If you think that you need a massive dog with a strong build to protect you and your family, you’re totally wrong. Tiny dogs are absolutely adorable and also know how to keep their family members safe. They are exceptionally great companions and, at the same time, they are super alert and watchful.
There is no denying the fact that small dogs make great pets. They love to follow their owners everywhere they go, give them company in the car while they travel, and snuggle in bed as they watch Netflix seasons the whole night long.
Let’s check out some of the best tiny yet loyal dog breeds that offer unlimited love and snuggles to their owners with their quiet presence on the lap.
Loyal Tiny Dog Breeds
1. Sealyham Terrier
The Sealyham Terrier is tiny… like really tiny! Being merely 10.5 inches tall, this dog is one of the most adorable dogs you can have.
The Kennel Club says they are adorably small!
Despite being a small dog, this terrier is filled with love and affection. It is the panache of loyalty and can be considered borderline clingy! They love their humans so much that they would follow them everywhere. No matter whether you are heading to the bathroom or just going to the pantry to get a quick snack for yourself, this dog will be behind you.
Oh, and don’t take them weak owing to their small size! They make great guard dogs, thanks to their natural alertness. Whenever they see something unusual, they will bark to alert you instantly. These lap dogs are some of the best guard dogs that are super easy to manage and keep.
Another thing that sets them apart from other dogs is their natural ability to adapt to the situation.
Even if you move from a huge house to a small apartment with no backyard, this dog will adjust according to the new living situation without being fussy.
2. Havanese
Havanese are great travel partners. If you are a fan of travelling and can’t stay at home for more than a week, this little dog will happily accompany you for your weekend getaways!
The small size of this dog makes it so easily portable. Travelling on vehicles with it is highly convenient. At the same time, you don’t need to worry about losing them as they are practically Velcro dogs. They will stick by your side, no matter whether you are hiking on a mountain or strolling through new valleys.
These are also great family dogs. People who have small kids always look for a dog that would act as a ‘nanny’ to them as efficiently as it would protect them in their absence.
Havanese dogs, also known as Cuba’s national dog, are just perfect in this regard. This small dog breed mingles with the kids easily and protects them fiercely.
Once you are back from a long, tiring day at work, this dog will pour its love on you with unlimited hugs and snuggles. No one surely beats this one in being a fantastic companion dog.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With a weight of merely 13–18 pounds, this dog is one of the tiniest ones out there. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are some of the most popular toy dogs out there that are loved by homeowners owing to their fierce loyalty and exceptional companionship.
These dogs are so tiny that they can easily take up some space in the bed with you and still leave a lot of room for you. With the Cavalier by your side, you can guarantee unlimited and never-ending snuggle sessions while you watch your favourite movies.
Originally bred to accompany the nobles, these tiny creatures have still not forgotten their prime responsibility of giving good companionship to their human owners.
Apart from being extremely loyal, they are also emotionally intelligent to the next level. A single glance at your face will let them know how you are feeling. They will try to cheer you up if they feel you are a bit down after a long day at work.
Compared to other pets, having Spaniels at your home is equivalent to having a therapist who instantly understands your mood swings and helps you deal with them.
4. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are the ultimate cuddlers!
They are so tiny and adorable that squishing them in a big hug comforts your heart.
They are miniature yet maintain a massive personality. They have all the qualities to be the star of the party and catch the attention of the audience instantly.
Poms make great family pets, thanks to their convenient size and a love for kids, as per Hills Pet. Families with small children prefer them over other dogs as they are safe and super chill. They are so intensely loyal to their clan that they wouldn’t let anyone harm them, no matter what!
Travelling with Pomeranians is also quite convenient. They will easily fit into your car, a train, or even a plane seat. At the destination, they will follow you and won’t leave your side for even a second!
Training them is also pretty easy! They have the innate need to please their humans, hence they follow directions without throwing any tantrums.
5. Shih Tzu
With its roots in China, the Shih Tzu is definitely one of the most sought-after small dogs out there.
What makes these dogs so desirable amongst dog lovers is it’s affectionate temperament. They wouldn’t bark much, staying silent most of the time.
But let me warn you!
These dogs are the ultimate velcro pets! They will stick to you and follow you wherever you go. Even if it is a quick trip to the loo, this dog may follow you and wait for you behind the door for as long as you stay inside.
This Reddit Thread says Shih Tzu is an excellent small dog to have, especially for those who prefer quiet dogs over the noisy ones!
One thing that sets these dogs apart from others is their long lifespan. They tend to live longer than others, usually around 12–16 years.
6. Norfolk Terrier
Norfolk Terriers are known for their intelligence and grit. Don’t take their small size for granted; they are not just about moving around speedily. Rather, they are super smart and brainy, which makes them easy to train dogs!
These small dogs are true terriers that are known for their work ethic. Compared to other breeds, they are easy to engage in tasks. However, owing to their intelligence, at times, they have a POV of their own, which can make training a bit tough! Consistency is required to ensure they are trained well. Nonetheless, compared to larger breed dogs, they are easily manageable.
Like other small doggos, they are not overly clingy.
This terrier breed makes great watchdogs. Though historically bred as hunters, they have now transitioned into good watchdogs for homes and apartments. Also, owing to their small size, they are appropriate for apartment living.
If you are searching for a pet that adjusts well to your active lifestyle, the Norlok Terrier is a great option.
7. Maltese
These lapdogs are known for their royal background. Since their origin, the Maltese dogs have been a household name when it comes to loyalty, sincerity, and love!
These lapdogs always like company. Living a lonely life is not a possibility for them. This is why they tend to have separation anxiety when their pet owners have to step out of the house and go to work.
They also thrive on human companionship and have a gentle nature. However, this doesn’t mean you can take them lightly. When it comes to defending their family members and ensuring their safety, they can go to extreme lengths.
Compared to the large dogs, the small ones, like Maltese, are easy to manage in small spaces. They are fun-loving and easy to train!
Conclusion
Small dogs are a great pick for those who have an active lifestyle, as they are themselves generally vibrant and energetic. Additionally, people who are going to pet a dog for the first time will also benefit from the small size of these dogs, as they are easy to manage even in small living spaces. These fiercely loyal dogs are also generally good performers in various dog sports, thanks to their agility and athleticism.
These AKC recognised dogs with their fluffy ears and curled tails will add a lot of warmth to your home!
