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.
13. 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. | Canva/Getty Images
14. German Shepherd
They may have a tough reputation as police and military dogs but the eagerness to please humans that makes German Shepherds so good at those jobs also means that they see themselves as a companion for life who will stick to their human like glue. | Canva/Getty Images
15. Border Collie
When it comes to close relationships between animals and humans, there are few closer than that formed between a Border Collie and its owner. Fiercely intelligent, these dogs are pack animals who can create a near-psychic bond that makes them perfect for herding sheep. Even as a household pet, they'll be as one with their family and will rarely want or need time alone. | Canva/Getty Images
16. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The snuggly Cavalier King Charles Spaniel utterly loves constant companionship and affection. They form strong attachments with their humsn and rarely want to be alone. Their sweet nature and desire for closeness make them true lap-loving Velcro dogs. | Canva/Getty Images