Are some dogs naturally chubby

Complete Guide to Short Tail Dogs: Genetics vs. Docking

While most dogs have naturally occurring long tails, there are also many known breeds that have short tails. Some of these breeds are well known, such as, the English Bulldog, Doberman, and Australian Shepherd. These breeds are often referred to as bobtail breeds.

So, you may be asking yourself why do some dogs have short tails, if the majority of canines have long wagging tails? Thats a totally valid question.

The short answer is that there are two reasons that a dog has a short tail: either they were born with a short tail or their tail was docked.

This guide will cover why some dogs are born with short tails and what breeds are in this group. Its important to note that some of the dogs on this list are recognized by other major kennel clubs internationally, but not necessarily by the American Kennel Club. So some of these breeds may be new to you.

Additionally, well take a look at the brief history of the practice of tail docking and exactly whats all involved.

Dogs with short tails, especially from docking, is a very hot topic in the world of dog people. There is some major controversy and legal issues around tail docking. You might just be shocked after you learn all about it in this guide.

Check out my complete list of the 34 Natural Bobtail Breeds (with pictures) CLICK HERE!

So lets dive right in and first talk about dogs born without tails.

Why are some dogs born without tails?

So whats behind these naturally occurring bob tails? Well, there is a few different things at play here. There are some known and unknown genetic mutations that cause this trait in some breeds.

Lets look at the known genetic mutation known for causing short tails.

T-gene C189G

Okay everyone, buckle your seat belt because there is some incoming nerdy science here for a second. Bear with it, it will be over soon.

According to a study published in the Journal of Heredity in 2009, titled Ancestral T-Box Mutation is Present in Many, but Not All, Short-Tailed Dog Breeds, identified that one reason for dogs being born with a short tail is the presence of the mutated T-gene C189G. There were 18 breeds identified in the study as carrying the C189G mutation.

The presence of this gene mutation causes a short tail, which can be a completely short bobtail or a mid-sized short tail. The breeds in which the study identified the C189G gene are not always born with a short tail, but there are significant odds that some puppies in those breeds litters will be born with short tails.

Short + Short = Death

One other important piece of information that this study identified, especially for breeders, is that in these 18 breeds identified as carrying the C189G gene, two copies of this gene mutation are lethal. Meaning if both parents have short tails, some of the puppies will inherit the gene from both parents, which is lethal to the puppy. The study showed that about one in four puppies would inherit the gene from both parents and die before birth.

The 18 Natural Short Tail Dog Breeds That Carry the C189G Mutation

Dogs breeds introduced to the C189G mutation by cross-breeding

Believe it or not, there have been some moves to introduce the C189G mutation to breeds, mainly due to tail docking being illegal in many countries (we will get to that later). As of today, only one breed is known to have intentionally had this gene introduced.

An article written by Virginia Zurflieh, titled The Fantastic Account of Dr. Bruce Cattanachs Bobtail Boxers, details how this was done with some Boxers. In 1992, anticipating a docking ban in Britain, Dr. Bruce Cattanach introduced the C189G mutation by crossbreeding a Boxer with a Corgi. Cattanach then backcrossed with purebred boxers. This resulted in Boxers that can be born naturally with bob tails.

The Only Dog Breed in Which the C189G Mutation Was Introduced

Dogs without C189G mutation

The same study published in the Journal of Heredity, mentioned above, also identified six dog breeds born with short tails that DO NOT carry the C189G mutation. For these six dogs, the genetic mechanism for the short tail hasnt been determined.

The 6 Natural Short Tail Dog Breeds Without C189G Mutation

Untested Dog Breeds

In addition to the two groups of dogs above, there is a third group of natural short-tail breeds that have not been tested yet for the C189G mutation.

The 9 Natural Short Tail Dog Breeds Not Yet Tested for C189G Mutation

There is still a fair bit of genetic testing to be done, but this is at least the information known so far.

Tail Docking

So, now that we know what breeds can be born with naturally short tails, lets take a look at tail docking. If you didnt see your favorite short tailed dog breed on the above lists, chance are their tails are docked.

Brief history of tail docking

Docking tails is kind of a strange concept and is counter to how most dogs are genetically built. Dogs closest living ancestors, wolves, have tails. So, you can argue that the presence of a tail has lasted through every adaptation the species has went through. If a tail was a trait not needed, wolves or dogs would have naturally shed that part of their anatomy.

