Rarely is anything more satisfying than cuddling a small fluffy dog breed or running your fingers through their soft, cotton-like coats.
It’s exactly the soft, white coat that makes these dogs so appealing. When you add their small build into the equation, you get the ideal snuggle buddy and therapy dog when you need it.
Most of you already know some of these doggies. You’ve heard of the popular dog breeds like the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Maltese, and Bichon Frise. Cool, but what about the Tibetan Terrier or Cairn Terrier? Have you heard of them?
Even if you haven’t heard of these exotic pooches, today, you will learn a thing or two about small fluffy dog breeds, 31 of them!
So, let’s get started and take a dip into this pool of cuteness.
1. Miniature Australian Shepherd
The miniature Australian Shepherd is a mini version of the famous Australian Shepherd. The mini version weighs 17 to 30 pounds. Just imagine how little a toy Australian Shepherd must weigh! Despite their smaller size, they retain all the distinctive charm and energy of their larger relatives.
Just like the Aussie Shepherd, the miniature Aussie Shepherd has a lovely temperament, pleasing aesthetics, and exceptional intelligence. They’re known for being highly trainable, making them great companions for families, as well as for those who enjoy outdoor activities and agility training.
The reason they’re on our list of small fluffy dog breeds is their long, smooth, double-layered coat. These coats are not only beautiful but provide them with insulation, making them suited for various climates.
Just like the other pups here, the miniature Australian Shepherd is high-maintenance but absolutely worth it! Their affectionate nature and loyalty make the grooming efforts all the more rewarding.
2. Biewer Terrier
Let’s meet the rarest dog breed in the world! This is a Biewer Terrier, a cross between a Yorkshire Terrier with a piebald gene. This unusual combination make for an adorable, little pooch with stunning looks!
Their silky, flowing coat and unique color patterns make them stand out in any crowd, making them a favorite among dog lovers and collectors alike.
Besides being so rare, Biewer Terriers are also one of the smallest dogs, weighing only 4 to 8 pounds. Despite their tiny size, they are full of personality and energy.
Biewer Terriers are lovely pets. Surprisingly, they’re low-maintenance dogs, suitable for living in flats and homes too. Their adaptability makes them perfect companions for almost any lifestyle, whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet suburban neighborhood.
These dogs are considered hypoallergenic since they don’t shed a lot, which is always a huge plus! With their gentle nature and minimal grooming needs, they make an ideal pet for those who appreciate both beauty and practicality.
3. Toy Poodle
The popular Poodle comes in many different sizes, including standard, miniature, and toy. The Toy Poodle is the smallest and the cutest of all the Poodles. Consider it a compact version of the standard Poo that can go anywhere with you.
These dogs are highly intelligent and utterly elegant.
Their playful nature and easy trainability make them a joy to be around, whether they’re performing tricks or just cuddling on the couch. Poodles, in general, are known for their sophistication and charm, but the Toy Poodle is particularly notable for its cheerful demeanor and affectionate temperament.
Fun fact: out of all Poodle sizes, the Toy Poodle, weighing only 5 to 10 pounds, is the friendliest!
Despite their size, they have a big heart and love to form close bonds with their owners, making them the perfect companion for families, singles, and seniors alike.
4. Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is small (11 to 12 pounds), but their personality is huge, bold, and fearless. Despite their compact size, these little dogs are known for their big, confident presence and an adventurous spirit that far outweighs their stature.
These pups were once used as hunting dogs to hunt small prey like rodents or hares.
Their keen instincts and boundless energy made them excellent working dogs. Today, however, they’ve shifted from hunters to companions, bringing that same enthusiasm and zest for life into their family homes.
Nowadays, the Norwich Terrier is a small fluffy dog breed popular as a cuddle pooch and a lap dog that will always stick by your side.
With their playful personality and lovable quirks, Norwich Terriers are just as content curled up on the couch with you as they are exploring the outdoors. They’re small, but their heart is as big as their personality!
