Best Purse Dogs: Top 7 Portable Pups, According To Canine Experts

Small purse pups have earned a unique spot, thanks partly to celebrities like Paris Hilton, who popularized the trend of toting these tiny canines around like treasured accessories. Comfortably nestled in stylish bags or cradled by their owners, these little dogs are more than just furry fashion statements. Tiny dogs tend to live longer, are easier to care for, and typically don’t need as much exercise as larger dogs. However, not every pup is suited for a life on the go, as factors like size, weight, and disposition play crucial roles. Wondering which breeds make the cut? We’ve got you covered with the best purse dogs.

If it feels like you’ve been pampering your pet more than you pamper yourself, you’re in good company. For most Americans, the adage of “man’s best friend” holds more truth than mere sentiment. A recent survey found nearly 70 percent of Americans confess they prioritize their pet’s well-being above their own. But this dedicated care isn’t just a one-sided affair. Approximately 80 percent of those polled believe that catering to their pets’ needs motivates them to uplift their self-care game. It appears our four-legged friends contribute more to our lives than just love and loyalty.

These days, it seems that dogs have come far from their wild wolf ancestors. In fact, a recent study shows that most people don’t think their dog would be able to survive without them. This might be especially true for pups that are used to being tucked away in their owner’s pocketbook. Without their human, there’s no one to carry them around all day.

For those eager to bring their furry friends along in style, experts advise investing in a handbag specifically crafted for dogs. Essential features include ample ventilation, a sturdy closure, and optimum comfort. Before embarking on extended outings, familiarize your pet with the bag to ensure their ease and well-being. Continuous vigilance regarding their health and comfort is paramount. With that in mind, we have gathered a list of the best purse dogs, according to canine experts. Did we miss one? Let us know in the comments below!

A puppy in a purse
A puppy in a purse (Photo by Brian on Unsplash)

The List: Best Purse Dogs, According to Experts

1. Brussels Griffon

This may be the perfect purse pooch since they don’t like to be left alone and will be happy to tag along with you. Daily Paws says they are “easily trained and deeply connected to their family members.”

A Brussels Griffon dog
A Brussels Griffon dog (Photo by Vera Shcher on Shutterstock)

PetCareRx says, “Brussels Griffon is one breed that has a permanent look of surprise on the face. They have a pouty little mouth that makes them look adorable all the time.”

The Brussels Griffon is number one on the list of “best purse pets” by All Women’s Talk. The website says it’s “definitely one of the small dogs that fit in your purse quite easily.”

2. Pomeranian

“Since the Pomeranian is tiny, they can fit anywhere, whether in a crate or in your handbag, so you will find it easy to travel with these furballs,” according to Wag! “They really love attention too, so if everyone on the plane, boat, or in the car has to pet them, your Pom won’t mind at all.”

White Pomeranian
White Pomeranian (Photo by Pegah Mostafavi Zade on Unsplash)

Pomeranians are one of the list’s smallest breeds and the most convenient to transport in your purse. Dogington Post says, “Poms are clever, simple to train, and cozy in even the smallest and most practical carriers.”

Romper adds, “At 3 to 7 pounds, Pomeranians are lively companions and one of the most popular toy breeds in the world, per the AKC. These fluffy, foxy dogs are the smallest member of the spitz breeds, and famous Pomeranian fans include Queen Victoria, Marie Antoinette, Emile Zola, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as further explained by the organization.”

3. Yorkshire Terrier

Wag! writes, “This perky poochie is pawfectly adorable in a handbag, backpack, or carry-on, so you can go by air, water, or land without a worry. They’re sweet as can be, and their lovely looks make them approachable and petable.”

adult tan Yorkshire terrier
Yorkshire Terrier (Photo by Madeline on Unsplash)

“If you like the energetic and independent personality of a terrier, then consider this feisty breed,” according to Romper. “Weighing in at four to seven pounds, the Yorkshire terrier is a talkative dog with a giant personality.”

Dogington Post writes, “The Yorkie is one of the world’s most portable pets because it is one of the smallest dog breeds of the terrier type. With these English puppies, you’ll get the best of both worlds because, despite weighing under ten pounds, this small breed frequently exhibits the traits of a large dog. In addition, Yorkshire Terriers are regarded as a particularly sociable dog breed, making them eager to go on outings with their owners. When properly trained, this confidence can make them the best traveling companions.”

4. Maltese

Everyone will love to pet this dog when you bring it along in your purse. Wag! says, “This toy breed is not only easy to carry along with you, but is personable too.”

white long coat small dog on green grass field during daytime
Maltese (Photo by dole777 on Unsplash)

Dogington Post says, “This is another breed that has a consistent, stable personality and can be a great travel companion. These dogs enjoy spending time with their owners and are loyal and intelligent.”

Voices Shortpedia writes, “This breed of dog needs great pampering. They have a silky texture. The height of the dogs of this breed is 7 to 9 inches, and their weight is about 7 pounds. They are lively, docile, and easy-going dogs.”

5. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is proudly known as a “purse dog” for being so tiny but with a huge personality. MSGT writes, “Chihuahuas love nothing more than being with people and require minimal grooming and exercise.”

tan chihuahua lying on couch
Chihuahua (Photo by Alicia Gauthier on Unsplash)
Wag! says, “The Chihuahua does not need much exercise, and you can stick them in your purse or backpack if needed, so taking them in the car is easy. Their carrier is small and portable, so going on a plane is a breeze with this breed. Even if you decide to go on a cruise, this little travel buddy will enjoy it.”
Romper says you’ll have “an easy time convincing this 6-pound pup to ride around in a handbag.” The website adds they are “charming and intelligent” and respond well to positive training.

6. Toy Poodle

For another teeny tiny breed, “the Toy Poodle is considered the smallest Poodle breed and are incredibly intelligent plus easy to train,” according to MSGT. “They were once used in circuses due to their small stature and intelligence and were always the center of attention and love.”

tan puppy on snow
Toy Poodle (Photo by Thomas Butler on Unsplash)

Voices Shortpedia says, “Poodles are lovely and loyal companions.” The toy poodles make perfect purse pooches because they are only four to six pounds.

Wag! writes, “Smaller sized Poodles are happy to go in the car or on a plane too since they fit inside a small carrier or purse.”

7. Japanese Chin

All Womens Talk says, “The Japanese Chin is a great choice for those looking for a small, purse-sized companion. They are intelligent, affectionate, and easy to care for. They make a great addition to any family and will bring lots of love and laughter into your home.”

A Japanese Chin dog
A Japanese Chin dog (Photo by Eve Photography on Shutterstock)
“A well-socialized Japanese Chin is a sweet, fastidious dog who has been described as decidedly feline in his manner and personality,” says Daily Paws. “Bred as a lapdog for Eastern nobility, these little fellows are most at home on a soft couch or in your lap, so be ready for plenty of cuddle time.”

Romper says these dogs are “small and lively.” But they do warn that they don’t do well in hot and humid climates.

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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.

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About the Author

Amy Chodroff

Amy Chodroff is a recovering Morning Radio Show Host and award-winning broadcaster who recently retired from DFW’s Morning News on KLIF in Dallas. Fondly known as the “Chief Googler” by her friends, it was a seamless transition for StudyFinds to enlist her expertise for their “Best of the Best” franchise. Amy has an innate curiosity and a penchant for thorough research before any purchase and she’s constantly on the hunt for top-notch products. Outside of her digital explorations, Amy loves to explore the world with her husband and is the proud mother of two adult daughters. You can also find Amy on the pickleball court, perfecting her dink and drop shots.

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