One of the greatest feelings in life comes from coming home after a rough day to your furry canine companion knocking you down at the door, ready for licks and cuddles. Their wagging tail and excited yips instantly melt away any stress or frustration, reminding you of the unconditional love and loyalty that your furry friend provides. As you sink into the couch, they curl up beside you, offering warmth and comfort that no human can replicate. In that moment, you realize that no matter how tough life gets, having a furry companion by your side makes it all worthwhile. Of course, like with humans, dog personalities change from dog to dog. That being said, certain breeds are predisposed to have a certain demeanor, specifically towards their favorite humans. This is why we at StudyFinds have set out today to find what some of the most affectionate dogs are.
Affection with your pets is a two-way street. A recent study, however, shows just how affectionate dogs can be with their owners. According to the survey about dog ownership, 64 percent of respondents don’t know where they’d be without their dog’s love and support. In fact, nearly seven in 10 respondents believe their dog knows them better than they know themselves. The average respondent also agrees their dog has also helped them heal three broken hearts. The bond between a human and their pup is undeniably strong.
Of course, it’s no secret people love their pets, but are pet owners really happier than the average person? Thanks to all the photos pet owners take with their furry friends, a new study finds the answer is yes! In a global analysis using artificial intelligence, researchers with Petplan have found that pet owners worldwide are significantly happier than their pet-free neighbors. In fact, pet ownership increases overall happiness by more than 22 percent globally.
That being said, I think it’s about time we dive into today’s ranking, don’t you? As always, we at StudyFinds have researched across multiple expert sources to bring you today’s list of the most affectionate dogs. Don’t agree with our ranking or feel we missed a breed out? No worries, we realize there are dozens of breeds that could have made the list and we would love to hear your opinion in the comments below! Now, onto the list!
The List: Most Affectionate Dogs, According to Canine Experts
1. Great Dane
I bet you thought number one was going to be a tiny little Toy Poodle or something. No, the Great Dane takes the number one spot on today’s list. A majestic and noble breed of dog that originated in Germany, “Great Danes are the definition of gentle giants. These are some of the biggest dogs in the world, but they’re also the biggest sweethearts. Known for being as loving as they come, Great Danes are the dogs that don’t realize their size. Rather, they’re the world’s biggest lap dogs, always trying to curl up in a too-small lap,” says Farmer Pete’s.
“They adore snuggling up to the people that they love and don’t handle being alone very well. As Great Danes tower over other dogs and most humans on their hind legs, just the sight of them may make people cower, but they are one of the most patient and friendly pups around,” writes Reader’s Digest.
“Despite being super-sized and somewhat intimidating, Great Danes are actually complete cuddle bugs! Truly embodying the ‘gentle giant‘ label, Great Danes are big pooches (they’re actually the largest dog breed in the world by most measures) who often act like tiny little lap dogs, given the intense way they bond with their people. Great Danes may be suspicious of strangers at times, but they often trust their pet parents implicitly. Just be sure you’re ready to deal with lots of drool before adding one of these jowly four-footers to your pack,” jokes K9 Of Mine.
2. Labrador Retriever
Next up is the Labrador Retriever. Labs are a versatile and beloved breed known for their friendly and outgoing nature. “The American Kennel Club calls labs America’s favorite dog, and it’s easy to see why. They are smart, even-tempered, easy to train, and always eager to please. They make excellent companions in the field or at home and will do anything for their favorite people, especially if food is involved,” notes Southern Living.
“Look at that lil face! You can count on Labs (your options are black Labs, yellow Labs, and chocolate Labs, which are all equally cute, so good luck not coming home with all three) to love you just as much as they wanna run, play, and go on hikes,” comments Cosmopolitan.
“Labs have long reigned as America’s most popular dog breed. They are incredibly gentle and sweet, always wagging their tails at one thing or another. While they are sometimes confused with golden retrievers, the comparison is always a good one. Both breeds are good-natured and great with families. If you do add an affectionate Lab to your family, remember that they are high-energy dogs that require lots of activity, but these intelligent dogs are eager to please and highly trainable,” states Daily Paws.
3. Pit Bull Terrier
The Pit Bull Terrier (often referred to simply as a Pit Bull) is next on the ranking—a breed originating in the United States and known for its muscular build. “Often misunderstood, pit bulls are extremely loyal, warm, and very goofy pups. ‘Even though they usually get a bad rap, many of these dogs love to cuddle,’ said veterinary consultant Sara Ochoa. As with any dog, proper socialization, training, and some TLC will make pit bulls the best companion,” reports Reader’s Digest.
“These pups can have a bad reputation, but in the right home, their most egregious behavior can be hogging the entire bed or being convinced they are lap dogs, even though they can weigh up to 80 pounds! They love people and can make truly wonderful family pets who are eager to please and hard to get out of bed. Like many breeds, they need some training and socialization, but they can be great family companions and truly goofy cuddle bugs,” explains Southern Living.
