There are an estimated 13 million pet dogs in the UK - and that number keeps rising.
If you are looking to join the doggy club you have plenty of research to do - the Kennel Club recognises 221 different breeds of pedigree dog and there are also numerous crossbreeds, from mongrels to so-called ‘designer dogs’ like Labradoodles.
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.
They will be less than understanding of any social life that you may have, instead being keen for another night on the couch.
Here are 17 breeds that fit the bill as velcro dogs.
9. Labrador Retriever
The UK's most popular dog for umpteen years (although it has lately received some competition from the French Bulldog), the Labrador Retriever will rarely leave their owner's side unless forced to. On walks it's unusual for these lovable creatures to stray far enough to lose sight of their humans. | Canva/Getty Images
10. Golden Retriever
What is true of the Labrador Retriever also tends to be true of close cousins the Golden Retriever - and that's the case with their general stickiness. They will tend to be very interested in everything you are doing, and keep a close eye on how you are doing it. | Canva/Getty Images
11. Bichon Frise
Cheerful, affectionate, and playful, Bichons thrive on being near their families. They love constant attention and quickly grow attached. These fluffy companions prefer shadowing their people over spending any time alone. | Canva/Getty Images
12. 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. | Canva/Getty Images