Discover the Lap Dog Meaning and Popular Breeds

The term "lap dog" refers to a small to medium-sized dog that is bred to be a companion animal, often content to sit on their owner's lap.

Lap dogs are known for their affectionate nature and tendency to form strong bonds with their owners.

Some popular breeds that fit this description include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, which is famous for its gentle and playful personality.

These dogs are often small in size, with the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel weighing between 10-18 pounds.

Let's take a look at some popular breeds that fit the lap dog meaning. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a great example, weighing between 10-18 pounds and standing about 13-15 inches tall.

These small dogs are often described as gentle and affectionate, making them perfect companions for those who want a lap dog. They require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.

The Bichon Frise is another breed that fits the lap dog bill, weighing between 7-12 pounds and requiring regular grooming to prevent matting. They are playful and friendly dogs that thrive on human interaction.

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Chihuahuas are one of the smallest lap dog breeds.

They are named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, as that is the dog's potential origin.

Chihuahuas usually weigh less than 6.6 pounds.

They can be as tall as 6–9 inches.

As with many tiny dogs, Chihuahuas need proper training and socialization.

Chihuahuas enjoy quality time in the lap of a favorite person.

If properly managed by a dedicated owner, the Chihuahua can adapt to a household environment easily.

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The Shih Tzu is one of the oldest breeds, with roots tracing back to Tibet and China.

They were bred to resemble lions, which is quite impressive considering their small size.

Ideally, Shih Tzus range from 9-16 pounds, making them a great lap dog for families.

Their outgoing personalities make them a perfect fit for families who love to have fun together.

The Shih Tzu is small, but they have big hearts and a big appetite for love and attention.

Lapdogs have been bred for extremes of small size, such as the Russian and Mexican varieties. Their skull size is relatively small, approximately the size of a table-tennis ball.

Their muzzle is relatively short and forehead is high, giving them a distinctive appearance. Many lapdogs are bred to retain puppy-like traits, such as folded ears.

They often have relatively shorter legs and larger heads, which can be a result of selective breeding. This can have detrimental effects on tear ducts, dentition, and breathing.

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The Pekingese is a breed of dog known for its unique physical characteristics. The Sleeve Pekingese, a true miniature of the standard-sized Pekingese, was a popular variation in the past.

In Hubbard's time, the Sleeve Pekingese weighed no more than 6-7 pounds, with some weighing as little as 3-4 pounds. Mrs Flander's Mai Mai, for example, weighed a little over 4 pounds.

The Pekingese's small size was often achieved through practices such as giving puppies rice wine or holding new-borns tightly for hours at a time.

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Lapdogs have been bred for extremes of small size, such as the Russian and Mexican varieties. Some lapdogs show distinct differences from their full-sized counterparts in terms of their skull shape and size.

The skull of an immature Russian lapdog from an 1861 specimen is approximately the size of a table-tennis ball. This small skull shape is a result of selective breeding.

Many lapdogs are bred to retain puppy-like traits, such as folded ears. This neoteny can also result in relatively shorter legs and larger heads.

Lapdogs may also have traits that resemble human babies, including size and weight, high forehead, short muzzle, and relatively large eyes.

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