Small dogs have captured the hearts of people everywhere. They’re adorable, portable, and often fit perfectly into smaller living spaces. But with so many small dog breeds out there, choosing the right one can be a challenge. This guide explores some of the best small dog breeds, helping you find the perfect tiny companion for your lifestyle.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Small Dog Breed
Before you fall in love with a puppy’s big eyes, it’s crucial to consider a few key factors:
- Energy Levels: Small dog breeds come in a wide range of energy levels. Some, like terriers, were bred for hunting and have boundless energy. Others, like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, were bred as companion dogs and are content with a more relaxed lifestyle.
- Temperament: Just like people, dogs have different personalities. Some breeds are known for being friendly and outgoing, while others may be more independent or even stubborn. Consider your personality and lifestyle when choosing a breed.
- Grooming Needs: A dog’s coat can range from short and smooth to long and flowing. The amount of grooming required will depend on the breed. Some breeds need daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles, while others are low-maintenance.
- Living Space: If you live in an apartment, you’ll need to choose a breed that is comfortable in a smaller space. Some breeds are known for being quiet and well-suited for apartment living.
- Family Situation: If you have children, it’s important to choose a breed that is known for being good with kids. Some breeds are more tolerant of roughhousing than others. If you have other pets, consider whether the breed is known to get along well with other animals.
25 Best Small Dog Breeds
Chihuahua
Weight: 6 pounds or less Height: 5–8 inches
The Chihuahua is one of the smallest and most recognizable dog breeds. Known for their sassy personalities, Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their owners. They are relatively low-maintenance in terms of grooming, but they can be a bit vocal.
Pomeranian
Weight: 3–7 pounds Height: 6–7 inches
Pomeranians are small dogs with big personalities. They are known for their fluffy coats, fox-like faces, and playful nature. While adorable, Pomeranians can be quite vocal and require regular grooming to keep their coats from matting.
Yorkshire Terrier
Weight: 7 pounds Height: 7–8 inches
Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are small dogs with big hearts. They are known for their silky coats, energetic personalities, and loyalty to their owners. Yorkies are intelligent and relatively easy to train, but they do require regular grooming to maintain their long coats.
Shih Tzu
Weight: 9–16 pounds Height: 9–10 inches
Shih Tzus are bred to be companions and are known for being affectionate and playful. They have long, flowing coats that require regular grooming, but they are relatively low-shedding.
Papillon
Weight: 5–10 pounds Height: 8–11 inches
Papillons are named for their butterfly-like ears and are known for their intelligence and playful nature. They are relatively active and require regular exercise, but they are also adaptable and can do well in smaller living spaces.
Toy Poodle
Weight: 4–6 pounds Height: 10 inches or less
Toy Poodles are known for their intelligence, athleticism, and hypoallergenic coats. They are relatively easy to train and enjoy a variety of activities, from playing fetch to learning tricks.
Affenpinscher
Weight: 7–10 pounds Height: 9–12 inches
Affenpinschers are small, sturdy dogs with a distinctive monkey-like appearance. They are playful and affectionate but can be stubborn at times. Their wiry coats require minimal grooming.
Maltese
Weight: 7 pounds or less Height: 7–9 inches
The Maltese is known for its long, white, silky coat and gentle personality. They are playful and affectionate and make great companion dogs. Maltese are relatively low-shedding, but their coats require regular grooming to prevent tangles.
Bichon Frise
Weight: 12–18 pounds Height: 9–12 inches
The Bichon Frise is known for its cheerful personality and fluffy, white coat. They are playful and affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families. Bichons are relatively low-shedding, but they require regular grooming to maintain their signature fluffy look.
Biewer Terrier
Weight: 4–8 pounds Height: 7–11 inches
Biewer Terriers are known for their tri-colored coats and playful personalities. They are relatively new to the United States but are quickly gaining popularity. They are intelligent and easy to train, making them great companions for families with children.
Brussels Griffon
Weight: 8–10 pounds Height: 7–10 inches
Brussels Griffons, with their distinctive bearded faces, are intelligent and affectionate dogs. They are known for their playful nature and thrive on human companionship. They are relatively low-shedding but require regular grooming to maintain their unique look.
Alaskan Klee Kai
Weight: 6–25 pounds Height: 12–17 inches
The Alaskan Klee Kai resembles a miniature husky. They are intelligent, energetic, and playful but can be independent and require experienced owners who can provide consistent training and socialization.
Cairn Terrier
Weight: 13–14 pounds Height: 9–10 inches
Cairn Terriers were bred to hunt small animals and are known for their energetic and playful personalities. They are intelligent and can be trained for a variety of activities.
Japanese Chin
Weight: 7–11 pounds Height: 8–11 inches
Japanese Chin were once favored by Japanese royalty and are known for their elegant appearance and quiet nature. They are relatively low-energy and enjoy spending time with their families.
Bolognese
Weight: 6–10 pounds Height: 10–12 inches
The Bolognese is a small, white dog with a fluffy coat. They are known for being gentle, affectionate, and playful. Bolognese are relatively low-shedding, but their coats require regular grooming to prevent tangles.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Weight: 13–18 pounds Height: 12–13 inches
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is known for being gentle, affectionate, and good with children. They are playful but also enjoy relaxing with their families. Their silky coats require regular grooming.
Italian Greyhound
Weight: 7–14 pounds Height: 13–15 inches
Italian Greyhounds are miniature versions of the larger Greyhound breed. They are known for their slender build and athletic nature.
Chinese Crested
Weight: 8–12 pounds Height: 11–13 inches
Chinese Crested dogs come in two varieties: hairless and powderpuff. Both are known for their playful and affectionate personalities. Hairless Cresteds require special skincare, while powder puffs need regular grooming to maintain their soft coats.
Havanese
Weight: 7–13 pounds Height: 8–12 inches
The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and is known for its playful and affectionate personality. They are relatively small but have a lot of energy and enjoy playing games and learning tricks.
Lhasa Apso
Weight: 12–18 pounds Height: 11 inches or less
Lhasa Apsos were bred as watchdogs in Tibetan monasteries and are known for their loyalty and intelligence. They have long, flowing coats that require regular grooming.
Miniature Schnauzer
Weight: 11–20 pounds Height: 12–14 inches
Miniature Schnauzers are known for their intelligence, playful nature, and distinctive beards. They are relatively low-shedding but require regular grooming to maintain their coats.
Border Terrier
Weight: 11–16 pounds Height: 12–15 inches
Border Terriers were bred to hunt foxes and are known for their energetic personalities and distinctive otter-like heads.
Miniature Pinscher
Weight: 8–10 pounds Height: 10–13 inches
Miniature Pinschers, or Min Pins, are known for their bold personalities and athletic builds. They are energetic and require regular exercise.
Toy Fox Terrier
Weight: 4–9 pounds Height: 8–12 inches
Toy Fox Terriers are known for their playful, energetic personalities. They are relatively small but have a lot of energy and require regular exercise.
Silky Terrier
Weight: 10 pounds Height: 9–10 inches
Silky Terriers are known for their long, silky coats and playful personalities. They are intelligent and relatively easy to train, but their coats require daily brushing to prevent tangles.
Conclusion
Small dogs come in a wide range of breeds, each with its unique personality and needs. By carefully considering the factors listed above, you can find the best small dog breed to fit your lifestyle. Research breeds thoroughly, and be sure to find a responsible breeder or rescue organization. Whether you’re looking for a cuddly lapdog or an energetic hiking companion, there’s a perfect small dog out there waiting to become your best friend.
