Small but great! These fluffy little dog breeds not only look cute, some mini four-legged friends are even smart asses.
Here you can find out why these little dogs shouldn’t be underestimated and what a real sports ace is in their small body.
13 fluffy little dog breeds at a glance
They are small, cute and cuddly. The fluffy mini dogs are anything but mere lap dogs.
Affenpinscher
Just don’t let boredom arise, seems to be the motto of the Affenpinscher. The small, all-black dog runs and plays with great enthusiasm and perseverance.
The Affenpinscher owes its name to the distinctive hair on its head and its whiskers. It grows up to 30 cm tall and can weigh 5 to 10 kilos.
Because this fluffy cute dog has a good mind and is very playful, it is ideal for dog sports.
Bichon Frize
The Bichon Frisé probably fulfills all expectations of a so-called lap dog. Because this breed, which can be up to 30 cm tall, impresses with its friendly nature and is a happy nature with white curly hair.
The poodle-like dog usually gets along well with other dogs and is also friendly towards strangers.
He is an uncomplicated companion who likes to be cuddled – even on his lap. This breed of dog sheds very little, so the coat needs to be brushed regularly.
By the way, you can find more dog breeds with curly hair here: Top 20 dog breeds with curly hair
Bolognese
The Bolognese is a very undemanding dog that demands little and enjoys the company of its people.
He has a soft, white fur and is a rather quiet fellow. With a size of 20 to 30 cm, it weighs a maximum of 4 km.
Since he has no hunting instinct, taking off the leash for a walk is usually not a problem. The little fur nose is a real happy nature and gets along well with other animals.
Although he is a rather quiet companion, he is intelligent and likes to learn little tricks.
Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tuléar is a friendly companion with white fluffy fur resembling cotton.
Like the Bichon Frize, he makes a great companion. Due to his calm nature, he is suitable for beginners.
The Coton de Tuléar has a good mind and is very agile. As a result, he quickly learns tricks. This breed is also suitable for dog sports, but is not hyperactive despite this disposition.
With sufficient exercise and occupation, he is undemanding and enjoys the company of his caregivers.
Havanese
When it comes to fluffy mini dog breeds, the Havanese should not be missing.
The dog, which can be up to 27 cm tall and has a long, soft coat, has a white base color and various shades.
His cute look and friendly nature make him an excellent companion. He is playful, cheerful and fond of children, which makes him a good family dog.
The «Havi» likes to be in the center of the action and loves to learn tricks.
Although dog sports should not be overdone, this fluffy little breed of dog is also ideal for dog dance or agility.
Maltese
With its white fur and cute snub nose, the Maltese is also easily confused with the white Coton de Tuléar.
Its fur is usually bright white, but can also have ivory stitches. It grows long and should be trimmed regularly.
This fluffy little four-legged friend has a friendly nature and tries to please its owner. However, one should not let oneself be twisted around one’s fingers.
With a loving and non-violent upbringing, you get an excellent everyday partner with the Maltese.
Pekingese
The Pekingese comes from China and was reserved exclusively for the emperor as a palace dog. Today, however, as a company and companion dog, he also gets involved with the middle-class people.
You can quickly recognize him by his large, protruding eyes and short nose.
The intelligent and alert dog breed grows to about 25 cm. A “lion-like appearance with an attentive, intelligent expression” is set as the breeding standard for him.
Because the Pekingese through his short nose often suffers from shortness of breath, the breeding standard has also been adjusted here, so signs of respiratory problems are unacceptable.
Shih Tzu
It may come as a surprise at first, but the little Shih Tzu is a real guard dog.
Like the Pekingese, the Shih Tzu has a lion-like appearance. In the monasteries of Tibet, the monks use him as a watchdog thanks to his good hearing.
The maximum 27 cm tall dog has a proud demeanor and enjoys a lot of attention. However, the Shih Tzu is also a real stubborn one that needs a lot of patience and consistency in training.
Its long and dense coat is bred in all colors, even multicolored dogs are allowed. The head is particularly fluffy and often covers the ears.
Volpino Italiano
Without a doubt, a Volpino Italiano brings atmosphere into the home. The spirited Italian also has a clingy, cuddly side.
The little fur nose belongs to the Spitz family and is a real bundle of energy. It can reach a size of 30 cm and has a white or red coat, even champagne coloring is tolerated.
Being very alert and watchful, he barks frequently.
The Volpino Italiano learns very quickly and should therefore be kept busy not only physically but also mentally.
West Highland Terriers
The «Westi» is small but fearless. No wonder, since it was originally used to hunt martens, otters and foxes. Today he tends to chase balls through some gardens.
Not least because of its famous advertising face, this dog breed has developed into a popular dog for families.
Originally from Scotland, the white terrier is a loyal soul and loves his family more than anything.
Despite its small size of a maximum of 30 cm, it is not a beginner’s dog. He needs a self-confident and consistent caregiver.
Yorkshire terriers
Confident, intelligent and curious, these qualities apply to the Yorkshire Terrier. The little Briton grows up to 23 cm and has medium-length, mostly brown-grey fur.
Visually, he is a fluffy, sweet dog, but originally he was a hunting dog with a lot of movement. Occasionally he also tends to overestimate himself and takes on larger conspecifics.
The Yorkshire Terrier needs consistent leadership and his dazzling personality must be taken seriously, then he is a strong-nerved everyday companion.
miniature poodle
A narrow snout, hanging ears and slightly slanted eyes, this is how the miniature poodle presents itself. Its finely curled fur comes in black, white, brown, gray, and apricot colors.
This breed originated in France.
Despite its small size of 24 to 28 cm, the miniature poodle is an athletic dog and can be enthusiastic about many dog sports.
In fact, it is one of the smartest dog breeds.
Good to know:
Want a fluffy dog that doesn’t shed? Since the poodle species do not lose their fur, they are also ideal for allergy sufferers.
Pomeranian
Another small fluffy dog breed with a big personality is the Pomeranian.
He usually has an orange coat and a light chest. At just 18 to 22 cm, it is one of the smallest dog breeds.
The Pomeranian is an intelligent dog that seeks activity and entertainment. Since he is very affectionate, he does not like to be left alone.
With the Pomeranian, a high level of self-confidence often goes hand in hand with overconfidence, so it needs good training to put a stop to the cockiness.
While this fluffy sweet breed of dog has a distinct personality, it weighs in at just 3.5kg and is a real flyweight. The Pomeranian is popular with older people in particular, as the pull on the leash is not great due to its low weight.
Attention danger!
Although small dogs are often considered lap dogs due to their small size, they need loving and consistent training.
Otherwise the small, fluffy dog will quickly become an unpopular mob and barker.