Dogs come in all shapes and sizes - the UK Kennel Club recognises 221 different pedigree dogs, 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’ to lovable mongrels.
Each has its own list of positive and negative attributes, and it’s important to take plenty of time to think about what breed will fit into your lifestyle the best - for instance a smaller dog if you live in a flat, or a hypoallergenic dog if the mere mention of dog hair makes you think about sneezing.
There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
And one thing you might like to consider is that some dogs are naturally more affectionate than others.
While some dogs just want to snuggle on your lap and will pad around after you looking for constant pats, others are more likely to be more independent minded - verging on standoffish.
Here are 12 of the most naturally affectionate breeds of dog.
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1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Good luck getting time alone when you have a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They'll pad around after you adoringly, tail a-wagging, gazing up at you with those big brown eyes that just say "cuddle me" (and "feed me"). | AFP via Getty Images
2. Shih Tzu
The first, but certainly not the last, lap dog on this list - these breeds have affection hard-wired into their DNA. The Shih Tzu was bred to keep the laps - and hands - of Chinese royalty warm. Little has changed, other than they are now equally happy to curl up with commoners. | AFP via Getty Images
3. Pug
A pug's idea of heaven being snuggled up on its owner's lap, spending hours happily being patted. The rest of the time they'll just follow you around like a shadow - leading to their nickname of the 'velcro dog'. | AFP via Getty Images
4. Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is the UK's - and the world's - most popular dog. One of the many reasons for this is that they are tremendously affectionate towards their owner (and, often, complete strangers). Even if they are not in full-on cuddle mode they'll want to be touching you, even if it's just their paw on your leg. | Getty Images