12 of The Top Dog Breeds Most Likely to Follow You Everywhere

Dogs are often celebrated for their unwavering loyalty, but some breeds are especially known for their intense need to stay close to their owners. These dogs, commonly referred to as “velcro dogs,” form deep emotional bonds and have a strong desire to be near their humans at all times. Whether it’s curling up on the couch, following from room to room, or sitting patiently by the door, their attachment is constant and heartfelt.

This clingy behavior usually stems from a combination of affectionate temperament, sensitivity, and an innate need for companionship. For these breeds, human presence brings comfort and reassurance, and separation,even for short periods,can feel unsettling.

If you’re looking for a dog that will be your loyal shadow, always eager to stay by your side, these breeds fit the bill. Below are 12 dog breeds most likely to follow you everywhere, ranked from those with strong attachment tendencies to those that form the most intense bonds.

12. Pug

Pugs are endearing little dogs with big hearts and an even bigger desire to be close to their people. Often referred to as “shadow dogs,” they have a natural tendency to follow their owners from room to room, simply wanting to be wherever their favorite humans are. Their affectionate and sociable nature means they thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention and interaction.

These small companions are not just loyal, they’re emotionally intuitive as well. Pugs have a way of picking up on their owner’s moods and will often snuggle close to offer quiet comfort. Their cheerful personalities and gentle demeanor make them excellent family pets, especially for those who appreciate a constant and loving presence.

While they don’t need excessive exercise, Pugs do enjoy short play sessions and leisurely walks, often sticking close during outings just as they do at home. Their clingy, people-oriented temperament means they’re best suited for homes where someone is often around, as they may struggle with being left alone for long periods. For those seeking a warm-hearted companion who is always close by, a Pug is a perfect match.

11. Border Collie

Border Collies are celebrated for their intelligence, agility, and remarkable focus, traits that have made them one of the top herding breeds in the world. While they are known for their independence and quick problem-solving skills, they also form deep and loyal attachments to their owners. This strong bond often results in them shadowing their humans throughout the day, particularly when they anticipate activity or see an opportunity to assist.

These dogs are incredibly observant and responsive to human cues, often watching their owners closely and mirroring their energy and movements. Their desire to stay close isn’t just about affection,it’s about being involved. Whether you’re heading outside, moving to a different room, or just shifting your routine, a Border Collie will likely be right there, ready to engage.

However, their sharp minds and high energy levels mean they require more than just companionship. Regular mental challenges and physical exercise are essential for their well-being. For the right owner,one who can provide structure, activity, and plenty of interaction,a Border Collie becomes an intensely devoted companion who thrives when they’re included in every part of daily life.

10. Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are intelligent and energetic dogs known for their herding instincts and strong desire to work. They form strong bonds with their owners and are often described as “velcro dogs” because they like being close to their people. Australian Shepherds are highly attentive and thrive on being involved in family activities. They are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please, making them excellent companions for active individuals or families. Australian Shepherds require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy, and they are always up for an adventure with their owners.

9. Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdogs, or “Shelties,” are small, intelligent dogs known for their herding abilities and affectionate nature. Shelties are highly loyal and form strong bonds with their owners, often following them from room to room. They are known for their gentle and loving disposition, making them excellent companions for families and individuals. Shelties are also highly trainable and eager to please, making them great partners for various dog sports and activities. Their strong attachment to their owners and desire to be involved in the family make them one of the most devoted breeds.

8. Dachshund

Dachshunds are small, curious dogs known for their unique body shape and lively personalities. They are highly affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners, often following them around the house. Dachshunds are known for their playful and adventurous nature, and they enjoy being involved in family activities. Despite their small size, they have a strong protective instinct and can be quite loyal to their owners. Dachshunds are also known for their stubbornness, but their loving nature and desire to be close to their people make them endearing companions.

7. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are friendly, intelligent, and affectionate dogs known for their gentle nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please. Golden Retrievers are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love always being close to their people. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being involved in family activities. Golden Retrievers are also excellent with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs. Their friendly and outgoing nature and strong attachment to their owners make them one of the most beloved breeds.

6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, elegant dogs known for their affectionate and gentle nature. They are highly social and form strong bonds with their owners, often following them around the house. Cavaliers are known for their love of cuddling and being close to their people, making them perfect lap dogs. They are also friendly and get along well with children and other pets. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are highly adaptable and do well in various living environments, including apartments and larger homes. Their loving and affectionate nature makes them excellent companions for those who enjoy always having a dog by their side.

5. Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, known for their friendly and outgoing nature. Labs form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please. They are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love to always be close to their people. Labrador Retrievers thrive on human interaction and enjoy being involved in family activities. They are also excellent with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs. Their friendly and affectionate nature and strong attachment to their owners make them one of the most devoted breeds.

4. Maltese

Maltese dogs are small, elegant dogs known for their long, flowing coats and friendly nature. They are highly affectionate and form strong bonds with their owners, often following them around the house. Maltese dogs thrive on human interaction and enjoy being close to their people, making them perfect lap dogs. They are also known for their playful and lively personalities, making them excellent companions for families and individuals. Maltese dogs are highly adaptable and do well in various living environments, including apartments and larger homes. Their loving and affectionate nature makes them one of the most devoted breeds.

3. Poodle

Poodles, whether standard, miniature, or toy, are highly intelligent and social dogs known for their versatility and friendly nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love to be close to their people. Poodles thrive on human interaction and enjoy being involved in family activities. They are also highly trainable and excel in various dog sports and activities. Poodles are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please, making them excellent companions for families and individuals. Their friendly and outgoing nature and strong attachment to their owners make them one of the most devoted breeds.

2. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus are small, affectionate dogs known for their friendly and gentle nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please. Shih Tzus are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love always being close to their people. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being involved in family activities. Shih Tzus are also excellent with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs. Their friendly and affectionate nature and strong attachment to their owners make them one of the most devoted breeds.

1. Havanese

Havanese dogs are small, friendly dogs known for their affectionate and gentle nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their loyalty and eagerness to please. Havanese dogs are often described as “velcro dogs” because they love to always be close to their people. They thrive on human interaction and enjoy being involved in family activities. Havanese dogs are also excellent with children and other pets, making them ideal family dogs. Their friendly and affectionate nature and strong attachment to their owners make them one of the most devoted breeds.

These dog breeds are known for their strong attachment to their owners and tendency to follow them everywhere. Whether it’s due to their affectionate nature, strong bonding instincts, or need for security, these dogs thrive on being close to their human companions. They are loyal and loving and enjoy being involved in family activities. If you’re looking for a devoted and affectionate companion who will always be by your side, these breeds are an excellent choice.