In a world where canine companions come in all shapes and sizes, small dog breeds with long, luxurious coats capture hearts and turn heads wherever they go. These pint-sized pooches exude elegance and charm, making them the stars of any dog park or neighborhood walk. From the silky strands of the Shih Tzu to the flowing mane of the Yorkshire Terrier, these diminutive dynamites elevate the concept of a cuddle buddy to an art form. Join us as we explore nine small dog breeds whose long hair not only adds to their allure but also showcases their unique personalities and regal appearances.
Small dog breeds with long hair are the perfect blend of cuteness and elegance. Known for their beautiful, flowing coats, these dogs are a joy to have around. Whether you’re looking for a loyal companion or a playful park buddy, long-haired small dogs like the regal Pekingese or the lively Pomeranian bring a unique charm to any home. Their silky coats and endearing personalities make them the ideal choice for dog lovers who appreciate both beauty and character.
These breeds aren’t just about looks—they also offer affectionate companionship and can thrive in various living situations. Whether you’re in a cozy apartment or a spacious house, these dogs adapt well to their surroundings.
With regular grooming, they maintain their stunning appearance while becoming a cherished part of your family. If you’re seeking a dog with a lovable personality and a gorgeous long coat, look no further than these 9 breeds!
Small Dog Breeds with Long Hair
1. Pekingese
The Pekingese is a small fluffy dog breed with a thick coat that requires regular grooming. Known for its silky hair and long coat, this breed has a luxurious appearance that attracts many pet parents. Their flowing coat, paired with a regal expression, makes them stand out in the dog world. Though they have a dense undercoat, Pekingese are relatively low shedding, making them great companions for those who want a fluffy dog breed without too much hair around the house.
Originally bred as companions for Chinese royalty, the Pekingese is a rare breed that offers both affection and independence. Their alert nature makes them good watchdogs, but they are also incredibly affectionate, providing companionship to their owners. Their long coat, however, requires daily grooming to keep them in tip-top shape. Pekingese dogs are wonderful pets, but regular brushing is important to prevent tangles and mats in their beautiful fur.
Though Pekingese can adapt to apartment living, their calm temperament and independent spirit make them ideal for homes with older children or where they can be the main focus of attention. Their appearance is striking, with a large, thick coat and a distinctive, slightly pushed-in face. With the proper grooming routine and daily care, they are affectionate companions who thrive with their families.
2. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is one of the most beloved long-haired dog breeds, known for its silky coat and playful personality. These little dogs are charming, with a flowing coat that demands regular grooming to maintain its beauty. Their fluffy coat gives them an elegant look, but they’re much more than their appearance—they are affectionate companions who love spending time with their pet parents. Shih Tzus are great pets for small homes, as their small size and loving nature make them perfect for apartment living.
As a toy breed, the Shih Tzu’s silky coat is an important part of its appearance, but it requires daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. They are easy to train, and their friendly nature makes them good with other pets and children. Despite their long coat, Shih Tzus are relatively low shedding, making them a good choice for families looking for a dog that doesn’t shed a lot. Their energetic personality is balanced by their affectionate temperament, making them a favorite among many owners.
According to AKC, Shih Tzus thrive in active households where they can spend time with their families. Their long coat, requiring regular grooming, is worth the effort as it complements their loving personality. Whether they’re lounging in your lap or chasing after a toy, Shih Tzus offers boundless affection, making them an ideal choice for first-time dog owners or those with older children.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a small dog breed with a silky, long coat that requires attention to maintain its gorgeous appearance. Known for their confident personality and energetic nature, Yorkies are a toy breed that thrives on human companionship. Their coat is prone to tangling, which means daily brushing is important to keep their fur in tip-top shape. Yorkies are also relatively low shedding, making them a good choice for those who prefer a cleaner home.
This little dog with a long coat has a big personality, often thinking it’s much larger than it is. Highly intelligent and eager to please, Yorkies are easy to train and make great companions. While they’re not as high-maintenance as some other long-haired dog breeds, their silky hair requires regular grooming to keep it smooth and free from mats. Their energetic nature makes them perfect for active households, though they can also be content lounging around.
Yorkshire Terriers are excellent pets for both individuals and families, and their small size makes them a great choice for apartment living. They get along well with other dogs and pets, as long as they are socialized early on. With their beautiful, flowing coat and big personality, Yorkies are a favorite among many dog lovers.
4. Maltese
The Maltese is a charming small breed with a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming. Known for their affectionate nature, Maltese dogs thrive on attention from their pet parents. Their thick, beautiful coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and to keep their fur in top condition. Maltese are great companions who are often seen as lap dogs, making them ideal for apartment living or small homes. Their low shedding makes them a good choice for people who have allergies.
Maltese dogs are lively and playful, making them great family pets. Britannica states that their silky coat, although gorgeous, can grow long and needs regular grooming to maintain its beauty. This breed loves to be pampered and requires daily brushing to ensure their long coat remains silky and tangle-free. Despite their small size, they are energetic and enjoy spending time with their families. They are also easy to train, making them perfect for those looking for an intelligent and affectionate companion.
With their cute appearance and delightful personality, Maltese dogs are highly popular in homes with older children and other pets. Their charming coat and affectionate disposition make them ideal companions for families looking for a little dog with a big personality.
5. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are known for their fluffy, curly coats that are not only adorable but also relatively low shedding. Their soft, white fur requires regular grooming, but with proper care, they are relatively easy to manage. The Bichon’s fluffy coat provides them with a distinct appearance, and their playful, energetic personality makes them perfect for families. They’re wonderful little dogs with big personalities, and their fluffy coat enhances their already charming looks.
