Meet the 40 Little Dogs That Stay Small Forever

Meet the 40 Little Dogs That Stay Small Forever

The following small dog breeds are not only considered extra cute, but they also don’t grow:

In addition, in rare cases, dwarfism occurs in dogs. Here a genetic defect prevents the production of growth hormones so that the dogs always remain small.

However, this condition is relatively rare. However, the following dogs do not naturally grow tall.

1. Bolognese

Bolognese is usually relatively reserved towards strangers. The cute little dogs are also considered to be very calm, good-natured, loyal, and particularly easy to care for.

After birth, the dogs hardly grow at all. They also need a relatively little exercise. That explains why the breed is also popular with homeowners and first-time owners.

Fun fact: Since most people instinctively think of spaghetti Bolognese when they hear “Bolognese”, the abbreviation “Bolo” has officially become established for dogs.

2. French Bulldog

Compared to the English bulldog, the French type always remains small. In addition, the dogs are considered to be calm, need a little exercise, and hardly shed their hair.

The latter explains why cute little dogs are among the four most popular dog breeds in the world. Not only are they ideal for apartments, but also as house dogs and lap dogs.

Fun Fact: Most French bulldogs lack the stamina and agility to successfully breed. For this reason, the dogs are mainly reproduced by artificial insemination.

3. Pomeranian

Since the Pomeranian hardly grows after birth, the dogs consistently look like living teddy bears. This breed is also considered to be very good-natured and trusting.

In addition, cute little dogs are easy to train and are sometimes used as therapy dogs. In return, the animals shed a comparatively large amount of hair.

Fun Fact: Some Pomeranians fall into the “permanent grin” category. Because by nature, some specimens have a slightly curved mouth at the back.

4. Papillon

“Papillon” originally comes from French and means “butterfly”. The shape of the ears of the cute little dogs is responsible for this. 

Otherwise, the animals are considered very intelligent, friendly, and cheerful. Compared to other dogs, they are also easily trainable and also suitable as guard dogs.pla

Fun Fact: Surely you know the saying “Big mouth and nothing behind it”. Well, papillons are a living example of that saying. Because they bark a lot.

5. Miniature Poodle

The miniature poodle is the smallest of the three different poodle sizes. These dogs hardly grow and weigh only around 3-4 kg even in old age.

In addition, the cute little dogs are very active, trainable, and alert. Her teddy bear-like appearance also makes her very popular with children.

Fun Fact: Poodles are the only dog ​​breed that naturally needs regular grooming. Because their fur never stops growing.

6. Cairn Terriers

Despite the fact that Cairn Terriers always remain small, the dogs were used primarily for hunting in the past. Because they are considered assertive and resilient.

But the little dogs also have a cute side. They usually make a happy impression and are considered easy to care for.

Fun Fact: In the earliest writings on the Cairn Terrier, the animals were described as “cave dogs.” Because their behavior was considered barbaric, wild, and absolutely fearless.

7. Pug

The Pug is ideal for apartment living. The dogs hardly grow and need a relatively little exercise. On the other hand, they can sometimes be very stubborn.

Otherwise, cute little dogs are considered loving, charming, and playful. In return, the animals shed an above-average amount of hair despite their size.

Fun fact: pugs are absolute snorers. Especially when they lie on their short snouts and thus narrow the airways.

8. Maltese

Even Maltese always stay small. The dogs are also considered to be very active, playful, and affectionate. They also tend to get along well with other pets.

In addition, the cute little dogs shed relatively little and can be trained well. They are therefore also suitable for living in flats and apartments.

Fun Fact: Surely you’ve seen a video of a cat overestimating itself while jumping. Well, Maltese is the equivalent of that in dogs. 

9. Griffon Bruxellois

You are looking for small cute dogs with a beard? Then the Griffon Bruxellois is the ideal choice. This breed is also known to be very sociable, alert, and sensitive.

The dogs hardly grow at all. They also shed relatively little and can be trained comparatively well – the ideal dog for first-time owners.

Fun fact: Men’s beards have only been back in fashion for a few years. Funnily enough, the demand for Griffon Bruxellois has also increased significantly during this period. 

