Looking for dog breeds that look like puppies forever? Who doesn’t? Puppies are not only adorable in their looks but also their manners.
Couple this with our innate desire to be with our dogs forever, and it is no wonder why people are searching for puppy-like dog breeds at any age. Well, here are some.
There is no shortage of dogs that look like puppies even in the latter part of their lives. Some of them you know, while others you might be hearing for the first time.
1. Shih Tzu
Before the Shih Tzu was a world-wide phenomenon, they were the darlings of the Chinese royalty for a thousand years. The AKC categorized the Shih Tzu in 1969 as a toy group breed, suitable for apartment dwellers, and people who prefer small dogs. And ever since, the Shih Tzu has been pulling the heartstrings of thousands around the globe.
As the Shih Tzu is a small breed, it weighs between 9 – 16 lbs. and the average height falls between 10 – 11 inches. But contrary to their small frame, the Shih Tzu has long hair and a rich coat. This means you are going to be grooming your Shih Tzu a lot.
Finally, they have a chill temper. They are gentle with kids and like to cuddle and enjoy lap-time more than anything else.
2. Yorkshire Terrier
The rat-hunting, hair-waving, Yorkshire Terrier is a case of a working dog turned into a fashion statement. Northern Englishmen developed Yorkies in the mid-1800s as rat hunting dogs. They were employed in mines and mills to rid these places of rats.
Following their recognition by the Kennel Club of England in 1886, the Yorkies became lapdogs of fine women in England and beyond. And to this day, the Yorkies are a breed most common among ladies who want a small, yet energetic lap dog.
The energetic nature of the Yorkshire Terrier suggests a ragged coat with short hair. However, the Yorkies pull something quite amazing. They have one of the silkiest coats of hair among dogs. Regular grooming is a must to keep these 7–8 inches high fellows from looking like a mess.
3. Pomeranians
With a history that includes the likes of Mozart and Queen Victoria, it is not a surprise that the Pomeranian is one of the most famous breeds out there.
The Pomeranians are the descendants of the Spitz sled dogs. While the latter is big and strong, Queen Victoria bred them to reduce their size to the now standard, 6–7 inches high and 3–7 lbs. in weight.
A fox-like appearance, a shiny double coat that needs regular grooming, and an extrovert personality describe the poms the best.
4. Pugs
The Pug, like the Shih Tzu, was a dog breed meant for Chinese royalty. With a history that spans over 2000 years, the Pug is a timeless breed, both in looks and in popularity.
When the breed moved to Europe in the 1500s, it saw mass adoption. Ever since the Pugs have been the companions of city dwellers and country-folk alike.
Their facial features include a round head, big black eyes, and a short, flat muzzle. With a height anywhere from 10–13 inches and a weighing 14–18 lbs., you can’t go wrong with a Pug.
5. Puggle
The Puggle, as the name suggests, is a cross between a Pug and a Beagle. The purpose of the cross is to increase the likelihood of desirable characteristics in the offspring.
For instance, the short muzzle of the Pug contributes to breathing problems. An ideal Puggle inherits the long nose of the beagle to make sure there are no breathing issues.
Similarly, the Puggle is expected to mitigate the howling nature of a beagle by replacing the quality with the chill personality of a Pug. But when you play with genetics, you can either end up with the best qualities of both breeds, or the worst of each. Nonetheless, these breeds look like puppies even when they need a cane to walk.
6. Toy Poodle
The showstopping Poodle comes in three varieties; standard, miniature, and toy. The toy variant is the Poodle that defies age and looks like a puppy all through its life.
Germans developed the Poodle as duck hunting dogs over 600 years ago. With time, the breed found a home in the luxuries of France and eventually, America.
The Toy Poodle is a happy-go-lucky dog. They are smart, athletic, and don’t shy away from walks/runs. In short, don’t be fooled by their pompons and under 10 inches of stature, they are an active dog through and through.
7. Maltese
The Maltese breed is native to the island of Malta. Going as far back as 1500 B.C, the Maltese has been the go-to breed for the ancient Romans.
Why, you ask? Because of their looks. They are miniature in stature, possess long, floor-length hair, and a charming personality.
So, if you are looking for a puppy that stays small forever, the Maltese with a short height of 7–9 inches is the way to go.
8. Japanese Chin
Historians argue that merchants introduced the Japanese Chin to Japan between 500 and 1000 years ago. From Japan, the Chin made it to the West in 1854. And this started the Japanese Chin craze as we all know it.
The dimensions of the breed are rather small but not Pomeranian-small. Most Chins are between 8–11 inches high and weigh 7–11 lbs.
Moreover, the Chin has a regal look with a large head, round, dark eyes, and plentiful mane on the neck and shoulders. And the regal look is further accentuated by the calm and collected manner of the breed. Finally, the breed has a relatively long expectancy of 10–12 years.
9. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is among the favorite breeds of the 19th century English aristocracy. ‘King Charles’ in the name is a nod to the love of King Charles II for these dogs.
The breed is known worldwide for its mild temper, eternal-puppy look, and short stature. Talking about the stature, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels grow no more than 13 inches and weigh around 13–18 lbs.
Lastly, to enjoy the companionship of King Charles Spaniel, keep it well-groomed and take it to a walk every day.
10. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua, let’s call it chi, is an ancient breed native to South America. The breed has been depicted in paintings of Aztecs and other ancient American cultures. AKC registered the first chi in 1908. And since then the breed has skyrocketed in popularity.
