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When it comes to lap dogs, most people automatically think of the adorable Shih Tzu with their flowing coats and gentle demeanor. These little companions have certainly earned their reputation as excellent cuddle buddies over centuries of warming royal laps. Yet the world of small, affectionate breeds extends far beyond this popular choice.
What if I told you there are breeds that might actually surpass the beloved Shih Tzu in the lap dog department? Some offer even more devotion, others require less grooming, and a few bring personalities that might suit your lifestyle better. From ancient palace dogs to modern designer mixes, these ten remarkable breeds prove that the perfect lap companion comes in many delightful packages.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Ultimate Cuddle Champion
The Cavalier King Charles spaniel was literally bred to be a lapdog. Their purpose in life is to love and be loved by you. These silky-coated beauties weigh between 13 and 18 pounds, making them slightly larger than Shih Tzus but still perfectly lap-sized.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are super loving. If you let them, they’d stay napping and cuddling in your lap all day. Their gentle temperament and adaptable nature make them ideal for families with children or seniors seeking constant companionship.
Don’t let their regal name fool you – the Cavalier King Charles can fit into a laidback lifestyle just as well as a luxurious one. A true chameleon, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel adapts to the needs of his family, amiable with both children and seniors, as well as any furry friends already in the home.
French Bulldog: The Stocky Snuggle Expert
The French Bulldog is another sweet and loving breed that loves to cuddle. French Bulldogs, also known as Frenchies, are small dogs only growing up to about 13 inches tall. They are stocky dogs, weighing around 20 to 28 pounds. Despite being heavier than traditional lap dogs, their compact build makes them surprisingly good cuddlers.
French Bulldogs know how to keep you on your toes. They are intelligent, energetic, lively, and social. After a long day of playing though, they will demand your lap to take a long nap.
French Bulldogs are famous for their quirky, lovable nature. Despite their strong and muscular build, they are true lap dogs at heart. They enjoy lounging around the house and snuggling with their owners, often becoming very attached to their human companions.
Maltese: The Silky White Cloud
They may be wee pooches, but the cuddlesome Maltese has a gigantic amount of good cheer and devoted companionship. A quintessential lap dog, this precious bundle of fluff is incredibly smart, easily trainable, and eager to learn new tricks without a lot of fuss. Weighing under seven pounds, they’re lighter than most Shih Tzus.
The modern variety traditionally has a silky, pure-white coat, hanging ears and a tail that curves over its back, and weighs up to 3–4 kg (7–9 lb). The Maltese sheds minimally. This non-shedding quality gives them an advantage over Shih Tzus for allergy-sensitive families.
Despite their small size, they possess a lively and playful nature, often forming strong bonds with their human families, making them delightful and devoted pals. Renowned for their gentle temperament, intelligence, and adaptability to various living environments, the Maltese have been cherished as a beloved lap dog and faithful friend for centuries.
Pug: The Wrinkled Comedian
Who better to relax on your coveted lap space than a wrinkly, roly-poly pup who fully embraces the couch potato lifestyle? Champion loungers, pugs are people pleasers who will stop at nothing to put a smile on your face. Even when they aren’t the center of your attention putting on a show, they’re difficult to ignore.
Pugs are distinguished by their playful, affectionate disposition. They are known for being loyal companions and are incredibly sociable. Pugs enjoy following their owners around and are more than willing to settle down in their laps for some TLC.
Another brachycephalic breed, many pugs are prone to snoring. Since they sleep up to 14 hours each day, this is one of those lovable quirks you’ll get used to in no time. Their love for extended nap sessions makes them perfect lap warmers.
Papillon: The Butterfly-Eared Beauty
The Papillon is one of the oldest toy breeds, with a history dating back 700 years. These little dogs traveled on trade routes between Asia and Europe, serving as “lap warmers” for noblewomen in France and Spain. Their elegant appearance and devoted nature make them exceptional companions.
Papillons are friendly and lively dogs, often recognized by their distinct butterfly-like ears. These small dogs are known for being intelligent and easy to train. Their love for companionship makes them ideal lap dogs, as they prefer to stay close to their owners whenever possible.
Bred as companion dogs, Papillons want to spend time with their family above all else. Left alone for too long, Papillons may develop undesirable behaviors. A second pet in the home may be enough to comfort a Papillon whose family is at work all day.
Chihuahua: The Tiny Bodyguard
If you want to have a walking, talking, cuddle bug, you might want a Chihuahua. This small, shaking dog loves to cuddle and take naps in laps. They are affectionate, loyal, and very attached to their loved ones. You won’t have a moment alone when you have a Chihuahua.
