There’s a reason dogs are commonly known as ‘man’s best friend.’ They’re great companions, promote a healthy lifestyle, and dedicate themselves to keeping their owners happy, but some breeds are more loyal and affectionate than others. Here are 17 of the best.
Golden Retriever
Golden retrievers are one of the most loving, friendly dog breeds, so they’re a top candidate for the title of man’s best friend. They’re at their best when they’re around their owners, socializing and receiving plenty of attention. Goldens are also great family pets, bonding well with both children and adults.
Shih Tzu
Shih tzus may be small dogs, but they love their owners a lot. They’re incredibly affectionate, full of personality, and make excellent companions. Positive stimulation, including playtime, exercise, and cuddles, helps shih tzus thrive, as well as training to give them structure in the home.
Pit Bull
Pit bulls might not strike you as an affectionate breed without knowing anything about them. However, The Daily Wag! confirms they’ve got big personalities, have caretaker instincts, and love to cuddle with their owners. They’re also protective of their owners and any children in the household.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles spaniels are beautiful little dogs, and they’re also fabulous family pets because they’re so affectionate. They’re sweet-natured and enjoy spending time with their owners, children, and other dogs. Socialization encourages confidence, so they’re a great option if you want a playful, loyal, and loving breed.
German Shepherd
German shepherds may be best known as police dogs, but they’re perfect family pets because they’re so affectionate. They have protective instincts and are fiercely loyal to their owners. They might struggle with separation anxiety, though, so they need plenty of attention and reassurance from owners who love them.
Labrador Retriever
Like goldens, labrador retrievers are also perfect family dogs because of their gentle temperaments and love of attention. They’re happy to socialize and play, even with strangers! They put a lot of trust in people, so they’re highly unlikely to act aggressively and feel safest with their owners.
Pug
Pugs are sweet little dogs with personalities to match. They don’t like being left alone for too long because they enjoy spending time with their owners and have a massive love for cuddling. They’ve got very friendly dispositions overall, so they’re happy to socialize with other people and dogs.
Brussels Griffon
Brussels griffons look warm and cuddly, so it makes sense that they’ve got such loving personalities. PetMD refers to them by the nickname ‘velcro dogs’ because they’re so attached to their owners and flourish as part of a family. Owners who prioritize companionship will mesh well with a Brussels griffon.
Dachshund
Dachshunds are one of the tiniest breeds, so they’re perfect for picking up and petting. They’re naturally playful and energetic, so you can spend plenty of time bonding with them. If they jump up on you, lick your face, and wag their tails, it’s a sign they love you and value your companionship.
Dalmatian
Dalmatians are best known for their unique coats, but they’re also highly affectionate dogs that see their owners as their best friends. They have big personalities, love having fun, and are remarkably clingy for such a large breed. They’re also very sensitive, constantly seeking reassurance from their owners.
Maltese
Maltese dogs are the perfect size to cuddle on your lap, and they’ll thrive with your attention and affection. Sometimes, they can have a somewhat standoffish temperament, so it’s important to make them feel comfortable and show them they can trust you. Once they’re settled, they’ll become the epitome of a lap dog.
English Sheepdog
While English sheepdogs may have been bred as working dogs, they’re also fantastic companions. According to Your Purebred Puppy, they can be pretty demanding because they love people, so they’ll often get unhappy and noisy if they’re left without companionship for too long. They’re innately good-natured and friendly dogs.
Cocker Spaniel
Cocker spaniels are delightfully happy dogs, especially when they live with owners who give them plenty of positive attention. They’ll immediately embrace their owners as their best friends, happily socializing with every family member, strangers, and other dogs. They’re easy to care for, making them perfect for first-time dog owners.
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell terrier is a tiny breed packed full of massive personalities. They’re very active and love getting outdoors for exercise and playtime. Thanks to their happy-go-lucky personalities and trust in their owners, you’ll bond with them quickly. They’re always happy to curl up next to you and relax.
Chinese Crested
Chinese crested dogs look distinctive due to their big fluffy ears and hairless bodies, but they’re just as warm and cuddly as furry dogs. They’re fairly independent but also love spending time with their owners. They might be shy initially, but you just need to coax them out of their shells.
Newfoundland
Newfoundlands are gentle giants with big fluffy bodies that make them perfect for cuddling up to. According to DogTime, they’re a gentle, patient, and highly affectionate breed that makes for great companions. They’re naturally curious and intelligent, so you’ll have a great time taking them on adventures to bond.
Spanish Mastiff
This list wouldn’t be complete without Spanish mastiffs! This is a massive breed, but just like with Newfoundlands, appearances can be deceiving. They’re easygoing and calm, but they’re not afraid to bark loudly to protect their owners. They’ll thrive most in a comfortable environment with trustworthy owners and plenty of attention.
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