10. Boston Terriers

Boston Terriers are originally descended from English bulldogs and terriers. The former breed is responsible for the fact that the dogs always remain small and have large eyes.

In addition, cute dogs hardly shed and are considered to be intelligent, good-natured, and active. Because they are easy to train, they are also listed among beginner dogs.

Fun Fact: The war dog “Stubby” was a Boston Terrier and received more awards than 98% of all American soldiers. Among other things, he tracked down a German spy during the First World War. 

11. Chinese Crested Dog

The Chinese crested dog is a hairless dog breed, although the animals have longer hair on both their heads and feet.

The small dogs hardly grow and are considered to be very affectionate, sweet, happy, and playful. In addition, the animals are relatively calm and easy to train. 

Fun Fact: This breed only really became known through “Sam”. Because this Chinese crested dog has already made headlines several times as the ugliest dog in the world.

12. Havanese

Always staying small, Havanese are among the most popular lap dogs in the world. Her behavior is also very appropriate. Because they are extremely trusting, playful, and gentle.

In addition, the cute little dogs hardly shed and are relatively easy to train. They are therefore the first choice for many first-time owners and families.

Fun Fact: Havanese naturally have freckles all over their bodies. Especially with a short haircut, these come into their own. 

13. Volpino Italiano

Volpino Italiano is very active, trusting, and playful. The dogs also hardly grow and are considered to be particularly sweet and cuddly.

In full size, the small dogs only weigh 5 kilograms. In addition, they often start to howl like a wolf.

Fun Fact: The Volpino Italiano seems to have picked up some Italian genes. Because the dogs have no problem sharing their food with others.

14. Toy Rat Terriers

Rat Terriers come in a variety of sizes. The “toy” species is the smallest and only weighs around 4 kg when fully grown. So they always stay small.

Otherwise, sweet dogs are considered lively, trusting, and loving. They are also easy to train and have a strong hunting instinct.

Fun Fact: Rat Terriers live up to their name. In 1997, a single dog could find and eliminate 2,500 rats in a barn within seven hours. 

15. Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs in the world. After birth, they hardly grow and weigh an average of only around 2 kilograms.

This breed also lives up to 18 years and is known to be lively, friendly, and courageous. The cute little dogs are particularly popular as lap dogs.

Fun Fact: While these dogs may seem barely survivable without humans, there are still large packs of wild Chihuahuas in the United States to this day.

16. Norwich Terriers

This cute little dog is originally from Norwich, England. He is also considered to be intelligent, trusting, and energetic. However, formerly it served primarily as a hunting dog.

In addition, Norwich Terriers always remain small and can be trained well. Their hunting instinct is still above average today.

Fun Fact: Norwich Terriers rarely angle their feet. Even when lying down, they usually have their hind legs fully extended backward.

17. Miniature Pinscher

Miniature Pinschers are relatively large when they are born and don’t grow that well. Because of their fearlessness, they are also called the “kings of small dogs”.

The sweet dogs are also very open, friendly, and energetic. Despite their size, they are also considered to be playful and obedient – the ideal family pet. 

Fun Fact: Just like school has a class clown, dogs also have a breed clown. And this job is primarily done by miniature pinschers.

18. Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tuléar is considered to be easily trainable and easy to care for. In addition, cute dogs remain small throughout their lives.

This breed is also ideal for beginners. They don’t need much exercise, are very obedient, and get along well with other animals and people.

Fun fact: the dogs got their name because of their soft fur. Coton means “cotton”.

19. American Toy Terriers

The American Toy Terrier looks particularly cute because of its bat-like ears. In addition, the dogs hardly get any bigger after birth.

You can already see from their facial expressions that the dogs are very affectionate and playful. The little dogs are even very open to strangers.

Fun Fact: American Toy Terriers are often used as circus dogs. Because these animals love to be the center of attention.

20. Norfolk Terriers

Although the Norfolk Terrier is visually very similar to the Norwich Terrier, it is considered a separate breed. And even these dogs hardly grow at all.

