Are you interested in learning about your home’s finest small dog breeds? A dog’s capacity to adapt to a limited living environment, such as an apartment or condo, mainly depends on how energetic they are and how often they exercise.
While dogs with reduced energy levels might need less activity, they still need to be exercised to prevent weight gain, destructiveness, and depression. Many apartment residents prefer smaller breeds because they occupy less space than larger dogs.
A dog with a plush long coat is difficult to resist. They are particularly lovable, captivating, and lovely. Why not adore it? To find out more about some of our favorite small long-haired dog breeds, continue reading.
- Affenpinscher
- Bichon Frise
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Yorkipoo
- Silky Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Shiba Inu
- Pug
- Poodle
- Pomeranian
- Briard
- Afghan Hound
- Bergamasco
- Maltese
- Irish Setter
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Komondor
- Bearded Collie
- Havanese
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Table of Contents
1. Affenpinscher
The German word “affen” (which means “ape/monkey” and “pinscher” (terrier) means “dog”), often known as the “Monkey Dog,” is tiny but feisty, full of spunk and activity.
This mustachioed little devil is descended from the countless little terriers that filled stables and stores throughout Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries, eradicating rats and mice.
The Affenpinscher looks and behaves like a monkey terrier, living up to its name. They are terriers at heart, active, curious, bold, and stubborn, but they also enjoy playing around and being naughty. This breed has a propensity for barking and climbing. They get along with other dogs and pets better than most terrier breeds.
2. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is one of the most incredible “personality dogs” in the world despite being petite, hardy, and challenging. These appealing canine comedians have endured history’s ups and downs since antiquity by relying on their charisma, beauty, and intellect. A typical Bichon will be slightly shorter than a foot tall at the shoulder. The white hypoallergenic coat of this breed, which is silky and velvety to the touch, highlights the vast, black eyes and the dark leather on the nose and lips. Bichons make flexible friends who get along well with kids and other pets. Bichons are nice little watchdogs since they are alert and inquisitive, but they are lovers rather than warriors and think of everyone as a buddy they haven’t met before. They make the perfect city dogs due to their assurance and size.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, sometimes known as the Yorkie, exudes a strong sense of assurance, and why not? The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the most glitzy dogs around, drawing attention wherever they go with their silky coat and perky topknot. Due to their diminutive size, puppies frequently travel in luxury while being carried around by their adoring owners in unique dog purses.
A Yorkshire Terrier‘s heart beats with the tenacity of an old-school terrier beneath its light, lustrous, floor-length coat. Long before they were the beribboned lapdogs of Victorian ladies, Yorkies made their life as rats in mines and mills. Yorkies are sometimes cited as the most well-liked dog breed in several American cities because they are small but mighty little bundles of big-town attitude. Urbanites love them all over the world. Yorkies make excellent mini watchdogs since they live a long time and are hypoallergenic (their coats resemble human hair more than animal fur).
4. Yorkipoo
The Yorkipoo enjoys both humans and having a good time, though not always in that order. They will amaze their family and are always ready to put on a show for any guest, whether it be magic tricks or anything else. They are comfortable in their own skin and do not need to rely on their temper to keep them from being unduly hostile or snappy.
Anyone searching for a petite, confident dog with a lot of energy and an even bigger capacity for love could find the Yorkipoo to be a fantastic companion option.
5. Silky Terrier
The Silky, as they are commonly referred to, is a graceful small dog with a gorgeous, silky coat of tan and blue, which, as the name suggests, should not come as a surprise.
Despite its fragile-appearing exterior, this person possesses a strong and courageous spirit. It often surprises those unfamiliar with the haired dog breeds when they see a small Silky Terrier warn off intruders, frolic with giant dogs, or keep up with their owners on a trip.
6. Shih Tzu
Such a face! That lovely expression on those wide, dark eyes as they stare up at you! It should come as no surprise that Shih Tzu owners have been so enamored with this small long haired dog, “Lion Dog” for so long. Shih Tzu is known for their mischievous antics. Shi Tsu weigh in at 9-16 pounds, and height 8-11 inches at the shoulder. Despite their little stature, they are surprisingly robust (the Chinese say “sher-zer” instead of “sheed-zoo” or “sheet-su”). Few dogs are as lovely as a well-groomed Shih Tzu, so the coat, which comes in a variety of hues, is worth the work you will invest into it. This vivacious charmer lives her life being adorable.
