If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Royal Kennel Club (that’s the new name for the UK Kennel Club) figures show that the number of people looking for puppies has surged to record levels over recent years.
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.
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 crossbreed.
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There is even scientific research to guide you, in particular psychologist Stanley Coren’s groundbreaking book The Intelligence of Dogs.
Before setting your heart on a particular dog it’s important to realise that different breeds tend to have have very different personalities and attributes.
Some hate to be separated from their owners for even short periods, affectionately known as ‘velcro dogs’, and need constant attention, approval and entertainment.
Some potential owners would love being the centre of these loving pooches’ universe, but if you’re looking to regularly leave a dog alone while you pop out to work or socialise you should maybe look elsewhere.
Meanwhile, others are far more sure of themselves – still loving their human family but perfectly happy to take some time out, entertain themselves, or just curl up by themselves for a nap.
Here are the 20 most and least sticky breeds of dog.
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13. Chow Chow
Chow Chow's are so independent thay can often seem positively unapproachable. They won't necessarily welcome hugs or pats, assuming such things to be slightly beneath them. | AFP via Getty Images
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14. Alaskan Malamute
Capable of pulling a sledge over the Arctic tundra for hours without resting, the Alaskan Malamute is not the sort of dog that naturally enjoys cuddles. A firm mutual respect is what owners should aim for, realising that this is a breed that needs its own space. | AFP via Getty Images
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15. Basenji
Famously the only dog that doesn't bark (it makes an odd yodelling noise instead), the Basenji is a hunting dog from Africa that could never be confused with a lap dog. These dogs see themselves as their owner's equal, with commands seen as recommendations to be considered. | AFP via Getty Images
16. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are determined, confident dogs bred to work independently underground to hunt small burrowing animals. Their strong-willed nature and self-confidence make them less dependent on continual human reassurance - they know what they like and don't need anybody to tell them what to do. | Getty Images