We’re officially a nations of dog owners, with the UK’s most popular pet living in around one-in-three households (and still 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.
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, by breeding, some dogs tend to be more loving than 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 independent minded - even verging on standoffish at times.
Of course every individual dog is different, but certain breeds have a well-earned reputation for being demonstrative in their adoration of their owner.
Here are 17 of the most affectionate breeds of dog.
5. 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. | Canva/Getty Images
6. Newfoundland
The enormous Newfoundland is known for giving its much-loved owners huge and slobbery kisses. Having one of these demonstative characters is like having a very cuddly bear around the house. | Canva/Getty Images
7. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers show their overwhelming affection for their human family in three different ways - by diligently following around at their heel, by snuggling in whenever physically possible, and by being protective when it comes to strangers. This can lead to barks and nips - they are not dogs who transfer affection to others. | Canva/Getty Images
8. Pug
A pug's idea of heaven being snuggled up on its owner's lap, spending hours happily being patted. The rest of the time they'll just follow you around like a shadow - leading to their nickname of the 'velcro dog'. | Canva/Getty Images