Small dogs with long, flowing coats are often the epitome of elegance and charm. These breeds are not only charming in their small size, but also in their luxurious coats, which add grace and beauty to their overall appearance. Although long-haired dog breeds may require more grooming than short-haired breeds, many dog lovers find that the extra care is well worth the great results. These breeds often have a distinctive appearance that sets them apart, with their long coats adding to their appeal and making them stand out from the crowd. Additionally, small long-haired dogs are often known for their affectionate and loyal natures, making them great companions who are both adorable and beautiful. Whether you are drawn to a breed for their charming coats, playful personalities, or adorable nature, there is no denying the appeal of small long-haired dogs. In this article, we’ll explore nine small long-haired dog breeds, from the well-known to the lesser-known, and highlight what makes each one special.
9. Shih Tzu Dog
The Shih Tzu is a breed synonymous with luxury and elegance, known for its long, flowing coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty. Originating in China, the Shih Tzu was bred as a companion dog for Chinese royalty and their name means “Lion Dog,” referring to their majestic appearance. The Shih Tzu has a double coat that can reach floor length if left untrimmed, giving them a distinctive and charming appearance. Despite their small size, the Shih Tzu is known for its outgoing and friendly personality. They are affectionate dogs that enjoy human companionship, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Regular grooming is essential to keep their long coats tangle-free and healthy, and many owners choose to trim their Shih Tzu’s coat into a “puppy cut” for easier care. The Shih Tzu is also known for its calm and gentle temperament, making them a great companion for families, singles, and seniors. Their luxurious coat and adorable personality make the Shih Tzu a top choice for those looking for a charming little long-haired dog.
8. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” is a small dog breed that is instantly recognizable thanks to its long, silky coat that elegantly drapes over its small body. Originally bred in England as a working dog, the Yorkie was used to hunt vermin in textile mills and mines. Today, the Yorkie is one of the most popular companion dog breeds, known for its feisty personality and beautiful coat. The Yorkie’s long coat requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and maintain a silky texture, and many owners choose to keep the coat short for easier care. Despite its small size, the Yorkie is known for its bold and confident nature, often displaying a fearless demeanor that belies its small stature. They are also affectionate and loyal, often forming strong bonds with their owners. The Yorkie is well suited to apartment living and can adapt to a variety of lifestyles as long as it is given enough attention and exercise. The combination of a gorgeous coat, lively personality and affectionate nature makes the Yorkshire Terrier a popular choice for those looking for a small, long-haired dog with a strong spirit.
7. Maltese
The Maltese is an elegant and graceful dog breed with a long, white coat and a gentle temperament. This ancient breed has a history that stretches back thousands of years, originating in the Mediterranean region. The Maltese was a favorite of nobles and royalty and is prized for its beauty and affectionate nature. The Maltese has a single coat rather than an undercoat, meaning that they shed very little but require regular brushing to avoid tangles and mats. Many owners choose a shorter coat for their Maltese to make grooming easier. The Maltese is known for its friendly and playful temperament, making them great companions for both individuals and families. They are also known for their intelligence and eagerness to please, making them relatively easy to train. Despite their delicate appearance, the Maltese is hardy and energetic, often surprising their owners with their playful antics. The Maltese’s combination of luxurious coat, sweet personality, and playful nature makes them a popular choice for those looking for a small, long-haired dog that is both beautiful and adorable.
6. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is an ancient and revered breed of dog, originally bred in Tibet as a guard dog in monasteries and palaces. Known for its long, flowing coat that can reach to the floor, the Lhasa Apso has a distinctive and majestic appearance. The breed has a double coat, with a dense undercoat and a long, straight outer coat that requires regular grooming to prevent tangles and mats. The Lhasa Apso is known for its independent and sometimes aloof nature, reflecting its history as a guard dog. 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 dog that requires constant training and socialization to fully develop its personality. Despite its small size, the Lhasa Apso has a strong and sturdy body, making them surprisingly resilient and robust. The long, luxurious coat, combined with a loyal and protective nature, makes the Lhasa Apso a great choice for anyone looking for a small, long-haired dog with a bit of regal charm.
