Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ to lovable mongrels.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
It’s also worth noting that some breeds of dog tend to be cheerier than others - you’d never accuse a Bloodhound of being brimming with joie de vivre.
So, if you’re looking for a dog that has a naturally sunny outlook and a mischievous smile, here are 15 worth popping on your doggy shortlist.
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13. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Known as the English Toy Spaniel in the USA, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel needs very little to be entirely content. Give them a few laps of the garden, a couple of meal a day, a comfortable spot to nap and a few naps and they'll be utterly, blissfully happy. | Canva/Getty Images
14. Pomeranian
The foxy face of the Pomeranian Spitz is perfectly designed to deliver a winning smile. It's infectious too - pretty much guaranteed to get you grinning too. Look at that grin! | Canva/Getty Images
15. Irish Setter
Every time you take an Irish, or Red, Setter out for a walk it would appear to be the first time - such is the joy they eminate in parks, fields and the countryside. Setters never get tired of playing with their families, a constantly-wagging tail demonstrating just how happy they are. Their distinctive red colour made them easy for hunters to see when using them to help find game. | Canva/Getty Images