So, then how did tail docking become a thing?

Its important to distinguish two main reason for tail docking. There is docking for practical reasons and there is docking for cosmetic purposes.

According to the American Veterinarian Medical Association and a fantastic article by Jill Kessler Miller , Tail Docking in Dogs: Historical Precedence and Modern Views, the origin of docking for practical and cosmetic reasons is interesting.

Practical docking

Tail docking looks to have initially occurred in ancient Rome. Tail docking, as well as, removing a portion of their tongue, was believed to help lower the risk of a dogs getting rabies. Obviously, this seems silly today with what knowledge we have, but that was the logic at the time.

Separately, there is a long history of docking working dogs tails. This is done to help prevent tail injuries while hunting or herding. Dogs wagging tails could get caught on thorns or brush, causing cuts and infections. Additionally, a herding dog could possibly get a tail caught or stepped on by large livestock.

INTERESTING FACT: Companion dogs (non-working dogs) were taxed in 17th century England. Working dogs, who were designated by docked tails, were not taxed.

So, humans being humans, people figured out a way to scam the tax. Poor dog owners proceeded to crop the tails on their dogs to avoid the dog tax. Eventually, the dog tax was repealed in 1796, but the practice of docking continued.

Cosmetic docking

The docking of tails for cosmetic reasons appears to be at least a couple hundred years old. The AVMA mentions that The American Book of the Dog, 1891, mentions several times how docking improves the pleasing appearance of a dog including dogs belonging to working breeds.

Additionally, in the 1950s, pedigree standards for dog showing were established, resulting in the tail docking becoming a requirement of certain breeds.

How tail docking is preformed

Docking is preformed by removing part, or all of a dogs tail, during the first few days after birth when the puppys tail is still soft. This is usually done in one of two ways:

1. Surgical Scissors a veterinarian or breeder will snip the tail at the length desired.
2. Tail Banding a tight rubber band is placed on the tail, cutting off blood supply to the tail after the rubber band. The tail will drop off between three to five days.

Controversy surrounding tail docking

There is significant controversy surrounding the practice of tail docking. Tail docking is actually banned or restricted in all first world countries with the exception United States and Canada. Those opposed to docking believe it to be unjustified and extremely painful for puppies.

Its unjustified

Many in the veterinary wold view docking as unjustified. Meaning that theres typically not a good enough reason to amputate a tail. Removing an appendage simply for cosmetic reasons puts a dog at unnecessary risk. Basically, are we causing more harm by docking than what we are trying to prevent.

Additionally, there is some thoughts that docked tails may limit communication between dogs, but this is mostly anecdotal evidence and not scientific.

Its Painful

The traditionally belief that is not painful for puppies is just not true. The common belief that puppies have lower pain sensitivity has actually been disproved in the last 20 years.

As it turns out, studies have shown puppies, and neonate humans, have heightened pain experience, not less.

This is especially controversial because docking is done without anesthesia.

Conclusion

So, from the information above you can see there are a few reasons for why the dogs running around you may have short tails. Genetic reasoning for the natural short tailed breeds is interesting and definitely a nice alternative to tail docking.

Tail docking can be done for practical or cosmetic reasons. For practical reasons, it can make logical sense.

A tail injury can be a dangerous injury for a dog. My Golden Retriever, Nakota, injured his tail and had to have a portion of his tail amputated due to an infection and resulting dying tissue. The injury took a very long time to heal and it was re-injured several times during recovery. I can see why working dogs would have their tails removed at birth.

Either way, the work of introducing short tail genetics to different breeds may be a safe alternative to tail docking and certainly a legal option in areas where tail docking is illegal.

Also be sure to check out my complete list of the 34 Natural Bobtail Breeds (with pictures) CLICK HERE!

Disclaimer: Docking is definitely a controversial topic. This article however, is not intended to support or object the practice of tail docking. The above content is intended to be informational.

30 Small Fluffy Dog Breeds That Are Adorably Cute

Looking for an adorable pooch that can serve both as a companion and a decor for your living room? We have the best options for you!

These small fluffy dog breeds are some of the cutest around, and they are easy to cuddle, much like teddy bears. All thanks to their fluffy coat.

Not everyone wants a trophy dog who would do nothing more than look classy and shadow you all day.

