As a dog lover, you must know that miniature dogs may be tiny, but they often come with a big price tag, not just financially, but also in terms of attention, grooming, and care. From delicate hairdos to high-strung personalities, these tiny pups require extra love and care.
These dog breeds are not for someone who wants a spotless home. They shed a lot, and their grooming needs can run you dry in the wallet.
Well, aside from all that, some dog lovers are just fans of these miniature dogs and don’t mind doing all the cleaning and embracing the fur. Those who adore these tiny dogs know that they are a labor of love!
So, if you are ready to pamper your little bundle of joy and indulge in their every whim, let’s dive into the world of high-maintenance dog breeds.
7 High-Maintenance Grooming Miniature Dog Breeds
1. Poodles
Poodles are brainy, athletic, and drop-dead gorgeous! They come in three sizes, but no matter the size, their fabulous curly coat requires a serious grooming routine. The only good thing about it is that it’s hypoallergenic. Great for allergy sufferers!
Yoy have to brush them daily to prevent any pesky mats or tangles, recommends AKC. Regular grooming sessions every 4-6 weeks keep them looking sharp! Bathing every 1-2 weeks is a must to maintain your house smelling good.
Poodles mean time commitment! They are a labor of love in every way! Be ready, as professional grooming sessions can cost a lot, but in the end, these smart dogs are worth it.
2. Bichon Frise
These adorable pups are like cotton candy for your eyes and laps. But hey, beware, their fluffy coat requires regular grooming, daily brushing, and weekly bathing. I know, it’s a huge commitment and quite time-consuming, but once you sign up for this, there is no backing out.
They are very cheerful dogs and very rewarding companions. They love to hang around with other small dogs, cats, and little children who respect their boundaries.
They also love to make new friends at the dog park. These highly pampered dogs require mental stimulation and obedience training from an early age. It’s always a good idea to keep them away from large dogs. They are excellent companions for active dog owners who don’t mind a little work.
3. Lhasa Apso
First things first! Their coat is a work of art, it does require daily commitment to prevent matting and tangling! Their flowing locks need regular brushing, or you will be facing a furry disaster! But hey, professional grooming is worth it for their regal, adorable faces.
To be honest, daily grooming is not that much of a task with them! It’s the bathing that can get you, claims PetPlan. It’s like a tough chore, but with the right tools and patience, their coat flows like silk. A blow dryer and a gentle brush are your best friends with this friendly companion.
This nobility has a rich history of being watchdogs in the high mountains of Tibet. So, knowing that makes sure they get enough physical exercise to stay in good shape and avoid any health problems. Playing with them is great for their well-being being as well as it can be a great rewarding experience.
4. Shih Tzu
Are you a new dog parent who wants to bring a Shih Tzu home? Buckle up, my friend, because these tiny fur balls come with a price, a regular grooming session that will make you question your sanity, but wait, it’s worth it. They have a long, dense, and flowing coat according to Shih Tzu.org.
No doubt, daily brushing is non-negotiable, unless you love playing hair dresser to a matted mess. And don’t even get me started on their exercise needs, daily walks, and a playtime is a must, or you will be dealing with a bored, destructive pup.
However, the payoff? Priceless! With consistent training, socialization, and a balanced diet, they will thrive. Keep in mind, they are prone to breathing and eye issues. But with regular vet visits, attention, and care, they will reward you with all the snuggles so that your heart will be full.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Hey, there is good news for the tiny dog lover; this high-maintenance dog breed doesn’t shed as much as the other dog breeds, thanks to their lack of undercoat, as reported by Royal Canin. That doesn’t mean they are low maintenance; they have their own quirks to deal with!
Their coat requires weekly brushing to prevent matting or tangling. Their beautiful fur comes in a variety of colors. It’s also good to keep that fur trimmed to avoid dirt. Feeding them high-quality dog food can help maintain a shiny top coat.
Remember, they may have short legs, but they are happy to be your walking partners. They are extremely playful and active dogs. Keep them busy with indoor play as they love to play hide and seek, which is extremely fun with this fur ball.
6. Pekingese
The tiny dog with a lion’s mane! Grooming a Pekingese is like having a tiny, fluffy boss who is like, ” Brush me, bathe me, trim me, now!”- adds Royal Canin.
It’s a lot of work, but those adorable faces can make you do anything. Don’t forget to trim their nails, clean their ears, and brush their teeth, as they are prone to dental issues. You can always think of it as a part-time job, and the pay is their goofiness and pleasing smiles.
Grooming a Pekingese is an art form, folks. You will need to invest in the right tools, like a good brush and a nail clipper, and learn how to use them without losing a finger or your sanity!
A well-groomed Pekingese is a sight to behold. They are top-tier show dogs. Your social life can suffer, but your perfect companion will thank you!
7. Coton de Tulear
Cotton balls with eyes? This furry white cloud doesn’t seem real. It looks like a white teddy bear. This one might be the most high-maintenance dog. They have a thick coat, but the good thing is that they don’t shed a lot.
With their snowy coat, it’s hard to resist their charm, but to keep them happy and healthy, you must consider these important factors: Daily brushing is the best exercise for your arms; it will prevent tangles, keep their coat clean, and make them look good, suggests USACTC.
Coton de Tulear loves to play, so engage them in fun activities, provide mental stimulation with puzzle toys, and make sure to socialize them from an early age to ensure they become friendly companions.
Make grooming your love language, and your playful pup will capture your heart with their cute and sassy looks!
Conclusion
Fur-ever friends come in all shapes, sizes, and coat types, and now you have got the scoop on some of the most demanding pups. Which one will you fall head over paws for? Whatever your heart desires, from the regal Shih Tzu to the extreme demands of Poodles, there is a suitable companion breed out there for everyone.
Just remember: with great fur comes great responsibility. Here are some other breeds to add in this fur-tastic mix, like the majestic Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, in big size we have Afghan hounds, Portuguese water dogs, Border collies, and the naughty Huskies, all of which shed crazily.
Warning: These dogs are not good for people with allergies; they can always go for a hypoallergenic breed type. Short coats or long coats, a dog’s coat is a labor of love. But it helps them stay healthy and is there for protection. Grooming them is loving them, it’s totally worth it, and one of the most rewarding experiences.
So, go ahead and find your perfect pal and share your stories of grooming tips or disasters!
