Some dogs prefer to nap in another room, others prefer to be wherever their owner is. Many small companion breeds remain by their owners’ side even today, as is appropriate for their close bond. Not all of these 11 lap dogs are as loving as each individual dog is unique. Let’s take a closer look at each breed: their size and the characteristics that make them a natural lap dog.
Cavalier King Charles spaniel
Cavaliers were bred to be companions for kings and queens, and usually weighed between 13 to 18 lbs. They are non-aggressive and very sociable. It is important that parent dogs are health tested by a breeder before breeding as the breed is susceptible to heart disease.
Pug
Pugs are about 14-18 lbs and are ancestors of the ancient Chinese form of dog. Prefers company and tends to “follow” their owners around inside the home. They are sensitive to heat due to their flat faces and should not be left outside in hot weather without supervision.
Maltese
The Maltese typically weighs less than 7 lbs, and their coat is a long, silky white. One of the oldest toy breeds, and has been a companion for many centuries. Brushing regularly will prevent matting.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a 9- to 16-pound companion dog bred for the Chinese royal family. It’s associated with the Chinese word for lion. They are known to be a friendly and outgoing breed and tend to sit around the family.
Bichon Frise
Bichons have white coats that are curly and require regular grooming, and they weigh approximately 12 to 18 lbs. They have a very friendly and cheerful temperament and tend to do better with a lot of human contact.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a medium-sized dog that weighs 3-7 pounds, inherited from larger spitz-type working dogs. The breed was popularised in England thanks to Queen Victoria’s love for the breed. Pomeranians are intelligent, energetic and very affectionate dogs.
Chihuahua
Named for the Mexican state of Chihuahua, the Chihuahua is not heavier than 6 pounds. Many Chihuahuas will bond with one individual and prefer to remain near them, and will frequently look for warm cozy areas.
Havanese
Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and weighs approximately 7-13 pounds. It is a dog born to be a companion and it is said to be a velcro dog meaning it follows its owner around from room to room.
Yorkshire terrier
The Yorkies originated in the north of England in the 1800’s when tiny terriers were employed to trap rats in mills. They are up to seven pounds today and are primarily bred as companions. They are loving but may be bold for their size.
Papillon
Papillon is the French word for butterfly and Papillons weigh approximately 5 to 10 pounds. They are bright and may be one of the more trainable toy breeds and love to be around their families.
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is a breed of dog that was traditionally bred by the Japanese nobility and is now kept as a pet. It is usually quiet and reserved, and is considered catlike due to its grooming habits (using its paws to do so) and the fact that it enjoys sitting high up.