But if thats your definition of pet parenting, then youve come to the right place.

These dogs that are small and fluffy have similar coats and share some traits in common, but they are distinct breeds with their quirks.

At the end of the read, you should be able to locate one that clicks with you. Dont worry about how it would happen.

If theres one thing about choosing a pet, we sometimes end up just knowing which breed would be the pet of our dreams.

The Small Fluffy Dog Breeds

01. Bichon Frise

AKC Group: Non-SportingHeight: 9 to 11 inchesWeight: 7 to 12 poundsCoat Type: Double, coarse, denseCoat Colors: WhiteTemperament: Cheerful, playful, affectionateLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Spain, Belgium, France

The Bichon Frise comes as the first small fluffy dog breed on our list, and once you get a glimpse of it, youd agree that we made a good decision putting it first.

The Bichon Frise has a double coat. The outer is coarse while the inner coat is dense and soft.

This breed has a high grooming need, so be prepared to hire a professional groomer.

It is a good apartment dog with a lovely personality.

02. Papillon

AKC Group: Toy groupHeight: 8 to 11 inchesWeight: 4 to 9 poundsCoat Type: Single, long, straight, fineCoat Colors: White, sable, white, and chocolateTemperament: Friendly, alert, happyLife Expectancy: 12 to 16 yearsOrigin: France

The Papillon got its name because of its unique ears that look like a butterflys wings.

It is also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, but we know which name fits its adorable looks better.

Grooming this breed is not as difficult as the Bichon Frise, but it requires effort.

Dog owners of this breed should be careful not to spoil it as it is easy to get carried away by the Papillons fanciful looks.

It loves playing around and isnt the best choice for a lap dog, but it shouldnt be left alone for long.

03. Havanese

AKC Group: Non-Sporting groupHeight: 8 to 11 inchesWeight: 7 to 13 poundsCoat Type: Long, straight, curlyCoat Colors: White, black, black and tan, gray, sableTemperament: Gentle, affectionate, playfulLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Cuba

A very affectionate dog, the Havanese is a companion in and out.

Its fluffy coat will sure make you want to run your hands through it, and it enjoys being a lapdog. Expect a lot of cuddles with this dog.

Grooming takes a lot of effort, but the result is always a reward. Just like the Papillon and all other dogs on this list, the Havanese should not be spoilt.

This breed doesnt appreciate being left alone too.

04. Lhasa Apso

AKC Group: Non-SportingHeight: 9 to 11 inchesWeight: 12 to 15 poundsCoat Type: Long, dense, straightCoat Colors: Honey, black, white,Temperament: Playful, devoted, friendlyLife Expectancy: 12 to 14 yearsOrigin: Tibet

The Lhasa Apso looks like your typical companion, but dont expect to fit this ex-royal watchdog in one box.

Though small in size, it approaches the world as a big dog and can be protective.

Owners of this breed must take this into account and protect their pooches from injuring themselves.

Its fluffy coat is gorgeous, befitting royalty. Grooming it, however, is anything but royal.

Some pet parents would prefer handing the grooming task over to a professional groomer.

05. Pomeranian

AKC Group: Toy groupHeight: 7 to 12 inchesWeight: 3 to 7 poundsCoat Type: Double, soft, thickCoat Colors: Black, black and tan, chocolate, blue, chocolate, and tan, blue and tanTemperament: Playful, friendly, sociableLife Expectancy: 12 to 16 yearsOrigin: Pomerania

Pomeranian dogs put a capital F in fluffy!

A breed as sweet as its name, the Pomeranian (or Pom, for short) is a good candidate for this list of fluffy small dog breeds.

It is one of the popular fluffy breeds out there. As you might have probably guessed, grooming the coat is tasking.

The Pomeranian is a small dog that doesnt know it is small, much like the Lhasa Apso.

It has been known to challenge bigger dogs, so be watchful of it at a dog park. That said, this breed is an extrovert with friendly vibes.

06. Pekingese

AKC Group: Toy dogHeight: 6 to 9 inchesWeight: 7 to 14 poundsCoat Type: Long, straight, coarseCoat Colors: Fawn, red brindle, black and tanTemperament: Affectionate, wary, sensitiveLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: China

An ancient dog breed from China, the Pekingese acted as a watchdog and retains the instincts that have since helped it to play that role.