The recognizable features of the breed include a short height of fewer than 9 inches, a weight that doesn’t exceed 6 lbs., and a round head. Coupe this with big ears, large eyes, and a feisty expression, and we have a breed that is charming beyond measure. They are active, love attention, and have a playful nature.
In short, the chi is a dog breed fit for people that love puppies who remain puppies, in both form and function.
11. Beagle
Beagles are relatively short, sweet, energetic, cute, and have an air of puppy-ness about them. So, no matter how old they get, if your Beagle is in good health, he will look and act like a puppy.
The history of the Beagle isn’t as well known as other breeds. The breed was used to hunt rabbits in packs. After the Civil War, AKC recognized Beagles in 1885.
To cut to the chase, Beagles are friendly dogs that love playtime. And regular playtime becomes a lot easier when you see their cute, puppy-like faces.
12. Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier was first bred in the 20th century in America as barnyard ratters. With time, the breed made it to the limelight and witnessed mass adoption.
Because the Toy Fox Terrier is a terrier, it is an exceptional hunter. They have the instincts and agility characteristic of the terrier breed while remaining toy-breed-like temperament. They are loyal, active, and love to interact with people and pets alike.
Today, you can see these dogs participate in agility sports. So, make sure you give your Toy Fox Terrier plenty of exercises.
13. Samoyed
The AKC recognized the Samoyed in 1906 as a breed of hunting, herding, and sleighing dogs.
Samoyed is native to Siberia. The tribes that lived in the cold, harsh climates of Siberia, bred Samoyed as hunting dogs impervious to cold. From pulling a sleigh to cuddling with its master in the cold of the night, the Samoyed is loyal beyond measure. That said, they are not easy to train. So, you have to train them from a young age and assume the responsibility of the alpha.
Finally, although they have a perpetual smile on their faces, if you are a city-dweller, you are better off without a Samoyed. This smile helps to soften their face and certaintly helps to make them one of the dog breeds that look like puppies. However, they are working dogs and need plenty of space to move around.
14. Lancashire Heeler
The Lancashire Heeler is among a class of dogs that were used to herd cattle in England in the middle ages. Therefore, the breed is characterized by high energy and loyalty.
Members of this breed are small, have short legs, and are always in need of work to do. This is why the heelers are easy to train to perform a variety of tasks.
Finally, they are friendly, talkative, kid-friendly, and love spending time with their owners. All of these qualities make them great for people that are looking for dog breeds that still look (and behave) like puppies.
15. Corgi
The Corgi, both the Pembroke and the Cardigan, is a breed of herding dogs. We can trace the lineage of Corgi back to the middle ages when the ancestors were used to herd cattle.
The Corgi is a short dog. They are often, but not always, twice as long as they are tall. Their height lies somewhere between 10-12 inches. But despite their small size, they are agile and nimble on their feet.
So, when it comes to adopting one, remember that although the Corgi breed looks like puppies, even when they grow up, they have adult, work-dog needs. For instance, plenty of walks and active exercise. Without these, a Corgi will develop destructive tendencies.
16. Pomsky
You can think of a Pomsky as a shrunken Siberian Husky. The breed is a cross between a Pomeranian and a Husky, hence the name. However, this crossbreeding is a double-edged sword.
On one hand, the Pomksy are extremely cute. But on the other hand, their looks deceive naïve owners into buying them. And you can imagine what would happen if a naïve pet parent were to handle a husky.
That said, if you are an experienced owner, then the Pomsky is an eternal husky-puppy that you will love to have around your house.
17. Cava-Poo-Chon
The name ‘Cava-Poo-Chon’ reads like a magic spell. No wonder the breed doesn’t age. The dog breed keeps looking like puppies even if it’s moved down to Florida.
So, what breeds are responsible for a Cava-Poo-Chan? A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a Bichon Frise, and a Miniature Poodle. This combination produces a dog that has an ever-cute puppy look and behavior.
In short, they are, for lack of a better word, short. And, extremely loveable.
18. Jack Russel Terrier
Perhaps the naughtiest dogs on this list, the Jack Russel Terriers are short but feisty. And because they are terriers, they are high performing dogs that are always looking to the next task.
Therefore, experts only recommend the Jack Russel Terriers to people who have plenty of free time for playing and dog walking.
So, if you’ve got time to spare, and want a dog drunk on the waters from the Fountain of Youth, a Jack Russel Terrier is an excellent choice.
19. Maltipoo
The Maltipoo is a cross between the Maltese and the Poodle. Both of the parent breeds are known to possess puppy-like looks throughout their lives, and the Maltipoo is no exception.
The Maltipoo are small, family-oriented dogs that can thrive in an apartment setting. They are playful, attention-loving, and easy to train. This is why they are particularly popular among folks who don’t have a lot of time on their hands.
That said, Maltipoos are not suitable for houses with kids younger than six. Why? Well, small kids who don’t know how to handle small dogs can hurt them.
20. Cockleti
The Cockleti is a cross between a Sheltie and a Cocker Spaniel. As such, the breed shares the qualities of both the parent breeds.
For instance, like a Cocker Spaniel, a Cockleti is easy to train and loves to play. Similarly, like a Sheltie, a Cockleti is loyal and wary of strangers.
In short, a Cockleti combines the best of both worlds and remains a puppy forever.
We love our dogs. And while all of us want a loyal companion, some of us want dog breeds that look like puppies for as long as possible.
The breeds mentioned above continue to possess the puppy charm we all crave for years. But before you run out and get one, make sure that you know what you are getting into. It is painful to see so many dogs adopted and later left homeless. So, only get a dog if you are sure you will be able to put in the time and effort needed to form a bond. Finally, always consider adopting.