We know that having a hound in the home is good for both your physical and mental well-being. Loads of research has shown that adopting a canine will get you off the couch and moving, leading to better heart health, while also helping to reduce stress and manage anxiety. But while some puppers make great guardians, or ideal hunting or farm assistants, you might want to check out our list of the best dog breeds for companionship if you’re specifically looking for a furry, four-legged friend to cuddle.
Below, you’ll find perfect pooch pals for seniors as well as young families—and everyone in between. Because there pretty much isn’t anyone who can’t benefit from adding a dog to their life.
According to Tarik Jayousi, founder of A&T Trained Dogs, working with Marmalade Trust, “Dogs can offer unique companionship and provide an emotional connection strong enough to combat feelings of loneliness, which many people face. The relationship between humans and dogs is a powerful antidote to isolation—they are more than just pets, they become emotional anchors and a part of the family.”
No matter the breed, all dogs have this effect. But there are some, such as the Shih Tzu, which was specifically developed as a lap dog for Chinese royals, that seem to specialize in lovey-dovey-ness. “The below breeds, plus so many more, are affectionate and loyal in nature and can lift spirits and provide comfort,” says Tarik.
Just remember, whenever possible, adopt don’t shop. There is little that will bring you more pleasure (or create a more loyal canine companion) than rescuing Fido from an uncertain end.
The 10 best dog breeds for companionship
Of course, most dog breeds will provide their owners with excellent companionship, but these are the dog breeds that Tarik explains are arguably most affectionate and loyal in nature – so don’t be offended if your favorite breed isn’t on the list! Plus, some of the most compassionate breeds are rescues! We’re always supportive of the “adopt don’t shop” policy.
1. Labrador Retriever
This will likely come as no surprise. The totally lovable cross-breed, the Labrador Retriever, tops the list thanks to their keen intuition and sensitivity.
“This breed is known for being friendly, outgoing and gentle,” Tarik says. “They are also highly intuitive and sensitive to human emotions, which can help them feel when their owners might need their emotional support and attention.”
Group: SportingHeight: 22.5-24.5 inchesWeight: 65-85 poundsPersonality: Friendly, extroverted, activeLife Expectancy: 11-13 years
2. Golden Retriever
A close second is another retriever breed. While they may be large, fluffy and bumbling, their sensitivity towards their humans is undeniable. “This breed has a calming nature, which can be great for soothing those with anxiety, and they are also gentle, friendly and tolerant,” Tarik points out.
Group: SportingHeight: 23-24 inchesWeight: 65-75 poundsPersonality: Easygoing, eager to please, lovingLife Expectancy: 10-12 years
3. Poodles
“Poodles are extremely intelligent and intuitive, enabling them to form deep bonds with their owners and provide comfort during distress,” Tarik says.
In fact, poodles are known to be incredibly companionable, and will be fiercely loyal to their family unit or ‘pack’.
Group: Non-SportingHeight: over 15 inches (standard), 10-15 inches (miniature); 10 inches and under (toy)Weight: 60-70 pounds (standard); 10-15 pounds (miniature); 4-6 pounds (toy)Personality: Super smart, versatile, loyalLife Expectancy: 10-18 years
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These beautiful, calm dogs are known to be incredibly close to whomever they deem to be their family, and love spending as much time as possible with them, so they can be an excellent companion if you experience loneliness.
Tarik says: “This cuddly breed loves affection and has a calm demeanor. They are extremely gentle and friendly.”
Group: ToyHeight: 12-13 inchesWeight: 13-18 pounds Personality: Gentle, noble, adaptableLife Expectancy: 12-15 years
5. Shih Tzu
These small dogs might be a little stubborn but they are known to be fantastic companion dogs. They usually want to be involved in everything that may be going on in their own/family’s lives, making them quite inquisitive.
“Shih Tzu’s are known for providing emotional support through affection. As the breed is also outgoing and friendly, they also love being around people,” Tarik details.
Group: ToyHeight: 9-10.5 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds Personality: Outgoing, lively, cuddlyLife Expectancy: 10-18 years
6. Havanese
The national dog of Cuba is both cheeky and cheerful, and full of energy. But most importantly, Havanese dogs love being with their owners – more so than being with other dogs, actually.
Tarik says: “This breed is very friendly and affectionate, making them extremely social dogs who thrive on human interaction, which can support their owner’s loneliness by encouraging more socializing.”
Group: ToyHeight: 8.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 7-13 poundsPersonality: Cheerful, comedic, companionableLife Expectancy: 14-16 years
7. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise have become incredibly popular dogs in the UK in recent years, and there’s a reason for that. “This breed loves receiving attention and therefore makes a great companion dog. They have a happy and affectionate nature and are very friendly,” Tarik says.
They are also known to be excellent family dogs, thriving in human company and doing well with children and other pets, too.
Group: Non-SportingHeight: 9.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 12-18 poundsPersonality: Charming, curious, confidentLife Expectancy: 14-15 years
8. Yorkshire Terrier
You’d struggle to find a more loyal dog breed than a Yorkshire Terrier. These tiny, adorable dogs are known to be fiercely loyal to their family, and are usually happiest when they are right by your side.
“This breed is affectionate, protective and loyal,” Tarik says. “Often referred to as lap dogs, they constantly seek their owner’s attention. They are great for companionship, as their small size means you can take them to various settings!” Tarik explains.
Group: ToyHeight: 7-8 inches
Weight: 7 poundsPersonality: Feisty, courageous, affectionateLife Expectancy: 11-15 yearsRelated Story
9. Corgi
Corgis make for excellent companions, whether you live alone or with others.
“Corgis are known to form strong bonds with their owners, making them amazing companions,” Tarik says. “They are also extremely loyal, affectionate, friendly and sociable dogs, which could help their owners battle loneliness.”
Group: HerdingHeight: 10-12 inches (Pembroke Welsh); 10.5-12.5 inches (Cardigan Welsh)
Weight: up to 30 pounds (Pembroke Welsh); 30-38 (Cardigan Welsh)Personality: Agreeable, agile, sweetLife Expectancy: 12-15 yearsRelated Story
10. Pomeranian
Finally, the ultra-fluffy Pomeranian would make for an excellent companion, enjoying going anywhere with their owner. In fact, they are generally happy as long as they don’t get left behind.
Tarik says: “This breed enjoys being close to their owner, both physically and emotionally, and develops a close attachment to them making them great emotional support dogs. They thrive off human interaction.”
Group: ToyHeight: 6-7 inches
Weight: 3-7 poundsPersonality: High-spirited, bold, alertLife Expectancy: 12-16 yearsRelated Stories
