If you’re looking for a furry friend who’s tiny in size but big on charm, long-haired and pocket-sized breeds are the perfect choice! These pint-sized pups bring a touch of elegance with their flowing coats while remaining small enough to fit comfortably in your arms—or even your handbag.
Whether you live in a cozy apartment or love the idea of a portable canine companion, these adorable dogs offer the best of both worlds: beauty and convenience. Beyond their irresistible looks, these little fluff balls are packed with personality.
They’re affectionate, playful, and often incredibly loyal, making them excellent companions for singles, families, and seniors. However, their luxurious coats require regular care to keep them soft and tangle-free.
If you’re ready for a delightful mix of cuteness and companionship, let’s dive into the world of long-haired and pocket-sized dogs that will melt your heart!
Long Haired Pocket Sized Dog Breeds
1. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is known for its soft, cotton-like coat and petite stature. Weighing between 8 to 15 pounds, this tiny breed is perfect for those who want a cuddly, portable companion. Its small size allows it to fit comfortably in a lap, a small carrier, or even a handbag, making it ideal for city dwellers and frequent travelers.
What truly sets the Coton de Tulear apart is its luxuriously long, fluffy coat that gives it a cloud-like appearance. The fur is beautiful and hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
Grooming a Coton de Tulear requires regular brushing to prevent matting and maintain its signature fluffy look. Although its fur grows long, many owners opt for a “puppy cut” to keep maintenance easier while enjoying its soft, flowing coat. Bathing and occasional trims keep this little dog looking pristine and adorable.
PetMD states this breed is surprisingly sturdy and energetic. It loves to play and socialize, making it a joyful companion for families, singles, and seniors. Its affectionate nature ensures that it thrives on human interaction, often following its owner from room to room like a shadow.
With its pocket-size charm and stunning long hair, the Coton de Tulear is the perfect choice for those seeking a stylish, affectionate, and easily portable canine friend. Whether curled up in your lap or trotting gracefully by your side, this fluffy companion will steal hearts wherever it goes!
2. Havanese
The Havanese is a delightful, small, fluffy dog breed known for its affectionate nature. It weighs between 7 to 13 pounds as a toy breed, making it an ideal pocket-sized companion. Its petite frame and friendly demeanor make it perfect for apartment life or owners who want a portable lap dog with a lively personality.
One of the Havanese’s most striking features is its long, wavy coat that flows elegantly and gives it a charming and playful look.
Havanese has a dense coat that requires regular grooming to keep its fur soft and beautiful. Daily brushing helps maintain its signature double coat, while occasional trims can make upkeep easier.
Despite its thick coat, this breed is surprisingly low-shedding, making it a great option for those who love fluffy dogs without excessive fur cleanup.
Beyond its looks, the Havanese is one of the most intelligent dogs, known for its eagerness to learn and ability to perform tricks. It thrives on human companionship and enjoys being the center of attention, making it an excellent pet for families, singles, and seniors. Its playful and social nature makes it a standout among small dogs.
With its combination of small size, long-haired beauty, and affectionate personality, the Havanese is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a small, fluffy, elegant, charming dog breed.
Whether lounging on your lap or bouncing around the house, this toy-sized dog will bring joy and companionship to any home!
3. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a regal small dog known for its distinctive shaggy double coat that gives it a timeless, elegant look. Despite its compact size, this breed carries a big personality, making it a confident and independent companion.
Originally bred as a watchdog in Tibetan monasteries, the Lhasa Apso is alert and affectionate, thriving in a loving home environment.
Its defining feature is its thick double coat, which protects against harsh weather conditions. Lhasa Apso’s coat can come in various colors, but its long, flowing fur remains a standout trait. The texture of its medium-length fur is soft yet dense, requiring proper care to maintain its beauty.
Its coat type requires daily, thorough brushing to prevent mats and tangles, especially in the undercoat. Many owners choose to keep their Lhasa Apso’s hair trimmed for easier maintenance, but those who prefer the traditional long-haired look must commit to regular upkeep.
Despite its grooming needs, the Lhasa Apso is a rewarding pet with a charming personality. It is highly adaptable, making it suitable for apartments and larger homes. While independent, it forms strong bonds with its owners and enjoys companionship on its terms.
For those who appreciate a shaggy double coat and don’t mind the commitment of daily grooming, the Lhasa Apso is a wonderful choice. With its unique look and confident demeanor, this small but sturdy breed brings elegance and character to any household!
4. Pekingese
The Pekingese breed is a distinguished member of the long-haired dog breed, known for its flowing mane and compact size. Weighing between 7 to 14 pounds, this toy breed was originally bred as a cherished companion for Chinese royalty.
Its small stature and dignified personality make it a true pocket-sized breed, perfect for those who appreciate a loyal and elegant lap dog. One of the most striking features of the Pekingese is its silky coat, which gives it a regal and luxurious appearance.
Pekingese’s fur is slightly wavy, adding texture and volume to its magnificent mane. Beneath this long outer layer, it has a wooly undercoat, providing insulation and enhancing the fullness of its signature look.
To maintain its beauty, regular grooming is essential, as the coat grows continuously. Brushing with an undercoat rake helps prevent matting and keeps the silky hair and undercoat in top condition. Despite its glamorous fur, this breed is relatively low-maintenance, as it sheds moderately rather than excessively.
Hillspet states that Pekingese is content with short walks and indoor play. Its calm nature makes it well-suited for companionship, particularly in homes with older children who can respect its independent personality.
