If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
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.
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.
One thing to take into consideration is that, 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.
It doesn’t mean that either make better or worse pets, just that if you are looking for a dog that will happily cuddle for hours you should favour certain breeds over others.
Meanwhile, if you intend to leave your dog alone regularly it can be good to opt for a breed with an independent streak.
Here are the 24 most and least affectionate breeds of dog.
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21. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Despite being related to the incredibly gregarious Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever tends to keep itself to itself. It's a breed that makes for a perfect hunting companion but otherwise very much enjoys its own company. | Canva/Getty Images
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22. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu, a breed originally from Japan, can occasionally be affectionate but only when they really, really want to be. They are often happier spending time alone. | Getty Images
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23. Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, more commonly known as the Scottie Dog, is often very affectionate as a puppy. As they get older they tend to become increasingly independent, growing out of cuddles with their human family. | Getty Images
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24. Shar-pei
Another breed that looks like it was created to cuddle is the adorable and wrinkly Chinese Shar-pei. While they are devoted to their families and fiercely protective, they aren't as demonstrative as other breeds when it comes to showing affection. They also tend to be hostile to strangers and other dogs. | AFP via Getty Images