12 Cuddliest Dog Breeds

It is a well-known fact that dogs are great cuddle buddies. All breeds can be cuddlers, including mixed breeds! From lap dogs to gentle giants, here are dog breeds that often like to cuddle. Our expert picks may surprise you!

Remember, adoption is always the best option. All of these breeds are available at local shelters and rescues.

In a recent research on dogs by some American University, it was proved that dogs like petting more than oral praise. To have a closer bond with your dog, you need to praise him physically rather than verbally. But some dogs like to curl up with you on the couch more than others.

Here are the top 12 dogs breeds that absolutely love to cuddle:

12 Dog Breeds That Love to Cuddle

Chihuahua's will always be popular with people without much living space. They make ideal apartment dogs and terrific lap warmers on nippy nights. Many chihuahua's today are mixed with other breeds, however they still maintain their loving and adorable personality.

2. Maltese
Another toy breed, the Maltese is a great dog if you happen to have allergies. These happy pups don't shed much and tend to get along well with other dogs and even cats. However, they live for human contact, so be prepared to spend a lot of quality cuddle time with your pet.

3. Bichon Frise
Bichon's are a happy and playful pup that aims to please. The breed is known for its affection and getting along well with kiddos and other dogs. Better make time for snuggling with this little, as they love to be loved.

4. Skye Terrier
Skye Terrier/Papillon Mix
This compact canine isn’t the typical terrier type. Give this dog his daily walk and he will be content to curl up on the couch. As long as his human is close, the Skye Terrier is a happy non-camper.

5. Tibetan Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel/Tibetan Spaniel Mix
Bred for companionship, the Tibetan Spaniel needs a daily leg stretch (as all dogs do) before they reclaim their place on the sofa, next to a warm body of course.

6. Pugs
Pugs are affectionate, cuddly and sweet dogs who like to carry themselves with dignity. Their face with deep wrinkles and big dark eyes will not leave you feeling indifferent and they will surely make you smile. This breed of dogs was bred for Chinese nobility, but nowadays they are a part of many families where they follow their beloved owners every step they make.

7. Great Dane
Don’t let the size fool you, Great Danes are incredibly laid back and content to bask in the warmth of the sun, next to the person they love most. Snacks are optional, but should be considered. Daily walks are encouraged, to rev up the appetite.

8. Havanese
Cheerful, loyal, happy, gentle are a few of the adjectives used to describe the Havanese. They are considered playful, a rousing game of fetch in the living room, a daily walk and hours of cuddles, this dog would continue to be cheerful and happy.

9. Greyhound
Laid back and devoted, two words greyhound owners use to describe this breed. These racing dogs have earned their spots on the couch. With a daily walk about town, there is nothing better than circling a cushion three times and plopping down for a spell.

 10. American Pit Bull
Incredibly loyal, incredibly affectionate, America’s dog also used to be known as its “nanny” dog–they’re THAT good with kids. One of the best breeds around, everyone knows Pittie kisses are like no other in quantity AND quality! 

When pit bull lovers think about words to describe them they come up with words like – Smart, loyal, playful, beautiful, entertaining, behaved, relaxed, Loving and simply awesome. On top of all that they really are a cuddly dog.They are not everyone’s choice and being on this list might surprise a few people. But Pit lovers, and I have met a few, absolutely love them. Most pitties are mixed with other breeds which have the same loving qualities as the original pit bull.

11. Boxers
Boxers are a loyal, loving breed generally happy to spend quality time snuggling with you. Boxers get 5 stars for their level of affection. They love their family with a passion. This also extends to thinking they are really a lap dog. Their size is no hindrance to them when it comes to climbing on board a willing lap. They have a mischievous, sweet and slightly silly personality. But it’s this nature that makes them so attractive.

12. A Rescued Dog
Not all rescued dogs are in shelters because they have been abused, but the majority, unfortunately are. Once you have gotten them over their fear issues any dog that has been beaten, abused, starved and eventually abandoned will probably become the most loyal and loving companion of all.

I truly believe that they know and understand they have been rescued from a terrible fate and their life has been saved, they will show immense amounts of love and gratitude.
Animal shelters and rescue groups are your best source for a new pet. Did you know that shelters and rescues - large and small - always have a great selection of animals looking for new homes. You can find cats and dogs, birds, small animals and even pure bred pets that are looking for their furever home.