Valentine’s Day is usually reserved for romance and smooching with your partner – but what if your fluffy four-legged friend wants a little cuddle too?
Dog owners with Labradors, German Shepherds, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers should be prepared to cuddle their puppies, all of which are known to be deeply affectionate breeds.
Those with Hungarian Vizslaz can also expect some canine cuddles on a romantic vacation, as can Newfoundlands.
As science shows these adorable animals feel love and affection, canine behaviorist Kamal Fernandez has shared the nine most affectionate types of dogs to cuddle.
The ProDog Raw advisor also outlined how you can help your pups, especially those who are a little less confident, to feel the love and be more comfortable around other people.
1. Labrador
Kamal also said love and loyalty is an innate instinct for “sensitive and loving” Labradors (stock image)
“Labradors are known for their sensitive and loving nature,” the behaviorist said.
“They get along great with other pets and children and thrive when they feel like family.”
Kamal also said that love and loyalty are inherent instincts of Labradors.
He continued, “It’s her natural instinct to love and protect her own.”
2. COCKER SPANIEL
Kamal added that the bond is even stronger with their owners “with whom they form close bonds” (stock image).
“Cocker Spaniels are known for constantly wagging their tails,” the expert said.
“They are super friendly and very affectionate.”
Kamal added that the bond is even stronger with their owners “with whom they form close bonds.”
3. GOLDEN RETRIEVER
Hailed as one of the most affectionate breeds, Golden Retrievers want to please those around them (stock image)
Kamal praises these “incredibly affectionate” breeds as “man-eaters”.
“Nothing makes them happier than cuddling with their loved ones,” he said. “Golden Retrievers are one of the most affectionate, gentle, and gentle breeds.
“As the saying goes: money can’t buy happiness, but it can buy a golden retriever!”
4. SPRINGER SPANIEL
The behaviorist also noted Springer Spaniels’ trust in the people they love (stock image)
Anyone who has owned Springer Spaniels knows how energetic and lively these breeds are.
And Kamal says they love each other just as strongly and enjoy cuddling and affection with people.
The behaviorist also noted these dogs’ trust in the people they love.
“They are also very loyal and enjoy being close to their owners,” he added.
5. STAFFORDSHIRE BULL TERRIER
Despite the stigmas associated with the breed, Kamal emphasized that Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a lot of love to give (stock image)
Despite the stigmas associated with this breed, Kamal emphasized that Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a lot of love to give.
He said they “may not always get along with other dogs, but they are very affectionate with people.”
A little patience with these pups could mean lots of cuddles.
“With a little patience and love, they can be some of the most affectionate of dogs,” the expert added.
6. GERMAN SHEPHERD
German shepherds are “very intelligent and show a lot of affection for their owners,” said the expert (stock image)
It won’t surprise you that these gentle, protective giants are big softies.
German shepherds are “very intelligent and show a lot of affection for their owners,” said the expert.
‘You can count on them for a good cuddle!’
7. AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD
Kamal says these “playful, affectionate” creatures make excellent cuddly toys and might even jump on you for a hug (stock image)
Kamal says these “playful, affectionate” creatures make excellent stuffed animals.
They can even jump on their owner just to sneak a hug.
“They bond quickly,” Kamal added. ‘And enjoy being loving.’
8. HUNGARIAN VIZSLA
These “fearless” dogs are deeply affectionate and affectionate because of the special bond they have with their owner (stock image)
These “fearless” dogs are deeply affectionate and affectionate because of the special bond they have with their owner.
“Hungarian Vizslas are gentle, very affectionate, sensitive,” explains the dog expert.
“They will cuddle as often as possible.”
He added, “They say a Vizsla is like a shadow because they love to be around and follow you!”
9. CHIHUAHUA
Chihuahuas love to be petted, carried and generally spoiled. Kamal said they often cuddle to show affection (stock image)
It’s a cliché that these cute little dogs demand a lot of attention – so it’s no surprise that this includes hugs.
Kamal said: “Chihuahuas love to be petted, carried and hugged and will often rest on you and cuddle to show affection while giving you kisses by licking your hand.
“Although they can pick their favorites and relate most to those they are closest to!”
A canine behaviorist’s guide to making your pup feel safe and loved
Showing dogs love and affection is often one of our favorite things to do, but owners sometimes don’t consider whether or not their dog actually wants to be smothered in kisses!
Many dogs don’t like having people or other dogs in their area; You might be acting out or showing discomfort so it is important that you are aware and understand this.
Getting your dog comfortable with people and other dogs is a necessary part of raising a well-adjusted family pet. Be sure to invest in this process!
The canine behaviorist shared his tips for making sure your dog is comfortable around others. Stock image used
Kamal’s tips to make your dog feel loved:
1. “Think of handling and socialization as ‘training’ for your dog and don’t assume it will be a seamless and instantaneous process. Start little by little to make your dog comfortable as you introduce him to a new or unfamiliar environment.’
2. “Try to “check” the dogs and people you introduce your dog to, as these encounters can affect their long-term confidence. If in doubt, unsubscribe!’
3. “Think of socialization as a set of life lessons and have a clear plan for training your dog. For example, today they meet with a small dog, next week with a man, and so on. Think of each “life lesson” as a separate entity as it allows you to monitor and access your dog’s confidence each time rather than overpowering him.”
4. “Rewarding encounters with other dogs and/or people; for example, by giving them treats as positive reinforcement. This will help your dog form positive associations with new dogs and people. Overall, they become more relaxed and social instead of showing signs of anxiety.
5. “Use these meetings to practice core skills like memory, impulse control, and working to avoid distractions. When your dog meets other dogs and people, you have more control.”
6. “Teach your dog a word or cue that indicates when it is appropriate to approach a stranger.”
7. “Not all dogs and humans like dogs! So work on teaching your dog to ignore people when necessary. Socialization is great, but remember that your dog’s approach isn’t always welcome.’
8. “If you have a small dog, remember that people approach from above. Instead, ask her to kneel to make her performance less intimidating.”
9. ‘Teach your dog to sit when he hears the word ‘hello’ so that when you greet someone he will automatically sit down.’
10. “Photograph or film your workouts! That way you can look back at your dog’s behavior and see if he was comfortable or not and make positive adjustments for the future.’
For more ways to show your dog you love them this Valentine’s Day, visit: https://www.prodograw.com/valentines-day-how-to-love-yourself-and-your-dog/.
Source: ProDog Raw