Plenty of us decided to welcome new four-legged friends into our homes in the last few years – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership has soared 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.
One thing worth considering before making a decision is that certain breeds of dog are very loving and affectionate, liking nothing more than snuggling up to their owners for a cuddle.
Meanwhile, others just aren’t so demonstrative, having a more independent attitude and more likely to keep themselves to themselves in their own bed of an evening – rather than on the couch next to you. So, here are the 10 most and least affectionate breeds of dog.
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5. Boxer
They may occasionally look a little grumpy, but Boxers are known for making unusually deep and strong bonds with their family. It means that they demand more attention and affection than other dogs, but mirror it back tenfold. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow may look incredibly snuggly but they are known to be almost cat-like in their behaviour - fiercely independent and largely eschewing cuddling, petting or patting. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Afghan Hound
Moving on to the least affectionate dogs, the Afghan Hound is one of the world's oldest breed and also one of the most elegant. This is a dog that was bred to hunt though, and they are highly selective when it comes to who they offer affection to. Generally aloof, they will be completely disinterested in strangers and tend to create a bond with a single person who they will deign to tolerate. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Basenji
It's fair to say that the Basenji is a very unusual breed of dog. As well as not being particularly affectionate to its owners and completely ignoring strangers, it is also the only dog that doesn't bark - instead making an odd yodelling sound. Photo: Canva/Getty Images