5. Havanese Dog
The Havanese is a breed of dog known for its playful and affectionate nature, as well as its long, silky coat that gives it a distinctive and charming appearance. Originating in Cuba, the Havanese was bred as a companion dog for Cuban nobility and remains a popular companion dog today. The Havanese has a double coat, with a silky outer coat that requires regular grooming to avoid tangles and mats. Many owners choose to keep their coat short for easier care, but those who prefer the traditional long coat will need to spend time grooming and regular maintenance. The Havanese is known for its friendly and sociable temperament, 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 an active and playful breed that loves to be the center of attention and thrives in a home where they can become a full member of the family. The combination of their beautiful coat, playful nature and affectionate personality makes the Havanese a great choice for those looking for a small, long-haired dog with a fun and loving temperament.
4. Papillon
The Papillon is a small dog breed that is instantly recognizable for its large, butterfly-like ears and soft, silky coat. The breed’s name, which means “butterfly” in French, refers to the distinctive ears that give it its unique and elegant appearance. The Papillon has a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to keep it looking its best. Despite its delicate appearance, the Papillon is known for its lively and energetic personality, often surprising its owners with its agility and strength. They are intelligent and easy to train, excelling in obedience and agility competitions. The Papillon is also known for its friendly and outgoing nature, often forming strong bonds with its owners and getting along well with children and other pets. Despite its small size, the Papillon is confident and fearless, often showing a bold and adventurous spirit. The combination of a gorgeous coat, lively personality, and intelligent nature makes the Papillon a popular choice for those looking for a small, long-haired dog with a touch of elegance and grace.
3. Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a little-known breed of dog that is famous for its charming personality and long, soft coat. Originating in Tibet, Tibetan Spaniels were bred as companion dogs for monks in Tibetan monasteries, where they were prized for their loyalty and alertness. The breed has a double coat, with a soft undercoat and a long, silky coat that requires regular grooming to avoid tangles and matting. Tibetan Spaniels are known for their affectionate and loving nature, often forming strong bonds with their families and becoming deeply attached to their owners. They are also intelligent and independent dogs, often displaying a self-confidence that reflects their history as watchdogs in monasteries. Despite their small size, Tibetan Spaniels are confident and alert, making them excellent watchdogs. They are also known for their playful and energetic personalities, and often enjoy games and activities that keep them mentally and physically stimulated. The Tibetan Spaniel’s combination of luxurious coat, affectionate nature, and alert temperament makes them a great choice for those looking for a small, long-haired dog with a long history and a loving temperament.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a breed known for its sweet and gentle nature and long, flowing coat that gives it a majestic and elegant appearance. Named after King Charles II of England, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a long history as a companion dog of royalty and nobility. The breed’s coat is smooth and soft, with feathering on the ears, chest, legs and tail adding to its luxurious appearance. Regular brushing is required to keep the coat looking its best and to avoid tangles and mats. Cavaliers are known for their affectionate and loving temperaments, 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 majestic appearance, Cavaliers are playful and energetic dogs who enjoy being active and participating in family activities. The combination of a beautiful coat, gentle nature, and playful personality makes the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel a popular choice for those looking for a small, long-haired dog with a touch of royal charm.
1. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small dog breed known for its soft, cottony coat and affectionate, playful personality. Originating from the island of Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear was bred as a companion dog for royalty and nobility, and remains a popular companion dog today. The breed’s coat is long and soft, with a cotton-like texture, which is where the breed got its name. Regular brushing is required to keep the coat looking its best and to avoid tangles and matting. Cotons are known for their friendly and sociable temperaments, 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 energetic dogs that enjoy being the center of attention and thrive in a home where they can become a full-fledged member of the family. Despite their small size, Cotons are very healthy and robust, often surprising their owners with their energy and enthusiasm for life. The combination of their beautiful coat, playful nature and affectionate personality makes the Coton de Tulear a great choice for those looking for a small, long-haired dog with a loving and playful temperament.
Summary: The Beauty and Charm of Small Long-Haired Dog Breeds
Small, long-haired dog breeds offer a unique combination of elegance, charm, and personality. These breeds may require more grooming than their short-haired counterparts, but their stunning looks and affectionate natures make the effort well worth it. From the majestic 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, loving temperament, or rich history. If you’re drawn to the beauty of long-haired dogs and are willing to invest the time and effort into grooming and care, any of these breeds would make a wonderful addition to your home, providing years of companionship, joy, and love.
