10 Dogs That Greet You With Licks (and 8 That Snuggle to Show Their Love)

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Mathew Abraham

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Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

 Dog licking a woman
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Few things warm the heart quite like the love of a dog. From playful licks that light up your day to quiet snuggles that soothe your soul, each breed has its own unique way of showing affection. Whether you’re greeted with a happy wag and a flurry of kisses or find comfort in a gentle cuddle on the couch, dogs remind us that love comes in countless forms. Explore these breeds that redefine devotion and discover the perfect companion for your life’s journey.

1. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retriever and other dogs
Blue Bird/Pexels

Labrador Retrievers are renowned for their friendly and loving nature, making them one of the most affectionate dog breeds. These energetic dogs are quick to greet their human companions with enthusiastic licks, often showing their affection through this simple yet meaningful gesture. Known for their social and playful demeanor, Labs enjoy the interaction and love that comes with licking. Whether it’s a lick to the face or a quick kiss on the hand, they express their love with a joyful enthusiasm that’s hard to resist.

2. Golden Retriever

Golden Retriever
Svetozar Milashevich/Pexels

Golden Retrievers are famous for being incredibly affectionate and loyal. While they are known for their loving cuddles, their penchant for licking is just as significant. When they’re not snuggling up next to you, Golden Retrievers love to shower you with kisses. This affectionate behavior is part of their deep bond with their owners. They’ll lick your face, your hands, or even your feet—whatever brings them closer to you. Their licks are often seen as a way to show care, making them the perfect companions for someone who enjoys both cuddles and kisses.

3. Boxer

Boxer dog with a kid
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Boxers are active, fun-loving dogs that balance their playful energy with deep affection for their families. While they love a good play session, they also enjoy licking as a way to show their attachment. These dogs tend to be very loyal and are always looking for ways to connect with their people. Their licks often come with a wagging tail and an eager face, showcasing just how much they adore their owners. Boxers aren’t shy about showing affection, making them a delightful addition to any family.

4. Cocker Spaniel

Senior with Cocker Spaniel
freepik/Freepik

Cocker Spaniels are gentle, affectionate dogs that have a natural inclination to show their love through licking. With their long, expressive ears and big eyes, they often offer gentle licks to their owners, particularly when they’re excited to greet them. Known for their affectionate personalities, Cocker Spaniels make it clear that they enjoy close interactions with their family. Their licking isn’t just a habit; it’s a way for them to bond and express their deep affection for the people they love.

5. Dalmatian

dalmatian
Claudia Peters/pixabay

Dalmatians are high-energy dogs with a strong personality and a big heart. While they are known for their boundless energy, they also have a loving side that comes out through their licks. Dalmatians love to be around their owners and can often be seen giving quick licks as a way of showing affection. Their enthusiasm for life and for their human companions means that they don’t hold back when it comes to sharing their love, whether it’s through a lick or an exuberant cuddle session.

6. American Pit Bull Terrier

American Pit Bull Terrier
Muhamad Lutfi/Pexels

The American Pit Bull Terrier has a reputation for being misunderstood, but in reality, they are one of the most affectionate and loving breeds. These dogs are known to be especially loyal to their families, and they show their love through licking. Whether they’re greeting you after a long day or simply seeking your attention, their licks are a sign of their deep affection. Despite their tough exterior, Pit Bulls have a tender heart, and their licking behavior is one of the ways they connect with their loved ones.

7. Border Collie

a border collie in woman's lap
Yuli Como/Pexels

Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that thrive on interaction. While their main focus may be on learning new commands or keeping busy, they also have a tender side. These dogs are quick to show affection, and their licks are a common way to bond with their owners. When they’re not working or playing, Border Collies often express their love through gentle licks, seeking to connect with their human companions in a meaningful way.

8. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherd
Cottonbro studio/Pexels

Australian Shepherds are known for their boundless energy and intelligence, but they also have a soft, affectionate side. These dogs are quick to express their feelings, and their licks are one of the primary ways they do so. Whether they’re greeting you after you return home or simply seeking your attention, Aussie Shepherds are more than happy to shower you with love in the form of licks. Their energy doesn’t just translate into physical activity—it also fuels their desire to connect with their human family.

