The Clingiest Dog Breeds
Dogs are renowned for their loyalty and affection. Some breeds take this to a new level – they become “clingy” to their owners. Even going as far as following them everywhere – even in the restroom!
Here are some of the clingiest breeds:
- Golden Retriever: Friendly and loving – they need lots of human companionship.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: Small, but vocal about their need for cuddles!
- Pug: Attention seekers who always want physical contact.
- Bichon Frise: Very social, and always wagging their tails in anticipation of playtime.
These breeds might suffer from behavioural problems if left alone. Separation anxiety can cause destructiveness or excessive barking. To help this, spend quality time with your pup – playtime, belly scratches, new toys when you’re not at home, or training.
So, get ready for a loyal and devoted companion – here are the top 11 clingiest dog breeds! They may never leave your side (or lap)!
Top Clingy Breeds
Dogs are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, but some breeds tend to be more clingy than others. If you are someone who enjoys constant companionship and affection from your furry friend, then you may want to consider getting a breed from the list of top clingy breeds.
Here are 6 breeds that are known to be extra clingy:
- Chihuahua: This tiny dog may be small in size, but it has a huge personality and an even bigger desire to be near its owner.
- Dachshund: Also known as the “wiener dog”, this breed loves to cuddle and will follow its owner from room to room.
- Labrador Retriever: This breed is not only a popular family pet but also a loyal and affectionate companion that loves attention from its owner.
- Bichon Frise: These little white dogs enjoy being in the company of their human family and thrive on their attention and affection.
- Great Dane: Despite their large size, Great Danes have a strong desire to be close to their owners and are known to follow them around the house.
- Cocker Spaniel: This breed is known for its affectionate and loving nature towards its owners and is often found snuggling up to them on the couch.
In addition to their clinginess, these breeds also have unique personality traits and characteristics that make them great companions. For example, Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal and protective of their owners, while Great Danes are gentle giants that are known for their calm and patient demeanor.
Pro Tip: If you are considering getting a clingy breed, it is important to remember that they require a lot of attention and may not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. Be sure to provide plenty of love and affection to keep them happy and comfortable.
If you want a furry companion who will never leave your side, get a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – they’re basically velcro with a heartbeat.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is renowned for its love of affection and closeness with its owners. It quickly forms strong bonds with humans, and may show signs of separation anxiety if left alone too long. Below is a table describing the traits that contribute to their clingy nature:
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Affectionate | They crave attention, love being pampered and held. |
| Devotion | They form an emotional connection with their owners, and get lonely without them. |
| Sensitive | They pick up on human emotions easily and thus need attention or else they can become demanding. |
It’s important to remember that these pooches need lots of attention. Toys and mental stimulation can help reduce their separation anxiety. If you’re looking for a constant companion, get yourself a Bichon Frise, the Velcro of the dog world.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is an adorably small breed known for its happy-go-lucky nature and hypoallergenic coat. It was bred to be a companion, so it loves being close to its owners and always strives to please them. Unfortunately, this breed may become anxious if left alone for too long, making them clingy.
An interesting trait of these dogs is their intelligence when it comes to sensing emotions. They can tell if their owner is feeling anxious or stressed, and act accordingly.
Pro Tip: Regular exercise can help keep the Bichon Frise from getting bored and reduce clinginess. Though small, Chihuahuas are also known for their clinginess.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua: the world’s smallest pooch! Weighing in at 2-6lbs and standing 6-9 inches tall, these pups are majorly clingy. They need lots of love and attention, or they may become vocal and bark too much. Plus, they can be aggressive towards strangers or other pets if feeling threatened.
Did you know? These wee dogs were originally bred by the ancient civilizations of Mexico for their loyalty and companionship. Even believed to have healing powers, they were used in religious ceremonies too.
Pro Tip: Socialize your Chihuahua early on. This teaches them how to properly interact with other animals and people. It also helps to prevent them from becoming too attached or aggressive later in life.
Yorkshire Terrier
The mini Yorkshire pooch is a high-maintenance breed that needs much love and attention. They have a small body and can suffer from separation anxiety. Yorkies love to be around people who give them affection. They follow their owners round the house and get attached to one person or family. This makes them a clingy breed.
Exercise and playtime are needed daily, plus grooming costs too.
What makes them special is their loyalty. Even though they are clingy, they have an independent spirit and like discovering new places.
Pro Tip: Leave a comfy area with toys and blankets while away from them. Who needs a shadow when you have a Pug?
Pug
Pugs are bred for companionship. They are often referred to as the ‘little rascal’ due to their amiable disposition. They love attention and staying close to their humans.
This leads to separation anxiety which results in excessive barking or destructive chewing behavior. They have a strong attachment to their owners, and need lots of human interaction.
These friendly, active dogs crave attention from everyone. They can become jealous if they feel neglected or ignored.
Pugs are unique because of their squished nose shape. This leads to heatstroke and respiratory issues when exposed to high temperatures or exercise.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) states that Pugs were the third most popular dog breed in 2020. A clear indication of their popularity among pet owners worldwide.
Dachshund
The Dachshund is among the neediest of dogs. Though cute and small, they crave constant attention. Their strong attachment makes them an ideal companion. They also suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long. Hence, proper training should be given.
These breeds were bred for hunting and have unique physical characteristics. Their elongated spinal cord can lead to back injuries. Therefore, proper handling and caution should be taken when lifting them or playing.
Their history dates back to 15th century Germany, where they were used as badger hunters. With their short legs and long bodies, they were perfect for tracking down badgers. In the late 1800s, they became popular household pets and spread around the world.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a faithful companion and are ready to give constant attention, then the Dachshund is the perfect breed for you.
Maltese
Maltese dogs have been beloved companions for thousands of years. They have a characteristic silky white coat and need daily grooming. Since they are small, they are perfect for apartment living. Exercise is necessary to keep them fit and healthy.
These dogs are especially affectionate and devoted to their owners. They crave human interaction and will follow them everywhere. If ignored or neglected, they get jealous and try to earn attention.
Interestingly, Maltese dogs were once so treasured that wealthy women carried them around in special bags. Truly, these clingy pooches make velcro seem aloof!
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are really loyal and smart. Plus, they don’t need a lot of exercise, so they’re perfect for apartments. They have a unique look with their short body and ears that look like bats.
Their personalities are fun and they can read people’s feelings. They come from England where they were made by crossing bulldogs and terriers. They got their name from King Edward VII who liked them. Who needs a shadow when you have a Boston Terrier?
Boston Terrier
The ‘Miniature Boxer‘, or Boston Terrier, is a compact and cuddly breed of American gentleman. They are friendly, affectionate and easygoing. They crave human attention and can become quite vocal when left alone for long periods. These sensitive dogs need lots of love and interaction to make them feel secure and happy.
Boston Terriers can’t be left-alone for too long and have high energy levels – daily exercise is needed to prevent destructive behavior. Despite being clingy, they make popular pets due to their devotion and loyalty to their owners.
These pups are also known for their tuxedo-like coat colorings and short fur coats that don’t require extensive grooming. However, routine dental care should be taken into consideration due to their predisposition to dental problems.
The AKC first accepted the Boston Terrier in 1893. Since then, it has become one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world. If you want a dog that’s like a pair of Ugg boots, get a Shih Tzu – they’ll follow you everywhere.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzu’s are clingy creatures! They love close company and cuddling up on their owner’s lap or by their side. It’s all in the breed – they were specifically bred for companionship and as lap dogs in China. Plus, leaving them alone for too long can lead to separation anxiety, leading to barking or destructive behaviour.
These devoted dogs love human interaction and will follow their owners everywhere, even the bathroom. They are excessively attached to their owners and crave attention.
Did you know? According to legend, Confucius kept small lion-like dogs – similar to today’s Shih Tzus.
Pro Tip: Give your Shih Tzu physical activity, mental stimulation and attention when you can’t be with them. Get ready for a lifetime of hugs and tail-wagging with your Lhasa Apso!
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso breed is one of the clingiest! They need constant attention from their owners and form a strong bond with their humans. They’re wary of strangers and can be quite vocal if they sense a threat.
To keep these dogs happy, owners need to give them exercise and attention. Left alone for too long, they may develop separation anxiety and destructive behaviours. Despite their small size, they make great watchdogs due to their protective nature.
Lhasa Apso are originally from Tibet, where they were kept as guard dogs in Buddhist monasteries. They were highly valued by the monks and considered sacred in some areas. The first record of this breed in the West dates back to the late 1800s.
In conclusion, an experienced dog owner is needed with patience and dedication to meet this breed’s needs. With the right care and attention, they can bring joy to any home they join.
Conclusion
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, with different personalities. Some breeds are more likely to be affectionate and clingy with their owners than others. We’ve listed the top 11 clingiest dog breeds. These include:
- Pugs
- Labradors
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
- Bichon Frises
- Dachshunds
- Shih Tzus
- Great Danes
- Malteses
- Chihuahuas
- Cockers
- Golden Retrievers
These breeds are known for their loving nature, but they also require plenty of care and attention.
Keep in mind that every dog is unique, so even a clingy breed might still have its own individual quirks. When you’re considering getting a new dog, make sure it’s the right breed for your lifestyle and living space. Plus, you’ll need to train and socialize them properly.
According to Science Direct’s research on Dog Attachment Styles, “owners who reported higher attachment generally scored their dogs as being less anxious.” So show them some love – they need it just as much as you do!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a clingy dog?
A: A clingy dog is one that exhibits overly-dependent behavior and has a strong desire to be near its owner at all times.
Q: What are the top 11 clingiest dog breeds?
A: The top 11 clingiest dog breeds are the Bichon Frise, Chihuahua, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dachshund, French Bulldog, Labrador Retriever, Maltese, Miniature Pinscher, Pomeranian, Pug, and Yorkshire Terrier.
Q: Why do dogs become clingy?
A: Dogs become clingy due to a variety of factors, including genetics, upbringing, and early socialization experiences. Some dogs may also become clingy due to anxiety, insecurity, or other underlying health issues.
Q: How can I manage my clingy dog’s behavior?
A: The best way to manage clingy behavior in dogs is through positive reinforcement training, consistency, and setting clear boundaries. Additionally, providing your dog with plenty of mental and physical stimulation can help reduce clinginess.
Q: Are clingy dogs good for families?
A: While clingy dogs can be affectionate and loving, they may not be the best fit for all families. If you have young children, a clingy dog may become overwhelmed or anxious and may not do well in a busy household.
Q: Can clingy behavior in dogs be a sign of separation anxiety?
A: Yes, clingy behavior in dogs can be a sign of separation anxiety. If your dog becomes excessively nervous, destructive, or vocal when you are not home, it may be suffering from separation anxiety.