poodle

12 Small Dog Breeds With Curly Hair (Solved & Explained)

The popularity of curly-haired dog breeds is increasing all the time. There are many reasons for this, but the main reason is that it looks very cute on a dog. The good thing about owning a dog with curly hair is that it is very easy to groom. You do not need to spend hours at the salon in order to keep your dog looking good.

A simple brush and a visit to the dog groomer are enough to keep your dog looking neat and clean. If you would like to know how to achieve the desired look, check out the popularity of dogs with curly hair.

#1 Bichon Frisé

A Bichon Frisé is actually a delicate and wonderful little breed of dog, usually weighing between eight and ten pounds. This tiny dog is originally from Europe, and originally meant to guard sheep, but with their adaptability to living in almost any environment, they have become a much loved pet for families all over the world. One characteristic of the Bichon Frisé that makes them such a great pet to have around the house is their playful nature.

They love playing around and this makes them one of the easiest dogs to train when it comes to behavioral problems. These dogs can be quite stubborn at times, but with consistent training, they will learn to be obedient little dogs. With their playful nature, the bichon frisé often become agitated if they are not given their daily exercise. If you are looking for a dog that will keep you company and be a fun companion, the bichon frisé may be just right for you.

#2 Toy Poodle

Toy Poodle
Image by FROGGYTUFF from Pixabay

The Poodle is an adorable dog breed that are highly intelligent dogs, highly trainable, and very comical in nature. They are affectionate, devoted, sensitive, and loving towards their owner. They are great pets and very doting friends. Poodles need a lot of attention, including a regular dose of grooming and play time. These dogs have an underdeveloped digestive system and suffer from many diseases which are sometimes incurable.

Their coats require regular brushing, and they should not be exposed to harsh elements such as harsh sun rays, cold weather, strong winds, and heavy rain. Poodles are good watchdogs and very loyal companions. However, they can develop problems such as separation anxiety, aggression, barking, depression, and obesity.

#3 Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a curly-haired dog, that has great energy and is highly playful even at an early age. It has a very strong temperament, and is quick and alert, but it is relatively hostile to strangers and other animals. This breed does very well with training, but is not suited to be around children since it often bites when threatened or irritated.

This is however, a great choice for apartment living, small kennels, or any place where it would have sufficient space. The Airedale Terrier is a very good choice for those looking for an active dog, since it can run for hours. They need plenty of exercise and will often do better in crate trained because they like to be in their own environment most of the time.

#4 Bolognese

Bolognese
Image by Marco Molena from Pixabay

The Bolognese dog is a very small curly haired dog breed, originating from Italy. The name comes from the northern Italian town of Bologna. It is currently part of the large toy dog category and is often considered a family pet. They enjoy good attention and make great house pets. They also love the interaction, especially with other larger dogs. When caring for a bolognese dog, you must remember that they are small, just like puppies.

Thus, they need regular exercise, including short walks. Short walks will help keep them physically fit, while at the same time building their immune system up to a more mature level.  Although they are a very small breed, the bolognese dog requires a lot of attention. Bolognese dogs can become very destructive when they become bored or when bored owners leave them alone. Therefore, you must train your dog from an early age.

#5 Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniel
Image by Steve Sewell from Pixabay

Cocker Spaniels was originally bred for hunting small game, but they have since become an increasing popular pet. These dogs are affectionate and loyal and are extremely intelligent. They are also very energetic and can get bored if they are not given enough exercise. Cocker Spaniels has a mild and gentle temperament, but they still should be treated as members of the family and must be trained gently.

The first thing you will notice about Cocker Spaniels is how gentle they are, even though they have high energy levels. They are great companions for the elderly, and children. Because of their small size, they are very good when it comes to housebreaking. Because they are relatively intelligent, they learn new things quickly and are great additions to any household.

#6 Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog
Image by susan lipschutz from Pixabay

Most people that own a Portuguese Water Dog have probably never thought much about the type of dog. These dogs are not the typical toy breed of dog that is made to swim and fetch, they are bred for life in water. As hunting canines, these dogs were originally used by hunters to track and trap prey animals.  While the water dog does make a good pet for most families, they have some drawbacks as far as temperament go. 

Portuguese water dogs are very energetic dogs. They will need a lot of exercise and encouragement to remain motivated and calm. Finding someone that the dog is comfortable with will be a big help in keeping them happy and healthy.  You should get them used to being around people before you decide to start training.

