Are you looking forward to welcoming a new dog into your family?
Consider the breed you want, the size, and the temperament you can handle.
If you are a real dog lover, then in your eyes, every dog breed will be just as perfect as they are. But remember; only some breeds can be an ideal fit for you.
A large or medium dog breed is not happy in a small house. They need large areas to flourish and be comfortable. You also need to consider the breed if you have children at your place. Many dog breeds don't get along well with kids, and you would not want to create chaos in your house by keeping them.
Many households look for small, cute dog breeds that they can easily handle within their restricted space. If you, too, desire a small dog for your family, let us help you.
This blog will introduce you to some of the best small dog breeds with different temperaments and habits. We'll also give you some tips for choosing and maintaining the best small dogs.
Let's explore every aspect of the small dog breeds and stay informed before you bring one home.
31 BEST SMALL DOG BREEDS
Now you know most of the benefits of having a small dog. But what are the best small dog breeds? How will you know?
There are so many small dogs worldwide, each with different habits and perks, that choosing the perfect one is tricky.
So, we've listed 31 best small dog species here that can be your ideal companion.
Let's take a look –
1. Chihuahua
It is a toy dog of the Mexican breed, named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is one of the most popular small dog breeds. You can keep this dog as a companion animal or for showing. Chihuahuas are tiny yet mighty dogs with prominent personalities in a small package. They love being the center of attention.
- These dogs also have one of the longest life expectancy. They can live around 12 to 20 years and weigh between 1 – 3 kg.
- They are lively, aggressive, alert, quick, devoted, and courageous. You can get these dogs in both short hair and long hair.
if you're interested in learning more about aggressive dog breeds and how to properly care for them, check out our comprehensive guide on the most aggressive dog breeds.
2. Pomeranian
Pomeranian is also one of the best small-sized dog breeds. This is a breed of the Spitz type. They are named after the Pomerania region in north-west Poland and north-east Germany in Central Europe.
- These fluffy dogs have adorable personalities. They don't need much exercise and are okay with playing indoors.
- They are playful, extroverted, intelligent, friendly, and active.
- They have a life expectancy of 12 to 16 years and weigh between 1.4 and 3.2kg as adults.
3. Toy American Eskimo
This Eskimo dog is a companion dog that originates from Germany. It's also a member of the Spitz family and one of the best-looking small dog breeds. Although this dog was originally from the German Spitz family, it was renamed the "American Eskimo Dog" because of anti-German sentiment during the First World War.
- These dogs are clever and friendly. They are also alert, reserved, and protective.
- They live up to 13 – 15 years. And their standard sizes weigh up to 8.2 – 16kg.
4. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
It's a cattle-herding dog breed that originated in Pembrokeshire, Wales. There are two breeds: the Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. These dogs also descended from the Spitz family.
- They are playful, tenacious, friendly, and bold. They're also very protective of their owners and loved ones.
- These dogs are not hypoallergenic.
- They live up to 12 – 15 years. The male breeds weigh 10 – 14kg, and the female breeds weigh 10 – 13kg.
5. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terrier is a British breed of small terrier. These dogs are energetic and rely on high exercise and stimulation. They are usually white-bodied and can show some patches of tan or black.
- These dogs are brilliant but also stubborn. Sometimes, they act clownish. They are also really athletic and fearless.
- Their life span is about 13 – 16 years, and their weight ranges between 6 – 8kg as adults.
- They have a smooth, rough, or broken coat.
Related: Learn how to train a stubborn dog.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
These dogs are also known as Yorkies. They are a British toy dog of the terrier type. They are among the most miniature terriers, weighing only 3.2kg. Their name comes from the English county of Yorkshire from the nineteenth century. They are one of the most cherished small dog breeds.
- In the dog show ring, they have long, glistening coats. And they are brilliant and playful. They can also get along with cats and larger dogs.
- But as they are tiny and fragile, they might not match your hyper-energetic children.
- Their life span is about 13 – 16 years. And yes, they're hypoallergenic.
7. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus originate from Tibet and are believed to have been bred from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. They can adapt well to different situations and are playful, highly intelligent, affectionate, and lively. They are also highly independent; making us believes they're not obedient.
- These dogs are perfect for people who live in the city or small apartments.
- They have a life expectancy of about 10 – 16 years and weigh between 9 – 16 pounds.
- They are also hypoallergenic.