These little dogs are affectionate companions that enjoy spending time with their pet parents. Bichon Frises love to play and are highly sociable, getting along well with children and other pets. They thrive in active households where they are a part of the family’s daily activities. Regular grooming is essential to prevent mats and tangles, but their low-shedding coat makes them an excellent choice for people with allergies.
Bichon Frises are also great for apartment living due to their small size and friendly nature. Their fluffy coat adds to their appeal, but it’s their joyful personality that truly wins the hearts of pet parents. With regular brushing and a good grooming routine, these dogs are great companions who will always be by your side.
6. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is another small dog with a long, flowing coat that requires attention to keep it looking its best. Known for their thick, double coat, Lhasa Apsos are a toy breed that was originally bred as companions in Tibet. Their silky coat requires regular grooming and daily brushing to prevent mats. As per PetMD, they are alert watchdogs, always on the lookout for any potential danger, but they are also affectionate and loyal companions.
Lhasa Apsos are a great choice for those looking for a long-haired dog that’s low-shedding. Their thick coat and dense undercoat require regular grooming to maintain their beauty. Lhasa Apsos are good with older children and other pets, making them excellent family pets. Despite their small size, they are known for their confident nature and often act as if they are much larger than they appear.
This breed thrives with regular grooming and daily brushing to keep their long coat in tip-top shape. Lhasa Apsos are wonderful companions, offering affection and loyalty to their owners. Whether they’re lounging around or enjoying time with their family, their silky coat and charming personality make them a standout breed.
7. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small, fluffy dog breed known for its soft, cotton-like coat that requires regular brushing and grooming. This breed’s long, silky coat is a defining characteristic, and it grows in a flowing manner that requires attention to keep it in top condition. Their fluffy coat adds to their charm, making them a popular choice among dog lovers who appreciate a dog with both beauty and personality. Their low-shedding coat also makes them ideal for people who suffer from allergies.
Highly intelligent and affectionate, Cotons are quick learners and easy to train, making them a great choice for families. They are lively, social, and love to be around their pet parents. Coton de Tulears thrive in households that are active and enjoy spending time with their dogs. While they do require regular grooming, their silky hair and friendly disposition make them wonderful pets and companions.
With their playful personality and affectionate nature, Coton de Tulears make great pets for those who have other dogs or children. Their fluffy coat is easy to maintain with regular brushing, and their love for human companionship makes them ideal for families looking for a charming, loyal dog.
8. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are small, fluffy dogs that stand out due to their large, flowing coat and spunky personality. Their thick coat of fur, often described as looking like a tiny fox, requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free from tangles. Pomeranians are incredibly energetic and enjoy showing off their big personalities. Despite their small size, they have a lot of energy and are perfect for active households. They love to play and spend time with their owners, making them excellent companions.
These tiny dogs may be small in size, but their fluffy coat and confident demeanor make them appear larger than life. It is important to groom their thick double coats regularly to maintain the luscious look. Purina states that Pomeranians are easy to train and can learn new tricks quickly, making them a fun and engaging breed for dog owners.
Pomeranians are known for their playful, loving nature. They thrive on human interaction and make great pets for those who have the time to devote to regular grooming. Whether they’re running around or snuggling up on your lap, their fluffy coat and energetic personality make them an unforgettable addition to any home.
9. Tibetan Terrier
The Tibetan Terrier, with its long, silky coat, is a small, affectionate breed that requires regular grooming to keep its fur healthy and beautiful. Their flowing coat is one of their most endearing features, though it needs regular care to prevent mats and tangles. Tibetan Terriers are great family pets, especially in active households. Their long coat adds to their charm, and their loving nature makes them a wonderful addition to any family.
Originally bred as companions and guard dogs in Tibet, Tibetan Terriers are highly intelligent and easy to train. Their long hair and thick coats require daily brushing to keep them in tip-top shape. These dogs are great with children and other pets, and their friendly, playful demeanor makes them fantastic companions for families looking for an energetic, loyal dog.
Tibetan Terriers are an excellent choice for people who love long-haired dogs but are willing to commit to grooming. With their charming personality and long, flowing coats, these dogs are a true delight to have around, and they make wonderful companions for those who enjoy active living.
Conclusion
Breeds with long dog hair are more than just a pretty coat—they are loving companions with big personalities. Their silky, flowing fur adds to their charm, but it’s their affectionate nature and loyalty that truly make them special. Whether you’re drawn to their elegance, playful energy, or loving nature, these dogs are perfect for families, singles, and even those living in apartments. With proper grooming and care, they’ll remain your adorable and devoted companions for years to come.
In addition to the breeds mentioned, Toy Poodles, West Highland Terriers, and other small fluffy dog breeds also make wonderful pets. Their thick coats, combined with their big personalities, ensure they are a perfect fit for many households. If you’re ready to welcome a little bundle of fluff and joy into your life, these long-haired breeds are sure to steal your heart!
In conclusion, small dog breeds with long hair offer a captivating blend of charm and elegance that can turn heads wherever they go. These petite canines, ranging from the regal Yorkshire Terrier to the playful Shih Tzu, boast luxurious coats that require dedicated grooming. Their distinctive appearances and endearing personalities make them popular choices for those seeking both companionship and style in a pet. While they may require extra care and maintenance, their ability to capture attention and hearts alike makes them a delightful addition to any household.