We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and rising).
That means that there are around three million pooches living here, with more people choosing to join the army of dog lovers every week.
Of course, if you are looking to welcome a dog into your family, there are 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.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
And one thing you might like to consider is that different breeds are known for having different personality traits.
If you want a pet that will exude cheeriness then there are certain choices that should feature on any wishlist.
Here are 13 of the happiest dog breeds.
9. Beagle
The American Kennel Club has it spot on when it describes the Beagle as "happy-go-lucky, merry, and friendly". When most dogs are happy they wag their tails, when a Beagle is happy they somehow manage to wag their entire body. | Canva/Getty Images
10. 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
11. Maltese
When does happiness spill over into naughtiness? That's the line the Maltese tends to tred on most days - they can get into some tight spots due to a level of fearless belied by their small stature but mo matter what scrapes they get into, they'll always respond in good humour. It's hard to stay angry at that cheery wee face. | Canva/Getty Images
12. King Charles Spaniel
Known as the English Toy Spaniel in the USA, the 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