5. Cairn Terrier
The average weight of Cairn Terrier is 10 to 16 lbs. Though small in size, this breed has a big personality and a strong work ethic that makes it stand out among terriers.
Cairn Terriers are popular in Scotland for their work as hunting and herding dogs, known for their determination and ability to tackle even the toughest of tasks.
These pups weigh 10 to 16 pounds and have a thick coat with a shaggy outer layer that keeps them warm in the cold Scottish Highlands climate. Their coat not only serves as protection against the chill but also gives them a distinctive, scruffy look that only adds to their charm. They’re working dogs with full-on winter gear.
We’d like to think this shaggy outer coat makes this dog breed shaggy chic!
Their unique look is as practical as it is fashionable, and it only adds to their personality—spunky, spirited, and always ready for action. Whether they’re herding, hunting, or just curled up next to you, Cairn Terriers are sure to steal your heart with their lovable, scruffy appeal.
6. Tibetan Spaniel
Who can resist a Tibetan Spaniel? This is a little pupster with a smushy face you just want to shower with kisses! With their endearing expressions and gentle nature, they’re impossible not to love.
The Tibetan Spaniel is a cute dog with a lovely appearance: a dome-shaped head, large eyes, and fluffy body weighing 9 to 15 pounds.
Their silky coat, often adorned with a slight mane around the neck, gives them a regal, yet playful look. Their compact size and charming features make them perfect for cuddling and lap time.
The best part about this unique small fluffy dog breed is that they’re super friendly and very affectionate.
Tibetan Spaniels are known for their loving, easy-going temperament, making them ideal companions for families or anyone looking for a devoted pet. With their sweet personality and adorable looks, it’s no wonder they win hearts wherever they go.
7. Chinese Crested Dog
You either love them, or you don’t, but you are sure to feel something about this breed. You can already tell we’re talking about the Chinese Crested Dog – a hairless pooch that surprises everyone who first sees one.
With their unique appearance and striking features, the Chinese Crested has earned a place in the hearts of those who appreciate a breed that’s truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you find them charming or quirky, they certainly leave an impression!
But, wait! Isn’t this an article about small fluffy dog breeds? Exactly! There are two types of Chinese Crested dogs. We’re focusing on the Powderpuff one with a long, smooth, fluffy double coat.
The Powderpuff Chinese Crested is still a small dog, typically weighing around 8 to 12 pounds, but its fluffy coat makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a cuddly, low-shedding companion. They’re as charming as they are unique, with a delightful personality that matches their distinctive look.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The best example of a lap dog is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They’re small, fluffy, and sweet, weighing 13 to 18 pounds. Known for their affectionate nature, these pups are perfect for anyone seeking a cuddly companion. They love nothing more than snuggling up in your lap, making them a popular choice for those who want a loyal and loving pet to keep them company.
And they even come in a teacup version, which makes them even more adorable in a compact, portable size.
One of the most stunning features of this breed is its long, smooth, and silky coat. This breed is pretty high-maintenance, so you will need to brush the coat three to four times a week to keep it sparkling and shiny.
Regular grooming ensures that their luxurious fur stays tangle-free and healthy, but it’s well worth the effort for a dog that is as charming and affectionate as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
9. Tibetan Terrier
This is a dog breed on the larger end of the small fluffy dog breeds list. The Tibetan Terrier weighs from 18 to 30 pounds, but it’s equally cute and adorable as any other breed on this list. They have a fluffy coat with a shaggy outer layer.
You may know them as the “holy dogs of Tibet.” No wonder they’re considered holy with all the intelligence, versatility, and affection they have in their little bodies!
Tibetan Terriers were originally bred by Tibetan monks to be loyal companions, and their gentle yet spirited nature still shines through today. They are incredibly devoted, affectionate, and protective, making them great family pets.
