19 Pets That Like to Cuddle (With Info & Pictures)

There’s perhaps no better way to end a hard day of work than cuddling up on the couch with your best friend. After all, there’s a good reason that over 65 million American households have a dog as part of their families.¹ Pets offer so much to their owners, from unconditional love to steadfast loyalty. They entertain us when we’re down and even give us a good excuse to get outside.

At the end of the day, pets are our faithful companions. For example, dogs can read human emotions and probably know us better than we do!² We often want to reciprocate with touch, such as petting or cuddling. However, different animals respond in varying ways to handling. Early socialization is a significant factor, along with the animal’s history. Some are born cuddlers, though, like the 19 pets on this list. Before you read on, grab a blanket and your spot on the couch to share with your BFF!

The 19 Pets That Like to Cuddle

1. Cockatoo

The cockatoo is probably one of the best cuddlers you’ll find in the avian world. It can’t get close enough to you! These birds are big enough to hold and sweet enough to handle. They like having their heads scratched too. You can teach your cockatoo to bow its head down and fan out its crest for gentle scritches. Its gentle manner and adorable brown eyes seal the deal every time.

2. American Shorthair Cat

You know you have a cuddler on your hands when you meet an American Shorthair for the first time. What else can you say about a cat that is so easygoing? It certainly helps that they have such a sweet nature. You’ll never want to stop cuddling this cat just because they’re incredibly affectionate. When they’re not snuggling, they’re probably entertaining themselves with a toy or watching the birds flit around outside the window.

3. Boxer

The Boxer is a delightful pet. They have such an outgoing, happy-go-lucky manner. If they’re not cuddling, they’re probably doing something to make you smile. This pup feeds on your positive responses because they are so eager to please. This pup is a high-energy dog, so you’ll have to make sure they get enough exercise every day to settle down and snuggle up to you.

4. English Lop Rabbit

You may not think of the English lop rabbit as your first choice for a cuddler, but enthusiasts bred this bunny to be affectionate and friendly. This is a larger pet, with bucks getting up to 15 pounds. There are also its adorable ears, hence the name. This bunny loves people to a fault. You’ll make its day if you invite it to snuggle with you.

5. Horse

Nearly 2 million American households include a horse among their pets. It’s easy to see why, especially if you have the time and space. It may surprise you to learn how loving and fun horses are. They form strong attachments to their owners too. A horse is not a pet for everyone because of the financial commitment to raise one. However, you’ll enjoy your equine friend for a long time.

6. Labrador Retriever

There are too many reasons to count for why the Labrador Retriever is one of the AKC’s most popular breeds. They’re smart with a clownish side. They’re loving and affectionate in a way no other dog can beat. This is a keeper for one of the best cuddling pets you’ll ever find. The great thing is that they want to be around you as much as you want them there beside you.

7. Leopard Gecko

The leopard gecko is probably one of the cutest reptiles you’ll ever find. It’s easy to care for, which makes it a good choice for the kids too. It’s also relatively long-lived for an animal this size. A healthy gecko can live up to 20 years with the right lighting and cage.

8. Cockatiel

The cockatiel makes a delightful pet that is surprisingly intelligent and affectionate. It can even pick up a word or two if you’re patient. This bird responds well to handling and genuinely seems to enjoy the attention. The essential thing is to make sure its cage is out of drafty areas. Toys are also vital to keep this curious avian from chewing anything inappropriate when you let it out for some exercise.

If you’re new to the wonderful world of cockatiels, you’ll need a great resource to help your birds thrive. We highly recommend taking a closer look at The Ultimate Guide to Cockatiels, available on Amazon.

This excellent book covers everything from the history, color mutations, and anatomy of cockatiels to expert housing, feeding, breeding, and health care tips.