8. Maltese
This is an ancient variety of dwarf, white-coated dog breeds from Italy. They are also generally associated with the island of Malta. They are also connected to a modern breed of dogs like the Bichon, Havanese, and Bolognese breeds.
- These hypoallergenic dogs are playful, affectionate, intelligent, and docile.
- They have a life expectancy of 12 – 15 years.
9. Cavalier Kings Charles Spaniel
It's a British breed of toy spaniels with a smooth and silky coat. These dogs are affectionate, playful, friendly and one of the best indoor dog breeds. They are also very patient and gentle.
- These dogs are not hypoallergenic. They live up to 9 – 14 years.
- They come in colors like Blenheim, Black and tan, tri-color, and ruby.
- They weigh between 5.4 – 8kg.
10. Papillon
Papillons are one of the oldest toy dog breeds of the spaniel type. They are also called the Continental Toy Spaniel. They have long, fringed hair on their ears resembling a butterfly.
- They are intelligent, friendly, energetic, alert, and happy.
- Their life span is about 13 – 15 years.
- The male breeds weigh about 3.6 – 4.5kg, and the females weigh up to 3.2 – 4.1kg as adults.
11. Havanese
Havanese is one of the best small, friendly dog breeds of the Bichon type. It's the national dog of Cuba. These dogs are affectionate and playful. They are also brilliant, responsive, companionable, and gentle.
- They are hypoallergenic, have soft coats, and are available in many colors.
- They live up to 14 – 16 years and can weigh between 4.5 and 7.3kg as adults.
12. Brussels Griffon
This is a breed of toy dog, also known as Griffon Bruxellois. Their city of origin is Brussels, Belgium. These dogs have a temperament of self-importance. They are also very alert, sensitive, and watchful.
- These dogs can also be good companions.
- They have a life span of 12 – 15 years. But keep in mind that they are also hypoallergenic.
13. Beagle
These are a breed of small scent hounds. Their appearance is similar to that of the larger foxhounds. They were initially bred to hunt hares and rabbits, known as beaglings. They are amiable, curious, even-tempered, intelligent, and have a strong sense of smell.
- Sometimes, these dogs can be mischievous when you're not looking at them, but their puppy face will make you overlook everything.
- They live up to 12 – 15 years and are non-hypoallergenic.
14. Poodle
Poodles are a water dog breed called Pudel in German and Caniche in French. According to their size, there are four variations of the poodle: the Standard Poodle, Medium Poodle, Miniature Poodle, and Toy Poodle.
- They are intelligent, instinctual, and active. They are also really faithful and trainable.
- These dogs are also hypoallergenic.
- They have a life span of 12 – 15 years, and their coat is curly.
15. Alaskan Klee Kai
Have you always dreamt of keeping a Siberian Husky or Alaskan, but don't have enough space in your house? Well, these dogs can be the best, then. They are a Spitz-type breed of companion size. They look exactly like Alaskan Malamute and Husky, but smaller.
- These dogs are curious and energetic. They are also brilliant, quick, and active.
- Adults can live 12 – 16 years and weigh about 7.3 to 10kg.
16. Rat Terrier
This is an American dog breed. It is considered a rare breed because it has a background as a farm dog and hunting companion. These dogs are lively, affectionate, and intelligent.
- They live for 15 – 18 years, another long life expectancy.
- As adults, they weigh around 4.5 – 11kg. They have a single, smooth coat.
17. Dachshund
Dachshunds, also known as sausage dogs or wiener dogs, are short-legged and long-bodied doxies. They are a type of dog breed that can be smooth-haired, long-haired, or wire-haired.
- Dachshunds are clever, playful, and devoted but stubborn.
- They live 12 to 16 years and are non-hypoallergenic. Their miniature versions weigh about five, and the standard can be 7.3 – 14.5kg.
18. French Bulldog
These are a French breed of toy dog. They are primarily the result of the cross-breeding of toy bulldogs from England and local Parisian ratters. They are not hypoallergenic.
- They live 10 to 12 years.
- They are playful, easygoing, and bright. They're also very keen and patient.
- You can get them in different colors, such as white, brindle, fawn, tan, brindle, and white.
19. Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are of a non-sporting dog breed. Its origin is Tibet, China. Tibetan shepherds are traditionally used as interior watchdogs. They are one of the best friendly small dog breeds. They are intelligent, steady, and obedient.
- These dogs are hypoallergenic.
- They live for 12 – 14 years and can be between 25 and 28 cm tall.