The Shih Tzu is renowned for its exceptional affection for kids. They are an excellent pet if you live in an apartment or lack a large backyard because they are a little dog bred to spend most of their day within royal palaces. A Shih Tzu’s idea of fun is sitting on your lap and acting adorable while you attempt to watch TV. Some dogs live to dig tunnels and chase cats.
7. Shiba Inu
The temperament of the Shiba Inu is notorious for being bold and feisty. The Japanese have three adjectives to characterize the breed’s mental characteristics: kaani-i, which means “spirited bravery,” ryosei, which means “good attitude,” and soboku, which means “stubbornness” (alertness).
This breed’s intriguing, intellectual, and strong-willed disposition is the combination of all these characteristics.
8. Pug
Pugs’ large round heads, big, sparkling eyes, and wrinkled brows provide them with a range of human-like expressions, surprise, happiness, and curiosity that have delighted owners for centuries. Pug owners believe their breed is the perfect house dog. Pugs thrive in a temperate climate, neither too hot nor too cold, but with proper care, they can be their adorable selves anywhere.
The small but sturdy Pug, once the mischievous companion of Chinese emperors and later the mascot of Holland’s royal House of Orange, is now adored by millions of fans worldwide. Pugs exist to be loved and to be loved back. The Pug’s motto is “multum in parvo” (a lot in a little), which is an apt description of this small but muscular breed. They are available in three different colors: silver, apricot-fawn with a black face mask, and all black.
9. Poodle
The Poodle, whether Standard, Miniature, or Toy, and in black, white, or apricot, is a true aristocrat of dogdom. Under the curly, low-allergen coat hides an elegant athlete and year-round companion.
Poodles are available in three sizes: Standards must be at least 15 inches tall at the shoulder; miniatures must be 15 inches or less, and toys must be no taller than 10 inches. The build and proportions of all three varieties are the same. Poodles are typically seen at dog shows in the elaborate Continental clip. The Sporting clip, in which the coat is shorn to follow the outline of the squarely built, smoothly muscled body, is preferred by most pet owners. Forget any preconceived notions about Poodles: Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly intelligent dogs with incredible versatility. With his larger size and strength, the Standard is the family’s best all-around athlete, but all Poodles can be trained successfully.
10. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are intelligent and devoted to their families, in addition to being adorable and feisty with fur. However, you shouldn’t allow their adorableness to fool you. These fearless canines are self-sufficient and have brains of their own. They are perceptive of their surroundings and inquisitive about the world around them.
Sadly, in their thoughts, they are much larger than they actually are, which can sometimes drive them to harass much larger dogs than they actually should.
11. Briard
Large and lively, these dogs have been used as herders in the French countryside at least as far back as the reign of Charlemagne, also known as the Chien Berger de Brie.
They are not lacking in intelligence or strength, but what interests us is how their hair is parted and styled in a peek-a-boo fashion.
The shaggy coat of the Briard can be several different colors, including gray, tawny, and even black.
12. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is a model of contrasts due to the fact that despite their refined demeanor and air of superiority, these dogs aren’t above amusing people with their silly antics.
Even though this ancient breed is used to getting people’s attention, their distinctive flowing coat was created to serve a purpose beyond just a fashion statement.
The long, silky hair of the Afghan was originally developed to shield the breed from the severe climate in south Asia.
13. Bergamasco
Bergamascos are amiable, intelligent, patient, and dedicated friends, giving their owners plenty of reason to brag about their dogs. However, this breed’s one-of-a-kind coat is likely to be the feature that attracts the most individuals to it.
The unusual coat of the Bergamasco is surprisingly low-maintenance because it is composed of mats that grow naturally.
A Bergamasco does not shed, does not need to be brushed, and does not need to be bathed more than two or three times a year, as stated by the American Kennel Club. Where do we make our registration?
