It’s estimated that there are a remarkable 13.5 million dogs in the UK - meaning that more that a third of homes contain at least one perfect pooch.
It means that dogs are, by quite distance, the most popular pet in the country (followed by cats and fish), with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, alongside numerous crossbreeds.
When it comes to choosing on your perfect pup there are many things to factor in, opting for a small dog if you don’t have much room at home, or a hypoallergenic dog if you suffer from allergies.
There’s also always the option of adopting a dog from a dog shelter for a minimal fee - for example from the Dogs Trust.
It’s also worth noting that some breeds of dog tend to be cheerier than others - you’d never accuse a Bloodhound of being brimming with joie de vivre.
So, if you’re looking for a dog that has a naturally sunny outlook and a mischievous smile, here are 17 worth popping on your shortlist.
13. Beagle
The American Kennel Club has it spot on when it describes the Beagle as "happy-go-lucky, merry, and friendly". When most dogs are happy they wag their tails, when a Beagle is happy they somehow manage to wag their entire body. | Canva/Getty Images
14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Known as the English Toy Spaniel in the USA, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel needs very little to be entirely content. Give them a few laps of the garden, a couple of meal a day, a comfortable spot to nap and a few naps and they'll be utterly, blissfully happy. | Canva/Getty Images
15. Maltese
When does happiness spill over into naughtiness? That's the line the Maltese tends to tred on most days - they can get into some tight spots due to a level of fearless belied by their small stature but mo matter what scrapes they get into, they'll always respond in good humour. It's hard to stay angry at that cheery wee face. | Canva/Getty Images
16. Pomeranian
The foxy face of the Pomeranian Spitz is perfectly designed to deliver a winning smile. It's infectious too - pretty much guaranteed to get you grinning too. | Canva/Getty Images