20. Miniature Schnauzer
This miniature schnauzer is another cute small dog breed of the schnauzer type. It originated in Germany in the mid-to-late 19th century. They are high-spirited, friendly, and obedient.
- They live for 12 to 15 years and are available in different colors, such as black, white, salt and pepper, and black and silver.
- The male schnauzer weighs about 5 to 8.2kg as an adult, and the female weighs 4.5 to 6.8 kg.
21. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus is a cute Japanese hunting dog. It is the smallest of the six original breeds native to Japan. Shiba Inus are charming, confident, and faithful.
- These dogs are also keen and fearless.
- It is not a hypoallergenic dog.
- They can live for 12 to 15 years. They weigh between 6.8 and 11 kg based on their gender.
22. Norwich Terrier
These dogs originated from England and were bred to hunt small rodents. These are some of the most miniature terriers and are rare. They are hardy, affectionate, intelligent, energetic, and sensitive.
- Adults can weigh about 5 to 5.4kg, which is a meager weight. And yes, they're also hypoallergenic, so be careful.
- They have a life span of 12 to 14 years.
- They have a double coat and a complex, wiry, and soft undercoat.
23. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are a breed of gun dogs. These dogs are active and good-natured. They are sporting dogs. You can find them affectionate, quiet, and playful. These dogs can be perfect if you get a dog for the first time.
- They are one of the easiest dogs to train, as they are faithful to their owners.
- They live for 12 to 15 years, are not hypoallergenic, and weigh between 13 and 16 kg.
24. Border Terrier
It's a rough-coated terrier of the British breed. These are from the Anglo-Scottish border area. They are even-tempered, affectionate, and obedient.
- Their life span is about 12 to 15 years, and they weigh between 5.1 and 7.1 kg, depending on their gender.
- Their height also ranges from 28 – 36 cm for the females and 33 – 40 cm for the males.
25. Bolognese
These are small bichon dog breeds whose name comes from the northern Italian city of Bologna. These dogs are serious and reserved but also very loyal and hypoallergenic.
- You can only get them in one color: white.
- Their life expectancy is about 12 – 14 kg, and Bolognese can weigh between 2.5 and 4 kg.
26. Miniature Pinscher
You can also call them the Zwergpinscher and Mini Pin. These are small pinscher breeds that originate in Germany. They are clever, playful, outgoing, and responsive. These dogs have a terrier-like attitude. They are domineering toward stranger dogs no matter their size, but they get along with their housemates.
- They live for 12 – 16 years. The female Pinschers weigh about 3.5 – 5 kg, while the males weigh between 4 and 5 kg.
- You can get them in different colors, such as black and rust, stag red, chocolate and rust, and red.
27. Basenji
Basenji is a hunting dog that originated in Central Africa. These dogs are curious, quiet, and intelligent. They are also confident and playful. But rather than the typical "Woof" sound, these dogs bark differently.
- Because of their shaped larynx, they make an unusual yodel sound. These dogs are hypoallergenic.
- They live for 12 – 16 years and can weigh about 11 kg as adults.
28. Bichon Frise
It's a Franco-Belgian small toy dog of the bichon type. This gentle and cheerful dog is of the standard Societe Centrale Canine. You need to keep in mind that these dogs are hypoallergenic.
- They live up to 12 – 15 years. Their height can be 23 – 30 cm as adults.
- You can get these dogs in colors like white, white, and apricot, white and cream, and white and buff.
29. Japanese Chin
These are also known as Japanese Spaniels. They are one of the cutest and adorable small dogs. They are perfect if you want a lap dog to snuggle with. They act a bit like cats but are very intelligent and loyal.
- You can get these dogs in different colors like lemon and white, sable and white, red and white, black and white, and even tri-color.
- They can weigh between 1.4 and 6.8 kg.
30. Pekingese
The Pekingese is another Chinese-originated toy dog breed. Royalties of the Chinese Imperial court mostly favored these breeds. They are believed to be excellent companion dogs. The Pekingese's name comes from Beijing, where the Forbidden City is located.
- This breed has characteristics like affectionate, opinionated, aggressive, stubborn, and more.
- They also have different health issues that are related to their unique appearance.
- They live for 12 – 15 years and weigh between 3.2 – 6.4kg as adults.
31. Schipperke
This small breed of dog originated in the 1600s in Flanders. It has a fox-like look and is curious, agile, confident, and independent. In their home country, these dogs are also considered miniature shepherds.