In addition, small cute dogs are considered to be self-confident, courageous, and cheerful. They are the perfect companions for both families and single people.

Fun Fact: The saying “small but mighty!” describes this breed perfectly. Because at heart, the dogs are still fearless terriers who will stop at nothing.

21. American Eskimo Dog

As paradoxical as it may sound, the American Eskimo Dog originally comes from Germany. The small sweet dogs are also considered to be particularly friendly.

However, they usually react reservedly and shyly toward strangers. Partly this has to do with their size. Because the animals are relatively small even when fully grown.

Fun Fact: Just like humans can get drunk, these dogs will occasionally get into a gambling frenzy. A lot of stroking helps against hyperactivity.

22. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

These little dogs are among the top 20 most popular breeds worldwide. They owe this not only to their sweet appearance but also to their loving and playful nature.

In addition, the puppies hardly grow at all. They, therefore, look relatively young at any age. These sofa lovers also get along very well with children.

Fun Fact: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has very long floppy ears, which usually stand out like the wings of an airplane when running.

23. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The fact that these dogs always remain small is already in the name. Because “Corgi” means “ dwarf dog ”. This breed was originally used as a shepherd dog.

Today they serve primarily as guards and house dogs. In addition, cute little dogs are considered friendly, open, courageous, and protective.

Fun Fact: Almost all dog breeds naturally have a tail. However, some Pembroke Welsh Corgi are born without a tail.

24. Australian Silky Terriers

Although these Australian dogs belong to the “terrier” group, they look more like cute lap dogs. In addition, the dogs hardly grow after birth.

The appearance of this breed is reflected in its character. Because they are considered to be very friendly, alert, curious, and easy to care for.

Fun Fact: These dogs’ fur is almost indistinguishable from human hair. In addition, they lose just as little hair as humans – the ideal dog for the sofa!

25. Bichon Frize

Bichon Frize remains small their entire lives. Only the fur of the puppies becomes a little denser after birth. This breed is also considered to be particularly spirited.

The cute little dogs also shed relatively little and are very easy to care for. In addition, they are described as friendly, trusting, and playful.

Fun fact: Bichon Frisé is said to be so charming that the French verb “bichon” is derived from them. It means something like giving someone an excessive amount of care.

26. Affenpinscher

Affenpinschers are very interesting little dogs. Because despite their size, they have strong territorial behavior. In concrete terms, this means that nobody is allowed to touch their toys.

In addition, the dogs are considered to be very active, and adventurous, but also cute and playful at the same time. In addition, they hardly grow at all and maintain their size consistently.

Fun Fact: Unlike other dogs, Affenpinschers are born blind. There are hardly any cuter puppies.

27. German to

Although the German Spitz looks relatively bulky due to their fur, they are actually relatively narrow. In addition, the hair is particularly soft and cuddly.

Otherwise, the cute little dogs are considered lively, easily trainable, and loving. They are also very good watchdogs. But they shed quite a lot.

Fun Fact: Colloquially, the German Spitz is also described as “Kläffer”. Because even a bird is loudly reported by the dogs as a danger.

28. Pomsky

If you like the look of huskies, then you’ll love the Pomsky. It is a cross between a Siberian Husky and a Pomeranian.

The cool thing? These dogs don’t grow, so they always look like husky puppies. In addition, the animals are considered to be very energetic, trusting, and playful.

Fun fact: the behavior of the cute little dogs is like a miracle box. Because even between siblings there are big individual differences.

29. Dachshund

The Dachshund comes in two different sizes. The miniature dachshund is the smaller one with a body weight of around 5 kg. And this species always stay small.

In addition, cute dogs are considered brave, playful, and stubborn. In addition, they shed little, like to dig holes, and bark comparatively much.

Fun Fact: “Dachshund” is a synonym for a dachshund. In Germany, this name is also used as a swear word for particularly stupid people.

30. Russian Toy

Russkiy Toy means “small Russian dog”. Visually, the dogs look like slightly larger Chihuahuas. In addition, the cute little dogs hardly grow at all.

Otherwise, they are considered affectionate, active, and intelligent. On the other hand, they are often reserved and cautious towards strangers. However, they never become aggressive.

