Small dogs with long, wavy hair are often the epitome of elegance and charm. These breeds captivate not only with their small size but also with their luxurious fur, which adds a touch of grace and beauty to their overall look. While long-haired breeds may require more grooming than their short-haired counterparts, many dog lovers find the extra care worth it for the amazing results. These breeds often have a distinctive look that sets them apart, with their long coats adding to their charm and making them stand out in a crowd. Additionally, long-haired small dogs are often known for their affectionate and loyal nature, making them wonderful companions that are as cute as they are beautiful. Whether you’re drawn to a breed’s attractive coat, its playful personality, or its sweet nature, there’s no denying the allure of long-haired small dogs. In this article, we’ll learn about nine long-haired small breeds, ranging from well-known to lesser-known breeds, and what makes each of these breeds special.
9. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a breed that is synonymous with luxury and elegance, known for its long, wavy hair, which requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty. Originating in China, the Shih Tzu was bred as a companion dog for Chinese royalty, and its name means “lion dog,” which reflects its regal look. Shih Tzus have a double coat that can extend to the floor if left unclipped, giving them a distinctive and striking appearance. Despite their small size, Shih Tzus are known for their friendly and sociable personalities. They are affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Regular grooming is necessary to keep their long coat tangle-free and healthy, and many owners prefer to trim their Shih Tzu’s coat into a “puppy cut” for easier maintenance. Shih Tzus are also known for their calm and gentle demeanor, making them excellent companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. Their luxurious coat and lovable personality make the Shih Tzu a top choice for those looking for a long-haired small dog full of charm.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” is a small breed that is instantly recognizable by its long, silky coat that drapes elegantly over its tiny frame. Originally bred as a working dog in England, the Yorkie was used to hunt pests in textile mills and mines. Today, the Yorkie is one of the most popular companion breeds, known for its spirited personality and beautiful coat. The Yorkie’s long hair requires regular grooming to prevent tangling and maintain its silky texture, and many owners prefer to keep the coat short for easier maintenance. Despite their small size, Yorkies are known for their courageous and confident nature, often displaying a fearless attitude that belies their small stature. They are also extremely affectionate and loyal, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Yorkies are well-suited to apartment living and can adapt to a variety of lifestyles as long as they get enough attention and exercise. The combination of luxurious hair, lively personality, and affectionate nature makes the Yorkshire Terrier a favorite choice for those looking for a small dog with long hair.
7. Maltese
The Maltese is a breed that exudes elegance and grace with its long, flowing white coat and gentle demeanor. This ancient breed has a history dating back thousands of years, with roots in the Mediterranean region. Maltese dogs were favored by aristocrats and royalty and were prized for their beauty and affectionate nature. The Maltese has a single coat of hair rather than fur, which means it sheds very little but requires regular grooming to prevent tangling and matting. Many owners prefer to keep their Maltese in a short “puppy cut” to make grooming more manageable. Maltese dogs are known for their friendly and playful personalities, which makes them excellent companions for individuals and families alike. They are also known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, which makes them relatively easy to train. Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese dogs are strong and energetic, often surprising their owners with their playful antics. The Maltese breed’s combination of luxurious hair, sweet personality, and playful nature make them a popular choice for those looking for a long-haired small dog that is as cute as it is beautiful.
6. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a breed that is both ancient and revered, having originally been bred as a guard dog in monasteries and palaces in Tibet. Known for their long, flowing coat that can extend to the floor, the Lhasa Apso has a distinctive and majestic appearance. The breed’s coat is double-layered, with a dense undercoat and a long, straight topcoat that requires regular grooming to keep it free of tangles and mats. Lhasa Apsos are known for their independent and sometimes aloof temperament, which reflects their history as guard dogs. However, they are also very loyal and protective of their families, often forming strong bonds with their owners. The Lhasa Apso is a confident and intelligent breed Their long, luxurious coat, combined with their loyal and protective nature, makes the Lhasa Apso an excellent choice for those looking for a long-haired small dog with a touch of royal charm.
