in homes with ample outdoor exploration. Their coat requires professional grooming and regular brushing to keep it in good shape. Old English Sheepdogs love children and are great family dogs. 

Height: 21+ inches

Weight: 60 to 100 pounds

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Staffordshire Bull Terrier

The Staffordshire Bull Terrier looks tough, but the truth is this people-loving breed is as affectionate as they come. They love kids and stick tight to their people, and would rather go along on adventures than stay home alone. Strong and just a touch bullheaded, Staffords need consistent training and socialization from a fair and firm pet parent. This athletic breed also needs regular daily exercise to be content.

Height: 14 to 16 inches

Weight: 24 to 38 pounds

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Bearded Collie

The Bearded Collie is extremely friendly, exuberant, and loving. They bestow their human families with endless affection, from slobbery kisses to snuggles on the couch. Beardies need regular brushing and combing to keep their long, shaggy coat tangle-free. Highly intelligent and easy to train, Beardies require tons of exercise and will be thrilled to run around with kids or accompany you on hikes or runs. 

Height: 20 to 22 inches

Weight: 45 to 55 pounds

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The sweet Cavalier King Charles Spaniel adores just about everyone, but they reserve a special level of affection for their human family, including kids and other pets. Many Cavaliers love sitting in your lap and bestowing gentle kisses. Small and playful, they need moderate daily exercise. Their silky coat is easy to care for, only needing a quick brush every day or two and the occasional bath.  

Height: 12 to 13 inches

Weight: 13 to 18 pounds

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Chihuahua

The tiny Chihuahua is incredibly loving and so easy to hold that you’ll need to remind yourself to put them down — so they can develop independence by standing on their own four paws. These diminutive dogs do best with adults or families with older children who can be careful around them. Chihuahuas can have long or short hair, but both coat types are easy to care for. 

Height: 5 to 8 inches

Weight: 6 pounds or less

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Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is so loving, friendly, and adaptable that they were the most popular breed for 30 years until the French Bulldog edged them out in 2022. This family-friendly breed loves attention and will offer you endless affection and devotion. Labs need lots of training and exercise. They do shed, but their coat needs only occasional brushing and baths. 

Height: 21.5 to 24.5 inches

Weight: 55 to 80 pounds

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Vizsla

The Vizsla absolutely adores people, especially their human family and kids of all ages. They are very attached and even needy, so they don’t do well when left home alone for long hours. Vizslas have huge amounts of energy, so they need abundant exercise daily. Their sleek, shiny coats shed a fair amount but occasional brushing will cut down on hair in the house. 

Height: 21 to 24 inches

Weight: 44 to 60 pounds

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Bichon Frise

The charming Bichon Frise is incredibly loving and affectionate. In fact, they were developed with the sole purpose of being constant companions — and they excel at their job! Their plush, velvety coat needs daily brushing and regular professional grooming, but Bichons are hypoallergenic and do not shed. They love just about everyone (including gentle, older children) and need just moderate daily exercise. 

Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches 

Weight: 12 to 18 pounds

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English Cocker Spaniel

The English Cocker Spaniel is sweet, friendly, and very affectionate. The English Cocker is always happy as long as they are with their favorite humans! They get along with other pets and love people, including respectful children. This sporting breed needs a good amount of daily exercise to be happy, and their coat requires thorough brushing a few times a week and professional grooming every few months. 

Height: 15 to 17 inches

Weight: 26 to 34 pounds

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Pomeranian

Pomeranians are lively, cheerful pets that love to be held and cuddled. With their profusely fluffy coats, these itty-bitty dogs resemble teeny teddy bears. They need daily brushing and professional grooming to keep that fluff in good shape. The tiny Pomeranian does best in families with older children. They only need a short walk or two each day for exercise. 

Height: 6 to 7 inches

Weight: 3 to 7 pounds

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Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear’s original purpose was as a lapdog to the royals of Madagascar, and this breed still excels at that today. Cotons love to snuggle and be close to their favorite people. They can be wonderful family dogs, as long as the kids are gentle. Cotons need daily brushing and combing, and regular professional grooming, but they are hypoallergenic and do not shed.  

Height: 9 to 11 inches

Weight: 8 to 15 pounds

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Mixed breed dog

We would be remiss to not point out that any dog of any breed or mix can be super affectionate. Wondering if a specific rescue dog needs cuddles? Ask the shelter staff or foster volunteer if the dog you’re considering seems affectionate. You can also ask to hold the dog for a while to see how they react. A dog that melts into your arms, perhaps with a groan of contentment, is very likely an affectionate dog!

Why doesn’t my dog like to cuddle?

Regardless of breed, all dogs are individuals. Some dogs simply don’t enjoy physical affection. This is not surprising when you consider that as a species, dogs don’t generally express behavior like hugging, kissing, and lots of touching. Dogs that are more reserved might express their love and devotion to you with other behaviors, such as lying on the floor next to your feet, greeting you at the door, and always watching out for your safety with a vigilant eye and ear.

If your formerly affectionate dog suddenly stops seeking out cuddles, or if they growl or move away when you try to touch them, seek veterinary attention as soon as you can. Changes in personality and behavior can be a sign that your dog is sick or in pain. 

Commonly asked questions

Are big dogs more affectionate?

There is no correlation between the size of a dog and its tendency to be affectionate. Dogs of all shapes, sizes, breeds, and sexes can be extremely affectionate, and this is usually determined by genetics, socialization, and individual personality.

Are male dogs more affectionate?

Some people claim that male dogs are more affectionate and that female dogs are more independent. However, there isn’t much research to support this theory. Most likely, a dog’s inclination to be affectionate is more influenced by its genetics, socialization in puppyhood, living environment, and individual personality.

Why are dogs more affectionate in the morning?

Does your dog lick you excitedly every morning? Dogs lick to communicate many different things. Licking in the morning is a dog’s way of saying “hello” and offering affection. Think of it as a cheery “good morning.” Dogs also lick when they are hungry, so it’s possible your dog is simply begging you for their breakfast!

Do dogs become more affectionate with age?

Not necessarily. In their senior years, dogs can become more affectionate or might even become less affectionate. However, drastic changes in behavior warrant a checkup with your veterinarian to rule out pain, a medical issue, or canine cognitive dysfunction.

Do dogs know that kisses are affection?

Hugging and kissing is not part of natural canine behavior, so most dogs don’t instinctively know these actions are meant to express love. That said, many dogs learn to tolerate kisses from their humans. Some might even enjoy kisses, but always pay attention to your dog’s body language to make sure they are feeling comfortable. Signs a dog doesn’t enjoy kisses include turning their head away, averting their eyes, showing the whites of their eyes, trying to escape, and yawning.

References

American Kennel Club

Common Types of Behavior in Older Dogs

Do Dogs Like It When You Kiss Their Face Like the Perfect Angel They Are?

Male vs. Female Dogs: Are There Any Real Differences?

Why Does My Dog Lick Me So Much?