Only loyal dogs know how to turn an ordinary day into the sweetest memory. Some dogs love their space, but many dog breeds are more than pets. In fact, they are little shadows that stick with you like glue. What do they want? Your affection, love, attention, and physical contact.
So what your dog feels for you is not just an attachment, it’s pure love driven by various factors. According to research published in Current Directions in Psychological Science, the bond between a dog and its owner is just like a parent-child relationship.
This association is driven by biological and cultural forces. Biological factors include the need for care, love, and nurture, while cultural factors deal with demographic changes.
Keep in mind, every dog has a unique way and capacity for getting clingy compared to other dogs. Let us introduce you to nine pups that take loyalty to the next level.
Loving Dog Breeds That Always Want To Be Close By
1. Vizsla
You know what is really special about this breed? It is like their paws are tied to your footsteps. Although the Vizsla was originally bred as a hunting dog breed, currently it is known as one of the most affectionate dog breeds.
Often described as Velcro dogs due to their past of working closer to their hunter. Still, they proudly carry this vibe. The American Kennel Club mentions that Vizsla hates if they are left alone.
Their high devotion towards family members and sweet nature make them emotional support animals. Vizsla can understand moods and lean for a cuddle. Truly, this feels like a therapy wrapped in fur.
Apart from that, Vizslas are very energetic and versatile. They are happy when you assign them any work. Without a job, you will notice how they find ways to entertain themselves.
Fun Fact
Vizsla was the first AKC triple champion.
2. Golden Retriever
A Golden Retriever is one of the most popular dogs in America. At first glance, you might be impressed by their luxurious golden coats. But this dog offers much more than its beauty. PetMD states these dogs are often called wonderful family pets.
Regarded as an affectionate breed, Golden Retrievers know how to win hearts. Their loyalty keeps them closer to their owners. If you think their following behavior is just a habit, you are wrong; it is their devotion.
Their patience and calm temperament also add charm to their personality. Rarely will you see them getting aggressive. Your kids can tug ears or even engage in rough play, but Goldens will never mind.
With sharp minds and eagerness to please, Golden Retrievers quickly learn commands and tricks. So they are also popular as service dogs or therapy dogs.
Fun Fact
Golden Retrievers carry their puppyish behavior into adulthood.
3. Labrador Retriever
A friendly working dog, the Labrador Retriever is an ideal house pet for anyone who needs a loyal and outgoing companion. Purina mentions that this dog thrives on human companionship. Constantly, Labs strive to please their owners.
Moreover, Labrador Retrievers are also famous for their love for water and exceptional swimming abilities. Their thick double coat not only provides insulation but also protection. Their webbed paws enable seamless maneuvering in water.
However, the real beauty lies in personality. These great companions love to stay near their owners. Labrador Retrievers are naturally pack animals. So these pups feel secure in human company.
Additionally, they find comfort through close bonds, another reason you see them close by. For them, only you are the centre of attention and source of happiness.
Fun Fact
Labs are also used as guide dogs, helping physical impairments.
4. Pug
Remember, a Pug is a type of dog that will follow you even when you are going to the bathroom. And if you closed the door, it would protest. This Chinese dog breed was once the favorite of royals, now equally popular across the world.
These toy dogs can be easily recognized by their iconic wrinkly face, curled tails, and silly expressions. Besides, they are low-maintenance dogs with minimal grooming needs.
But why do Pugs roam around humans? One of the reasons is their past as companion dogs. These lap dogs have offered companionship to the elite class for centuries. So this history shaped their behavior, making them more inclined towards humans.
Pugs also carry a social spirit, and when they are surrounded by people, their excitement is at its peak. These social animals crave human attention and love being part of family activities.
Fun Fact
According to History Facts, once, Pugs were the center of a well-recognized secret society, the Order of the Pug
5. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhound is an Italian breed of sighthound known for their remarkable speed, endurance, and determination. This dog is admired for its beautiful looks and athleticism. IGs can run up to 25 miles per hour. Now this is pretty impressive.