Their intelligence and trainability make them a joy to have around, whether they’re playing, cuddling, or just keeping an eye on their home. With their loving nature and stunning appearance, the Tibetan Terrier is a perfect example of a dog that combines beauty, brains, and heart.
10. West Highland White Terrier
The average weight of a West Highland White Terrier is 15 to 20 lbs
The West Highland White Terrier is also known as the Westie. These pups weigh 15 to 20 pounds, have a thick, white coat with large black eyes and nose – kinda like a white teddy bear!
Their fluffy, snow-white fur and expressive face make them one of the most adorable small fluffy dog breeds around.
This dog is native to Scotland, where they used to work as hunting and watchdogs. Today, Westies are beloved family pets that simply need to be socialized to function properly.
Their playful and affectionate personality makes them great companions for active families or individuals, as they enjoy being the center of attention. With their charming looks and loyal nature, the Westie is a classic choice for anyone looking for a small, fluffy, and spirited dog.
Read Also: Why Westies Are The Worst? 13 Reasons To Think About
11. Japanese Chin
Here’s a pup that once served as a lap dog for East Asian and European nobility. The Japanese Chin was prized by royalty and aristocrats for its elegance, charm, and gentle demeanor, making it the ultimate companion for those who lived in luxury.
Japanese Chins are now rare dogs, often considered exotic and unique.
They’re also small (weighing only 7 to 9 pounds) and fluffy, with only one coat layer, which is quite amazing.
Though they’re small, Japanese Chins have a big personality—known for their calm, dignified nature, they are also affectionate and love to be around their owners. They’re a perfect companion for those who appreciate a dog that’s both low-maintenance in grooming and high in elegance, making them a delight to have in any home.
12. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
While all the other dogs on this list have a fluffy coat, this dog has a fluffy head. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is known for its top knot, but the rest of its body is also fluffy and a bit wavy.
This is another larger fluffy dog, weighing 18 to 24 pounds, with a unique sausage dog build – a long torso and disproportionately short legs.
Their unusual body shape gives them a distinctive, almost comical appearance, making them stand out from other terrier breeds. Despite their short legs, Dandie Dinmonts are energetic and playful, with a personality that’s as charming as their look.
With their adorable fluffy head and unique build, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a fun and delightful companion for those who appreciate a breed with character and charm.
13. Cockapoo
Everyone knows this designer dog breed!
Another small fluffy dog breed we love is the Cockapoo. This is the crossbreed of a Cocker Spaniel and Miniature Poodle and one of the fluffiest and friendliest dogs in the world. Their adorable looks and affectionate nature make them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
Usually, this mix takes after the Poodle side, featuring a thick, curly coat that gives it its fluffy appearance. The coat is not only cute but also hypoallergenic, making the Cockapoo an excellent option for those with allergies.
Like its Poodle parent, the Cockapoo is very smart and caring, perfectly capable of adapting to any family home. Whether you’re looking for a playmate for your kids or a companion for yourself, the Cockapoo’s gentle disposition and intelligence make it an easy fit for most lifestyles.
14. Japanese Spitz
The average weight of a Japanese Spitz is 11 to 20 lbs
When you see a Japanese Spitz, you see 11 to 20 pounds of white cloud with legs and a pointy face peeking out from the fluff. Their snow-white coat and fluffy tail that curls over their back make them resemble a little cloud, and their alert expression only adds to their charm.
This is one of the fluffiest small dog breeds, but they come with a downside. These are high-maintenance dogs, so your groomer will have lots of work to do. They need regular brushing to keep that amazing coat tangle and mess-free.
Despite the grooming demands, their affectionate nature and playful demeanor make them a wonderful companion for those who are willing to invest time in keeping their coat pristine. With their elegant look and loving personality, the Japanese Spitz is truly a standout among fluffy dogs.
15. Yorkshire Terrier
Weighing only 4 to 7 pounds, Yorkies for Yorkshire Terriers are one of the smallest dog breeds on our list. Their teacup versions are so tiny and cute, they’re to die for! This dog comes in three main variations: smooth long, smooth short, and wiry long.