5. Havanese
The Havanese is a breed known for its playful and affectionate nature, as well as its long, silky coat that gives it a distinctive and attractive appearance. Originating from Cuba, the Havanese was bred as a companion dog for the Cuban aristocracy, and it remains a beloved companion breed today. The Havanese’s coat is double-layered, with a soft, silky topcoat that requires regular grooming to prevent tangling and matting. Many owners prefer to keep the coat short for easier maintenance, but those who prefer the traditional long coat will need to invest time in regular brushing and care. Havanese dogs are known for their friendly and social personalities, often forming strong bonds with their families and getting along well with children and other pets. They are also intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. The Havanese is a lively and playful breed that loves to be the center of attention and thrives in a home where they can be full members of the family. The combination of their beautiful hair, playful nature, and affectionate personality makes the Havanese a wonderful choice for those looking for a long-haired small dog with a happy and loving temperament.
4. Papillon
The Papillon is a small breed that is instantly recognizable by its large, butterfly-like ears and flowing, silky coat. The breed’s name, which means “butterfly” in French, is a nod to its distinctive ears that give it a unique and beautiful appearance. The Papillon has a long, fine coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Despite their delicate appearance, Papillons are known for their lively and energetic personalities, often surprising their owners with their agility and athleticism. They are intelligent and highly trainable dogs, excelling in obedience and agility competitions. Papillons are also known for their friendly and sociable natures, often forming strong bonds with their owners and getting along well with children and other pets. Despite their small size, Papillons are confident and fearless, often displaying a bold and adventurous spirit. Their combination of a luxurious coat, lively personality, and intelligent temperament makes the Papillon a popular choice for those looking for a long-haired small dog with a touch of elegance and grace.
3. Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a lesser-known breed known for its charming personality and long, flowing coat. Originating from Tibet, the Tibetan Spaniel was bred as a companion dog for monks in Tibetan monasteries, where it was valued for its loyalty and vigilance. The breed’s coat is double-layered, with a soft undercoat and a long, silky topcoat that requires regular grooming to prevent tangling and matting. Tibetan Spaniels are known for their affectionate and loving natures, often forming strong bonds with their families and becoming deeply attached to their owners. They are also intelligent and independent dogs, often displaying a sense of self-assurance that reflects their history as watchdogs in monasteries. Despite their small size, Tibetan Spaniels are confident and alert, which makes them excellent watchdogs. They are also known for their playful and lively personalities, often enjoying games and activities that keep them mentally and physically stimulated. The Tibetan Spaniel breed’s combination of luxurious hair, affectionate nature, and alert personality make it a great choice for those looking for a long-haired small dog with a rich history and loving temperament.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a breed known for its sweet and gentle temperament, as well as its long, wavy coat that gives it a regal and beautiful appearance. Named after King Charles II of England, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a long history as a companion dog to royalty and nobility. The breed’s coat is silky and soft, with feathering on the ears, chest, legs, and tail that enhances its luxurious look. Regular grooming is necessary to keep the coat looking its best and to prevent it from becoming matted and tangled. Cavaliers are known for their affectionate and lovable personalities, often forming strong bonds with their families and getting along well with children and other pets. They are also intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Despite their regal appearance, Cavaliers are playful and lively dogs that love to be active and participate in family activities. The combination of their beautiful hair, gentle disposition, and playful personality makes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel a popular choice for those looking for a long-haired small dog with a touch of royal charm.
1. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small breed known for its soft, cotton-like coat and its affectionate and playful personality. Originating from the island of Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear was bred as a companion dog for royalty and aristocracy, and it remains a beloved companion breed today. The breed’s coat is long and furry, with a cotton-like texture, which gives the breed its name. Regular grooming is necessary to keep the coat looking its best and to prevent tangling and knotting. Cotons are known for their friendly and social personalities, often forming strong bonds with their families and getting along well with children and other pets. They are also intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Cotons are playful and lively dogs that love to be the center of attention and thrive in a home where they can be full members of the family. Despite their small size, Cotons are strong and determined, often surprising their owners with their energy and zest for life. The combination of their beautiful hair, playful nature, and affectionate personality makes the Coton de Tulear a wonderful choice for those looking for a long-haired small dog with a loving and joyful temperament.
In short: the beauty and charm of long-haired small breed dogs
Long-haired small breed dogs offer a unique combination of beauty, charm, and personality. These breeds may require more grooming than their short-haired counterparts, but their stunning appearance and affectionate nature make the extra effort worthwhile. From the regal Shih Tzu to the playful Coton de Tulear, each breed on this list brings something special to the table, whether it’s their luxurious coat, their sweet temperament, or their rich history. If you’re attracted to the beauty of long-haired dogs and are willing to invest time in grooming and care, any of these breeds can make a wonderful addition to your home, providing years of companionship, joy, and love.