If you’re like us, you’ve probably considered which animal you’d like to come back as if reincarnation was real. Possibly a grandiose mountain lion, or maybe you see yourself as a mighty whale.
Perhaps the most clever choice would be to wish to return to earth as an adorable lapdog.
Who hasn’t been a bit envious of those pampered fluffy dogs whose major responsibility is chillin’ on their owner’s lap while they dine al fresco on a sunny afternoon?
It so happens that lapdogs include a wide variety of breeds, each with its own characteristics and uniqueness.
But which are the best lapdogs? Staying away from competitiveness (this wouldn’t align with the lapdog spirit), these ten breeds of lapdogs are all equally loyal and devoted to spending hours curled up to their owners.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a dog with a royal history. They’re toy dogs that originated in England during the early 1600s. Their height is 12 to 13 inches, and they weigh around 13 to 18 pounds. Their fur is extremely soft and silk-like, and their expression is sweet and loving.
They adore napping closely to their owners, but they will also enjoy playing and being active if that’s a part of their owner’s lifestyle.
Pekingese
Pekingese are also a royal breed, but in their case, originating in Asia. They were the lapdogs of the ancient Chinese Imperial Court, with a privileged seat next to the ruling class. They’re bulky, compact toy dogs with short necks that make their coat drape slightly around their head, forming a sort of “lion’s mane.”
They weigh up to 14 pounds and are delightful and charming companions. Pekingese are confident as well as opinionated, having quite the personality and may grumble at times.
However, they develop a tight bond with their owner and make good watchdogs as they’re quite alert.
Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle we know today was bred during the 18th century. This sweet lap companion stands out for their intelligence. They’re extremely clever and easy to train. In addition to loving laps, they can also be active and playful.
Their main characteristic is their curly fur, as well as their sweet expression. They love both children and older adults, and get along well with other animals (as long as they’re not a threat to them).
Pug
Pugs rank very high in cuteness. They originated in ancient aristocratic China and are one of the most adorable bug-eyed fluffy creatures on the planet.
Their flat face makes it important for them to have plenty of rest, as they can have breathing issues during exercise. And their sweet melting expression makes it inevitable for them to be cuddled by their owners.
They’re highly adaptable, and do well in small apartments or bigger houses. They adapt well to city life or the countryside, as long as they’re not too far from their humans.
Havanese
The Havanese also has a history of aristocracy as the loyal companion to wealthy Spanish farm owners and noblemen in Cuba in the 1500s. They’re a happy bundle of fluffy joy with medium to long hair that is soft and silky. Some grooming is required for them to look fabulous and be conformable.
Like Toy Poodles, they’re active and intelligent and enjoy being with their owner. They’re also very sociable and enjoy the company of other people as well.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a foxy ball of luxurious fluff. They’re almost teddy-bear-like in their appearance, irresistible to stroke. They are truly beautiful, and their coats come in almost two dozen colors, though the predominant is tangerine or red.
They’re among the world’s most popular breeds due to their lively personality. They can be quite energetic, so expect some excitement before coming in for a cuddle.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise might be what most people think of when they think of a lapdog. They’ve got two button eyes in the middle of a storm of white, cotton-looking hair.
What distinguishes them is their friendly, well-mannered personality and sense of humor. They’re easy to train and love performing for their families.
They’re a walk-on-the-sunny-side-of-the-street dog that gets along well with everyone.
Maltese
Maltese are adorable toy lapdogs. Their origin is in Malta, and they’ve cuddled in human laps for centuries. They weigh less than 7 pounds with straight, silky hair that looks like bangs all over the place.
Their character is affectionate and adaptable, with a good spirit to play and be active.
They’re low-shedding, so they’re a good choice if you have a carpet or allergies.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is the smallest recognized dog breed.
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They’re known for being energetic and tiny, usually between 5 to 10 inches tall. They have a round head, pointy ears, and big expressive eyes.
They’re dogs with a lot of attitude and personality who are used to being by their owner’s side, everywhere.
They do very well in cities and prefer being with children who won’t rough-play. They love walks and mostly spending quality lap time with their owners.
Shih Tzu
Finally, the Shit Tzu, the trademark of a family lapdog.
They’re champions in sweet expressions and a charming manner. They weigh between 9 and 16 pounds, with long fluffy hair that is often tied up in a bow on top of their head.
They really like following their owner around and are especially keen on children. They do require grooming, as their hair can grow long and should be carefully trimmed around the eyes.
But the effort in their grooming pays-off in the beauty and softness of their fur.
Conclusion
Lapdogs are clever animals that circulated royal palaces throughout history. They’ve stood on powerful individuals’ laps and been bred to utter cuteness. Despite their simple aspirations and small size, they deserve much respect.
They’re not only about relaxing on your laps. They enjoy being active and love walks and playtime.
Lapdogs are practical for life in the city and the suburbs and are good with adults and children who can distinguish them from toys.
You should, however, be aware when taking them around other dogs as sometimes larger dogs can be intimidating to the little guys.
One thing is certain, they’ll remain loyal companions to their beloved humans for years to come.
