Although you might want your dog to stay in that precious puppy stage, most breeds grow and become much larger. Of course, this is a good thing when it comes to softening behavior, but some of us prefer our puppies to be smaller.
Fortunately, there are many options when it comes to breeds that don’t change much as they age. In fact, many dogs maintain a smaller body shape throughout their lives, making them perfect for people who live in the city or have young children.
1. Yorkshire Terrier
You might recognize a Yorkshire Terrier by their long haircut, but if you keep them in a short cut, Yorkies will look like puppies for most of their lives. According to Daniel Caughill, dog expert and co-founder of The Dog Tale, this is one of the smallest dog breeds, averaging around 7 pounds. “And you’ll rarely see a purebred Yorkie weighing more than 12 pounds,” he adds.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a bit larger than a Yorkshire Terrier, with the typical weight of this dog breed being around 13 to 18 pounds. However, other aspects of this breed make it one of the most puppy-like options. “This adorable breed has a gentle personality and makes a great pet. And their big floppy ears make them look like puppies forever,” shares Caughill.
3. Shih Tzu
A Shih Tzu is generally between a Yorkshire Terrier and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel in terms of size. This breed only grows to a maximum size of 8 to 16 pounds, which helps give it that perpetual puppy look. Shih Tzus are also known to be particularly affectionate with children. As a small dog bred to spend most of his day in royal palaces, he makes a great pet if you live in an apartment or don’t have a large garden.
4. Poodle
If you’re looking for a puppy-like pet with plenty of intelligence and personality in a small frame, a toy poodle is a great option. These dogs only weigh 5 pounds on average and will look especially puppy-like with a short, puffy haircut.
5. Yorkie Poo
You can also achieve the same puppy look with a toy poodle mix, such as a Yorkiepoo. This hybrid dog breed results from breeding a Yorkshire Terrier and a toy or miniature poodle. One of the main reasons the Yorkiepoo forever looks like a puppy is its big puppy eyes. Additionally, they are usually quite active even into old age and have a youthful spirit. Because of this, they can really look like puppies.
6. The Maltese
The Maltese breed also belongs to the Toy group of dogs. So they only weigh about 7 pounds when fully grown. But that’s not the only thing that makes the Maltese a perfect choice if you’re looking for a forever puppy. Maltese are a small, white, fluffy breed that sometimes resembles a lamb more than a dog. They love to play, but they also make wonderful companion dogs if your family members enjoy cuddling.
7. Pomeranian
Pomeranians weigh around 3 to 7 pounds and don’t really change their appearance as they age. So they will look like a puppy all their life. Pomeranians are a spunky, fluffy little breed that loves to play and make their presence known.
8. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are another breed whose appearance doesn’t change much over time, meaning they will stay small forever. “Chihuahuas tend to look quite young until old age, mainly due to their small size and large eyes compared to the rest of their body,” says Courtnye Jackson, veterinarian and founder of The Pet Digest. company. These little guys only weigh 4 to 10 pounds maximum.
9. Bichon Frize
The Bichon Frize is a “small but sturdy” dog, according to the AKC. This breed only grows to a maximum size of 10 to 20 pounds. Their “soft, often fluffy coat” also helps maintain that youthful, baby-like appearance. Bichons are adaptable companions who get along well with other dogs and children.
If you are looking for a dog that looks like a forever puppy, you have many options. Yorkshire Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Shih Tzus, Toy Poodles, Yorkiepoos, Maltese, Pomeranians, Chihuahuas and Bichon Frizes are all dog breeds that stay small and cute throughout their lives .
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