The 35 Cutest Dog Breeds You'll Want to Cuddle
From teeny tiny to extra large, these are the cutest pups around.
Dog lovers know that the cutest dog in the world is the one that’s yours. From their silly personality to their loving eyes and snuffly wet nose, other dogs just can’t compare. But even though the best dog is the one that you love, it's hard to deny that some dog breeds look extra cute, whether you have one of your own or you stop to pet one walking down the street.
Although it’s a tough job, we’ve tried to round up the cutest dog breeds out there. Whether they’re extra small (like an adorable dachshund) or a gentle giant (looking at you, Newfoundlands), each of these breeds has an adorable and iconic look to earn them a place on this list. It was a fierce competition, but among all the floppy ears and wagging tails, we think these are the cutest of all the dog breeds.
Dachshund
Who can resist a little wiener dog? Their long, wiggly bodies and stumpy little legs are just too funny, earning them the top spot on this list. They even come in miniature for an extra dash of cuteness.
Shiba Inu
These fox-like dogs are playful, spirited and inquisitive. (You may also recognize them as a meme). They can be stubborn, but they are one of the most popular breeds in Japan, where “Inu” means dog.
Golden Retriever
Look at that friendly grin! Golden locks and an upbeat attitude are trademarks of the much-loved golden retriever — and part of why they are some of the most popular dogs in the country.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
These pups are royally cute. Queen Elizabeth II had over 30 corgis in her lifetime! Their small size, big ears, and stubby tails are a winning combination.
Pomeranian
These puffballs pack quite a punch in the cuteness department. They are so small and fluffy that they almost look like teddy bears, with their bright eyes and button nose.
Siberian Husky
They may look like a mini wolf, but huskies are some of the most loyal dogs out there. From their beautiful, ice-colored eyes to their lusciously thick coat, Huskies are one of the most striking dog breeds.
Samoyed
These super-fluffy dogs are guaranteed adorable. Although their long white coat requires some upkeep (and does plenty of shedding), it’s worth it for how cute they are to cuddle.
Toy Poodle
These curly-haired cuties are small, standing only 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Their coats are hypoallergenic, and they are energetic dogs that love swimming!
Papillon
This breed is named for its fluffy ears: In French, the word “papillon” means butterfly. They make great lap dogs and are just the right size to scoop up in your arms.
Bichon Frisé
This is the classic little white dog, perfect for companionship. With the right grooming, you can give them a hilarious haircut to match their bright eyes and button nose.
Newfoundland
These dogs almost look like a mini bear, except for their long, floppy tongue. The American Kennel Club calls them “soft and soulful,” and they are famous for being good “nanny dogs” for young kids.
Chow-chow
Good thing chow-chows are so cute: they’re notoriously stubborn and difficult to train.
Maltipoo
This cross-breed pup is the result of breeding a miniature poodle with a Maltese. They’re known to be lively, energetic and just plain adorable.
Border Collie
This medium-sized herding dog isn’t just cute, but presents an air of sophistication, too. Apropos of a breed from across the pond!
Pug
Just try to resist that wrinkly face and smooshed-up muzzle! The curly tail seals the deal when it comes to cuteness.
Shih Tzu
If those big, soulful eyes and floppy ears don’t do it for you, the attitude will. This breed is known for showering its humans with affection and devotion.
Australian Shepherd
Beauty and brains, Aussies have got it all. These intelligent pups like having a job to do, so the people-pleasers pick up new tricks right away.
American Staffordshire Terrier
Am Staffs are just one of the breeds popularly called pit bulls, but don't let stereotypes fool you. These good-natured and smart pups love being a part of the family.
Beagle
Snoopy may be the world's most popular beagle, but the three-dimensional ones are just as charming. The lovable hounds like to follow their noses, occasionally right into trouble.
Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties love kids and cuddles on the couch. And with that long, adorable face, what more could you need? These herding dogs are both smart and obedient.
Caroline is a writer and editor with almost a decade of experience. From 2015 to 2019, she held various editorial positions at Good Housekeeping, including as health editor, covering nutrition, fitness, wellness, and other lifestyle news. She's a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism and dreams of the day Northwestern will go back to the Rose Bowl.
Alesandra is a digital travel and lifestyle journalist based in Los Angeles. Her work has appeared in Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Prevention, Insider, Glamour, Shondaland, AFAR, Parents, TODAY, and countless other online and print outlets. Alesandra has a masters degree in journalism with an emphasis on cultural reporting and criticism from NYU, and a bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley. An avid traveler, she trots the globe with her husband and their twins.
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