If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Royal Kennel Club (that’s the new name for the UK Kennel Club) figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels over recent years.
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.
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
And one thing you might like to consider is that some dogs are naturally more affectionate than others.
While some dogs just want to snuggle on your lap and will pad around after you looking for constant pats, others are more likely to be more independently minded - verging on standoffish (we’re looking at you Afghan Hound).
Here are 10 of the most naturally loving breeds of dog.
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1. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is the UK's - and the world's - most popular dog. One of the many reasons for this is that they are tremendously affectionate towards their owner (and, often, complete strangers). Even if they are not in full-on cuddle mode they'll want to be touching you, even if it's just their paw on your leg. | AFP via Getty Images
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2. Golden Retriever
What's true of the Labrador Retriever tends to also hold for their close cousin the Golden Retriever, and that's certainly the case when it comes to huge reservoirs of affection. Plus, due to their longer hair they are arguably even more snuggly. | AFP via Getty Images
3. Shih Tzu
The first, but certainly not the last, lap dog on this list - these breeds have affection hard-wired into their DNA. The Shih Tzu was bred to keep the laps - and hands - of Chinese royalty warm. Little has changed, other than they are now equally happy to curl up with commoners. | AFP via Getty Images
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4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Good luck getting time alone when you have a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They'll pad around after you adoringly, tail a-wagging, gazing up at you with those big brown eyes that just say "cuddle me" (and "feed me"). | AFP via Getty Images