It is also a sweet lapdog that wants nothing more than to be with its owner. The Pekingese sometimes show signs of stubbornness, but it can be a good first-time dog.

The high-maintenance Pekingese needs a lot of effort to groom its long coat. It should also be taught not to be noisy as it tends to be a barker.

07. Coton de Tulear

AKC Group: Non-SportingHeight: 8 to 12 inchesWeight: 8 to 13 poundsCoat Type: Cottony, longCoat Colors: WhiteTemperament: Happy, smart, playfulLife Expectancy: 14 to 16 yearsOrigin: Madagascar

The Coton de Tulear is the canine version of cotton candy and was fully recognized by the American Kennel Club as early as 2014.

It is the ultimate companion, ever eager to please, and bonds strongly with its family members. This breed is a poor choice for busy owners.

The Coton de Tulear is one of the best small hypoallergenic dog breeds, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.

Though it looks otherwise, the coat doesnt shed. This small fluffy dog doesnt drool and hardly produces any dander too.

08. Toy Poodle

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: not more than 10 inchesWeight: 6 to 9 poundsCoat Type: Dense, curly, wiryCoat Colors: Black, blue, white, grayTemperament: Loving, loyal, intelligentLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: France, Germany

The Poodle is considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds in our modern days, and it is friendlier than its snobbish looks imply.

The breed comes in three recognized sizes: The Standard, Miniature, and Toy.

While all size-types have fluffy coats, the Toy Poodle is the smallest and qualifies for this list.

Besides its high intelligence, another cool trait of the Poodle is its hypoallergenic coat.

The Toy Poodle was developed solely to be a companion, and it does that well.

09. Yorkshire Terrier

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: 8 to 9 inchesWeight: 4 to 6 poundsCoat Type: Long, straight, silkyCoat Colors: Blue and tan, black and tan, black and gold, blue and goldTemperament: Intelligent, confident, boldLife Expectancy: 13 to 16 yearsOrigin: England

Fondly called Yorkie, the Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog with terrier blood. This gives it a spunky attitude not always seen in toy dogs.

The Yorkies have a personality larger than its size and would act like it owns the place.

That said, it is a loving companion (but suspicious of strangers). Give it good training and groom regularly.

10. Tibetan Spaniel

AKC Group: Non-Sporting GroupHeight: 8 to 11 inchesWeight: 9 to 15 poundsCoat Type: Double, silkyCoat Colors: Black, white, black and tan, sable, goldTemperament: Wilful, happy, playfulLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Tibet

The Tibetan Spaniel differs from other spaniels in that it was developed to be a companion.

It is good for every pet parent, including new ones, but this breed displays some occasional stubbornness.

Compared to the Bichon Frise, the Tibetan Spaniel has a lower grooming need. However, it still needs more effort than short-coated dogs. It sheds minimally.

11. Shih Tzu

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: 9 to 10 inchesWeight: 9 to 16 poundsCoat Type: Long, silkyCoat Colors: Black, black and white, gray and white, red and whiteTemperament: Affectionate, happy, outgoingLife Expectancy: 10 to 16 yearsOrigin: China

As a companion, the Shih Tzu has been well sought after. Not only is it hypoallergenic, but it is also a lover of people.

Doesnt matter if you think dogs should be kicked off the planet, the Shih Tzu will not let you ignore it.

What might perhaps discourage some pet parents is the high grooming need of the Shih Tzu.

However, if youve read this far, you should know it is common amongst fluffy dogs.

12. Maltese

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: 8 to 10 inchesWeight: 4 to 8 poundsCoat Type: Silky, straightCoat Colors: WhiteTemperament: Playful, Affectionate, intelligentLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Malta

The Maltese is one of the oldest toy dog breeds, going as far back as Aristotle.

However, this breed is not outdated. A popular breed, the Maltese charms people with its playful nature.

If you let it have its way, it would want to be friends with everyone.

The Maltese need regular grooming and the occasional bath because it gets dirty easily.

While brushing, remove mats and tangles, except you want your Maltese to join the ranks of dogs with dreadlocks.

13. Affenpinscher

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: 9 to 11 inchesWeight: 7 to 9 poundsCoat Type: WiryCoat Colors: Black, grey, tan, silver, beige, redTemperament: Playful, stubborn, adventurousLife Expectancy: 11 to 14 yearsOrigin: Germany

Often called Monkey dog because of its looks, the Affenpinscher is a small, energetic, and unique-looking dog.

