Forever Puppies: 15 Dog Breeds That Stay Small and Puppy-Like

Just the other day I was served up a Facebook memory to remind me that we have now had our dog for 3 years. Now–he’s 140 lbs! He was smaller than our corgi when we brought him home. I love giant breeds, but I sure do wish their puppy stage lasted just a little bit longer. Here are some dogs that stay “puppy like” forever.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

With their gentle eyes and sweet expression, Cavaliers carry a puppy-like innocence throughout their lives. Their small size and affectionate temperament make them a favorite companion breed.

Maltese

The Maltese has been adored for centuries thanks to its fluffy coat and tiny frame. Even as adults, these dogs look like toy-sized puppies.

Pomeranian

Known for their abundant coats and playful personalities, Pomeranians look like tiny teddy bears. Their puppy-like faces never seem to age.

Toy Poodle

Toy Poodles are intelligent, affectionate, and stylish. Their curly coat and dainty size help them maintain a youthful look well into their senior years.

Papillon

The Papillon’s expressive ears and petite size make it look forever youthful. Despite their delicate appearance, they are lively and athletic.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkies weigh only a few pounds and keep their puppy charm throughout life. Their bright eyes and small stature make them one of the most popular “forever puppy” breeds.

Shih Tzu

Originally bred as lap dogs for royalty, Shih Tzus combine a cuddly size with an adorable face that rarely seems to grow up.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest breeds in the world. With their oversized eyes and big personalities, they keep a puppy-like look for life.

Japanese Chin

This breed has a kitten-like playfulness and a permanently puppyish expression. Their small build adds to the illusion that they never grow up.

Brussels Griffon

With their expressive faces and compact size, Brussels Griffons often resemble little cartoon puppies. Their quirky personalities add to the charm.

Bichon Frise

Bichons are cheerful, powder-puff dogs with a look that hardly changes from puppyhood. Their playful bounce makes them seem eternally young.

Havanese

Havanese dogs are affectionate companions who keep their puppy cuteness thanks to their small size, silky coat, and lively expressions.

Italian Greyhound

Unlike many small breeds, Italian Greyhounds are slim and delicate. Their slender build and alert expressions give them a graceful, youthful air.

Pekingese

Despite their long history as palace dogs, Pekingese remain small and puppy-faced. Their compact bodies and flowing coats add to the forever-young look.

Cocker Spaniel (Miniature)

Though larger than toy breeds, Cocker Spaniels keep their wide-eyed innocence and playful puppy look well into adulthood, especially the smaller individuals.