A story has been circulating on Facebook recently about the ten dog breeds that most enjoy cuddling. The article was written by Renee Moen of iHeartDogs.com on September 23, 2014. The dogs listed herein and their respective order reflects the 2014 article. The narration about each breed however, is a combination of personal experience and information garnered from the ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs with most of the images acquired via Google. You may find some of the breeds on this list surprising.
Skye Terrier
The Skye terrier originated in the 16th century on the islands of northwest Scotland and was said to be a favorite of royalty including Queen Victoria. Skye terrier’s are known for their loyalty and require a lot of individual attention and grooming.
Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan spaniel is not really a spaniel as it is probably related to the Pekingese, pug and Japanese Chin. Dating back to 200 B.C., Tibetan spaniels are friendly, low-maintenance dogs that are eager to please and love to play. Tibetan’s also tend to be very protective of the family.
Newfoundland
This breed may be a shocker as far as cuddling given the fact that adult Newfoundland’s weigh between 100 – 150 lbs. Although their size and deep bark make them good guard dogs, they are known for their sweet temperament and devotion, especially with children. I just wouldn’t advise letting them sit in your lap!
Basset Hound
A descendant of the French scent hound, the basset hound was developed in the 16th century for hunting rabbits and hares. Basset hounds have a sweet and gentle temperament, loving everyone around them including children. Their short-legged nature makes them particularly irresistible.
Whippet
The Whippet is a great family dog that is friendly with children and gets along well with cats and other dogs. This breed, a 19th century cross between terriers, greyhounds and Italian greyhounds, is gentle, mild-mannered and affectionate.
Great Dane
Even though Great Danes can measure as much as 40 inches at the withers, weigh 150 – 200 pounds and stand up to 7 feet tall on their hind legs, they really are gentle giants. This breed is easygoing, friendly and gentle with adults and kids alike. Great Danes love stretching out on a couch.
Havanese
The ancestors of this 18th century breed were likely the Bolognese or Maltese. The Havanese, also called a bichon, is happy, sweet, intelligent and highly trainable. These dogs enjoy playing with gentle children and are friendly with other animals.
Chinese Crested
Although the hairless variety of this breed is likely more recognizable, there is also a variety with hair known as a powder puff Chinese crested. This elegant, graceful dog is friendly with everyone. Their small size makes them ideal lap dogs, which they typically enjoy.
English Mastiff
The English Mastiff is another large breed weighing in at 175 – 190 pounds. Although Mastiffs have inhabited Europe and Asia for thousands of years, their exact origins are unknown. English Mastiffs are gentle, good-natured, easygoing dogs that love children and usually get along with other animals.
Greyhound
As a long time Greyhound owner I can personally attest to the quiet and extremely gentle nature of this breed with adults, children and other dogs. Although Greyhounds tend to be tall, long legged and weigh between 65-85 pounds, they love to be pet. If allowed, they have no problem sharing the bed with you, although they have a tendency to push you to the edge. Greyhounds also like to curl up in a ball. Some of them even think they are small dogs! Check out the picture below of our 70-pound boy Derby curled up in the bed of one of our Chihuahua’s.