Youre sure to have passers-by glance at your Affenpinscher while outdoors. Its spunky attitude and loyalty add to the overall appeal.

This breed has a shaggy look that can be maintained through deliberate brushing, which should be done weekly.

14. Shetland Sheepdog

AKC Group: Herding GroupHeight: 12 to 15 inchesWeight: 14 to 20 poundsCoat Type: double, dense, harshCoat Colors: Sable, black, blue merleTemperament: Gentle, loyal, sensitiveLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Scotland

The Shetland Sheepdog differs from other breeds weve seen so far in that it wasnt bred solely for companionship.

The Shetland sheepdog was a herder that protected sheep and worked on farms. Its first name was Toonie, which meant farm.

This doesnt make the Shetland Sheepdog any less of a companion, though.

It loves being around its family and may sometimes be wary of strangers. It is also sensitive, so you need to avoid yelling at it.

15. Bolognese Dog

AKC Group: Foundation Stock ServiceHeight: 9 to 12 inchesWeight: 8 to 14 poundsCoat Type: FlockedCoat Colors: WhiteTemperament: Loyal, serious, reservedLife Expectancy: 12 to 14 yearsOrigin: Italy

The Bolognese Dog is registered under the AKC Foundation Stock Service, which means it hasnt been fully recognized by the Kennel Club.

It is less popular than many other breeds on this small and fluffy dog breeds list, and if you prefer breeds that are not easily recognizable, the Bolognese is your option.

This breed loves staying around its family, but dont think it is a completely innocent dog. It can sometimes be mischievous and even manipulative, so be careful.

16. Chinese Crested

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: 11 to 13 inchesWeight: 10 to 12 poundsCoat Type: Hairless, PowderpuffCoat Colors: Blue, lavender, mahogany, copperTemperament: Alert, happy, intelligentLife Expectancy: 10 to 14 yearsOrigin: Africa, Mexico, China

Anyone who has met a Hairless Chinese Crested would wonder why we added it to a list of fluffy dog breeds.

If thats you, remember that the Chinese Crested has two coat types: the hairless and the fully coated, also known as the Powderpuff. The latter is fluffy.

This breed is perfect for those who dont want a highly energetic pooch.

It is content to lie around with you while you read a book or watch a movie.

17. Cairn Terrier

AKC Group: Terrier GroupHeight: 9 to 10 inchesWeight: 13 to 14 poundsCoat Type: Double, wiry, softCoat Colors: Red, brindle, black, sand, grayTemperament: Cheerful, happy, friendlyLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Scotland

Remember Toto in The Wizard of Oz? Thats a perfect example of a Cairn Terrier.

Highly confident, curious, and intelligent, the Cairn Terrier is a lover of peopleexcept witches in pointed hearts.

This breed can be a first-time dog, but like all Terriers, youd have to deal with some stubbornness and independence.

If as a new pet parent you dont know how to be in charge of a dog, the Cairn Terrier might frustrate you. That said, it is sensitive and can get easily hurt.

18. Brussel Griffon

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: 7 to 8 inchesWeight: 7 to 12 poundsCoat Type: Rough, smoothCoat Colors: Red, black and tan, Belge, blackTemperament: Sensitive, inquisitive, alertLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Belgium

The Brussel Griffon is among the dogs that look like pugs and is sometimes given the nickname Monkey face because of its monkey-like expression.

It is a good companion that adapts to different surroundings, from an apartment to a home with a yard.

It loves every family member, but would often attach itself to one.

This breed may not be the best option for a new pet parent, though. Its bossiness and sensitivity require an experience that the novice doesnt have.

19. Japanese Chin

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: 8 to 11 inchesWeight: 4 to 9 poundsCoat Type: Long, silkyCoat Colors: Black and white, red and white, black and white with tanTemperament: Affectionate, happy, charmingLife Expectancy: 8 to 11 yearsOrigin: China

The Japanese Chin originated from Japan, right? Well, not really. This breed is a native of China where it served in the imperial court.

Theories have it that the Japanese Chin came into Japan as a gift, and thats where it got its name

The unique trait of the Japanese Chin isnt its fluffiness, but its catlike nature. Dont be surprised to walk in and find your pooch perched up high.

