4. Pomeranian

Descended from large Nordic sled dogs, the modern Pomeranian has been miniaturized down to a compact 3 to 7 pounds. Recognizable by their heavily plumed tails and thick, harsh-textured double coats, Pomeranians look like animated puffballs.

Queen Victoria famously helped popularize their miniaturization during her reign. They are highly extroverted, intelligent, and fiercely vocal, making them surprisingly good watchdogs who will readily alert you to any unusual activity outside your front window.

5. Maltese

The Maltese has served as a prized lapdog for thousands of years, originating as a barter commodity in the ancient Mediterranean. Weighing under 7 pounds—with 4 to 6 pounds being the preferred show size—they are defined by their stunning, floor-length white coats.

Beneath that glamorous exterior lies a hardy, adaptable, and affectionate companion. While their lack of an undercoat means they shed very little, keeping a Maltese in full coat requires daily, rigorous brushing to prevent severe matting.