A huge number of us decided to welcome new pups into our homes over the last few years – according to Kennel Club figures dog ownership has soared to record levels.
There are a whopping 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds, so there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest addition.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
One thing to take into consideration is that some dogs simply aren’t as affectionate towards their owners than others.
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.
Here are the 10 least affectionate breeds of dog, according to the American Kennel Club.
1. Cairn Terrier
Similar to the Scottie, the Cairn Terrier isn’t big on cuddles. They are still very friendly when it comes to their owners, but the same cannot be said for the rest of the human race.
2. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is one of the world’s oldest breeds of dog – and also one of the most elegant. This is a dog that was bred to hunt though, and they are highly selective when it comes to who they offer affection to. Generally aloof, they will be completely disinterested in strangers and tend to create a bond with a single person who they will deign to tolerate.
3. Shar-pei
Another breed that looks like it was created to cuddle is the adorable and wrinkly Chinese Shar-pei. While they are devoted to their families and fiercely protective, they aren’t as demonstrative as other breeds when it comes to showing affection. They also tend to be hostile to strangers and other dogs.
4. Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu, a breed originally from Japan, can occasionally be affectionate but only when they really, really want to be. They are often happier spending time alone.
5. Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, more commonly known as the Scottie Dog, is often very affectionate as a puppy. As they get older they tend to become increasingly independent, growing out of cuddles with their human family.
6. Basenji
It’s fair to say that the Basenji is a very unusual breed of dog. As well as not being particularly affectionate to its owners and completely ignoring strangers, it is also the only dog that doesn’t bark – instead making an odd yodelling sound.
7. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow may look incredibly snuggly but they are known to be almost cat-like in their behaviour – fiercely independent and largely eschewing cuddling, petting or patting.
8. Alaskan Malamute
Bred to pull sleds huge distances over frozen tundra, the Alaskan Malamute has a strong work ethic and independent spirit that’s not conducive to snuggling up on the sofa for an evening watching television.
9. Bloodhound
Another dedicated working dog, the Bloodhound has been bred to track animals or humans using its highly-developed sense of smell. This work ethic can mean that they can appear distant from their families, while a stubborn streak a mile long means they won’t do anything they don’t want to – including enjoying a pat.
10. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
Despite being related to the incredibly gregarious Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever tends to keep itself to itself. It’s a breed that makes for a perfect hunting companion but otherwise very much enjoys its own company.