All of them are equally charming, but the long-haired one is a favorite for many dog lovers because of its fluffy looks. Their luscious coat is a hallmark of the breed, and it gives them an elegant, almost royal look. While their grooming needs can be demanding, the results are worth it for those who appreciate their beauty.
The best thing about this dog breed is that they’re considered hypoallergenic, meaning they shed very little. This makes them a great option for those with allergies, as they’re less likely to trigger reactions.
16. Pekingese
Pekingese puppies are not fluffy. They’re beyond fluffy!
With their adorable looks, Pekingese dogs are famous for their unique faces featuring big, round eyes and flat snouts.
Their expression, often described as a look of dignified indifference, only adds to their charm. This breed’s compact size and aristocratic history make them seem a bit like a living plush toy, but beneath that fluffy exterior, they have a calm and independent personality.
Back in the day, the Pekingese was a popular lap dog among Chinese nobility. They’re still a beloved choice for a lap dog and great companions for us, regular folks.
17. Sheltie
The Sheltie or the Shetland Shepherd is a Scottish dog breed, weighing 11 to 24 pounds, that was once used as guide and guard dogs. Despite their compact size, Shelties have a rich history as working dogs, originally bred to herd sheep in the rugged terrain of the Shetland Islands.
With long, wispy coats, Shelties are unique pooches ready to knock you off your feet. Their coat is especially fluffy and thick around the neck and sides of the face, gives them a majestic, almost regal appearance. Their beautiful coat requires regular care to keep it clean and tangle-free, but their striking looks and affectionate nature make it all worthwhile.
Fun fact: Shelties are considered the 6th most intelligent dog breed.
Their sharp minds and eagerness to please make them quick learners and excel in training, obedience, and dog sports. Whether you’re looking for an active companion or a loving family dog, Shelties are sure to impress with their beauty, brains, and devotion.
18. Papillon
No other dog is like the Papillon. Seriously, a dog that resembles a butterfly (papillon means butterfly in French) with its wing-shaped ears? That’s amazing!
Together with a long, silky coat, and happy eyes, the Papillon is the embodiment of perfection.
These are small dogs weighing only 8 to 10 pounds and are considered amazing lap dogs. The Papillon becomes easily attached to its humans, and thriving on human attention. You can say they’re clearly “velcro dogs,” always eager to be near you, following you from room to room and seeking your companionship.
Their loyalty and affectionate nature make them ideal pets for families or individuals who are ready to give them the attention and affection they crave. With their beauty, charm, and loving personality, the Papillon is sure to steal your heart.
19. Little Lion Dog
The Little Lion Dog or the Löwchen dog breed is one of the rarest dogs in the world. Only a handful of these dogs are registered every year, making them a true gem in the canine world. This is a sad fact when you know how amazing these pups are.
Their unique appearance, with a fluffy coat that resembles a lion’s mane around their head and neck, makes them stand out as both regal and adorable.
Think of them as little, adorable, fluffy bundles of joy!
Their compact size, combined with their friendly and loving nature, makes them perfect companions for families or individuals looking for a dog that’s both cute and charming. If you’re lucky enough to own one, you’ll have a rare, devoted friend who’s sure to win your heart.
20. American Eskimo Dog
People have a hard time telling apart the American Eskimo Dog and other similar Spitz-type dogs, especially the Japanese Spitz.
Both dogs have spitz facial features and snowy white fluffy coats. Still, there are many differences between these species, especially size-wise.
The American Eskimo Dog is larger, weighing 15 to 40 pounds.
As for their personality, these dogs are smart cookies, loyal to the bone, and obedient. They make terrific family pets and are great with children,making them perfect for family homes.
With their stunning white coat, sharp minds, and friendly nature, the American Eskimo Dog is sure to be a delightful addition to any family. Whether they’re playing in the yard or curling up on the couch, they will be your loyal companion for years to come.