- But these dogs are also faithful. They come in black, chocolate, apricot, cream, and blue colors.
- They can live up to 13 – 15 years and weigh between 3 – 9 kg.
Benefits of Choosing SMALL DOG BREEDS
Half of the global population lives in a small compartment or condo. The lack of space often makes them give up their heartfelt desires. However, dog lovers are unwilling to give up the dream of having a furry friend at home. Hence, they choose good small dog breeds.
These are ideal for their space and make perfect companions for the kids.
If you are still weighing the reasons for choosing small dog breeds, let us give you some.
- Small Dogs have longer life expectancies than large dogs. Most small dog breeds can live up to 15 years, and some even live up to 20.
- They also have fewer health issues than bigger dogs, which helps them visit the vet less frequently.
- They are great for people who live in an apartment or condo in the city. Even if you have less space in your house or yard, these cute tiny creatures can easily live there comfortably.
- If you have a small puppy, it's easier to travel freely. They can easily fit into most of the easy-to-carry kennels and bags.
- Small dog breeds do need exercise, but it's less. As they are small, they wear out faster than other large dogs.
- These dogs are easier to clean. After walking your dog or playing with them, you can easily give them a bath in the basin or your bathtub.
- These dogs are more affordable than other medium or large-sized dogs. As these tiny creatures have smaller tummies, they eat less. It can save you a lot of money from buying excessive dog food.
TIPS ON CHOOSING THE BEST SMALL DOG BREEDS
Are you still finding it hard to choose only one among all these unique and adorable small dogs? Well, here are some tips for you to select your new family member –
- When getting a dog, consider your living space and daily routine. If you have a small space, choose a small breed that needs minimal exercise and mental stimulation.
- All these little dogs have different personalities. Consider what kind of temperament you want in your dog.
- Remember to be wary of breed-specific health issues. Research everything about the dog you want to buy to prepare for long-term care.
- Some dogs need regular grooming. Decide if you can handle the grooming or want to budget for a professional.
- If you have kids or maybe frequent guests, choose a friendly breed that can adapt to situations.
- Decide whether you want to adopt and give a better home to a dog or purchase from a reputable breeder.
- Are you not sure about the dog you're interested in? Then, spend more time with them and try to understand their habits.
FIND THE BEST SMALL DOG ACCESSORIES WITH US!
Finding the best small dog for your family is sorted. But you now also need to train the new member, which will require some dog accessories.
Remember, each dog is an individual, so there can be different personalities and needs even within their breed.
Get dog collars, harnesses, bedding, toys, and other accessories that meet their requirements and choices. These are essential to keeping your dog in check and making it feel comfortable.
Visit Doodle Couture and find the best accessories for your pup now!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What small dog breed is the most popular?
The Chihuahua is one of the most popular small dog breeds due to its cute, diminutive size and big personality. Many popular small dog breeds exist, such as the French Bulldog, Pomeranian, and Corgi.
2. Which dog breed stays the smallest?
The Chihuahua is one of the world's most popular small dog breeds and is also considered one of the smallest.
This dog weighs 1 – 3kg and stands about 15 – 23cm. You can find Chihuahuas with both long and short coats.
3. Which small dog breeds are the easiest to train?
The Miniature and Toy Poodle is known for its intelligence and ease of training. Other easiest dogs to train are the Papillon and Miniature Schnauzer.
4. What is the calmest small dog?
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is often considered one of the calmest small dog breeds. It is gentle and affectionate and can adapt well to various living situations.
5. What is the friendliest small dog?
The Pug is known for its friendly and affectionate nature. They are great with families and also other pets.
Their traits make them one of the friendliest small breeds. There are others, such as the Shih Tzu, Havanese, and more.
6. What is the easiest small dog to raise?
The Miniature or Toy Poodle is one of the most intelligent small dogs. These dogs can learn whatever you want to teach them quickly, making the pup easy to raise.
Another one is the French Bulldog. It is also relatively easy to increase as it has low exercise needs and is adaptable. They are also very affectionate and easygoing.
7. What small dog has the most minor health issues?
The Chihuahua is one of the best small dog breeds with the most minor health issues. They have a long life expectancy of 14 – 16 years. But there are even some that live up to 20 years.
Also, the Border Terrier is another small dog that is robust and healthy with few genetic health issues. But remember, no matter how healthy they are, proper care and regular veterinary check-ups are still important.
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