20. Cockapoo

AKC Group: Not recognizedHeight: 10 to 15 inchesWeight: 6 to 19 poundsCoat Type: Tight curly, loose wavy, straightCoat Colors: Black, white, redTemperament: Intelligent, active, lovingLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: United States

The Cockapoo is the first designer breed on our list, and one of the oldest there is.

It is also fast rising in popularity, to the extent that many are pushing for it to be recognized as a pure breed.

While that hasnt happened yet, the Cockapoo already has clubs formed after its name.

It is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle, both of which contributed to its fluffy looks and the Cockapoo sizes (standard, mini, toy, and teacup).

This breed is friendly, sweet, and eager to please.

21. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

AKC Group: Toy GroupHeight: 12 to 13 inchesWeight: 13 to 18 poundsCoat Type: Medium, silky, slightly wavyCoat Colors: Blenheim, tricolor, black and tan, rubyTemperament: Playful, affectionate, fearlessLife Expectancy: 9 to 15 yearsOrigin: United Kingdom

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a companion at heart, but that doesnt stop it from displaying some characteristics of the Spaniels.

Your King Charles Spaniel could be relaxing on your laps this minute and trying to catch a bird the next moment.These dogs could either be quiet or outgoing.

Whatever spectrum they fall in, they generally love humans and are not known to be aloof towards anyone, including strangers.

22. West Highland White Terrier

AKC Group: Terrier GroupHeight: 10 to 11 inchesWeight: 13 to 22 poundsCoat Type: DoubleCoat Colors: WhiteTemperament: Bold, confident, funLife Expectancy: 12 to 16 yearsOrigin: Scotland

The West Highland White Terrier knows it is a good-looking breed and walks with that assurance.

With its white fluffy coat, who can blame it?

Westie also loves fun and would give you a good time while being entertained.

The advantage this breed has over other small fluffy dogs is that it is easy to groom.

It is also easy to train, but dont expect it to be docile. It is a terrier breed, after all.

23. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

AKC Group: TerrierHeight: 8 to 11 inchesWeight: 18 to 24 poundsCoat Type: RoughCoat Colors: Mustard, pepperTemperament: Affectionate, lively, determinedLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Scotland

Named after a fictional character, Dandie was developed to be a hunter. It was bred to hunt otters and badgers before it became a family dog.

Now, it is a calm and reserved companion, traits that earned it the title gentleman of the terrier family.

Unfortunately, according to The Kennel Club in England, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is one of the most endangered and rarest purebred dogs.

Unlike its counterpart the West Highland White Terrier, Dandie is a high maintenance breed.

It needs brushing twice or thrice each week to remove dead hair.

24. Japanese Spitz

AKC Group: Foundation Stock ServiceHeight: 10 to 16 inchesWeight: 11 to 20 poundsCoat Type: Thick, doubleCoat Colors: WhiteTemperament: Friendly, loyal, smartLife Expectancy: 10 to 16 yearsOrigin: Japan

The Japanese Spitz is relatively new when compared to other dogs that are small and fluffy on this list, having appeared in 1921 at a dog show in Tokyo.

It is often confused with the Pomeranian, the American Eskimo Dog, or the Samoyed because of the close resemblance.

However, it is a breed of its own.

Though it looks otherwise, the Japanese Spitz has a low grooming need. Brush it twice a week to avoid matting and it would be okay.

Recommended:25 White Fluffy Dog Breeds Youll Love (Big & Small)

25. Lwchen

AKC Group: Non-SportingHeight: 12 to 14 inchesWeight: 9 to 18 poundsCoat Type: Long, denseCoat Colors: Black, chocolate, black and silver, black and tanTemperament: Playful, happy, friendlyLife Expectancy: 12 to 14 yearsOrigin: Northern Europe

The Lwchen, or Little Lion, is a rare small breed with a blurry origin. It was bred to be a companion, though, and has played that role for long.

The Lwchen is a calm, gentle and affectionate breed thats nonetheless active and needs exercise.

While the breed has a high grooming need, you can reduce the work needed by trimming its hairs. Fortunately, the Lwchen is a low shedder.

26. American Eskimo Dog

AKC Group: Non-Sporting GroupHeight: 9 to 19 inchesWeight: 10 to 30 poundsCoat Type: Double, dense, straightCoat Colors: White, creamTemperament: Friendly, reserved, protectiveLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: Germany

The American Eskimo Dog is fondly called the dog beautiful, and theres no lie in that statement.

