A clingy German Shepherd laying on its owner's lap (Photo by AnnaStills on Shutterstock)
The term “Velcro Dog” has come to mean any breed that sticks to their owner like glue. Some folks don’t like the idea of a pet that won’t respect their personal space. Others, however, may absolutely crave the 24/7 adoration they can get from a clingy dog. These adorable canines want nothing more than to be with their favorite person. That’s why StudyFinds has compiled a list of the most clingy dog breeds that will steal your heart.
Clingy breeds may not like to sleep away from their owners, and it could be challenging to prevent them from sleeping in the bed along with their humans. This can be especially difficult for dogs that have already become accustomed to this. For dog owners who still want to share a bedroom with their best friend, there are safe steps you can take to make this happen. First, purchase a comfortable bed. Place it right next to your bed to lessen the shock of change. Make the change slowly to ensure a smooth transition. This helps create a comforting routine for yourself and your dog.
The cuddly pooches we know and love came from wolves that fended for themselves in the rough wilderness. Since then, our housebroken pups have come a long way from the time of their untamed ancestors. However, that also means plenty of our furry friends are pretty spoiled today! According to a recent survey, two in three dog owners claim their dogs “could never survive in the wild” without them. That is especially true for the dogs on our list.
Knowing that a breed is clingy by nature can be a big help when selecting a pet. We looked through reviews from 10 experts to learn about the most clingy dog breeds that came up most. For people that enjoy having a constant companion, these clingy canines could be a great fit. Let us know your favorites in the comments below!
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The Most Clingy Dog Breeds, According to Canine Specialists
1. Vizsla
It is rare to find a dog that is overwhelmingly regarded as the number one in a given category. The Vizsla is one such dog, as they are considered the ultimate “Velcro Dog” by experts. This Hungarian breed was originally bred for falconry, so it enjoys active lifestyles. These dogs also like being attached to their owner’s hip. Wag! raves, “The Vizsla is your wingman for hiking, swimming and hunting, and will be your loyal cuddle buddy too.”
The Vizsla breed only wants to hang out with their owners constantly. “It is their natural instinct to stay close to their owners because, during the hunt, wandering away could be deadly,” writes Animal Kingdom.
Vizslas might seem like they wouldn’t be needy because of their athletic builds and serious expressions, but as Great Pet Care points out, looks can be deceiving. “[T]he hunting breed is widely recognized to be among the most dependent on human companionship and should not regularly be left alone.”
2. Labrador Retriever
One of America’s favorite dog breeds can be emotionally needy. It may come as a surprise to some that Labrador Retrievers actively dislike being apart from their family. Always Pets says, “There’s so much going on in those eyes, so be kind, and you will have the most loyal friend in the world who’s ready for any adventure or even just a lazy day around the house.”
Even though Labrador Retrievers love to constantly be around their owners, they can easily be stressed out from time apart. “The negative part of this is that the world’s most popular dog is also one of the most likely to suffer from separation anxiety,” writes The Scotsman.
Since Labrador Retrievers are very clingy, they can get mopey if no one is paying attention to them. “Labs usually love being at your side, and don’t be surprised if yours tries to squeeze onto your lap despite her large frame,” explains K9 of Mine.
3. French Bulldog
Frenchies are internet famous thanks to their Instagrammable looks. These petite love muffins also require near-constant companionship. French Bulldogs can have a stubborn streak and larger-than-life personality.
Puppy In Training notes, “Frenchies don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time and some even develop separation anxiety.”
French Bulldogs have an ulterior motive always wanting to go out with their owners. They love to leave the house to see their fans! “These short, wrinkly pups are one of the most popular breeds, and it’s no surprise why,” writes iHeartDogs.
The French Bulldog’s relaxed temperament makes this breed an attractive option. They don’t bark much and are usually very playful. “So, you shouldn’t have to worry about your French Bulldog complaining when you can’t give them attention,” says Love Your Dog.
4. Great Dane
Scooby-Doo and Marmaduke may be fictional characters, but they are based on some of the Great Dane’s most well-known traits. Loving snacks and getting into mischief seems to hold true for the big dogs. PetGuide.com explains, “If the thought of a 100-plus pound Great Dane trying to curl up on your lap has you rethinking your decision to adopt this breed, be aware that a side-by-side snuggle on the sofa is probably sufficient to keep this gentle giant happy.”
Owning a Great Dane is like having a large, dark shadow following you along. “Not only do they tower over a lot of other dogs, but when they stand on their hind legs, your Great Dane may even be taller than you,” says Love Your Dog.
Great Danes are gentle giants who love attention and love going for car rides. “Despite regularly weighing over 100 pounds, these canines are often lazy and prefer lounging around beside their humans as much as possible,” writes iHeartDogs.
5. German Shepherd
German Shepherds have a reputation as strong guards and law enforcement animals. They also bond closely with their handlers and prefer to always have a human on-hand. Wag! writes, “Many people think of German Shepherds as guard dogs, but the reason they are good at guarding is because they love their human so much.”
Despite their size, German Shepherds crave love and attention from their owners. “This lovely dog breed is super loyal, and this is one reason why they always like to be near their owners,” says Animal Kingdom.
