Ever wondered why some of the most charming and lovable dog breeds sport a head full of curls? From the bouncy Bichon Frise to the playful Poodle, small curly-haired dogs bring personality and style in one adorable package. Their signature curls aren’t just for show many of these breeds have coats that are low-shedding, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers. But beyond their aesthetic appeal, these curly-haired companions are known for their intelligence, affectionate nature, and boundless energy.
Whether you’re looking for a lively lapdog or a devoted family pet, these breeds offer a perfect blend of beauty and brains.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular small curly-haired dog breeds, their unique traits, and what makes them such delightful companions. Whether you’re drawn to their cuddly coats or their spirited personalities, you’ll discover the perfect curly-haired pup to match your lifestyle.
Small Curly Hair Dog Breeds
1. Poodle
The Poodle is the ultimate curly-haired dog, instantly recognizable for its signature fluffy coat and elegant appearance. Available in standard, miniature, and toy sizes, this breed is not just about looks it’s also known for its exceptional intelligence and trainability, as per PetMD.
Originally bred as a water retriever, the Poodle’s tight curls served a practical purpose, helping to keep it warm while diving into chilly waters. Today, its coat remains a defining feature, requiring regular grooming to maintain its iconic style.
Beyond their sophisticated looks, Poodles are energetic and highly adaptable. They thrive in a variety of environments, from bustling city apartments to spacious homes with yards. Their playful nature and eagerness to learn make them excellent companions for active families and individuals alike.
One of the biggest advantages of the Poodle’s dense, single-layer coat is its low-shedding nature, making it a popular choice for allergy sufferers. However, their grooming needs are high, and regular trims are essential to keep their curls in top condition.
With a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, Poodles are long-lived, devoted companions. Whether you’re drawn to their intelligence, hypoallergenic coat, or lively personality, this breed offers the perfect combination of beauty and brains in a curly-haired package.
2. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is the definition of a curly-haired companion, with its name literally meaning “curly-haired dog” in French. This small, cheerful breed is known for its signature powder-puff appearance, featuring a soft, curly white coat that gives it a round, cloud-like look when properly groomed.
Though undeniably adorable, their coat requires consistent care to prevent matting. Daily brushing and a monthly trip to the groomer help maintain their fluffy charm while keeping them comfortable.
Beyond their striking appearance, Bichon Frises are affectionate and playful dogs, as per Britannica. They have a friendly and outgoing nature, making them excellent pets for families, singles, and even seniors. Their medium energy level means they enjoy interactive play and short walks but are equally content curling up in a cozy lap.
One of the advantages of the Bichon Frise is its relatively hypoallergenic coat. While no dog is completely allergen-free, their minimal shedding makes them a better choice for allergy sufferers. However, their grooming needs are essential to maintain a healthy coat.
With a lifespan of 12 to 15 years, these small but sturdy dogs bring years of joy and companionship. Whether as a playful friend or a loving lapdog, the Bichon Frise is a delightful addition to any home that can keep up with its grooming routine and affectionate personality.
3. Bedlington Terrier
With its distinctive lamb-like appearance and soft, curly coat, the Bedlington Terrier is a breed that turns heads. Beneath its gentle exterior lies a lively and intelligent dog, this breed is known for its loyalty and eagerness to please, according to AKC.
Originally bred for hunting vermin, this terrier retains its playful energy while being an excellent companion for families and individuals alike. One of the most unique aspects of the Bedlington Terrier is its coat, which combines soft and coarse hair, giving it a distinctive texture.
The curls are often most prominent on the head, and while these dogs are low-shedding, regular grooming is essential to prevent matting. Many owners opt for a professional trim every eight weeks to keep their dog looking its best.
Despite their elegant appearance, Bedlington Terriers are highly active and thrive on regular exercise. Their energetic and good-tempered personality makes them great for agility training and interactive play. They are also known for being adorable and forming strong bonds with their owners, making them a devoted and loving pets.
If you’re looking for a dog with charm, intelligence, and a unique look, the Bedlington Terrier is a fantastic choice. With proper care and attention, these curly-haired companions will bring joy and energy to any home.
4. Bolognese
The Bolognese, affectionately known as the “Bolo,” is a small, curly-haired companion breed with a rich history in Italian nobility. These fluffy white dogs are known for their affectionate nature and unwavering devotion to their owners.
Unlike their close relative, the Bichon Frise, which has tight curls, the Bolognese sports a soft, wavy coat that gives them a distinctive, cotton-like appearance. With a gentle and even-tempered personality, the Bolognese thrives on companionship and is well-suited for families, singles, and seniors alike.
They get along well with children and other pets, making them a great addition to multi-pet households. While they are not high-energy dogs, they do enjoy playtime and short walks, preferring to spend most of their time curled up next to their favorite human.