“American pit bull terriers’ temperaments are largely misunderstood. In reality, they absolutely love their humans and want to spend as much time as possible with them. Pitties can be incredible family dogs, even around children, with their affectionate, loving, and energetic nature. And if they’re socialized at a young age, they can also make like-minded doggy friends easily. The key with pit bulls is to understand their care and exercise needs and to stay consistent with positive reinforcement training,” describes Daily Paws.
4. Newfoundland
Next is the Canadian Newfoundland, known for its impressive strength and swimming abilities; this breed was historically used by fishermen to assist in water rescues and hauling nets. “Newfoundlands can grow up to be almost 150 pounds! A hundred-plus pounds of straight love that is. On the AKC’s ‘openness to strangers’ scale, they’re ranked as ‘everyone is my best friend,” states Cosmopolitan.
“These gentle giants are renowned for their calm, loving dispositions. That’s why when author J.M. Barrie was writing Peter Pan, he decided the Darling family needed to hire a Newfoundland to be the patient nursemaid to their three children, based on his own family’s experience with the breed. Even if you’re not in need of a nanny, these sweet-tempered pups make excellent pets,” says Southern Living.
“Talk about a sweetheart with floof that a child could get lost in while cuddling! Newfoundlands are gentle giants that love to loaf around—and on—their humans. If you’re ever in doubt if your Newfoundland thinks fondly of you, they’ll literally crush that doubt out of you during cuddle time if you let them,” exclaims Daily Paws.
5. Golden Retriever
Retrievers are a popular breed known for their friendly and gentle nature, beautiful golden coats, intelligent eyes, and strong muscular build. “There’s no dog that will tug at your heartstrings quite like a golden retriever (if you’ve ever seen Homeward Bound, you know what I mean). It’s a breed known for being super friendly and getting along with literally all humans and other dogs, too,” notes Cosmopolitan.
“The number one personality trait of a Golden Retriever that tops all others is its inherent desire to please. There’s a reason Goldens are often seeing eye dogs or other kinds of therapy and service dogs. They respond very well and obediently to training very early on and, more than anything, want to satisfy their master. With an even temperament and a high tolerance for activity, Retrievers need a decent amount of attention and social interaction and make for gentle, family-friendly pets,” adds Parade Pets.
“If you’re jealous of your dog’s attention, you’ll have to get over it if you own a Golden Retriever. This breed is unlikely ever to meet a stranger and will happily share their affection with everyone they meet. The Golden Retriever is the ideal therapy dog once they grow out of their puppy stage. They typically get along with everyone, including other pets. They’ll snuggle with kids as readily as they will play with them. If you want to feel loved, the Golden Retriever is happy to oblige,” reports Hepper.
6. Boxer
The Boxer dog is next up, known for its strong and muscular build; it’s a breed that captures the hearts of many dog lovers. With its expressive eyes, playful nature, and unwavering loyalty, “Boxers are cuddle experts. According to the American Kennel Club, this breed is one of the most popular choices amongst families because boxers love to be around people, and a huge part of their personality is often categorized by seeking out human affection. They’re known to be especially good with children, too,” writes Parade Pets.
“Are you seeking a permanent puppy? The rambunctious and loving boxer meets this classification with flying colors. These upbeat dogs are patient and caring and are known to do well around children. Boxers are true family dogs that love to be a part of the action as much as possible. Pooch parents of boxers will swear that these devoted dogs are up for just about anything as long as they get to be near their families. Just note that these doting doggos do best in homes where someone is usually around to keep them entertained,” comments K9 Of Mine.
“Sleek and muscular, Boxers are a highly athletic breed that comes as an entire package. They’re known for their incredible loyalty and work ethic, and anyone who’s ever owned a Boxer knows that they’re one of the most loving, affectionate breeds you could ever meet. They are often described as being loyal, friendly, and great with children, making them a popular family pet. Boxers love to be around people and crave human interaction, often following their owners around the house and trying to get as close to them as possible,” describes Farmer Pete’s.
7. Pug
The last spot on our list goes to the Pug, also known as the “clown of the canine world,” it’s a small breed that originated in China over 2,000 years ago. With their distinctive wrinkled face, curly tail, and expressive eyes, Pugs have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. “Recent studies which were published in the multidisciplinary science journal PLOS ONE found that short-nosed dogs tend to be more affectionate than their long-nosed counterparts. The Pug certainly fits in quite nicely with this description,” explains Pet Helpful.
“Pugs love their owners and can be very needy, demanding attention from them nearly all the time. They’ll often follow you around and want to sprawl out on the bed or in your lap – anywhere near you will do. They enjoy belly rubs, kisses, and cuddles and are the perfect snuggle buddy whenever you need a pick me up,” adds Pets Radar.
“Pugs may not make the quietest cuddle companions, but if you’re okay with a lot of snoring and snorting, they’ll happily snuggle up in bed with you. Flat-faced Pugs don’t always have a lot of energy, thanks to their frequent breathing issues, but they’re happy to spend the day on the couch with you. Pugs typically love everyone and are happy to share their affection. They are adorable, and they know it. The more affection they receive, the more they give in return,” concludes Hepper.
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