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dog breeds, known for their bold personality and strong bond with their humans. They often choose a favorite person to attach to, making them perfect as lap dogs. These pint-sized pups love to snuggle and are happiest when they’re close to their owners.
As the world’s smallest breed, the perfectly portable Chihuahua is frequently carried in tote bags or hanging out in laps. These tiny pups form very tight bonds with their humans, so they are happiest when they are close to you.
Pekingese: The Regal Palace Dog
Speaking of, the poised Pekingese is no stranger to palace life. Like the shih tzu, the long-locked Pekingese is known as a “lion dog.” Weighing no more than 14 pounds, the Pekingese were reportedly favored by Chinese emperors who cherished the charismatic breed by their side. It’s no wonder the proud breed carries a little pep in their step.
Pekingese dogs have a regal demeanor, stemming from their origins as companions to Chinese royalty. These small and loyal friends tend to form close bonds with their humans and delight in spending time curled up in their laps. Their luxurious coats and dignified appearance make them stand out as exceptional lap dogs.
Pekingese are hilarious dogs with very social personalities. They love to demand attention. Pekingese are loyal and affectionate furry friends that originate from China.
Havanese: The Cuban Charmer
As Cuba’s national dog, the Havanese balances the honor with a bit of mischief and unleashed glee. A natural extrovert, this affectionate breed is eager to please, making her a perfect parent for the hybrid Havamalt. Pure Havanese dogs make wonderful lap companions with their silky coats and cheerful dispositions.
I don’t know much about the Maltese, but I love the Havanese. My guys aren’t yappers and they love sitting on my lap. They are all very affectionate, especially my boys. I like their bigger size at 16-17 lbs. Their slightly larger size provides more warmth during cuddle sessions.
The Havamalt is the result of mixing a Havanese and a Maltese. They were initially bred in the U.S. as an affectionate, intelligent, loyal companion. Havamalts are gentle, sweet-natured dogs who crave lots of human attention and are ready to show affection at all times.
Italian Greyhound: The Elegant Speed Demon
While larger than the other dog breeds we’ve talked about here, Italian Greyhounds are the smallest of the Greyhounds. They are playful and athletic dogs that are around 13 to 15 inches long and weigh less than 15 pounds. This dog breed is highly affectionate and loves being around other people.
The itsy bitsy Italian greyhound bears a striking resemblance to the much larger greyhound, and both breeds have a need for speed. After their bursts of energy, these graceful dogs transform into devoted lap warmers.
The Italian Greyhound might surprise some as an ideal lap dog due to its sleek, athletic build. Their thin skin and minimal coat make them natural heat seekers, constantly searching for warm laps and cozy spots.
Bichon Frise: The Fluffy White Companion
It’s hard to say anything negative about the Bichon Frise – these little white dogs are cheerful, friendly, smart, and highly trainable. Their hypoallergenic coat and gentle nature make them excellent alternatives to Shih Tzus for many families.
With its fluffy, hypoallergenic coat and cheerful personality, the Bichon Frise makes a delightful lap dog. They are known for their friendly nature, which allows them to get along well with both people and other pets. They love being the center of attention and cuddling up with their families.
The Bichon Frise is believed to be a descendant of the Barbet, a French dog, and was transported across the Mediterranean by Spanish sailors during the 13th century. They are a lively, friendly, and affectionate breed that gets along well with kids and other pets. Therefore, they make for excellent family pets!
Conclusion
While Shih Tzus remain wonderful lap dogs with their gentle temperament and flowing coats, these ten breeds each offer something special that might make them even better suited for your lifestyle. From the ultra-devoted Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the non-shedding Maltese, each brings unique advantages to the art of lap warming.
The perfect lap dog ultimately depends on your specific needs. Do you want a tiny portable companion like a Chihuahua, or prefer the substantial warmth of a French Bulldog? Are you seeking the regal dignity of a Pekingese or the playful charm of a Papillon? Each of these breeds proves that exceptional lap dogs come in many delightful forms.
What do you think makes the perfect lap dog? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Andrew Alpin from India is the Brand Manager of Doggo digest. Andrew is an experienced content specialist and social media manager with a passion for writing. His forte includes health and wellness, Travel, Animals, and Nature. A nature nomad, Andrew is obsessed with mountains and loves high-altitude trekking. He has been on several Himalayan treks in India including the Everest Base Camp in Nepal.