14. Maltese
The tiny Maltese, dubbed ‘Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,’ has been living in luxury since the Bible was still a work in progress. Maltese is playful, charming, and adaptable toy companions known for their show-stopping, floor-length coats.
Maltese are small, affectionate toy dogs with a long, straight, silky coat that weighs less than seven pounds. A compact body moves with a smooth and effortless gait beneath the all-white mantle. The overall effect is one of free-flowing elegance and balance. With its big, dark eyes and black gumdrop nose, the irresistible Maltese face can win over even the most jaded sensibility.
Maltese, despite their aristocratic appearance, are tough and adaptable pets. They make alert watchdogs fearless in a charming toy-dog way, and they are lively little agility athletes. Maltese are low-shedding, long-lived dogs who enjoy meeting new people of all ages. They can be stubborn and willful sometimes, but they respond well to reward-based training.
15. Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a lively gundog with grace, speed, and a flashy red coat. They are well-known for being excellent family dogs, with sweet-tempered companions for the adults and romping playmates and tennis-ball fetchers for the kids. Its supporters describe the Irish Setter as the most beautiful dog breed. The Irish are known for their brilliant coat of mahogany or chestnut, standing more than two feet at the shoulder and having a substantial yet elegant build.
With their long, sinewy legs and powerful rear drive, the Irish are among the fastest of all sporting dogs. For over 200 years, the Irish Setter’s lovable personality has endeared the breed to sportspeople and pet owners. Irish are friendly dogs who enjoy making new friends. These rowdy redheads are big kids at heart, but they want to please and will respond to patient, positive training. They are described as daring and rugged hunting partners with a devil-may-care attitude toward their work.
16. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese mountain dog is an absolute head-turner thanks to the distinctive facial features it possesses as well as its thick double coat.
Are you enamored by the magnificent appearance of this colossal breed’s thick coat? You’ll be relieved to know that in addition to being charming and cuddly, these dogs tend to be very calm.
During the shedding seasons, which occur twice a year, you should be prepared to brush your dog every single day.
17. Komondor
This dog definitely sticks out from the rest of the pack. The Komondor is a large breed with the instincts of a guard dog and is coated with thick, white cords. This breed originated in Hungary and is known for its protective nature.
If you want a dog with a long coat but don’t want to try to brush it, a Komondor can be the ideal choice for you.
Just a heads up: they do not need to have their fur brushed, but they do need to be bathed regularly. Regardless of whether or not the dog has dreadlocks, no one wants a dog that stinks.
18. Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie (‘Beardie’ to his friends) is a boisterous and charismatic Scottish droving dog who enjoys outdoor exercise in all weather. They are bred to make their own decisions and can be stubborn, but they are always friendly. Beardies, which stand 20 to 22 inches at the shoulder and have a shaggy double coat from head to tail, resemble the Old English Sheepdog, another British favorite. Under their coats, beardies are the more lean and angular of the two. The extravagant facial hair should not be allowed to obscure the signature expression: a dreamy, faraway gaze. Beardies can be a handful, but they’re mostly 50 pounds of heart, energy, and laughter. Beardies who have been socialized do well with other animals and children. They quickly become bored, so training must be kept interesting. Outdoorsy families looking for a strong dog to join them in their active lifestyle will not find a more affectionate and entertaining companion.
19. Havanese
The fact that the large long-haired dog, Havanese was formerly known as the “Havana Silk Dog” shouldn’t come as much of a surprise to anyone.
This magnificent dog, known as the “straight man” in the canine community, earns a spot on our list thanks to the silky beauty of its coat.
The Havanese is a toy dog breed that is known for its lively energy and small size. Despite its diminutive size, this dog packs a tremendous punch.
20. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
That lovely face! This coiffure! The golden-brown Cavalier has everything a woman could want regarding the appearance of a small long-haired dog.
It certainly doesn’t hurt that their long, silky coat requires only the occasional brushing, which is a comparatively low-maintenance requirement. These sweethearts get along swimmingly with children and can adjust to surroundings that are either very energetic or very quiet.
