No matter how little money and how few possessions you own, having a dog makes you rich - Louis Sabin

The term "small fluffy dogs" brings to mind, celebrities and socialites, with tiny dogs, all dolled up, stuffed in a bag or carried around. But there's more to a fluffy dog, than just fur. Small size often means an energetic and spunky attitude and tiny dogs are full of life. They need a good and firm hand, attention and care, and lots and lots of love, which they return in double (or even more). If your kind of pooch is a cute small fluffy dog, then read on to learn which are the best little breeds to own.

Small Fluffy Dogs

Here are the top 6 types of fluffy dog breeds, not judged by popularity or size, but by their "fluffiness".

Bichon Bolognese
White and fluffy, like a snowball with a tail, is the best description for the Bolognese. Their country of origin is Italy and they are a rare breed, outside Europe. Its friendly and loving nature, with a docile attitude, make it an ideal companion and family pet. Contrary to it belonging to the small dog group, it is not yappy or aggressive and less active. The Bolognese hates to be left alone and bonds well with its owner.
Height : 9 - 13 inches; Weight : 4.5 - 9 pounds; Color : Pure white, off-white, champagne.

Pomeranian
Aptly nicknamed Pom Pom, this breed has a history of being a royal pet, and is one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Don't be fooled by its tiny stature. The Pomeranian is a powerhouse of energy, intelligence and attitude. It loves to be the center of attention and is very lively. But it can get yappy and aggressive, especially with strangers, and needs a firm but loving hand.
Height : 7 - 12 inches; Weight : 3 - 7 pounds; Color : Red, white, blue, black, black and tan, sable, brindle, parti-color (white with colored markings)

Coton de Tulear
One of the rarer small fluffy dog breeds, The Coton de Tulear is named after the French word for cotton and the city of Tulear. Alert and intelligent, it makes an excellent alarm dog. It has an entertainer's gift with crowds, pulling stunts and tricks, especially walking on its hind legs. Their easygoing nature and playful spirit, make them good playmates for children and other pets.
Height : 9 - 13 inches; Weight : 8 - 13 pounds; Color : White, black-and-white, tri-color

Bichon Frise
The powderpuff model of small fluffy dogs. The Bichon Frise is similar in build and coloring to the Bolognese. This dog is a very social animal, humans and animals alike. It sparkles, when given attention, and is very lively in company. They are also active, with short bursts of energy, called the Bichon Blitz period.
Height : 9 - 12 inches; Weight : 7 - 12 pounds; Color : Solid white, cream, gray or apricot

Cairn Terrier
Bold and fearless. Full of spunk and fire. These words are just the tip of the iceberg, when it comes to describing the hardy temperament of the Cairn Terrier. A little guy with a lot of big guy attitude, this breed has a distinctive fox-like appearance. They are natural chasers and defensive of their homes. They have a social nature, and are well behaved around strangers and other dogs, but are not so fond of cats. This breed is highly intelligent and curious, and learn anything, if properly trained.
Height : 9 - 11 inches; Weight : 12 - 14 pounds; Color : Red, brindle, sand, shades of gray

Papillon
With its fringed ears, mixed coloring and delicate and small size, the Papillon is correctly named for its butterfly-like look. This breed is one of the oldest toy spaniels. They are happy and friendly dogs, who live to meet, greet and socialize. They love cuddling and kissing and are obedient. Papillons love a good romp or activity, and are good at jumping.
Height : 8 - 12 inches; Weight : 8 - 10 pounds; Color : White with patches of any color and a white blaze and noseband.

List of Tiny Fluffy Dogs
  • Affenpinscher
  • American Eskimo
  • Australian Terrier
  • Brussels Griffon
  • Dandie Dinmont Terrier
  • Havanese
  • Japanese Spitz
  • Japanese Chin
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Lowchen
  • Maltese
  • Norfolk Terrier
  • Norwich Terrier
  • Poodle
  • Shih Tzu
  • West Highland White Terrier
  • Yorkshire Terrier
Owners of toy and small dogs, should be careful of "Small dog syndrome", a behavioral issue with small-sized breeds. If spoiled and given their way too often, small dogs tend to assume they are in charge, and will not obey or listen to any commands. They tend to get aggressive and growl or bark at anything. Gentle but firm training, with praise instead of threats, is an early start to avoiding behavioral problems. Small dogs are especially social and should not be left alone for long periods of time.