9. Ball Python

Different snakes have varying personalities. The ball python is one of the gentlest ones you’ll meet. It also helps that it’s one of the smaller serpents, only reaching a maximum size of 5 feet. It will enjoy wrapping itself around your arm to take advantage of your body heat to stay warm. With proper care, it’ll live up to 30 years.

10. Ferrets

The best pets that like to cuddle are those that have a lot of practice doing it. Meet the ferret! This critter is all about getting and receiving love. If it’s not snuggling with you, it’s entertaining you with its clownish behavior. If you’ve had a bad day, the ferret will cheer you up like no other pet can. Ferrets are intelligent animals and curious too. That’s something to remember when you let it out to play.

11. Ragdoll

Few breeds will melt your heart quite like the Ragdoll. This pet is the epitome of a cuddling cat. They’re affectionate and always ready to show their love. While they are quite playful, they are also low energy. After all, there’s a good reason for the breed’s name. This mellow feline will adore curling up next to you on the sofa for hours on end.

12. Havanese

The Havanese has a lot of experience as a cuddler. What else can you say about a breed that is the national dog of Cuba? Fanciers lavished this pup with affection and love. This pup took it all in, enjoying every minute of it. They’ll feel the same about snuggling with you. This happy dog always seems to be wearing a smile on their face. We can’t think of a better companion!

13. Chinchilla

The Chinchilla is about as adorable as it gets for a small animal. You’ll enjoy cuddling with it too, as its fur is absolutely luxurious! Handling it often is essential to hone its social skills, and it’ll respond with lots of love. The important thing to understand about this herbivore is that it’s nocturnal. Daytime is for resting and the nights are for fun. It also makes an excellent choice for a first-time pet owner.

14. Siamese

The Siamese invites your attention with an open door. Their personality is absolutely charming. This cat thrives on attention and will share it in kind. After all, they have friends in high places. The King of Siam was a fan, and it’s easy to see why the modern kitty is such a sweetie. This cat fits into the role of a cuddler well. They can almost feel lost without their human companions.

15. Potbellied Pig

The potbellied pig is basically the porcine version of the Great Dane. While its name might imply that it’s small, this pet can get up to 250 pounds! Early training and socialization are imperative with this animal. It’s quite intelligent, though, which will make your task easy. You can even housebreak it. It’s essential that you provide mental stimulation for it, as a bored pig is a destructive one.

16. Havana Rabbit

The Havana rabbit is a small pet that only weighs about 6 pounds when fully grown. Despite its name, this rabbit isn’t from Cuba; some people thought that it looked like something that the country is well-known for, though: cigars. Regardless of its history, this little critter is a sweetheart. It’s quite friendly, which makes it an excellent choice for older children for a first pet. It’s also an easygoing bunny that will enjoy the love you give it.

17. Bombay Cat

The Bombay is the feline version of the kid that never grows up. They’ll always be a kitten at heart. They are quite agile, too. If there’s a high shelf in a room, they’re bound to find it. They also adore people. This feline won’t just cuddle next to you; they’ll want to be on top of you to get as close as they can. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a pet that is more loving than this one.

18. Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever is probably on everyone’s list for their favorite dog for cuddling. It helps that they look like a huge stuffed animal. This sweetheart will tolerate lots of snuggling. In fact, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more affectionate pup. The breed has a long history as a hunting companion and is an excellent gun dog. This pup just loves people!

19. Bichon Frise

This pup with a history of being pampered and spoiled by French royalty, so you know that they’re class-A cuddlers. It certainly helps that they are incredibly affectionate. You’ll want to cuddle forever with this pup! The Bichon is the kind of dog that just makes you smile.

Final Thoughts

If you thought that only dogs like to cuddle, this roundup shows that many animals can physically bond with their owners. They want to share your warmth and companionship. It also probably makes them feel more secure. It’s one of the greatest joys of inviting a pet into your home. As you can see, you have plenty of choices!

• See also: Low Maintenance Pets That Like to Cuddle

Featured Image Credit: Alina Kruk, Shutterstock