With its compact size and regal charm, the Pekingese remains one of the most popular breeds. Whether lounging on a cushion or gracefully strutting by its owner’s side, this little lion-dog exudes elegance and loyalty in every step.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is an ancient breed that dates back to imperial China, where it was bred as a royal dog for Chinese emperors and nobility. Often gifted by Tibetan monks to Chinese royalty, these small, regal companions were cherished in palace courts for their elegance and affectionate nature.
Weighing between 9 to 16 pounds, this pocket-sized breed is perfect for those seeking a small but elegant furry friend. Its compact size and affectionate nature make it one of the great family pets, ideal for individuals and households.
What truly makes the Shih Tzu stand out is its luxurious double coat, a signature feature that flows gracefully and adds to its regal charm. This long-haired breed boasts a luxurious, silky mane that requires extensive grooming to maintain its beauty.
Regular brushing with a pin brush is essential to keep the fur free from knots, preventing tangles and keeping the coat soft and smooth.
Many owners opt for professional grooming and stylish trims, such as the “puppy cut,” to make upkeep easier while still showcasing the breed’s stunning locks. For those who prefer the traditional long-haired look, frequent baths, combing, and topknot styling are necessary to keep the Shih Tzu looking majestic.
Despite their regal history, Shih Tzus are a playful, affectionate breed that thrives on companionship. Their small stature and friendly personality make them ideal for apartment living. Whether curled in a lap or prancing around with their signature flowing coat, they embody elegance in a pocket-sized package.
For those seeking a long-haired, pocket-sized dog with a royal lineage, the Shih Tzu is an exceptional choice. This tiny yet majestic companion captivates dog lovers worldwide with its profuse coat, charming personality, and rich history.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is one of the most beloved small dog breeds, admired for its long, flowing coat and confident personality. Weighing just 4 to 7 pounds, this pocket-sized dog is the perfect lap companion, small enough to be carried in a handbag yet full of energy and charm.
Despite its delicate appearance, the Yorkie is fearless and lively, making it ideal for pet owners who want elegance and spunk in a tiny package.
As noted by Purina, Yorkshire Terrier has a single coat of fine, silky hair that closely resembles human hair rather than typical dog hair. This gives the breed a distinct, glossy look and requires careful grooming. Their long strands can easily tangle if not brushed daily, making regular maintenance essential to keep their fur in tip-top shape.
Yorkie’s long coat continues to grow throughout its life. Many owners keep its coat trimmed short for easier upkeep, while others prefer the classic long-haired look that gives the breed its signature elegance. Regular brushing, an occasional bath, and trims help keep their luxurious fur smooth and free from mats.
Despite their tiny build, Yorkies have big personalities. They may be pocket-sized, but they carry themselves confidently, often acting like much larger dogs.
As an alert dog, they are naturally protective and will readily bark to announce strangers, making them excellent little watchdogs. They also get along well with other dogs, though their playful and sometimes bossy nature means they do best with proper socialization.
With their long, silky coats, bold attitudes, and compact, portable size, Yorkshire Terriers remain one of the most cherished breeds. Whether lounging in a lap, trotting alongside their owner, or turning heads with glamorous fur, these tiny yet fearless companions never captivate hearts!
7. Maltese
The Maltese is a timeless, cute dog, adored for its fluffy white coat and affectionate nature. Weighing between 4 to 7 pounds, this pocket-sized breed is one of the most elegant and portable companions, making it a favorite among pet parents who love beauty and charm in a small package.
Despite its tiny size, the Maltese have a confident and lively personality, always eager to be by their owner’s side.
A defining feature of the Maltese is its long, silky outer coat, which flows effortlessly and gives the breed its signature royal appearance. Maltese has a single outer coat that requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and maintain its luxurious texture, making grooming an essential part of its care routine.
The white coat of the Maltese not only adds to its elegance but also enhances its soft, cloud-like appearance. Its fur naturally cascades down, sometimes reaching the floor when left untrimmed. Many owners style their Maltese’s hair with topknots or trims to keep their fur neat while preserving its signature flowing length.
Maltese is known for being extremely cute and full of personality. Its expressive dark eyes, playful energy, and loving nature make it an ideal lap dog. Whether resting gracefully in a lap or trotting confidently with its silky fur swaying, this breed is the perfect blend of elegance and affection.
For pet parents who appreciate the beauty of a long-haired, small companion, the Maltese remains one of the most sought-after breeds. With proper grooming and care, its stunning fur will continue to captivate hearts, making it a true standout in the dog world!
Conclusion
Small, long-haired breeds perfectly combine elegance, charm, and portability. Whether you adore the silky strands of a Maltese, the Tibetan Terrier’s shaggy coat, or the Shih Tzu’s luxurious locks, these tiny companions bring beauty and personality into any home.
Unlike hairless dogs like the Chinese Crested, these breeds require regular grooming to maintain flowing fur and prevent tangles.
While Bichon Frise has a curly coat, others, like the Yorkshire Terrier, boast sleek, straight hair. Some breeds, such as the West Highland Terrier, have a double-layer coat with a dense undercoat, offering extra insulation. In contrast, others, like the Toy Poodle, are known for their hypoallergenic curls.
Compared to energetic breeds like the Shetland Sheepdog or Border Collies, long-haired toy breeds prefer companionship and indoor living, making them ideal for apartments or small homes.
For dog lovers seeking a pocket-sized companion with an elegant long coat, these breeds offer the best of both worlds—style and affectionate companionship. With proper grooming and love, these little furry friends will remain stunning and devoted pets for years!
