14 Small White Dog Breeds That Are Full of Personality

These cuties are hypoallergenic and named for their cotton-like fur. They're described as having a "clownish" personality and are often found standing up on their hind legs. Cotons bond intensely with their people; they were a wild pack animal in Madagascar before domestication.

Havanese dogs are a breed of the Bichon type known for their curled-over tail. Thirteen pounds and under, they are curious, sociable pets who need weekly grooming. They’re a favorite dog for city-dwellers thanks to their compact size and friendly nature.

These small purebreds are known to be high-spirited, intelligent, and grade-A watchdogs. Japanese Spitzes conveniently don’t require much grooming; their double coat is often called a Teflon coat because it’s self-cleaning. And to match the dog’s personality, the coat forms into a lion-like mane around their head.

Often less than 7 pounds, this toy breed has a silky coat and is the classic lapdog. Just look at that award-winning face! They love to snuggle but they can be iffy around children and other dogs, and they can have a stubborn streak hiding under all the cuteness.

Mini American Eskimo pups only weigh 10 to 20 pounds and look like small Siberian huskies. Bright white fur and triangular ears are their trademark features. The dogs come from a line of Midwestern farm breeds, so expect some barking and high energy paired with intelligence and mischievousness.

According to the American Kennel Club, the stand-out trait of this muscular, mischievous dog is a large, egg-shaped head. They’re courageous and always the protector of their people, which makes them fantastic family dogs. They do, though, require regular training to keep them out of mischief.

The Samoyed breed can weigh up to 65 pounds, but teacup "Sammies" are much smaller. Though they resemble American Eskimo dogs—both members of the Spitz family—they have thicker coats and are known to be more of the herding type. Officially, the miniature Samoyed breed isn't recognized; be sure to check their pedigree if you want a purebred.

Miniature poodles can range in color, but white is common for the breed. They are often used as circus dogs because they're easily trained and look fantastic on stage. Mini poodles love kids, but they may not be right for homes with other dogs.

Pomeranians lean more toward a cream color than white, though white is still considered a standard breed color. Weighing between 3 and 7 pounds, Poms are very active and agile despite their size.

According to the American Kennel Club, the Westie is one of the most popular small terriers. At 15 to 20 pounds, they're quick, loyal and happy dogs that love to play. They’re natural hunters; keep that in mind if you leave them out in the yard

Cavachons are an adorable mixture of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frisé, typically with white coats and tan ears and fur around the eyes. They’re affectionate and love training games but may need some supervision around children and other pets.

These small powerhouses were initially bred to be lapdogs inside palaces in China, but have emerged as one of the most popular pups for city-dwellers and people with smaller homes. They’re affectionate, lively, and loyal, and they treat their owners like kings and queens. Shih Tzus have long coats that require regular grooming.