dog saliva is not 'clean' in any sense of the word. A dog bite can become infected just as easily as any other animal bite. Allah decreed dogs are to stay outside, and we should only have hunting or guard dogs. He has his reasons and He knows more than we do and only tells us what He wants us to know.
I love dogs personally..they are a great companion animal but they are now off my list of potential future pets, unless I get one to serve as a guard or hunting dog. Since I don't hunt and not likely going to train my dog strictly to be a guard dog..I probably end up not getting one at all.
Fortunately I am also a cat lover and reptile lover..so I will not run out of choices to have as a pet once I am in a place where pets are allowed. (ie back to living in my own place instead of my folks)
There are other ways to spend time around dogs without owning one. Most shelters will be glad to let you take any of their dogs for a walk. Many also like having places to temporary foster a dog, taking a part time job as a dog walker...all can give that dog/human interaction.
Other furry pets can fulfill that cuddling need. As much as the stereotypical cat is seen as aloof and never comes when called, I have come across many affection cats who enjoy as much attention as a typical dog. Fostering for your local Humane Society can certainly expose you to many different cats till you find one who's as affectionate as you need etc. There are also the 'pocket' pets, guinea pigs, hamsters, rats, mice, chinchillas etc. which also make good pets. Just do your research first, (use many sites to research, visit local library to pick up books etc) to ensure you can provide the best home and understand the needs of these animals. Most are easy to care for but often to get the most enjoyment out of them, its good to research. Do it yourself too, not just rely on the knowledge of the guy/gal at the petshop. Many are knowledgeable, many aren't and can give wrong or incomplete information.