10 dog breeds that do not enjoy cuddles (2024)

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These pups are likely to turn down cuddles and pats

By Lisa Joyner
10 dog breeds that do not enjoy cuddles (1)

While dogs are known for getting and giving affection, some breeds such as Bloodhounds, Chow Chows and Afghan Hounds prefer to have their own space.

According to research published by The Scotsman, some canines are more likely to turn down cuddles and pats compared to others. Much like humans, not all dogs show affection the same way, with the study discovering that Scottish Terriers, Malamute pups and Cairn Terriers also don't enjoy cuddles.

"One thing to take into consideration is that some dogs simply aren't as affectionate towards their owners than others," says the study. "It doesn't mean that they won't make a loyal and valued pet, just that if you are looking for a dog that will happily cuddle for hours you should look elsewhere."

Chloe Jackson, Canine Behaviour and Training Manager at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, previously told Country Living: "Dogs are similar to people; some dogs are more tactile and others appreciate their own space. While we may associate cuddles as a good thing, a lot of dogs will find them restraining and show visible signs of stress or anxiety, such as licking their lips or lowering their ears.

10 dog breeds that do not enjoy cuddles (3)

Afghan hound

On the other hand, previous research found that Greyhounds, Staffordshire Bull Terriers and Mongrels are among the most affectionate who will love endless cuddles.

Take a look at the full list that don't enjoy cuddles below...

10 dog breeds that do not enjoy cuddles

  1. Afghan Hound
  2. Chow Chow
  3. Basenji
  4. Malamute
  5. Bloodhound
  6. Shar-pei
  7. Shiba Inu
  8. Scottish Terrier
  9. Cairn Terrier
  10. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

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10 dog breeds that do not enjoy cuddles (2024)

FAQs

10 dog breeds that do not enjoy cuddles? ›

American Foxhound. Devoted and intelligent, the American Foxhound loves companionship and exercise. This breed isn't as affectionate as others, however, preferring to play or run with family members rather than snuggle. One of America's original dog breeds, the American Foxhound is also now one of the rarest.

What breed of dog doesn't like to cuddle? ›

American Foxhound. Devoted and intelligent, the American Foxhound loves companionship and exercise. This breed isn't as affectionate as others, however, preferring to play or run with family members rather than snuggle. One of America's original dog breeds, the American Foxhound is also now one of the rarest.

What does it mean if my dog doesn't like to cuddle? ›

Well rest assured, your dog isn't abnormal if she's not a stereotypically cuddly dog; she's just a dog that has other ways of showing that she loves you. And the good news is that a few lifestyle tweaks can help your dog learn to appreciate pats and cuddles and maybe even ask for them!

What dog breed is the least clingy? ›

Top 11 Dog Breeds for Introverts
  • Shiba Inu. Shiba Inus are a perfect match for introverts. ...
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are easygoing and affectionate lap dogs that aren't as needy or demanding as other small breeds. ...
  • Basset Hound. ...
  • Great Dane. ...
  • Greyhound. ...
  • Chihuahua. ...
  • German Shepherd. ...
  • Pug.

What is the snuggliest dog breed? ›

According to our data, these are the most cuddly dog breeds, shown next to their average cuddle score:
  • Bull Terrier (4.63)
  • Dalmatian (4.55)
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (4.54)
  • Belgian Tervuren (4.52)
  • American Bully (4.52)
Jan 29, 2024

What is the most needy dog? ›

Top 11 Dog Breeds That Are Extra Clingy
  • #1 Vizsla. Known as the ultimate Velcro dog, this Hungarian breed is literally attached to their owner, and is happiest when right by your side. ...
  • #2 Labrador Retriever. ...
  • #4 Maltese. ...
  • #5 Golden Retriever. ...
  • #6 German Shepherd. ...
  • #7 Pug. ...
  • #8 Shetland Sheepdog. ...
  • #9 Italian Greyhound.

What is the least friendly dog? ›

The American bulldog ranked as the least friendly dog breed, in part to the breed reportedly being less likely to happily accept treats or pets from others and less likely to enjoy cuddling as much as other breeds.

What to do instead of hugging your dog? ›

Even if you've taught your dog to tolerate hugs, it won't be their preferred way to accept affection. Find other more dog-friendly ways to say, “I love you.” Try giving your dog a belly rub for example. Or scratch their back, behind their ears, or whichever spot they like the best.

Why won't my dog let me hug him? ›

If you have a dog that that's not too fond of close contact, he probably won't enjoy being held or squeezed. In this case, it might be best not to attempt a hug, because, just like us, little things can make our pets anxious.

How to make your dog more affectionate? ›

This means making a point to have regular one-on-one time where they have your full attention; interactive play, grooming such as brushing, or simply relaxed, quiet time together are ideal for this.

What is the #1 most cuddly dog? ›

The 14 Cuddliest, Most Affectionate Dog Breeds
  • #1 Golden Retriever.
  • #2 Labrador Retriever.
  • #3 French Bulldog.
  • #4 Boxer.
  • #5 Newfoundland.
  • #6 Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.
  • #7 Pug.
  • #8 Bichon Frise.
Jun 5, 2024

Which dog loves his owner the most? ›

Most loyal dog breeds that will always be there for you
  • German Shepherd. ...
  • Saint Bernard. ...
  • Labrador Retriever. ...
  • Beagle. ...
  • Dachshund. ...
  • Rottweiler. ...
  • Border Collie. ...
  • Great Pyrenees. They are nurturing and kind, and will stay up late at night to protect you and your loved ones.
Apr 12, 2023

Are some dogs less affectionate? ›

Like humans, there are some dogs that just aren't as affectionate as others. This could be because they are afraid of humans and have been abandoned or abused in the past which makes them cautious about getting close to new people. Or, they might just like their personal space.

What dog breed needs most affection? ›

19 most affectionate dog breeds that love to snuggle
  • Pug. Pugs love their owners and can be very needy. ...
  • Golden Retriever. ...
  • Brussels Griffon. ...
  • Newfoundland. ...
  • American Staffordshire Terrier. ...
  • Bichon Frise. ...
  • Bulldog. ...
  • Alaskan Klee Kai.
Nov 7, 2022

What is the least liked breed of dog? ›

The lowest ranked dog in terms of popularity with the American Kennel Club [AKC] is the Sloughi. This is not to say that these are bad dogs in any sense, merely that they are poorly ranked on the popularity charts. Meet the Sloughi, an elegant sighthound that's as rare as it is captivating.

Are there dogs that don't like to be touched? ›

And, just like people, dogs vary tremendously when it comes to who they want to touch them. Some are veritable streetwalkers, happy to get cuddly with anything with hands, while others are uncomfortable having strangers touch them at all, at least on the first date.

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