Dogs that stay small forever

  • By: Mick Whitefield
  • Time to read: 7 min.

As dog lovers, when we have had puppies, many of us have often thought: “I wish it would stay that small forever.” It’s perfectly natural to want your puppy to stay small. However, this does not have to be a wish anymore .Today we will talk about the best small dogs that do not grow or simply seem to stay small forever. Here we show you a mix of small breed dogs that appear to stay small forever, many of which are cross breeds.

What dogs stay small forever?

1. Chorkie – a Chihuahua cross Yorkie
2. Yorkie Poo – A Yorkie cross Toy Poodle
3. Carlino Pug
4. Dorkie – A Dachshund cross Yorkie
5. Pomeranian
6. Papillon
7. Maltese
8. Shih Tzu
9. Jack Russel Terrier
10. Bichon Frise

Small dogs have become a solid trend, as they can be easy to care for due to their size . For people who live in small apartments, these types of dog are a common option, however, you do not have to limit yourself to the most common breeds.

Chorkie

This charming little breed is a cross between a Chihuahua and a Yorkie (Yorkshire Terrier). They are often quite nervous and can appear aggressive, mostly due to their quick speed usually borne out of fear.

Chorkie, Chihuahua X Yorkie
Seriously cute dogs

They do not always mix well with other dogs but are extremely loyal and very cute often looking like mini corgis.
They will happily sit for hours on your lap or play games with you as they lap up any attention given to them.

Yorkie poo or YorkiPoo

The Yorkipoo is a cross a miniature or toy poodle and the Yorkshire Terrier. The Yorkipoo is also very energetic. You will often see them run very fast. But even more impressive, they can jump very high despite their small size. So if you have a very active lifestyle, the Yorkipoo could be a good dog for you, since they have a lot of energy to burn. The Yorkipoo adapt well to living in an apartment. With a lifespan of 10 to 15 years, the Yorkipoo is a low maintenance dog.

Yorkipoo in a bucket
Yorkie-Poo puppy sitting in a bucket

It has a short hair coat and loses very little hair. However, it can be prone to allergies (mostly skin). Apart from that, the potential causes of health problems for this breed of dog can only come from overwork or from bad breeding.
The Yorkipoo can be easily trained and is a very fast apprentice. With positive reinforcements, even a novice owner can easily handle a Yorkie poo. Your Yorkie poo can even become a good therapy dog.

Carlino Pug

The pugs and other brachycephalic dogs are one of the most sought after toy dogs . Not only are they very adorable in size, but they are also very affectionate and energetic. With a weight of 6 to 8 kilos, the dog can be a good apartment dog , since they demand very little maintenance . Although the coat of the Carlino Pug is very short, this breed of dog often loose a lot of hair.

pugs

On average , the pug can live between 12 and 14 years. But, keep in mind that brachycephalic dogs like the pug may have special needs. Their crushed faces cause some of your respiratory and eye problems common with Pug breeds. Also, if you can, avoid exposing this dog to extreme temperatures. But most importantly, keep it in shape . Pugs are easily prone to obesity.

Dorkie

Another Yorkie cross, this time with a Dachshund.

Yorkie X Dachshund
A Yorkie and a Dachshund

These guys have been found to be very playful sometimes with an aloof attitude as if trying to make themselves very important.

The resulting cross breed – The Dorkie

They have the bounce of the Yorkie with the seemingly calm confidence of the dachshund, making them a popular choice with the elderly. Only gaining 5 to occasionally 9 inches in height they also make a loving family lapdog.

Dorkie


Generally very intelligent they require stimulation and are excellent to train for tricks which makes them great for small children. They really are a dog that enjoys company and will even co-exist happily with other family pets such as cats or indoor birds.

The last point on these fun little characters is that Dorkies are hypoallergenic dogs and as such are good for allergy sufferers.

Pomeranian

Another very small dog breed that will have you falling in love is the Pomeranian. Extremely curious, easy to please and train as they are very intelligent. Often bred as show dogs. This compact little dog is of Nordic decent. It co-exists well with other pets especially cats.

Pomeranians full of life
Joyful and energetic


Growing some 8 to 11 inches in height weighing between just 3 to 7 pounds.

