Even the best small dog breeds can often get a bad rep, labeled as ‘yappy’ or not given the same kudos as big dogs. But despite their size, small dog breeds have a lot of love to give and can make excellent pets and companions.
And every small dog breed has different characteristics and personalities that are suited to a variety of dog lovers. From a glamorous toy poodle to a cute pug or a friendly dachshund, there’s a small dog to suit every owner.
Dogs make a great addition to any family or household, but if you don’t have space for a large dog, then a small dog breed can be the answer to your pup-loving needs, plus many small dog breeds are great with kids and families alike.
Whether you’re considering adopting one of the best small dog breeds or adding to your four-legged family, or you simply enjoy learning about the variety of small dog breeds out there, then have a read about some of these teeny four-legged friends.
Best small dog breeds
1. Dachshund
Everyone loves a “sausage dog”. Known for their tiny feet and elongated body, the dachshund is not only incredibly cute but they have one of the bubbliest personalities out of all of the best small dog breeds. Dachshunds were originally bred as scent hounds to hunt badgers, rabbits, or foxes, which is what makes these tiny hunting dogs so courageous in their nature.
They are fiercely loyal and make great family pets. They are known to be slightly trickier to train than other dogs, but once they’ve learned they are fantastic companions, great with kids, and make good watch dogs too!
2. Pug
Pugs have taken the world by storm in recent years due to their cute nature and ability to make folks smile. Pugs are incredibly friendly, which makes them one of the best small dog breeds for families and safe to be around children. Despite their dopey looks, pugs are incredibly intelligent and can be trained very easily.
If you like dogs who enjoy a snuggle on the sofa, then a pug will be perfect for you. They enjoy lazing around and getting affection from their owners, but they’re also full of character and enjoy social environments. There are even pug cafes!
3. Miniature schnauzer
The miniature schnauzer is one of those adorable dogs with beards that is full of character. A terrier breed, the miniature schnauzer is a fun-loving, outgoing pooch standing at 12–14 inches and weighing 11–20lbs.
Mini schnauzers have big personalities and a super singing voice – they have a lot to say for themselves and will always let you know if someone’s at the door. With soft double coats, they have low to no shedding levels and are highly adaptable to apartment life or a countryside home. They are also very trainable and love to be involved with everything you’re doing. While they are medium-energy dogs, they still need plenty of mental stimulation for their intelligent brains.
4. Jack Russell Terrier
It’s not just big dogs that can keep you active; the Jack Russell Terrier may be tiny but they are mighty. What’s more, they’re also one of the smartest dog breeds. Their little legs can take them far and wide and you’ll have plenty of fun exploring with this best small dog breed for active owners.
They require a lot of mental and physical stimulation and are incredibly smart. Once again they make a great family pet, and enjoy plenty of snuggles as well as the freedom to run around. The Jack Russell grows to around 35cm tall so they remain tiny for life, making them the perfect addition to close-knit households who will enjoy the bubbly personality of this dog.
5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a beautiful dog, historically bred as a hunting dog, but today are much preferred as lapdogs. There are a few Spaniel breeds that are known under this title, however according to The Kennel Club UK, the ‘Cavalier’ breed is recognized as the original breed and has a slightly differently shaped muzzle. Those with a flatter face are simply known as a King Charles, but they both have the same gorgeous long ears.
They are also one of the best dog breeds for companionship and will enjoy sitting with you by the fire on a winter’s day. The Cavalier has a very calm and serene disposition with an adorable face and fluffy ears that you won’t be able to resist giving a snuggle. This small dog breed grows to a height of approximately 28cm.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
If you find yourself really wanting a four-legged companion but know you suffer with pet hair allergies, then the Yorkshire Terrier is a great hypoallergenic dog breed to consider. They have a naturally hypoallergenic coat, which means you won’t have to miss out on cuddles and fusses with them. These dogs are incredibly sweet, happy and bubbly.
The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the smallest of the terriers and weighs approximately seven pounds on average. They have a life expectancy of around 16 years and are surprisingly confident and bold despite their small size. This is a dog that will look after you just as well as you look after them.
7. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are big softies and irresistibly cuddly, and a good thing too, since they also enjoy a good fuss. Exercise isn’t really their thing, so if you don’t fancy having to take a dog on lots of walks every day, then a French Bulldog is a great choice for a four-legged friend.
Standing up to 33 cm, they are essentially a toy-sized version of a bulldog and a cross with local ratters. They have pointed ears and an air of curiosity on their faces. Frenchies are known for their easy-going nature, and are described as bright, affectionate and charming. They don’t shed much, nor do they tend to bark much but they make great loyal watchdogs.
8. Corgi
A favorite of the late Queen of England, Elizabeth II, the Corgi is one of the best small dog breeds for affection, with heaps of personality and lots of love to give. With a big smile and tenacious character, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi was originally a cattle herding dog, but today makes a very agreeable house dog.
According to the American Kennel Club, they are surprisingly strong, athletic and lively, but also really enjoy being needy when they want to be. They have short yet powerful legs so if you’re looking for the best of both worlds with an active yet cuddly pooch, a Corgi is a great choice for companionship.
9. Chihuahua
While it might seem like a stereotype, Chihuahuas are definitely one of the best small dog breeds for carrying in handbags. Chihuahuas are incredibly light, weighing in at no more than six pounds on average.
They are the smallest of the small dog breeds and are named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. They’re short-haired dogs that are truly devoted to their owners and love to spend time with you. Despite their size, they are brave and quick, meaning they’ll keep you on your toes. They are also sassy, a reputation they have no doubt developed from their portrayal in many Hollywood movies as the sidekicks of beloved female protagonists.
10. Miniature poodle
Ranking in the top ten for most popular dog breed in the American Kennel Club, the miniature poodle is a majestic dog that stands tall and proud despite their diminutive size. Weighing approximately 10-15 pounds and standing just 15 inches tall, the mini poodle could be mistaken for a cuddly toy – indeed, the toy poodle is even smaller at just 10 inches.
It has become very popular to cross mini poodles with the likes of labradors, golden retrievers and others to create doodle dogs. Poodles of all sizes are very glamorous and you’ll enjoy looking after them and showing them off.
11. Pomeranian
This super-fluffy toy breed has a low exercise requirement and would do well as an apartment dog or in a small home. The Pomeranian was favored by Queen Victoria, who loved a lapdog, which boosted their popularity. Due to their loving natures – and despite that luscious coat making them a high-maintenance dog breed – they have remained a much sought-after family pet.
Though they be but little (up to 7lbs to be precise), they are fierce! Pomeranians are extroverts with a lively personality – don’t be surprised if your fluffball has a burst of energy! A long-lived pooch, these active-brained pups can be exercised indoors or at home and are capable of learning a repertoire of tricks.
Interested in the other end of the spectrum? Here are the largest dog breeds in the world
Edited by Georgia Guerin.
Recent updates
This feature was last updated on February 13, 2025.
