8. Maltese
Weighing in at under 7 pounds, the Maltese is one of the smallest and most elegant breeds on our list. They are fearless, deeply trusting, and form an intense, loving bond with their sole caretaker. Because of their tiny size, they are incredibly easy to handle, transport, and physically manage, making them an outstanding choice if you have limited mobility.
A Maltese requires very little outdoor exercise. They can fulfill most of their physical needs simply by following you around the house and playing briefly with small toys. They are perfectly suited for apartments, condominiums, or homes without fenced yards.
Their stunning white coat requires dedicated care. If kept long, it must be brushed daily and washed frequently to prevent staining, particularly around the eyes. A short puppy cut drastically reduces this workload. Because of their small size, you must handle them gently and be cautious of their fragility, but their fierce devotion makes the effort deeply rewarding.
My daughter is an RN. She sees more injuries in elderly people caused by their little dogs. Evidently, seniors have more of a tendency to trip and fall over objects on the floor, resulting in broken hips, shoulders, wrists, etc. Smaller dogs are harder for them to see as they don’t always look down before walking.
especially if they’re dark furred,they’re invisable at nite!
I am a 73 year old womam who lost her 17 year old purebred pekingnese on Nov,30th, 2025. I miss her so much words cannot say. She was our 4th pekingnese, and our baby girl. A friend asked me too soon afterwards if I would consider getting another dog and I emphaticaally replied “no”, but I have changed my mind. Belle was a wonderful companion her whole life, and my husband adored her. Because of their grooming needs, and abounding energy, I am more interested at this time in my life for a small, loving, low energy dog who would fit my lifestyle. I would love another little girl. already potty trained and does not have to be a purebreed. I live all alone and do not drive.