An eye-catcher with an attractive coat, the American Eskimo Dog is appealing in many ways.

Its personality adds more spice to the treat that this breed is.

That said, it needs a lot from its owner in terms of grooming and exercise. The American Eskimo Dog is highly energetic and also a high shedder.

27. Volpino Italiano

AKC Group: Foundation Stock ServiceHeight: 10 to 12 inchesWeight: 9 to 14 poundsCoat Type: Double, thick, and softCoat Colors: White, red, champagneTemperament: Playful, active, affectionateLife Expectancy: 14 to 16 yearsOrigin: Italy

The Volpino Italiano is an Italian dog breed, only well known in its native country. In other places, it is a rare breed.

The Volipino Italiano just got into the American Kennel Clubs radar in 2021. It may be hard to find, but we include it here because of its fluffy coat and rarity.

The Volpino is more suited for an active family as it is energetic and needs a lot of exercise.

It is also suitable for busy people as it isnt prone to separation anxiety, unlike many others on this list.

28. Pomsky

AKC Group: Not recognizedHeight: 10 to 15 inchesWeight: 7 to 38 poundsCoat Type: Double, soft, and fluffyCoat Colors: White, blue, greyTemperament: Playful, loyal, intelligentLife Expectancy: 12 to 15 yearsOrigin: United States of America

Have you ever wondered how a Siberian Husky would look if it was smaller and fluffier? Pomsky is a good answer to that.

This is the second designer breed on our fluffy small dogs list, and it is becoming popular as the year goes by.

Pomsky is a cross between the Pomeranian and the Siberian Husky.

It is friendly and affectionate but isnt advisable for new pet parents because of the parent Husky gene.

29. Morkie

AKC Group: Not recognizedHeight: 4 to 8 inchesWeight: 7 to 13 poundsCoat Type: Single, soft, smoothCoat Colors: White, tan, blackTemperament: Intelligent, loyal, energeticLife Expectancy: 10 to 14 yearsOrigin: United States

Lets throw in another designer breed Morkie, a cross between the Maltese and the Yorkshire Terrier.

The Morkie is a popular Maltese mix that began existing in the late 1990s.

Combining both parent breeds gives Morkie a love for humans and a feisty personality.

The Terrier blood of this breed does make it hard to train, so it isnt the best option for a new pet parent. Training takes time, patience, and skills.

30. Schipperke

AKC Group: Non-Sporting GroupHeight: 10 to 15 inchesWeight: 11 to 18 poundsCoat Type: Double, thickCoat Colors: BlackTemperament: Faithful, agile, curiousLife Expectancy: 13 to 15 yearsOrigin: Belgium

The final breed on our list is the Schipperke, a small dog with a big personality.

Size notwithstanding, this breed is protective and can make a good watchdog and guardian.

It is loyal to its family members and aloof towards strangers, traits of a reputable guardian dog.

Not surprisingly, the Schipperke is best suited for an experienced owner. Its grooming need isnt as hard as the challenges of training, however.

Related Questions

What is the smallest fluffiest dog?

There exist many small fluffy dogs, all cute looking. The Pomeranian is one of the smallest fluffiest dogs, alongside the Bichon Frise.

What is the softest small dog?

Some fluffy dogs come with a coarse outercoat, others are soft all over. Amongst the latter category is the Maltese, one of the softest small dogs that exist. The Pomeranian also has a soft coat.

What is the cheapest small fluffy dog?

Many fluffy dogs can be costly, but not all will drain a hole in your wallet. The Bichon Frise appears on any list of cheapest dogs, making it the cheapest small fluffy dog we know.

What breed is the small fluffy dog?

The fluffy small dog isnt a distinct breed of its own, but a concept designating various breeds with fluffy coats.

Final Thoughts

Big fluffy dog breeds are adorable, and small fluffy dogs are even more so.

However, dont rush to buy one based on sentiments alone. Even the most easygoing pooch has needs and some challenges.

Fluffy small dogs are usually companions, which means they want enough attention.

Most of them also have a high grooming need, which might require that you get a professional groomer. Consider all the pros and cons before making a decision.

Did we miss any breed that you know? The comment section is open for you.