#7 Welsh Terrier

Welsh Terrier
Image by Rolaman from Pixabay

Welsh Terrier is a very old breed of dog that is still being used to hunt today. The Welsh Terrier originated in Wales and has been originally bred as a hunting dog; however over the past century, it’s mostly been used for show and breeding. Despite this, it still retains some of its early terrier strength of nature. Although smaller than the other common terriers, they still make up for size with their supreme agility and ability to move around.

The coat of a Welsh Terrier is quite thick and, the hair has curls and, is shiny and silky. Their coats need to be brushed regularly to keep them looking good and to ward of matting.  Welsh Terrier puppies can be purchased from pet stores, from breeders. No matter where they come from, Welsh Terriers make great pets and companions. They are gentle and loyal, while being incredibly intelligent. They are also very friendly towards their owners, being extremely happy to see them and spending time snuggling up with them.

#8 English Toy Spaniel

English Toy Spaniel
Image by Katrina_S from Pixabay

The English Toy Spaniel is an adorable little dog breed often known as the miniature spaniels. Although the English Toy Spaniel has its roots in the toy dog market, it is now its own distinct breed and considered by many to be one of the most intelligent of all the dog breeds. Due to its beautiful looks, good temper and sociable nature, it is very popular with families.

The English Toy Spaniel does need some special care but other than that it pretty much stays healthy. Because of its small size an English Toy Spaniel puppy can get injured pretty easily if it is not trained properly. Because of this it is highly recommended that you get an English Toy Spaniel puppy from a good breeder 

#9 Scottish Terrier

Scottish Terrier
Image by Tesa Robbins from Pixabay

The Scottish Terrier, also known as the Scottie, is a very popular breed of canine. The Scottish Terrier is very affectionate and loyal to its master, however this trait is often considered a liability due to their sometimes boisterous behavior. Their lively and curious nature makes them more prone to accidents than many other breeds, especially if another dog is in the household.

These dogs will usually try to chase any small animals that enters the backyard or may seek proximity to people who may accidentally trigger their excitement. Though they have very loyal and devoted masters, the Scottish terrier requires lots of exercise and is an excellent watch dog. Scottish terriers are truly great pets and wonderful companions, but like any other dog, these dogs require much care and maintenance.

#10 Brussels Griffin

When you are looking for a healthy and happy breed of dog than the Brussels Griffons come to mind. Brussels Griffons has been around since the early 17th century and was used extensively by French royalty. Over the years these dogs have developed into a healthy, interactive breed that can be good with children and other pets while being highly protective of its family. The Brussels Griffons are also known to be good with other animals and even make a good pet for those with smaller homes or less space.

The Brussels Griffons makes ideal pets for all age groups, even those with busy lifestyles, as they are very comfortable in a family environment. They are very intelligent, with a natural urge to please their owners, and they quickly learn to respond to voice commands and to be trained as well.

#11 Norwich Terrier

Norwich Terrier
Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay

Norwich Terrier is known for their obedience and stability and very good with children. They can be quite stubborn however, so you should be prepared to train them, if you want to raise one of these dogs as a pet. One of the most important things about owning a Norfolk Terrier, aside from all the cute look they have, is that they need to have regular grooming, preferably twice a week.

This is to keep their curly coats shiny and silky smooth, preventing them from matting, which can be quite an inconvenience when you’re out walking in the park. Regular bathing also helps keep their breath smelling good, which is crucial for keeping your dog’s skin healthy. 

#12 Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzer
Image by Free-Photos from Pixabay

The Miniature Schnauzer,  is an ancient breed of dog of the Schnauzer kind that originally originated in Germany in the late 19th century. These dogs were first bred to protect farm animals but today they are sought-after companions and show dogs all over the world. The Miniature Schnauzer has a long history of being used as a hunting dog for German farmers. They have good noses for tracking prey, a sweet temper, and a mischievous nature.

While many people consider the Miniature Schnauzer to be a delicate dog that needs lots of attention, with proper training this can’t be further from the truth. These dogs are active and playful even at young ages and they love to be around you and your family.

Author

  • Karin S

    Welcome to All About My Small Dog, where my love for small dogs and years of hands-on experience meet your need for trusted information. As a dedicated small dog enthusiast and pet parent, I'm deeply committed to sharing expert insights, reliable advice, and a community of support. Every blog you read here is crafted with the utmost care, guided by my passion and expertise. You can trust that you're in the right place for valuable insights and a warm community that understands the unique joys and challenges of small dog ownership. Together, we'll make sure your small dog's world is filled with love, care, and knowledge.