11 Clingy Dog Breeds Who Just Want to Be Held

Italian Greyhounds may look sleek and elegant, but they are sensitive souls who love nothing more than being held. They are prone to anxiety when left alone, which makes their desire for closeness even stronger. This breed often climbs into laps or presses against their owners for comfort. Their clingy nature is matched by their gentle personalities. An Italian Greyhound thrives in a home filled with affection.

Chihuahua

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Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with enormous personalities, and part of that personality is wanting constant attention. They bond deeply with their favorite humans and often demand to be carried or cuddled. Their small size makes it easy for them to be held, which only encourages their clingy behavior. Chihuahuas often act as if they’re tiny royalty, expecting to be doted on. Their need for closeness makes them fiercely loyal and entertaining companions.

Pug

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Pugs are cheerful, affectionate dogs who love being around people. They are famous for shadowing their humans from room to room, always ready for cuddles. Their affectionate personalities make them highly clingy, and they often try to curl up in laps. Pugs thrive on human companionship and quickly become distressed if left alone for too long. Their love of being held is as big as their personality.

Shih Tzu

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Shih Tzus were bred as royal lap dogs, and their clingy nature reflects their history. They adore being held and spoiled, often following their owners closely around the house. Their affectionate personalities make them happiest when they’re snuggled up on a couch or in someone’s arms. They thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention and love. For a Shih Tzu, being held isn’t just a want, it’s a need.

Papillon

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Papillons are small dogs with lively, affectionate personalities. Despite their active energy, they crave constant closeness to their families. They are often seen perched on laps or staying glued to their humans. Their expressive faces make it clear when they want attention. Their mix of playfulness and clinginess makes them affectionate companions who always want to be near.

Maltese

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Maltese dogs are affectionate and gentle, known for being deeply attached to their owners. They love cuddling and often insist on being carried or held. Their affectionate natures make them wonderful companions for those who enjoy constant closeness. Maltese can be prone to separation anxiety, further highlighting their clingy tendencies. Their love for being doted on makes them loyal, loving family members.

Bichon Frise

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Bichon Frises are cheerful, people-loving dogs who prefer to be in constant company. They thrive on cuddles and closeness, often acting like soft, fluffy shadows. They become anxious when left alone for too long, preferring the security of being held or petted. Their playful nature blends perfectly with their clingy personalities. A Bichon Frise’s favorite spot will always be next to their human.

Dachshund

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Dachshunds may be bold and adventurous, but they are also incredibly clingy with their families. They love curling up in laps or burrowing close under blankets with their people. Their devotion is strong, and they dislike being left alone. Their clinginess is often seen as part of their charm, making them affectionate companions. A Dachshund’s stubbornness melts away when they’re seeking cuddles.

Pekingese

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The Pekingese was once treasured by Chinese royalty, and their lapdog tendencies remain strong today. They enjoy being pampered, spoiled, and most of all, held close. Their devotion to their owners makes them clingy, always wanting to be near. They thrive on companionship and quickly attach themselves to their favorite humans. With their regal appearance and affectionate behavior, they are the definition of cuddly companions.

Toy Poodle

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Toy Poodles are intelligent and affectionate dogs who bond strongly with their families. Their small size and sensitive nature make them clingy, always eager to be held or comforted. They dislike being left alone and thrive on companionship and affection. Their combination of intelligence and devotion makes them both charming and endearing. A Toy Poodle’s clinginess only adds to their loving personality.

The Companions Who Follow Every Step

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Clingy dogs may sometimes feel demanding, but their devotion makes them unforgettable companions. They crave cuddles, reassurance, and constant closeness, turning ordinary moments into warmth and laughter. Their loyalty often shows in the way they shadow their humans, never far behind and always ready for affection. While their neediness can be a challenge, it’s also what makes them so deeply loving. In the end, their clinginess is simply proof of their unshakable bond and the endless love they give their families.