If you’ve been thinking about welcoming a new dog into your home then you’re in good company – Royal Kennel Club (the new name for the UK Kennel Club) stats show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels.
Dogs come in all shapes, colours and sizes - there are 221 different pedigree dogs recognised by breeders in the UK, from Affenpinscher to Yorkshire Terrier (there are sadly no dog breeds starting with the letter ‘z’!).
Then there are all manner of crossbreeds, from so-called ‘designer dogs’ like the popukar Labradoodle (half Labrador, half Poodle) to lovable mongrels.
So there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or an easy to train dog.
Read more:
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Choosing the right breed is absolutely essential – for example opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
Different breeds of dog also tend to have different personalities, with some falling into the group lovingly called ‘velcro dogs’.
These are the pets that just love their owners so much they want to be as close to them as they can, 24 hours a day, and live for close contact and cuddles.
They will be less than understanding of any social life that you may have, instead being keen for another night on the couch, so if you are looking for a pub you can leave alone regularly then you should maybe look elsewhere.
Here are 21 of the stickiest velcro dogs.
Make sure you don't miss a moment of breaking news from across Scotland by signing up to our free newsletter here.
.jpeg?trim=0,87,0,87&crop=&width=800)
13. Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties are sensitive, intelligent, and deeply connected to their families. They often stay close to their owners, watching for cues and happily following them around the home. | AFP via Getty Images
.jpeg?trim=0,57,0,57&crop=&width=800)
14. Dachshund
Ask any Dachshund owner and they'll tell you how much their pets being left alongs. These sausage dogs' favourite place is to be on their mum or dad's lap and they would very much like to join you wherever you are going. | Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images
15. Maltese
Maltese dogs were bred primarily for companionship, so being close to their humans comes naturally. They often follow their owners everywhere and become happiest when receiving affection and attention. | Getty Images for Westminster Ken
.jpeg?trim=0,57,0,57&crop=&width=800)
16. Chihuahua
The tiny Chihuahua's ferocious love of their owner can sometimes spill over into aggression. They're not fans of being alone but, luckily enough, they are so small they can be taken most places without too much bother. | Getty Images