21. Lhasa Apso
Photo from: @busterapsolutely
Despite being so adorable, Lhasa Apso doggies were once used as protection dogs. In fact, they served as watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries. With their loud barking, Lhasa Apsos used to chase away intruders and alert the monks.
Nowadays, these lovely pooches are usually companion dogs or bred to compete in shows. With their luxurious, flowing coats and elegant demeanor, Lhasa Apsos are truly stunning to look at. No wonder they win so many blue ribbons – they’re beautiful, elegant, and worth admiring.
These dogs have a regal presence and are known for their independent yet affectionate nature. While they may be a bit aloof at times, their devotion to their family makes them wonderful companions.
Read Next: Top 4 Lhasa Apso Breeders In The United States Of 2022
22. Volpino Italiano
Also known as “the little Italian fox,” the Volpino Italiano is a spitz-type, fluffy pup that can easily be mistaken for an American Eskimo, Japanese Spitz, or German Spitz dog.
The difference between the Volpino Italiano and the other Spitz dogs is its size, since Volpinos are smaller, and the coat color, which can be red. Volpino dogs weigh 9 to 14 pounds.
These dogs have narrow faces, making them resemble a fox, hence their nickname. This clever, charming dog has an alert expression and is known for being lively and affectionate.
Despite their small size, Volpino Italians are energetic and have a lot of personality packed into their fluffy frames. They make great companions for families or active individuals, and their endearing appearance and playful nature are sure to win hearts.
23. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is also known as the Monkey Terrier, thanks to its ape-like facial features. This is a small fluffy dog breed with a coat that’s a bit rough to the touch. It requires daily brushing and detangling, but they still shed way less than other fluffy dogs.
Despite its somewhat scruffy appearance, the Affenpinscher’s distinctive look is part of its charm, and it’s certainly a head-turner wherever it goes.
Because of their low-shedding trait, the Affenpinscher is considered a hypoallergenic dog breed, making it a great option for people with allergies.
With their loyal and playful nature, Affenpinschers make fantastic companions, especially for those who enjoy a little humor and quirky charm in their pets.
24. Miniature Poodle
Photo from: @poodlebucky
The average weight of a Miniature Poodle is 15 lbs, making it a perfect middle ground between the larger Standard Poodle and the tiny Toy Poodle.
The Miniature Poodle is a medium-sized option of the Poodle breed, weighing around 15 pounds. Miniature is always the best choice if you don’t want a large Poodle that comes with huge responsibilities or the smaller version that’s more fragile.
The Miniature Poodle is less aloof than a Standard Poodle. It’s also calmer, friendlier, and easier to manage, making it an excellent companion for families or individuals. Known for their high intelligence and trainability, Miniature Poodles excel in obedience and enjoy learning new tricks. While they are active and playful, they are also quite adaptable, often content to relax and cuddle when it’s time to wind down.
25. Bolognese Dog
Photo from: @knutte_roffe_bolognesedogs
One of the smallest dogs in the world is the Bolognese dog, weighing only 2.5 to 4 pounds. This makes them the best dogs for apartment living, as they take up very little space but offer big personalities.
But, it’s not only its size that makes the Bolognese Dog so special. It’s its thick and fluffy coat too! The coat is so soft you can run your fingers through it. It’s not prone to shedding and matting, making it a delight to groom. It’s one of the smallest dogs not only on our list but in the world. They are the perfect pets for apartment settings as they are very comfortable indoors.
Their fluffy coats are also unique. Despite being thick and fluffy, it is surprisingly light and easy to run your fingers through. It is also less prone to shedding and matting, making maintaining it very easy.
26. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is the national dog of Madagascar. This small fluffy dog breed has survived more shipwrecks you can imagine. They’re little heroes with white coats as soft as cotton.
Sadly, there are not many Coton de Tulear dogs in the world. They’re considered exotic, and their numbers are decreasing despite their popularity.
