Short-Haired Lap Dog Breeds

If you're longing for a lovable, low-maintenance lapdog, several of the toy breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club fill the bill. If you live in a cold climate, your dog might need a coat for cool-weather outings.

  1. Pug

    • The largest of the toy breeds, pugs weigh 14 to 18 pounds at maturity. These good-natured, playful dogs don't require a great deal of exercise. They get along well with other dogs and cats. Their short-haired, fawn or black coats require occasional brushing to keep them spruce. One caveat -- the pug is a brachycephalic, or short-nosed breed, prone to respiratory problems.

    Chihuahua

    • The tiniest of the toy breeds, Chihuahuas shouldn't top 6 pounds at maturity. These little canines, probably the classic lapdog breed, easily fit in purses or satchels for portability. Available in solid and multicolors, Chis bond intensely with their person. Despite their small stature, an alert Chi makes a good watchdog and will try to protect his owner.

    Italian Greyhound

    • The AKC calls the Italian greyhound "one of the easiest breeds to groom." Smart, easy to train and attention-loving, Italian greyhounds do require more exercise than other toy breeds. However, they are typical toys in that they dote on their person. Unlike some toy dogs, they do well in families with older kids, who know how to behave with small canines. Appearing in most colors, Italian greyhounds range in height between 13 and 15 inches tall at the shoulder.

    Chinese Crested

    • There's short hair, and there's next-to-no hair. The Chinese Crested comes in two varieties. The crested's body is hairless, while the powderpuff has a soft coat. Both types can arrive in the same litter. Delicate and friendly, the crested makes a good choice if anyone in the household has allergies. Maturing between 11 and 13 inches tall, these little dogs are prone to sunburn.

    Other Breeds

    • Not all short-haired toy breeds make suitable lapdogs. Some breeds, especially terriers, are just too active and energetic to spend the majority of their time watching TV or relaxing with their person. If you want a small, short-haired dog with lots of energy, consider the toy fox terrier, miniature pinscher or Manchester terrier. These breeds have some of the traits of their larger working dog cousins. They're very much "big dogs" in a small dog's body.