Fun Fact: The Russkiy Toy is also available with medium-length hair. This makes the dogs look like Bambi when they are young.

31. West Highland White Terriers

The West Highland White Terrier is considered to be particularly clean and always stays small. The white animals are also very active, courageous, and alert.

But cute dogs also have a loving side. Because among their own families, they are considered very good-natured and trusting. In addition, they shed very little.

Fun Fact: This breed is among the most curious dogs in the world. Since they stick their heads almost everywhere, however, they often get stuck in their exploration tour.

32. Lowchen

Lowchen is the trivialization of a small lion. The reason for this is their lion-like mane. However, the behavior of the cute dogs is completely different.

They are considered cheerful, friendly, and playful. In addition, they hardly grow, shed little, and are intelligent above average – the ideal companion for families with children.

Fun Fact: Most dogs were once used for hunting or as guards. Right from the start, however, the Löwchen served primarily as a “living hot water bottle” in winter.

33. Japanese Chinese

The Japanese Chin is known to be affectionate, alert, and independent. The cute little dogs also have a particularly elegant or almost snooty gait.

In addition, the animals are very loyal, easy to care for, and calm. Since they remain consistently small, they are also very popular with monks.

Fun Fact: Observing the behavior of a Japanese Chin, you might think it is a cat in a dog costume.

34. Prague Ratter

With a body weight of around 2.5 kg, the Prague Ratters compete with a Chihuahua. In addition, cute little dogs are also available with longer fur.

This breed is also very easy to train and grows very little. In addition, the animals are very active, alert, and easy to care for.

Fun Fact: Prague Ratters are not only native to Prague, but they are also very rarely seen anywhere else. 

35. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is one of the 20 most popular dog breeds in the world. Because of their size and sweet nature, they are particularly popular as lap dogs.

In addition, they always remain small and are considered very loving, cheerful, and trusting. Since they need little exercise and hardly shed they are also ideal for apartments.

Fun Fact: There are Shih Tzus with very long hair. In combination with a grey-white coat, the dogs often look like a walking mop.

36. Pumi

Since the name “Pumi” is Hungarian, the plural is “Pumik”. These cute little dogs are especially known for their protective and energetic nature.

Despite their thick fur, the animals hardly lose any hair and rarely smell. In addition, they have a strong hunting instinct and remain relatively small.

Fun Facts: Pumik are little dictators. If they don’t have an experienced and strict master, then they set the pace. Be careful as the first owner!

37. Yorkshire Terriers

The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the 10 most popular dog breeds in the world. And not without reason. Small dogs are considered particularly cute and do not grow.

However, the latter comes with a price. Because this breed can get bored quickly or sometimes react stubbornly. Therefore, they are very easy to care for.

Fun Fact: Ever heard a duck croak? Well, you can get used to that sound if you have a Yorkshire terrier in the house. Because the dogs often sneeze backward and sound like ducklings.

38. Bolonka Zwetna

As you can probably tell from the name, the Bolonka Zwetna originally comes from Russia. These cute little animals also served primarily as domestic dogs from the very beginning.

They are considered to be particularly tame, good-natured, and friendly. In addition, they shed little, always stay small, and rarely pick up smells – the ideal apartment dog.

Fun Fact: Since hair care products used to be hard to come by in Russia, this breed was specially bred to be without any means.

39. Miniature Schnauzer

Depending on their hairstyle, Miniature Schnauzers can look super cute or even have an aggressive appearance. At heart, however, the little dogs are very friendly.

In addition, the animals hardly grow, shed little, and are considered to be very obedient. They are therefore the ideal guard, family, and house dogs.

Fun fact: Miniature Schnauzer beards are mostly white. You can almost always read from the beard what the dogs ate last.

40. Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso literally looks like a living teddy bear. The animals always remain small and are considered friendly, fearless, and playful. 

Because they are very obedient, they are also ideal for first-time owners. In addition, small dogs are easy to train and get along well with children.

Fun Fact: Lhasa Apsos are so protective that when they visit, they will often stand in front of their master and start barking loudly. Sugar sweet.

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