Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/national-cuddle-up-day/

Happy National Cuddle Up Day to all! In case you’re unfamiliar, it’s a day for cuddling and snuggling with someone you want to be close to. It can be a pet or a human, but pets get the lion’s share of the attention. Cuddling releases oxytocin, a hormone with tremendous health benefits that include warm, fuzzy feelings and pain relief. Oxytocin also aids in reducing heart disease and lowers blood pressure, stress, and anxiety. What other excuse do you need to cuddle on January 6?

Most Affectionate Dog Breeds

According to Southern Living Magazine, there are 16 breeds in particular that are known for their affectionate natures and the desire or willingness to cuddle. They run the gamut in size and looks, but they all enjoy a good cuddle session. Of course, you’ll want to check to see if your fur baby made the list, but there are a number of no-brainers on there that you had to see coming.

Retrievers

Besides Labradors and golden retrievers, cuddle bunny pibbles made the list (to no one’s surprise), as well as Newfies and Labradoodles. One surprise entry, however, was the imposing Great Dane, whose size shouldn’t fool you. Great Danes, they say, are darn good cuddlers. According to the American Kennel Club, they are friendly, patient, dependable, and “a joy to live with” as pets. They are often rambunctious as puppies but they become gentle giants in adulthood.

Cat Breeds that Enjoy Snuggling

Not to be out cuddled, there are at least 10 cat breeds that won’t turn tail and run when it’s time to snog. Assembled by Webbox, Ragdolls, Abyssinians, Maine coons, Burmese, Sphynx kitties, the Cornish Rex and Scottish Fold, as well as Himalayans and Siamese are the kings and queens of snuggling in the feline world.

People & Pets

Cuddling with pets isn’t limited to dogs and cats. Bunny owners everywhere will tell you that their silky soft rabbits are the pet to be beaten when it comes to championship cuddle bugs. Rabbits, as a matter of fact, have become popular emotional support animals due to their gentle temperament, size, and lower costs associated with ownership.

Pick Your Partner

Who or whatever you choose to cuddle with today, and regardless of your age, make it last and enjoy the high while it lasts. Oh, and you don’t have to wait for an official day to mark cuddling events. Take the opportunity every chance you get and improve your health along the way!

Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog