Small dogs have long charmed their way into homes and hearts with their compact size and larger-than-life personalities. Whether originally bred for work, hunting, or simply for companionship, these little canines excel in various roles, especially when given consistent training and daily enrichment. While their stature makes them easy to handle and perfect for limited living spaces, their affectionate nature and spunky attitudes make them unforgettable.
Among small breeds, those with floppy ears hold a special kind of appeal. Their soft, drooping ears add to their sweet expressions and approachable demeanor, often making them instant favorites with families and dog lovers alike. These dogs aren’t just cute, they’re often incredibly friendly and easygoing, with temperaments that make them ideal for first-time owners, city dwellers, or anyone seeking a loyal lap companion.
Interestingly, scientists suggest that floppy ears are a byproduct of domestication itself. Over generations, as dogs became more social and less reactive, physical changes occurred, like reduced adrenaline and fewer neural crest cells, which influence traits such as ear shape and even behavior. Perhaps it’s no surprise, then, that we’re naturally drawn to these calm, lovable, and utterly adorable floppy-eared friends.
Small Dog Breeds with Floppy Ears
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Few small breeds are as charming and affectionate as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. With their gentle temperament and loving nature, they make wonderful companions for individuals, families, and even as therapy dogs.
Their friendly disposition and adaptable personality allow them to thrive in a variety of living situations. According to Britannica, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can get enough exercise either in a small yard or by taking a daily walk around the neighborhood, making it well-suited for apartment living.
Despite their regal name, these dogs are approachable and eager to bond, often content to spend the day curled up beside their favorite human or exploring the neighborhood on a relaxed walk. They are one of the most popular dog breeds.
Appearance
The Cavalier’s signature look includes long, silky ears that frame their expressive, warm brown eyes and sweet, rounded face. Their medium-length coat may appear slightly wavy and comes in four striking color patterns: Blenheim (chestnut and white), tricolor (black and white with tan markings), solid ruby, and black and tan.
They also feature elegant feathering on their feet and tail, adding to their graceful silhouette. Standing about 12 inches tall and weighing between 13 to 18 pounds, they embody both daintiness and sturdiness in one compact frame.
Fact: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel’s long feathered ears and soulful eyes are iconic features that contribute to its reputation as one of the most endearing small breeds.
2. Dachshund
With a spirited personality and a shape unlike any other, the Dachshund is both an iconic and lovable small breed. PetMD notes that Dachshunds, often affectionately called “hot dogs” or “wiener dogs,” were originally developed to be self-reliant hunters of tough and risky game. These dogs are courageous and full of tenacity.
Their unique anatomy wasn’t just for looks, it served a functional purpose in the field. Their long, low bodies allowed them to burrow into tunnels, while their floppy ears protected their ear canals from dirt and debris as they navigated thick brush during hunts. Whether standard or miniature, Dachshunds remain popular companions thanks to their boldness, loyalty, and spunky charm.
Appearance
Dachshunds come in two sizes: standard, which typically weigh between 16–32 pounds and stand 8–9 inches tall, and miniature, which weigh under 11 pounds and measure just 5–6 inches. They sport one of three coat types, smooth, long-haired, or wire-haired, and display a wide range of colors and patterns.
Their long torsos, short legs, curled-up tails, and prominent drop ears give them a whimsical yet dignified appearance, making them instantly recognizable and adored worldwide.
Fact: The breed’s name comes from the German words dachs (badger) and hund (dog), reflecting their original role as fearless badger hunters.
3. Havanese
Lively, loving, and unmistakably charming, the Havanese is a standout among small breeds with its elegant presence. Known as the only dog breed native to Cuba, this cheerful companion thrives on human interaction and is well-suited to both bustling city life and cozy family homes.
Renowned for their intelligence and clownish playfulness, Havanese dogs are quick learners and often excel at performing tricks or charming anyone they meet. AKC states that the Havanese is a smart, sociable, and entertaining breed.
Their easygoing temperament and social grace make them wonderful with children and other pets alike. These dogs with floppy ears often have a charming appearance and are known for their affectionate nature.
Appearance
Standing just 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall and weighing between 7 to 13 pounds, the Havanese is small yet sturdy. One of their most striking features is their floppy ears, which frame their expressive brown eyes and joyful expression.
Their long, silky double coat can be wavy or slightly curled and comes in a wide range of colors, from black and silver to cream, gold, and red. While their luxurious fur requires regular brushing, it is considered hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers. Their curled-over tails and graceful movements only add to their endearing look.
Fact: The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and is admired for its silky coat and sunny personality.
4. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is the epitome of a devoted lap dog, known for its loving nature and royal presence. Originally bred solely as a companion animal for Chinese nobility, this breed thrives on affection and enjoys being pampered by its human family. Beneath their regal appearance lies a playful spirit. Shih Tzus are lively, alert, and always ready for a cuddle or a game.
Their compact size makes them ideal for apartment living, and their confident disposition ensures they rarely shy away from new faces or surroundings. Hills Pet mentions that Shih Tzus, due to their short muzzles, aren’t heavy chewers, but they do like to dig, and some have a tendency to bark excessively.
Appearance
With their plush, sturdy bodies and luxurious double coats, Shih Tzus are instantly recognizable. They typically weigh between 9 to 16 pounds and stand about 8 to 11 inches tall. Their large, round eyes, short snouts, and distinctively floppy ears covered in long, flowing hair give them an irresistibly endearing expression.
The coat comes in virtually any color and may be left long for a show-stopping look or trimmed short for easier maintenance. Their signature curled tail arches gracefully over their back, enhancing their dignified gait.
Fact: Shih Tzus are brachycephalic, meaning they have a short, squashed muzzle, and they carry their fluffy tails curled proudly over their backs like royalty.
5. Japanese Chin
Graceful yet full of personality, the Japanese Chin brings charm, elegance, and a playful spirit in a petite package. Once a treasured gift among Chinese and Japanese nobility, this toy breed has long been admired for its affectionate nature and whimsical antics.
Despite their noble lineage, these dogs are known for their quirky, catlike behaviors, often perching on furniture or delicately grooming themselves. While they thrive as devoted lap dogs, they also enjoy bursts of play and light activity, especially in calm and adult-focused households.
Appearance
The Japanese Chin is unmistakably regal, with a dainty build and distinctively expressive features. Their floppy ears are draped in long, silky hair, which matches the rest of their straight, flowing coat. Compact and lightweight, they typically stand between 8 to 11 inches tall and weigh 7 to 11 pounds.
Their flat, wide-set faces feature large, dark eyes and a short muzzle, all contributing to their endearing, slightly mischievous expression. Common coat colors include black and white, red and white, or tricolor variations, often paired with a feathery tail that arches gracefully over their back.
Fact: The Japanese Chin was once so revered that Chinese emperors gifted them to noble families, and Queen Alexandra of England helped popularize them across Europe.
6. Pekingese
Regal, devoted, and delightfully independent, the Pekingese is a breed with royal roots and a personality as bold as its heritage. Originally bred to accompany emperors in ancient China, these dogs were once exclusive to nobility, prized for their dignified demeanor and loyal nature.
Though compact in size, Pekingese are known for their strong-willed spirit and deep attachment to their chosen human. They thrive in quiet homes and are best suited for experienced pet parents who appreciate their somewhat stubborn streak and need for regular grooming.
Appearance
Pekingese are unmistakable in their appearance. Standing only 6 to 9 inches tall and weighing up to 14 pounds, they boast a dense double coat that’s especially long around the neck and shoulders, creating their iconic “lion’s mane” effect.
Their large, dark eyes sparkle with alertness, framed by long floppy ears that blend seamlessly into their luxurious fur. They have a distinct, broad head with a short muzzle and a unique, effortless “rolling” gait that adds to their aristocratic charm.
Fact: Legend has it that the Pekingese was created by Buddha himself, who shrank a lion into a compact dog to serve as a companion for Chinese royalty.
7. Maltese
The Maltese is a spirited little dog with a bold heart and a gentle soul. Known for forming strong bonds with their families, these playful companion dogs are affectionate and lively, thriving in homes where they can be the center of attention.
Despite their dainty appearance, Maltese dogs are surprisingly brave and alert. Their aristocratic lineage traces back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where they were adored by royals and nobles alike. Today, their charm and confidence still make them one of the most beloved toy breeds with cute floppy ears.
Appearance
Compact yet graceful, these floppy-eared dogs stand just 7 to 10 inches tall and typically weigh between 4 to 8 pounds. Their signature look is defined by a long, flowing, silky white coat that drapes close to the body, often styled with a topknot for practical elegance.
Low-set, heavily feathered ears frame a well-proportioned head with dark, expressive eyes and a black button nose. The breed’s elegant build includes a level back, gently sloping shoulders, and a tail that arches gracefully over the back, all contributing to a light, buoyant gait.
Fact: The Maltese is one of the world’s oldest dog breeds, cherished as a pampered lapdog by ancient civilizations for centuries.
Conclusion
Small dog breeds with floppy ears captivate us not only with their adorable appearance but also with their endearing personalities and diverse histories. From the affectionate Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the elegant and ancient Maltese, these floppy-eared dog breeds bring a blend of charm, intelligence, and companionship into any home. Their droopy ears aren’t just cute, they’re part of what makes them so iconic and beloved across generations.
While many of these breeds are ideal for cozy apartments and lap cuddles, it’s worth noting that some, like the Cocker Spaniel, English Cocker Spaniel, and Tibetan Terrier, are also very athletic dogs that thrive on regular activity. Owners should be mindful, however, that long ears can be prone to ear infections, making regular grooming and ear checks essential for a floppy-eared dog’s health.
In addition to the breeds discussed, other dog breeds like the Basset Hound, known for its soulful expression, and even larger breeds such as the Golden Retriever, also sport those signature floppy ears that continue to win hearts around the world. Whether you’re seeking elegance, playfulness, or loyalty, these small, floppy-eared companions offer it all in one compact, irresistible package.
