If you’ve been thinking about getting a puppy then you’re not alone – the Kennel Club says the number of people welcoming new dogs into their homes has rocketed to record levels.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Those with active lifestyles might want to consider a larger dog, while somebody with allergies will be looking for a hypoallergenic dog.
However if you are simply looking for a dog that will be a loyal and loving pet, content to curl up with you on the sofa and cuddle for the night, then there are certain breeds that you may want to put at the top of your canine wishlist.
Of course, individual dogs may not reflect exactly the general attributes of their breed, but these pups are predisposed to being affectionate to their owners.
Here are 10 of the most loving breeds of dog, according to the American Kennel Club.
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There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
![Primarily known for their speed, when Greyhounds aren't racing around the park they are lazy and cuddly couch potatoes with a gentle and affectionate nature that make them wonderful therapy dogs.](https://www.thestar.co.uk/jpim-static/image/2024/06/18/14/46/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-06-18T152604.926.jpg.jpg?crop=3:2&trim=&width=800)
5. Greyhound
Primarily known for their speed, when Greyhounds aren't racing around the park they are lazy and cuddly couch potatoes with a gentle and affectionate nature that make them wonderful therapy dogs. | Canva/Getty Images
![Just like their Labrador cousins, the Golden Retriever lives to love humans - forming particularly strong and affectionate bonds with children.](https://www.thestar.co.uk/jpim-static/image/2024/06/18/14/56/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-06-18T152807.460.jpg.jpg?crop=3:2&trim=&width=800)
6. Golden Retriever
Just like their Labrador cousins, the Golden Retriever lives to love humans - forming particularly strong and affectionate bonds with children. | Getty Images
![Every bit as loving as they look, the loyal and affectionate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is another dog that will follow you around the house.](https://www.thestar.co.uk/jpim-static/image/2024/06/18/14/16/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-06-18T153041.929.jpg.jpg?crop=3:2&trim=&width=800)
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Every bit as loving as they look, the loyal and affectionate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is another dog that will follow you around the house. | Canva/Getty Images
![The Jack Russell will display their deep affection for their owners in three distinct ways - by diligently following them around, by snuggling in whenever possible, and by being protective when it comes to strangers.](https://www.thestar.co.uk/jpim-static/image/2024/06/18/14/53/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-06-18T153151.871.jpg.jpg?crop=3:2&trim=&width=800)
8. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell will display their deep affection for their owners in three distinct ways - by diligently following them around, by snuggling in whenever possible, and by being protective when it comes to strangers. | Canva/Getty Images