The Toy breeds are some of the most popular dogs around the world. It’s easy to see why: they’re small, affectionate and were generally bred for the sole purpose of human companionship. They come with all sorts of different looks and personalities to fit your needs and are fun, easy to care for, and loyal companions.
#1 – Yorkshire Terrier
This tiny terrier was originally bred to hunt rats in clothing mills, but they’ve developed into one of the most beloved canine companions in the world. They are small but feisty, with a lot of heart in their tiny bodies. Although they make great lap dogs, they are also relatively active and do need adequate physical and mental stimulation to be suitable house pets.
#2 – Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is the smallest of the Poodle breeds and the only one in the Toy Group. They are all active and intelligent dogs that excel in various dog sports such as obedience and agility. The Toy Poodles were bred for family companionship and excel as lap dogs that enjoy being by their owner’s side at all times.
#3 – Shih Tzu
This Chinese lap dog makes an excellent family companion. They are alert, outgoing, social with friends and strangers, and very affectionate dogs. They are known for their goofy personalities, but also their great watchdog skills. The Shih Tzu will let their owners know when someone is approaching their home. They demand attention for their owners and do not fare well being left alone for long periods of time.
#4 – Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The smallest of the Spaniels, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was bred to be a lap dog. They are a very sweet, affectionate breed that enjoys spending time with their families. They are playful and outgoing, eager to please and happy to meet everyone. They are known for being great companions for people of all ages and get along well with other animals too.
#5 – Pomeranian
This little Spitz breed is a lot of dog in a tiny body and takes those unsuspecting by surprise. Typical of the Spitz breeds, they can be aggressive toward other dogs and not suitable for homes with other small pets. However, they are very lively, outgoing and social dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners and even competing in sports like agility and obedience.
#6 – Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a very old breed originating, as its name suggests, from Chihuahua, Mexico. They come in various sizes, colors, and coat lengths, but are essentially all the same breed. They make great companions and lap dogs for those familiar with the breed, but are known for being a poor choice for families with children. They can become aggressive resource guarders without proper training, but are affectionate and outgoing with the people they know and love.
#7 – Havanese
The Havanese is a Bichon-type breed from Cuba. They are small but sturdy dogs that are very intelligent and easy to train. They are active and outgoing, playing outside with their families just like larger dogs are known to do. They make excellent companions for people of all ages and are friendly towards strangers as well.
#8 – Maltese
Maltese were bred to be companion dogs and enjoy cuddling and spending time with their owners. They are very playful and lively dogs and are known to remain active even through old age. They can be difficult around small children if not socialized with them from the beginning, but generally make great family companions. They prefer to stay with their humans and do not do well when left alone for long periods of time.
