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.
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.
And one thing you might like to consider is the so-called ‘velcro dogs’.
These are the breeds that just love to be around their owner - so much that they might suffer psychologically if left along too often.
If you want a pet that will snuggle up to you and make you feel like the most important person in the world then they can be perfect.
Just be aware that your social life might suffer as long nights in on the couch will be their favourite Friday ‘out’.
Here are 12 classic velcro dog breeds.
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5. Yorkshire Terrier
If you are getting a Yorkshire Terrier prepare to never go to the toilet alone ever again - they simply won't let you do anything by yourself. After all, if they did, something bad might happen. These dogs used to be used to catch rats, but now the only thing most of them hunt are cuddles and affection. | AFP via Getty Images
6. Papillon
Bred to be glorified lap warmers for French royalty, Papillons are born to stick like velcro. | Canva/Getty Images | AFP via Getty Images
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7. Pomeranian
Talking about lap dogs, the Pomeranian is probably the ultimate example. They're pretty much been bred to curl up on humans, a trait that made them much beloved of Queen Victoria. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
8. Australian Shepherd
Not all velcro dogs are lapdogs (although we still have a few of them to come). Working dogs and herding dogs can be sticky with their owners due to them being pack animals. They see their human family as being their pack and like to keep them as close as possible at all times. One great example of this is the Australian Shepherd which, despite its name, actually comes from America. | Getty Images