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.
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 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 independent minded - verging on standoffish.
Here are 13 of the most affectionate breeds of dog.
13. Rottweiler
The Rottweiler is a dog that has occasionally (and largly unfairly) been characterised as an aggressive breed. There's no doubt that if their owner is threatened then they will act accordingly, but this comes from a place of deep affection. When there's no threat they're as cuddly as any dog and will gaze at you adoringly for hours. | Canva/Getty Images