Dog breeds that make the best lap dogs 20240307 p5pqzd.html – Breaking News & Latest Updates 2026
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10 lap dog breeds perfect for a sofa snuggling companion

Rachael Gavin
Rachael Gavin

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When looking for a dog there are lots of things to consider, including how you want to spend your time with them.

For some it's being active and going on walks and adventures in the great outdoors, while others want company and a furry friend to cuddle up with on the sofa.

If you're looking for the latter, then you need what's called a lap dog. Most of these breeds were bred specifically to be companions rather than for hunting or herding, so they have an inbuilt love of snuggling on the couch.

Read on to find out which dog breeds make excellent snuggle buddies.

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Affectionate, loving, friendly and patient are just some of the words used to describe this breed, making it an ideal lap dog for a family.

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Maltese
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Maltese

This breed's size makes it an ideal choice for a lap dog. And despite the amount of fur they have, they don't tend to shed that much.

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French bulldog
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French bulldog

French bulldogs love being around their owner, sitting with them and on their lap.

They also love snuggling just as much as being near their owner, making them perfect as a couch companion.

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Shih Tsu
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Shih Tsu

These dogs were once gifted to Chinese emperors to be their companions, so they have a long history of being lap dogs.

Their small size, gentle nature and playful personality also mean they're lovely if you want a dog for company.

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Chihuahua
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Chihuahua

When it comes to size, chihuahuas are probably the smallest lap dog option. But even though they fit well in your lap they are quite athletic.

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Yorkshire terrier
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Yorkshire terrier

This breed was the lap dog of choice for ladies in the Victorian era, prior to that it was more of a working class dog bred to hunt rats.

Today, Yorkies still make good lap dogs and are known for being friendly, but can also be excitable.

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Dachshund
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Dachshund

Dachshunds can be good lap dogs, given their small size, but they are prone to obesity so do need a medium amount of exercise.

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Italian greyhound
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Italian greyhound

They might not look like lap dogs at first glance, but Italian greyhounds are cuddly dogs that love being near their owner.

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Bichon Frisé
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Bichon Frisé

This breed is super fluffy, friendly and affectionate and when you combine that with their small size that equals perfect lap dog.

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