Even though German Shepherds can be clingy, they’re not traditional lap dogs. They were originally bred for herding and are fantastic working dogs, but can become needy if they’re not challenged. “The German Shepherd is surprisingly clingy, and in modern society can develop severe separation anxiety if not properly trained and socialized,” explains Great Pet Care.
6. Border Collie
Border Collies are uncommonly smart dogs who crave stimulation and companionship. Border Collies also need a lot of attention and need to participate in many activities. “Border Collies are exceptional dogs — sometimes a bit too exceptional for the less-enthusiastic human companion,” according to Always Pets.
Even though Border Collies are known for being “Velcro Dogs,” they are a very unique type. Love Your Dog says they are super close with their humans, but don’t need to be by your side at all times, like other dogs on this list.
Border Collies, the world’s smartest dog, are best for families who have plenty of time to devote everyday interaction. “Think of a household where someone is almost always home or coming in and out, and that’s her ideal setup,” explains K9 of Mine.
7. Maltese
Maltese dogs are compact and clean dogs. These sensitive and playful pups prefer to spend their days at the foot of their owner, looking for attention. Always Pets says they live long as well, so you will have these pooches by your side for longer than the average dog. Talk about a lot of cuddling!
Maltese pups are fans of sitting on laps, no matter who it is. They also love to socialize and make new friends. One might ask, then, why are they clingy if they constantly interact with others? Pet Guide has the answer. “Because these people-pleasing pooches absolutely adore their humans and crave non-stop interaction.”
Maltese pups being lap dogs goes back hundreds of years. During the time of the Roman Empire, aristocratic women would bring Maltese dogs along with them, making them a symbol of loyalty. “Besides their clingy nature, Maltese dogs are also famous for their eye-catching, silky coats and puppy-dog eyes,” writes Love Your Dog.
Sources:
- Wag!
- Animal Kingdom
- Great Pet Care
- Always Pets
- The Scotsman
- K9 of Mine
- Puppy In Training
- iHeartDogs
- Love Your Dog
- PetGuide.com
Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.
Pomeranians should be listed. They are very attached and have separation anxiety. Mine would wait at the door and whimper/ bark until I come home. She could hear my truck coming from a long ways away and start in barking and being excited that I was on my way home. She could drive everyone at home crazy with excitement
Mini Australian Shepherd should definitely be on that list
I think that Mini Schnauzers belong on that list also. My mini does not leave my side!
Why only go to 7 in this list?
Miniature Poodles get very attached.
And yes, the owner/pet connection starts with the owners love.
I honestly don’t think or feel this writer of this article did much research! Feel you might have perhaps got the #5 German Shepherd correct, you surly did not at all look into other breeds personality. Example…Proud owner of THREE Old English Sheepdogs over the years, every single one of them have followed me nonstop, like velcro, like glue! Also have 2 German Shepherds. The Old English Sheepdogs are worse then the Shepherds.
Poodles should be on the list!
Well this study needs to be revisited, and heavy researched. Because this is absolutely fales, its not just 7 breeds. Its all breeds, my dog was an Australian Cattle Dog. She slept in my bed since the day I rescued her, and stayed by my side since. So y’all need to do more research on your information.
Pugs are known as “Velcro dogs” and definitely belong on this list. My Pug hates to be alone and always has to be beside me, in my lap. Sometimes I think he’d melt into me just to be that much closer to me.
Rottweilers should be in this list. I have one and she is like Velcro! Always attached to me, never leaves me alone not even to use the restroom. I love her and she is my Velcro dog!
P.S. I believe pitbulls belong in ‘the list’ because my dog was very affectionate. Pitbulls received a bad rap in the past: Angry, and violent violent dogs. But this is due to the owner not showing or teaching them love and how to return love.
Whippets stalk as well.
Follows me everywhere includes bathroom, even the door is closed, she scratches gently.
When she sleeps must touch the body with us, must!
I recently lost my pitbull terrier of 14 years.
Beautiful dog, Nike, who loved the inside, but was not a lap dog. However, he was a super protective animal. I will miss this dog forever.
Rottweilers too. Very protective and will follow me around where ever I go. They are very lovable and affectionate
I’ve had the supreme pleasure of being velcroed to 5 golden retrievers! This wonderful breed should be on the list! ❤️
Pug, cavalier king Charles, cocker spaniel and havenese should be on that list
English SETTERS and Newfoundland. Both of them should’ve been in there.
Definitely boxers
I have had some of those. Dad told us carry them around a lot till they get too heavy. That’s the ticket for any breed!
You also did not include mini dachshunds. We were specific when we got furniture, getting “chair and a half” size chairs to allow room for our dogs. They will be stuck to you all day. Bathroom trips? No privacy. Bed? Extra layers of blankets to burrow. Every time you go outside is another time for play, but not too far from you.. Unless they smell a mole.
I considered dogs smaller than our JRT was a “little rat dog,” and unwanted. Then I met my first mini doxie. We lost him after 14 years, and have a puppy now. They are great, affectionate, loyal, loving dogs.
Australian Sheperds belong on this list. I’ve owned 8 and they are with you always. I live in a small apartment and my Aussie is always next to me, watching what I’ll do next.