Though their history is full of adventure, the Coton de Tulear’s charm lies in its friendly personality and soft, fluffy coat. If you’re lucky enough to have one, you’ll be enjoying not just a pet, but a piece of history in a small, joyful bundle.
Their loyalty, intelligence, and beautiful coat make them a treasured companion, though it’s important to ensure their numbers don’t continue to dwindle.
27. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are probably the most pampered dogs ever. They have thick, long coats with styles that vary from floor-length to teddy bear cuts.
These little dogs are divas!
But, it’s not only their amazing hairstyles that make the Shih Tzu so special: it’s their loyal and affectionate nature.
These dogs thrive on human companionship and are known for forming strong, loving bonds with their owners. Despite their regal appearance, Shih Tzus are gentle and playful, always ready to share a cuddle or playtime.
However, socialization is crucial since they can be a bit possessive, or territorial. With the right guidance, they become excellent, friendly companions for families and individuals alike.
28. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are another dog breed considered little fluffy clouds with feet. These fluffballs will win you with their sweet looks and incredible quirkiness. With their cheerful disposition and signature curly white coats, Bichons quickly win hearts wherever they go.
These adorable white teddies used to be bred to catch vermin on ships. But, it’s their pleasing appearance that relieved them from that horrible job. The Bichon Frise quickly became a companion for nobility in European countries.
This dog can grow its coat very long, even though they’re hypoallergenic. But, most dog owners like to keep their coats shorter, which gives them that fluffy teddy bear look.
Their soft, curly fur does require regular grooming, but the effort is well worth it for such a joyful and charming companion. Whether they’re playfully running around or curling up on your lap, Bichon Frises bring warmth and happiness into any home.
29. Maltese
Maltese dogs are one of the most adorable out there. There’s something about their coat that invites you to run your fingers through it.
Their charming, teddy bear-like appearance and sweet expression make them instantly lovable, and their small size only adds to their cuteness.
Luckily, their rich, fluffy coat is not a nightmare to maintain. They’re considered hypoallergenic and shed very little. A good brushing once or twice a week is just fine.
Maltese dogs are gentle, affectionate, and playful, making them wonderful companions. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known to be loyal, loving pets who thrive on attention and affection.
30. Pomeranian
Pomeranians, or Pom-Poms, are small fluffy dogs perfectly named according to their looks. These little fluffy balls resemble pom-poms, and they couldn’t be cuter! Well, they could – just ask a breeder for a white Pom!
This is one of the smallest spitz-type dogs, weighing only 3 to 7 pounds, and is considered a toy breed. It’s been a popular lap dog for centuries.
Their confident, bold nature and fluffy coats have made them popular with royalty and celebrities throughout history, and they continue to be a favorite companion breed today.
Though small in stature, Pomeranians have big hearts and a strong presence. They love to be the center of attention and are known for their lively, playful demeanor. If you’re looking for a small dog with lots of personality, the Pomeranian is an excellent choice!
31. Havanese Dog
Havanese dogs have one of the fluffiest coats of all the small fluffy dog breeds.
This is a rare dog breed, but its popularity is rising thanks to its small build and lovely personality. You can tell the Havanese is a velcro dog.
But we like to say it’s a valuable family dog and considered an equal part of the family. Their social nature makes them great with children, other pets, and even visitors.
They’re easygoing, friendly, and adaptable, making them perfect for families and individuals alike. Their coat does require regular grooming to maintain its beauty, but the Havanese’s gentle, loving nature makes it all worth the effort.
What Is The Best Small Dog That Doesn’t Shed?
We have many non-shedding small dogs on our list. It’s really hard to pick only one of them, but we’ll have to go with the Maltese. This dog breed is easier to find than some other non-shedding pups like the Affenpinscher. Maltese pups are friendly, caring, and love being companion dogs.
Conclusion
So, which one of these 31 small fluffy dog breeds is the cutest one for you?
Umm, we’d have to go with… all of them!
The cute side of the canine world never looked cuter!