Grooming is a key part of Bolognese care, as their long, curly coat requires frequent brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Regular grooming sessions not only keep them looking their best but also strengthen the bond between pet and owner.
If you’re looking for a loving, low-energy lapdog with a hypoallergenic coat, the Bolognese is a perfect choice. Their sweet demeanor and charming curls make them an irresistible companion for those seeking a devoted pet.
5. Maltipoo
The Maltipoo, a delightful cross between a Maltese and a Poodle, is a small, curly-haired companion that has captured the hearts of dog lovers everywhere.
Known for their friendly nature, Maltipoos are excellent pets for families, singles, and seniors alike. Their smartness, inherited from both parent breeds, makes them highly trainable, while their playful personality ensures endless entertainment. Despite their small size, these dogs have a lively spirit and thrive on human companionship.
One of Maltipoo’s standout features is its soft, curly coat, which can come in various colors, including white, cream, apricot, and even black. While their fur is considered low-shedding, regular grooming is essential to keep their curls looking their best. Their coat type can vary, with some Maltipoos having tighter curls similar to a Poodle, while others have a looser, wavier texture more akin to the Maltese.
Maltipoos are well-suited for apartment living due to their small size, but they do require daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy. They enjoy interactive play, short walks, and cuddle sessions with their owners. Their friendly and social disposition also makes them great with children and other pets, though early socialization is recommended to ensure a well-rounded temperament.
With their lively nature and adorable appearance, Maltipoos are the perfect companions for those looking for a small, curly-haired dog with a big personality. Their loving temperament and hypoallergenic qualities make them a top choice for dog lovers seeking a devoted and low-shedding furry friend.
6. Havanese
The Havanese is a small yet spirited breed known for its lovely personality and distinctive wavy or curly coat. Originally from Cuba, this charming companion dog was bred to be a beloved lapdog for aristocrats, and it continues to be a favorite among dog lovers today.
With its lively expression and playful nature, the Havanese thrives on human interaction and is well-suited for families, singles, and seniors alike.
One of the breed’s standout features is its long, silky coat, which can be brushed out for a fluffy look or corded for a unique, rope-like texture. Their coat comes in a variety of colors, adding to their charming appeal.
Beyond their looks, these dogs are eager to please and quick learners, making them highly trainable. They excel in obedience training and even agility courses, thanks to their energetic and curious nature. Despite their small size, Havanese dogs have a sturdy build and a moderate energy level, enjoying both indoor playtime and short outdoor adventures.
If you’re looking for a loving, adaptable, and people-oriented companion, the Havanese is a delightful choice. Their lovely demeanor and social nature make them perfect for households where they’ll receive plenty of attention and companionship.
7. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, a breed known for its regal charm is a small yet sturdy companion dog that has captured hearts for centuries. Originally bred for Chinese royalty, these little canines boast a luxurious, flowing coat that can develop soft curls, adding to their distinctive appearance.
Their round, dark eyes and short snout give them an expressive and endearing look that makes them irresistible to dog lovers. Despite their aristocratic lineage, Shih Tzus are playful and friendly, thriving in homes where they receive ample love and attention.
They are well-suited for both apartment dwellers and larger households, as they adapt well to different environments. Their moderate energy levels mean they enjoy short walks and playtime but are equally content curling up on a cozy lap. Their friendly temperament makes them excellent companions for families, seniors, and individuals alike.
Grooming is a key aspect of caring for a Shih Tzu, as their long, curly fur requires regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make maintenance easier. Additionally, their facial folds and ears need routine cleaning to keep them comfortable and healthy. While they are not heavy shedders, their coat demands consistent upkeep.
With a lifespan of 10 to 16 years, Shih Tzus are known for their loyalty. They are intelligent but can be a bit stubborn, making positive reinforcement training essential. Their social and loving personality, combined with their adorable curly-haired appearance, makes them a cherished addition to many households.
Conclusion
From their playful curls to their loving personalities, small curly-haired dog breeds bring a unique charm to any home. Whether you’re drawn to the affectionate Shih Tzu, the intelligent Poodle, or the cheerful Bichon Frise, each curly-haired breed offers something special. Their signature breed’s curly coat is not just adorable they often come with the bonus of being low-shedding, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers looking for a hypoallergenic dog and pet parents who prefer a cleaner home.
No matter your lifestyle, there’s a curly-haired breed that’s the perfect fit. These dogs are as cuddly as they are charismatic, ready to shower their owners with affection and a touch of mischief. Whether it’s the wiry coat of a Kerry Blue Terrier, the curly locks of an Irish Water Spaniel, or the wavy hair of a Bichon Frise, each pup brings its own flair. If you’re considering adding one to your family, be prepared for plenty of love and a little extra professional grooming! After all, great curls come with great responsibility. So, which of these adorable fluff balls has stolen your heart?