The Papillon

The Papillon, also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel. One of the oldest of the toy spaniels, deriving its name from its characteristic butterfly-like look of long fringed hair on the ears.
The Papillones are usually seen in the paintings and have descended from the toy spaniel . With a life of 12 to 16 years , they are generally quite healthy and robust.

Papillon dog
Hardier than they look – The Papillon

They are hardier dogs than they look and although they do not have any notable diseases due to their breed or body structure, they can be quite fragile to handle. They are very energetic and easy to train.

They are also good watchdogs and can assist you to get rid of small rodents at home.
Despite having a lot of hair they do not release excess hair, they are very friendly, affectionate and are ideal pets even for novice dog owners.

Maltese

Despite its cloud of white hair , Maltese dogs do not release excess hair because they do not have undercoat . The Maltese is one of the oldest dog breeds , earning the nickname “Dog of the Roman Ladies” or “Dog of the Ancient of Malta” among others.

Maltese Dog
A bundle of fluff


With a life of 12 to 15 years, the Maltese are quite healthy in general. However, like any other breed of dog, they also have their imperfections . The Maltese can have dental problems and are not ideal for rough play due to their small size and delicate bone structure .
Apart from that , Maltese dogs adapt easily to different living conditions, especially in flats or apartments . They can be quite protective or aggressive when they feel that their human family is threatened . But its their loyalty that’s what makes them special.

8. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is another famous toy dog breed. Shih Tzu literally means small lion. The Shih Tzus are actually one of the oldest dog breeds dating back to ancient China.

Shih Tzu face
An old breed

Similar to the pug, a Shih Tzu can be susceptible to diseases or problems related to heat and breathing due to its facial structure . But apart from that, the Shih Tzus adapt quite well to any lifestyle. With regular exercise, proper diet the Shih Tzu can live for 10 to 16 years.

Shih Tzu pair
A dignified breed


The Shih Tzu’s are very friendly and perfect for families with small children. They are quite easy to train and despite their docile look are actually quite intelligent. Avery loving and loyal breed they will hike for 5 miles easily or sit on your lap for hours.

Jack Russell Terrier

Among the small dog breeds that do not grow, the Jack Russell is easy to train for novice dog owners . They are very energetic and sweet. Weighing an approximate weight of 6 to 12 pounds at a height of just 8 inches, this breed of dog is very intelligent and can be a good hunting dog too, as they were originally used for hunting foxes, badgers and ferrets.

Jack Russell Terrier
A comical fun loving breed, the Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terriers are very athletic , so if you like to play hide-and-seek, running and other energetic games then this dog could be the ideal one for you.
They have a lot of energy to expend, they need to have an adequate amount of daily exercise along with several toys and puzzles to keep them amused or they will suffer with boredom which may make them either depressed or destructive.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a pretty healthy and robust dog with a lifespan of some 10 to 15 years .

Bichon Frise

Finally, to complete the list of “what kinds of dogs stay small forever”, there is the Bichon Frise. The Bichon Frise is related to other breeds of small dogs such as the Maltese, Havanans, Bolognese and others. However, despite their small size, they are not as fragile as they seem.

Bichon Frise dog
Bichon Frise a Fluffy cloud of fur

They are actually very robust dogs. They have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years, and is a dog breed that can bring you years of happiness and love. A Bichon Frise can be a good dog for novice owners and families with children, especially if you home them from puppies.

Bichon Frise with child
These dogs are great with kids

They are very energetic and playful. They make good therapy dogs too. However, despite their general good health, they are quite prone to skin problems and allergies. So be prepared to spend time taking them to the dog groomers or, if you have the necessary time and patience, you can always learn the grooming techniques for your Bichon Frise and do it for yourself.
The techniques will not be so hard if you have the willpower to do so.

In Conclusion

There are many small breeds of dog that do not appear to grow. Try to match the character of the breed to your own personal family circumstances.
Not only are you doing yourself a favor looking for a suitable dog for your lifestyle, but you can also take better care of your dog which has to be a prime concern.
Remember that, at the end of the day, our pets are not only there to keep us happy or entertained, but they should also be treated as a family member.

Dogs, like humans, have feelings and needs that need to be satisfied in order to live a full life.

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