3. Shih Tzu

Bred for centuries as palace lap dogs for Chinese royalty, the Shih Tzu treats companionship as its primary occupation. Weighing between 9 and 16 pounds with a lifespan of 10 to 18 years, the Shih Tzu is compact yet remarkably sturdy. Unlike delicate toy dogs that break bones easily if accidentally bumped, the Shih Tzu has a solid, muscular build beneath its flowing coat.

Shih Tzus require minimal physical exertion outdoors. A short morning stroll to sniff the grass and handle bathroom business easily meets their daily quota. They are famously quiet housemates who rarely bark without good reason, making them ideal for condominiums with strict noise policies. While show-length coats require extensive upkeep, many senior owners keep their Shih Tzus in a practical “puppy cut,” which reduces grooming to a simple weekly brush and periodic trims.