13 Small Dog Breeds That Stick To You Like Velcro

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

toy poodle
Tuan Nguyen/pexels

Some dogs are known for their independent streak, but others never want to leave your side. If you’re looking for a companion who follows you everywhere, snuggles up to you at every opportunity, and thrives on human interaction, these ‘Velcro’ dog breeds might be perfect for you. Here are 13 small dog breeds that form unbreakable bonds with their owners.

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Sylwia Aptacy/Pixabay

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate and loyal, often shadowing their owners around the house. Their love for companionship makes them ideal lap dogs, and they excel at providing emotional support. This breed thrives on attention and doesn’t enjoy being left alone for long periods. Whether you’re lounging on the couch or going for a walk, your Cavalier will be right by your side, always eager to be part of your daily activities.

2. Chihuahua

chihuahua on grass
salofoto/Pixabay

Despite their tiny size, Chihuahuas have enormous personalities and an unshakable attachment to their owners. They often choose one person to bond with and become fiercely loyal. Their love for cuddling and staying close means they will follow you from room to room, never wanting to be out of sight. However, their clingy nature means they don’t tolerate being alone for long, making them best suited for owners who spend a lot of time at home.

3. Maltese

Maltese
Toni Canaj/Pexels

The Maltese is known for its loving and devoted nature. This breed thrives on companionship and will happily curl up in your lap for hours. Maltese dogs form deep emotional bonds and are known to become anxious when left alone. They are perfect for individuals or families looking for a small, affectionate dog that enjoys constant interaction. Their silky white coats require grooming, but they make up for it with their unwavering loyalty.

4. Pomeranian

pomeranian
yuliya-rudavska/pexels

Pomeranians may be small, but their attachment to their owners is massive. This fluffy breed loves attention and forms strong bonds with their humans. They are curious and playful but will always check in to make sure their favorite person is close by. Pomeranians are also highly intelligent and enjoy being the center of attention, making them the ultimate Velcro dog for those looking for a tiny but devoted companion.

5. Havanese

Havanese
JACLOU-DL/Pixabay

Havanese dogs are known as “Velcro dogs” for a reason. They thrive on companionship and prefer to be with their owners at all times. This breed is affectionate, intelligent, and adaptable, making them great family pets. They are playful yet incredibly cuddly and will gladly follow you from room to room just to be near you. Havanese are also known for their friendly disposition, making them excellent for social households.

6. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzu lying on dry grass outdoors.
Edyttka1388/Pixabay

Shih Tzus were bred to be lap dogs, and their affectionate nature proves it. They form deep attachments to their owners and will follow them everywhere. This breed enjoys constant attention and will happily sit by your side or snuggle in your arms. They are gentle, social, and love human interaction. If you want a dog that will always be nearby, the Shih Tzu is a great choice.

7. Italian Greyhound

italian greyhound
akikocampbell/pixabay

Italian Greyhounds are known for their sensitive and affectionate personalities. They form incredibly strong bonds with their owners and tend to be anxious when left alone. This breed craves warmth and companionship, often burrowing under blankets or curling up on your lap. Their sleek build and delicate nature mean they prefer indoor living and close contact with their favorite human.

8. Miniature Dachshund

Mini Dachshund
paylessimages/123RF

Miniature Dachshunds may be independent thinkers, but they are also incredibly devoted to their owners. They love companionship and will follow you around the house, always wanting to be near. These little dogs are affectionate and love to burrow under blankets for warmth, often choosing to sleep curled up next to their humans. While they can have a stubborn streak, their loving nature makes them excellent companions.

9. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise dog
Castorly Stock/Pexels

The Bichon Frise is known for being cheerful and highly attached to its owner. This breed is happiest when surrounded by family and thrives on human interaction. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them great lap dogs, and they will eagerly follow you wherever you go. Due to their deep bond with their humans, they don’t tolerate being left alone for long periods and do best in homes where someone is usually present.

10. Toy Poodle

Toy Poodle
fanjianhua/123RF

Toy Poodles are highly intelligent and form incredibly strong attachments to their owners. They love to be involved in everything their humans do and will follow them from room to room. This breed is affectionate, social, and thrives on companionship. They also require mental stimulation, so they love interactive play and training sessions. Their devotion to their owners makes them one of the best Velcro dog breeds.

11. Yorkshire Terrier

yorkshire terrier with toy
crina-doltu/pexels

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, have big personalities packed into a tiny frame. They are incredibly loyal to their owners and prefer to be near them at all times. Whether sitting on your lap or following you around the house, Yorkies thrive on attention. Their affectionate nature and deep bond with their humans make them great companions, but they do require regular grooming due to their silky coats.

12. Papillon

Papillon
Alan Quirván/Pexels

Papillons are small, energetic dogs that love to be close to their owners. They are highly intelligent and affectionate, making them excellent companion pets. Despite their high energy, they will always check in with their humans and love to be held or sit on their owner’s lap. Their big ears and expressive eyes give them a charming appearance, but their need for companionship is what truly sets them apart.

13. Japanese Chin

Japanese Chin
GoranH/Pixabay

The Japanese Chin is a cat-like dog that loves to be near its owner at all times. This breed is incredibly affectionate and forms deep attachments to their humans. They are quiet, gentle, and love curling up in laps. Their small size and devoted nature make them ideal for people looking for a dog that will always want to be close. While they can be independent at times, they ultimately thrive on human interaction.

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