Small white dog breeds are some of the most lovable and delightful dogs you’ll ever meet. If you’re thinking about one of these little white dogs, then you’re in for a real treat.
I’ve worked with many breeds over the years, and I can say these small white dogs are all super cute and full of personality. So let’s discuss some of the best options you have for white small dogs.
Popular Small White Dog Breeds
Small white dog breeds are beloved for their cute looks and delightful personalities. These tiny dogs typically weigh no more than 21 pounds, and in general, they tend to have longer lifespans and impressive toughness. There are only about a dozen dog breeds with all-white fur as adults. Here are some of the most common small white dog breeds:
- Maltese
- West Highland White Terrier
- Bichon Frise
- Pomeranian
- Havanese
- Japanese Spitz
Each breed has its own traits, so you can easily find one that matches your lifestyle and preferences.
Maltese: The Tiny White Fluff
The Maltese is the ultimate pocket-sized pet. These dogs typically weigh just 4-7 pounds and don’t grow taller than 10 inches. They have a life expectancy of 12-15 years.
Maltese dogs have long, silky coats that are pure white, draping all the way to the floor. Their black button noses and eager-to-please eyes make them irresistibly cute. They have a bold, self-assured temperament and make great companions. Maltese are loving, playful little pups and they often make their presence known with some barking.
The downside of owning a Maltese is the grooming requirement. Daily brushing is essential to prevent their fine hair from tangling and is the main key to keeping their hair looking nice. You’ll also need to bathe your Maltese frequently, trim their nails, and clean their ears regularly.
Despite their diminutive size, Maltese are relatively energetic dogs. They should be walked and given time to play every day.
Maltese health issues include:
- Dental problems
- Patellar luxation
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Portosystemic shunt
- Hypoglycemia
West Highland White Terrier: The Charming Westie
West Highland White Terriers, or “Westies,” are small dogs with big personalities and a solid build. They have an average lifespan of 13-15 years.
Westies have a unique look characterized by their white double coat and pointed ears. These dogs measure about 10-11 inches tall and weigh 15-20 pounds. They’re confident, independent, and on occasion, stubborn. Yet they’re also loyal, loving, and an excellent family pet.
To keep Westies physically and mentally healthy, they need regular exercise and playtime. With a strong prey drive, you should never let them off-leash in an unfenced area.
Westies require moderate grooming, including daily brushing and the occasional hand-stripping. To maintain the texture of their coat, you should consider professional grooming every few months.
The most common health issues you’ll find in West Highland White Terriers are:
- Skin allergies
- Legg-Calve-Perthes
- Craniomandibular osteopathy
- White Dog Shaker Syndrome
- Addison’s Disease
Bichon Frise: The Playful Powder Puff
Bichon Frises are happy, small white dogs. They have a life expectancy of 14-15 years.
They have a small, sturdy, built, as they stand 9-11 inches in height and weigh 12-18 pounds. This breed has a dense, soft, curly coat. Their eyes are black and round, and their noses are black, which makes them look charming when paired with white fur.
Bichons are famous for being cheerful dogs. They’re playful, loving dogs that also do well with kids and other pets. Additionally, they’re smart dogs that are easy to train.
Despite being small, Bichons need a moderate amount of daily exercise. They should be walked daily and given a little playtime. Bichons are also known to enjoy doing agility and obedience.
The downside to owning a Bichon is that they require a lot of grooming. Their coat needs to be brushed every day to prevent matting, and they’re also a breed that needs professional grooming every 4-6 weeks.
Bichons are also prone to various health problems, such as:
- Allergies
- Bladder problems
- Kneecap issues
- Hip problems
- Eye problems
Pomeranian: The Fluffy White Fox
Pomeranians are small dogs with big attitudes. They have an average lifespan of 12-16 years.
These dogs have a similar appearance to a fox, with erect ears and a fluffy, double coat. They’re only 6-7 inches tall and weigh 3-7 pounds. While not all Pomeranians are white, the white variety is strikingly beautiful.
Poms are active, confident, and intelligent. They form a close bond with their family and may be slightly reserved with strangers. These dogs are also very alert and can make excellent watch dogs despite their small size.
Pomeranians require a moderate amount of exercise. They can usually get enough exercise from short daily walks and indoor play sessions. They also enjoy learning various tricks and participating in dog sports.
Grooming a Pomeranian mainly involves daily brushing to prevent the coat from becoming matted. They do shed, often seasonally, so you’ll need to pay close attention to their grooming needs during shedding season.
Pomeranians are prone to a few health conditions, including:
- Luxating patella
- Tracheal collapse
- Dental issues
- Hypothyroidism
- Alopecia X
Havanese: The Silky Cuban Companion
Havanese are small, charming dogs with beautiful fur. They have a life expectancy of 14-16 years.
Despite being small, Havanese are sturdily built with a height of 8.5-11.5 inches and weight of 7-13 pounds. Their coat isn’t always pure white, but many Havanese have all white or white and cream coats.
Havanese have a reputation as happy, friendly dogs. They’re also intelligent, easy to train, and excel at tricks and agility. These dogs become very attached to their families and are excellent with children.
Despite their small size, Havanese need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. This usually involves a daily walk and some playtime. Like most dogs, they also enjoy learning new tricks and participating in agility competitions.
Grooming a Havanese is a bit of work. Their long, fine coat requires daily brushing to prevent tangles from forming, as well as regular trips to a professional groomer.
The most common health problems for Havanese are:
- Chondrodysplasia
- Legg-Calve-Perthes
- Patellar luxation
- Deafness
- Various eye issues
Japanese Spitz: The Elegant White Spitz
Japanese Spitz: These fox-like dogs have an average lifespan of 10 to 14 years.
The Japanese Spitz is a medium-built dog that stands 12 to 15 inches at the shoulder and weighs 10 to 25 pounds. This breed’s pure white double coat is both thick and stands off from the body. They have pointed ears, dark eyes, and a black nose.
In terms of temperament, the Japanese Spitz is loyal and affectionate. They’re also intelligent, playful, and good with families. Additionally, this breed is alert and makes an excellent watchdog.
Japanese Spitz dogs require only moderate exercise. Daily walks and play sessions will keep Japanese Spitz mentally and physically stimulated. They enjoy activities like agility and obedience exercises.
The Japanese Spitz is surprisingly easy to groom despite the fluffy appearance. The dirt-resistant coat requires brushing just a few times per week. They do shed seasonally, so you might pay extra attention to grooming during shedding season.
The Japanese Spitz has a few health issues to be aware of:
- Patellar luxation
- Runny eyes
- Teeth issues
- Skin allergies
- Hip dysplasia
There are a lot of great small white dog breeds to choose from. From the tiny Maltese to the exquisite Japanese Spitz, there are plenty of dogs to fit different lifestyle preferences. If you’re partial to even smaller dogs, consider which small white dog breed is right for you. Additionally, if you prefer even smaller dogs, consider which small teapot dog breed is right for you. Always remember that choosing a dog is a years-long commitment, so carefully evaluate the needs and characteristics of each dog breed before making your decision.
Finishing Off
Small white dogs are excellent companions who come in small packages. Each of these breeds has a different personality, from the Maltese’s affectionate, loyal personality to the West Highland Terrier’s bold, confident personality.
They each have specific care requirements, but they share a mutual bond of loyalty and love with their owners. Keep in mind that selecting a dog is a big choice to make. Be sure to think about your lifestyle and the breed’s needs. With some research, you’ll find a wonderful little dog who will add joy to your life and home.
