Dogs are some of the best companions that we can ask for, but depending on the breed and upbringing, their personality, temperament, and independence can vary wildly. Some dog breeds just crave constant companionship and shadow their owners’ every move. “Velcro dogs,” as they are affectionately called, love nothing more than spending all of their time with their caretakers.
Some can be so needy that they often can’t even spend more than an hour home alone and can manifest their neediness in destructive behaviors. However, for people who can afford to give their undivided attention to these dogs, they can be exceptionally loving pets that show loyalty like no other.
1. Visla
The Visla is often referred to as the ultimate Velcro dog. The breed is known for sticking by their humans’ side and never wanting to be separated from them.
They were originally bred for close work in the field, and they crave consistent company and will feel insecure and anxious if they are left alone for extended periods of time.
2. Labrador Retriever
Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular dogs in America, but they are also one of the clingiest. Labs love their owners so much that they want to take part in every aspect of their lives.
They will often hop on the couch to be closer to you and, in some cases, may even follow you into the bathroom, showing just how attached they are.
3. Border Collie
Border Collies are some of the most loyal and intelligent breeds out there, but this also means that they have a need for constant mental and physical stimulation from their owners.
They often don’t know when to stop with their seemingly limitless energy and are not a breed for many unprepared owners. For those who can handle them, they are amazing dogs that can fit into an active lifestyle.
4. Australian Shepherd
Australian shepherds, or “Aussies” as they are often called, were originally bred as herders and want to engage in every activity with their owners. They love to work and need physical stimulation to thrive and be happy.
They love working alongside their owners in activities and can develop separation anxiety when left out for too long.
5. French Bulldog
French bulldogs are some of the sweetest breeds around despite their tough-guy looks. Frenchies love to follow their owners no matter where they go, even in the bathroom.
They have a craving for constant attention, which, coupled with their need to have their healthcare checked and frequent grooming, can put many people off. For those willing to put in the effort, they are great cuddle buddies.
6. Boxer
Boxers have endless energy and a desire to always be as close as they can be to their owners. They love human connection above all else, as they are often among the top breeds that are called Velcro dogs.
This is because they will sometimes literally want to sit on their owner’s lap, no matter how big they are. This breed can be prone to separation anxiety and needs social interaction in order to thrive properly. Their neediness is often hidden behind their playful nature.
7. Pug
Pugs are some of the most well-renowned lap dogs. They are specially bred to be human companions, and their playful nature mirrors their clinginess.
Pugs hate to be left alone and often can’t stand sitting in a room and watching their owners leave it. Pugs can develop behavioral problems if they don’t get enough attention or their affection is ignored.
8. Doberman Pinscher
Doberman Pinschers are fiercely protective breeds that often don’t want to leave their owners out of their sight. They often act as a shadow, needing to stay close to their owners and ensuring that they are safe and protected.
Their guarding instincts and strong emotional bond are what make them so needy. The breed needs a lot of mental engagement to prevent anxiety and destructive behaviors.
9. Labradoodle
Labradoodles combine some of the best features from Labradors and Poodles. They have an incredibly affectionate nature while also being extremely intelligent, but these traits also mean they require a lot of stimulation in order to be happy.
Their coats also require frequent grooming, and they need exercise and mental stimulation almost daily. These designer dogs are high-maintenance, but great for those who can suit their needs.
10. Siberian Husky
The Siberian husky is a notoriously difficult dog breed that is known for their teamwork and endurance. They are pack dogs, which means they thrive off of social interaction and need a lot of physical exercise.
If left alone, huskies can get bored easily, leading to destructive behaviors or notorious howling and barking. They are some of the most demanding breeds when it comes to providing time and attention to them.
11. Cattle Dogs
Australian cattle dogs and many terrier breeds are bred to have high energy levels and work closely with people. Their neediness comes from working breeds, where they lived to please their owners.
These hereditary traits mean that they will follow their owners everywhere they go and often whine or bark if they feel they aren’t getting enough attention. They hate being left alone and can often develop anxiety if not enough time is set aside for them.
12. Pit Bulls
While many believe that pit bulls are dominant dogs, they are actually very sweet and affectionate, and able to develop very strong bonds with their owners.
They love affection through human touch and can be destructive or loud when they are ignored. They are another Velcro dog breed that needs a lot of stimulation in order to stay happy.
13. Doodles
Doodles like Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, and others all rely on companionship in order to thrive. Their hybrid mix of different breeds gives them advantages, but also means that they demand a lot from their owners in the form of frequent exercise, play time, and general attention.
They also require frequent grooming, making them higher-maintenance breeds for those who are prepared to put in the effort.
14. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a classic Velcro dog. These lap dogs were bred to be companions for the royal family, and love human affection. They’ll sit on your lap for hours and trail you from room to room, hoping for a pat on the head or a cuddle.
They hate to be left alone and can become depressed if they don’t receive enough attention from their owners.
15. Maltese
Don’t let their small stature fool you—Maltese dogs are emotionally large. These furry sweethearts live for attention and must be held, cuddled, and doted upon. They’ll become visibly upset if left alone for too long, and will bark or pace a lot.
Their clinginess makes them excellent lap dogs, but not ideal for people who are away from home often.
16. Papillon
Papillons are intelligent, active, and very people-oriented. Despite those dainty butterfly-like ears, they are watchful and attentive companions to their owners.
They attach themselves firmly to their people and thrive on companionship, activity, and mental stimulation. Left alone too much, they can fret and develop unwanted habits. They enjoy being the star of your show—daily.
17. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are tiny powerhouses that are extremely intelligent and affectionate. They love to be with their humans and will expect to be included in everything—from your morning coffee to your Netflix binge.
They form strong attachments and will sulk when left alone. Their intelligence also requires them to get daily mental stimulation, or they will act out.
18. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were bred for centuries to sit on royal laps and command adoring attention—and they haven’t let it go. These dogs love being pampered and are most happy when attached to your hip.
They’re not big fans of solitude and may pout if left for too long. Expect them to follow you like a fluffy, royalty-stamped shadow.
19. Great Dane
Despite their massive size, Great Danes are gentle giants whose hearts beat for human companionship. They’re the ultimate giant lap dogs and will lean, sit, or sprawl wherever humans happen to be.
They thrive on affection and will become anxious or destructive if left alone too long. If you’re seeking space, they didn’t get the memo.
20. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are thin, delicate, and emotionally demanding. Their sensitive nature sees them bond deeply with their owners and tremble or whine if they get left behind.
They enjoy being wrapped up in a blanket with you and don’t handle alone time well. Their loyalty is intense—picture tiny loving shadows with four long legs and an eye for your every move.
21. Weimaraner
The “Gray Ghost” Weimaraner is not just spooky beautiful, they’re also clingy to a fault. Bred for close-range hunting, they adore being close to their humans at all times.
They get seriously distressed when left alone and will become destructive. They need daily exercise and reassurance—and if they had their way, they’d be stuck to you constantly.
22. German Shorthaired Pointer
German Shorthaired Pointers are active, loyal, and passionate companions. These sporty dogs are happiest when involved in your daily life and activities.
If they are not given enough exercise and sufficient emotional attention, they become destructive or anxious. They thrive on connection and want to be your running partner, snuggle buddy, and personal assistant—all rolled into one.
23. American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is as social as it is fluffy. These dogs adore their families and suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too long. They’re intelligent and like to learn tricks or simply sit quietly near their favorite human.
If you don’t mind white fur everywhere and a loyal companion who follows you around, they’re a great match.
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