9. Beagle

Beagle
Gasanov_Igor/Pixabay

Beagles may be small in stature, but they have a heart full of affection. Their friendly and curious nature makes them great companions, and they’re always eager to express their love. Beagles are known to greet their owners with licks, often as a way to show their joy at seeing them. Their affectionate nature makes them great family pets, and their licks are a sweet reminder of just how much they care. They’ll happily offer kisses whether you’re at home or out on a walk, always eager to be close to you.

10. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terrier
Olga1205/Pixabay

Jack Russell Terriers are small dogs with big personalities. These feisty little dogs love to show their affection, and one of their favorite ways to do so is by giving licks. Whether they’re excited to see you or simply feeling playful, Jack Russells are quick to offer a lick or two as a sign of their attachment. Their energetic and affectionate nature makes them a great companion for active individuals or families, and their licks are a constant reminder of their love and devotion.

11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Woman in green dress holding adorable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Kaboompics.com/Pexels

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the epitome of cuddle bugs. These small, elegant dogs are known for their affectionate and loving nature. They adore snuggling up with their human companions, often curling up on laps or nestling close for warmth and comfort. Their gentle demeanor and strong desire to bond make them one of the best cuddle companions around. A Cavalier is happiest when they’re close to their family, showering them with love through snuggles and gentle nuzzles.

12. Pug

Pug lying on a bed with a person sleeping in the background.
Burst/Pexels

Pugs are known for their charming personalities and their love of cuddles. These little dogs have a big heart and enjoy nothing more than curling up next to their owners. Their wrinkled faces and adorable snorts are part of their unique appeal, but it’s their love for snuggling that truly wins over the hearts of those who meet them. Pugs are natural lap dogs, always looking for a warm spot to settle down with their human family, making them perfect companions for those who enjoy cozy cuddles.

13. Shih Tzu

Smiling couple holding a Shih Tzu.
Helena Lopes/Pexels

Shih Tzus are affectionate, loyal dogs that have a strong desire to be close to their family. Known for their adorable looks and sweet temperament, Shih Tzus are always looking for opportunities to snuggle. Whether it’s curling up next to you on the couch or hopping into bed for the night, Shih Tzus love to be by your side. Their calm and gentle nature makes them great cuddle buddies, and they’re always eager to show their love through soft, comforting snuggles.

14. Bichon Frise

bichon frise
rdne-5531267/pexels

Bichon Frises are small, cheerful dogs that thrive on human interaction. They’re always eager to show their love, and snuggling is one of their favorite ways to do so. These fluffy, affectionate dogs are often found curled up on laps or snuggling under blankets with their owners. Their friendly and playful demeanor makes them a delight to have around, and their love for cuddles ensures they’ll never be far from you. A Bichon Frise’s snuggles are a sweet reminder of their unwavering loyalty.

15. Pomeranian

Pomeranian
Алексей Гвоздев/Pexels

Pomeranians may be tiny, but they have a giant personality, especially when it comes to showing love. These fluffy little dogs are all about snuggling with their human family members. Pomeranians love to curl up on laps or nestle under blankets, always seeking warmth and affection. Their charming nature and eagerness to be close to their loved ones make them excellent cuddle companions, and they’ll always find a way to show their love through gentle snuggles and soft nuzzles.

16. Dachshund

Smiling couple holding a Dachshund.
Los Muertos Crew/Pexels

Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, are known for their affectionate nature and love of cuddles. These dogs enjoy spending time with their families, and they’re always up for a snuggle session. Whether they’re curled up in your lap or snuggled by your side in bed, Dachshunds are always looking for ways to be close to their loved ones. Their loyalty and love for cuddling make them a perfect companion for anyone who enjoys a good snuggle.

17. Chihuahua

Chihuahua in the arms of a girl
musicFactory lehmannsound/Pexels

Chihuahuas are small dogs with a big attitude, and they’re always looking for affection from their owners. Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas love to snuggle, often seeking out their human companions for warmth and comfort. Whether they’re nestled in your lap or burrowing under blankets, these dogs enjoy being close to their family members. Their love for cuddling makes them a great choice for people who want a small, affectionate dog that’s always ready to show some love.

18. Maltese

Maltese
ShotRAV/Pixabay

The Maltese, with its silky white coat and affectionate nature, is a perfect cuddle companion. These small dogs thrive on human connection and love to snuggle in your lap, by your side, or under a blanket. Their calm demeanor and hypoallergenic coat make them ideal for anyone seeking a loving, low-maintenance companion. Always ready to provide comfort, the Maltese offers warm, soothing snuggles that feel like a hug from a dear friend year-round.

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