Don’t let their size fool you — these dogs prove that greatness comes in every shape and form! Give them proper care, a bit of your time, and the freedom to rest when they please, and you’ll earn a kind of loyalty that runs deeper than you can imagine.
They are extremely devoted to their owners. Some may be sassy, some may be bossy, some may be strong-willed, but at the end of the day, they’re all committed to the goal: staying loyal to you.
Some tiny-sized dog breeds are known to be vocal, some are lively and playful, and other dogs are intelligent. Each tiny package comes with its own unique traits that make it stand out.
They steal your heart with their passion and entertainment, their keen eye for detail, despite being a small, minute detail themselves. Their intelligence is impeccable and also enables them to take care of themselves at the park around other dogs, even larger ones.
Let’s explore 7 such breeds, made to fit your lap and engulf your heart with each bark.
Loyal Tiny Dogs That Will Steal Your Heart
1. Yorkshire Terrier
Loyalty
The Yorkshire Terrier, nicknamed the Yorkie, is known for its loyalty, huge personalities, and an affectionate nature. Small dogs with a spirited personality, these dogs often choose one particular person in the family to form strong bonds with, stronger than anyone else.
They are deeply loyal and hence wary of strangers.
Temperament
Due to their dedication to their owners, they are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. The Yorkshire Terrier, otherwise, is an intelligent and confident breed. They are courageous, aren’t known to bow down during difficult times.
They also have an independent streak due to their big personalities.
Considerations
PDSA talks of their stubborn attitude, which makes training them more of a challenge. They may be small, but they’re mighty and full of confidence. These little dogs won’t hesitate to challenge much larger ones.
That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on them — they can sometimes take on more than they should. This bold attitude is common among small but strong-willed breeds.
2. Toy Poodle
Loyalty
The Toy Poodle forms very strong bonds with their owners. These bonds are deeply rooted in constant companionship, which makes these little dogs a perfect match for anyone looking for a pint-sized pup that will be just as good, if not better, a loyal companion than any large, intimidating breed.
Temperament
Toy Poodles are as lively as they are affectionate. They also have an independent streak, despite their happy-go-lucky attitude. This is an agile breed that knows of its superpowers, and they are confident knowing what they bring to the table.
Their smarts descend from the Standard Poodles that were originally bred as water retrievers; they were then bred down to the Toy Poodle size we see today.
Considerations
They have high grooming needs due to their high-maintenance coats. To prevent knots and tangles, they must be brushed multiple times a week. Their intelligence means they will get bored and wreak havoc if they don’t receive mental stimulation on top of their physical exercise.
When it comes to groomer tips, make sure you are fair with what you give, especially as compared to the treatment your pup has received. Make sure to use our Dog Groomer Tip Calculator.
3. Shih Tzu
Loyalty
Friendly, affectionate, and loyal, these are the three adjectives that Purina uses to describe the breed. They are ideal for first-time owners. If you feel lonely and are just looking for someone to be around, this is a perfect fit that balances love and play.
They will happily follow you or sit in a cozy spot where they can see you or feel you around the house.
Temperament
They are also generally friendly to other dogs and pets. They move around arrogantly, their expressive eyes, carrying their tails over their backs, but beneath that exterior is a fluffy charmer that would love all the attention you will give it. They are also super smart and won’t make a clingy companion.
Considerations
Sometimes, Shih Tzus can be mischievous. It is important that their exercise and mental stimulation needs are being met so they can be on their best behaviour, on top of their food and grooming needs.
They respond really well to positive reinforcement training. And due to their flat faces, they are prone to the breathing disorder called Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome.
4. Maltese
Loyalty
The Maltese thrive on companionship and affection from their owners. Their soulful eyes leave nothing for the imagination, and are often referred to as “velcro dogs”. They prefer to stay close to their families, following them from room to room.
The Maltese is the perfect choice for someone looking for an expressive, affectionate pup that is also cute and adorable.
Temperament
They have an affectionate nature and a gentle temperament. This is also a breed that is responsive and trusting, Hill’s Pet reports. A lively, vigorous, and playful family dog that is fearless and will unleash a streak of barks if it detects something unusual or hears an unusual sound.
They are very energetic, but 20 minutes of exercise a day is crucial for them.
Considerations
They need daily grooming. They are also prone to health conditions such as a luxating patella. Though these are adaptable dogs and have a small size, they still have very high energy. They shed minimally, but their hair tends to get caught in their long and silky coat instead of falling off.
5. Pomeranian
Loyalty
The Pomeranians are good watchdogs because of how fiercely loyal they are and how fiercely they love. Despite their desire to be independent, they still prefer to cuddle with their owners and enjoy some downtime with them. They also enjoy partaking in different activities with their family.
Britannica says that Spitz breeds as a whole tend to be loyal and have an affectionate nature.
Temperament
The Pomeranian is an ever-cheerful companion who can be entertaining for people of all ages. They are lively and energetic. The Pomeranian can be a little stubborn, but still, it is a relatively easier-to-train breed, and part of it is due to their stature. They don’t really like to go out and enjoy with strangers.
Considerations
Reserved around younger children. Pomeranians, due to their being small dogs, need to be monitored with kids. They are gentle and tiny dogs that need to be handled in a gentle manner, too. Toy breeds can get easily hurt.
6. Chihuahua
Loyalty
Chihuahuas have a bold personality and are curious in nature; this means they are aloof or suspicious of strangers and take time warming up to them. They are vocal about this dislike, too, and can bark excessively if they sense something off.
They love being the centre of attention and are highly loyal and attached to their owners and families, as per PetMD.
Temperament
They make excellent watchdogs due to their curious nature. Some Chihuahuas can be bossy, some can be sassy, and they are often known for their “saucy expressions”. These tiny, playful, and energetic dogs often tend to think they are larger than they actually are.
Considerations
They need to be monitored when in the presence of little kids. These little dogs, as fragile as they are, won’t shy from fighting for themselves if handled wrong.
They don’t need excessive exercise and can get tired and dehydrated easily, which must be kept in account so they’re not exhausted beyond what they can handle.
7. English Toy Spaniel
Loyalty
The English Toy Spaniel is widely known for their exceptional loyalty and also their insanely deep devotion to their family. They are true lapdogs and prefer to be right by their owner’s side at all times.
Following their favourite person around the house like the puppies that they are, these are companions in true nature.
Temperament
They show their affection and love through their gentle demeanor. They are really charming and highly trainable due to their composed personality. They are great with children. Their coat is easy to groom as well, and they love to play and have a good time.
They aren’t fast dogs who love to run, but can be pretty energetic outdoors.
Considerations
They give attention, and so they need attention themselves too. Expecting nothing less than the unconditional love they give their humans, these dogs can get depressed if they’re left alone for long periods, too.
If they aren’t early socialized, they can get fearful. They also have flat faces that can cause breathing issues, too.
Conclusion
Tiny dog breeds also need love like any other size breed, but these breeds need extra attention due to their stature. They are more delicate and sensitive and prone to danger and getting hurt, especially around other large animals and especially little kids who aren’t experienced in dealing with dogs.
As their owner, it is your job to make sure they are safe and healthy. And in return, they will give you unconditional love and affection like you’ve never seen before.