Italian Greyhound doesn’t believe in alone time. On the contrary, they demand attention and close interaction. Wherever you go, you will see them coming behind you. These gentle nature canines don’t look for independence; instead, they want dependence.
And what really makes them special is the way they link themselves to humans over time. The longer the time spent, the stronger the bond gets. Just like a thread that holds them near.
Although Italian Greyhounds are active, but not high-energy dogs. So no excessive exercises, just a few short walks.
Fun Fact
IGs make a unique sound called Rooing, which is similar to howling.
6. Border Collie
If you are in search of a faithful four-legged companion that always sticks by your side, our recommendation would be a Border Collie. This is an extremely driven and hardworking herding dog breed appreciated for its intense stare for controlling flocks.
Border Collies are very smart, and it is truly a mesmerizing sight to watch them in the work field. These dogs efficiently predict the shepherd’s commands and precisely guide the flock.
These dogs have their own way of keeping themselves near you. Coming behind you, sitting by your side, or watching you with their focused eyes, honestly, these highly affectionate dogs treat your presence as a reward.
With time, their devotion turns into deep bonds that are very difficult to break. Once Collie decides that you are its person, it will never step back from you.
Fun Fact
Border Collies are the smartest in the dog world.
7. German Shepherd
German Shepherd is a large, muscular dog, but beneath its smooth coat, it carries an affectionate nature, love, and playful spirit. Their intelligence and versatility are widely recognized, yet these dogs are defined by strong bonds with people they generally trust.
These beautiful herding dogs worked closely with humans. This interaction instilled a desire to stay near to owners. Whether indoors or outdoors, you will find them close to you. Indeed, this watchfulness binds them with family.
Plus, this sweet-tempered dog has keen focus and observational skills. If you own a German Shepherd, you might have an idea how they catch cues in your posture, mood, or body language. So this is another reason behind following nature.
Additionally, with a strong nose, muscular strength, and trainability, GSDs excel as police dogs or military dogs.
Fun Fact
After the 9/11 attacks, German Shepherds were used for searching and rescuing people.
8. Shetland Sheepdog
Among the sweetest dog breeds stands the Shetland Sheepdog, a small herding dog native to Scotland’s Shetland Islands, as mentioned by Britannica. These little dogs are easy to train and are top-class competitors in canine sports.
Shetland Sheepdogs are very alert and protective; therefore, they act as good guard dogs. They don’t just sit near you to offer company, but also to provide a sense of security.
Their people-oriented nature is also one of the reasons for being clingy. These snuggle partners feel empty without household rhythms. They see themselves as part of your circle, not separate from it.
Here is good news: Shelties have a long life span of 12 to 15 years. They can suffer from health issues, so regular vet visits are recommended for their well-being.
Fun Fact
Shelties are one of the smallest herding dogs.
9. French Bulldog
With bat-like ears and easy-going personalities, French Bulldogs are highly famed small dogs. This breed is versatile and adjusts to any living space. For centuries, these dogs have been living side by side with humans. This heritage still shines. They prefer staying with owners instead of long adventures.
Interestingly, science also provided them with a reason for their attachment. When Frenchies have extended eye contact with a human, their oxytocin level increases. This release of the love hormone strengthens their connection. This closeness is backed by nature.
Keep in mind that Frenchies have their own way of thinking. So if your dog disagrees with your opinion, don’t be surprised. And due to this independent streak, they are not ideal for canine sports.
Lastly, Frenchies get along well with everyone, including kids. However, in the presence of other dogs, they might get possessive or territorial.
Fun Fact
They’re famous for making hilarious “complaining” noises when they don’t get their way, almost like they’re talking back.
Conclusion
Literally, life feels lighter if you have a four-legged best friend always around you. It is unfair to call them just pets; they are like loving friends that follow you like your shadow.
Whether you have a good time or a bad time, these dogs will never leave you alone. Their presence can turn dull moments into exciting memories. If you ever dream of such a devoted friend, these loving breeds can turn your dream into reality.
