Discover 40 Medium to Small Dog Breeds

If you're looking for a furry companion that's just the right size, you'll love these medium to small dog breeds. They're perfect for city living or families with smaller spaces.

The Affenpinscher, for example, weighs in at just 7-13 pounds, making it a great choice for apartment dwellers. This playful breed is known for its distinctive monkey-like face and lively personality.

The Australian Terrier is another great option, weighing between 10-18 pounds and standing at about 10 inches tall. This spunky breed is easy to train and loves to play.

The Havanese is a popular choice for its gentle and affectionate nature, weighing in at 7-13 pounds and requiring regular grooming to prevent matting.

Small to medium dog breeds are perfect for families and individuals who want a furry companion without the high maintenance of larger dogs. They typically fall in the weight range of 20–60 pounds and have a shoulder height from 40 to 59 cm.

Medium dog breeds, in particular, are the best of both worlds, possessing some traits of both small and large dogs. They are usually not too big, but not too small either, making them ideal for a variety of living situations.

Some small dog breeds are increasingly popular as companions for older citizens, apartment dwellers, and families with young children. These breeds are often listed in categories to help owners choose the right one for them. Here are some of the most suitable small dog breeds for families with children:

Basset Hounds are a beloved breed known for being friendly and affectionate, so if you're looking for a furry companion that will shower you with love, this might be the perfect fit.

Their weight range is quite impressive, spanning from 40 to 65 pounds, making them a sturdy yet compact addition to any family.

Basset Hounds are a great choice for those who want a dog that's easy to care for, but still has plenty of personality to go around.

The English Cocker Spaniel is a lively and playful breed that needs a good amount of exercise. They're perfect for an owner willing to give lots of playtime and attention.

Originally bred in England for sporting purposes, they're a popular choice for many families looking for a pet to share in their energetic lifestyle. Their playful nature and sweet-natured, friendly temperament make them a great fit for families.

They weigh between 28 to 34 pounds, and their beautiful, long-haired coat requires regular grooming. With proper socialization, they're friendly to everyone they meet, as well as other animals.

They're very loyal and need a good deal of companionship, and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for too long. This breed is not suitable for owners who are away from home for long periods of time.

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The "Bull" breeds are a delight! They're playful and sneaky, making them entertaining pets. Bull terriers, in particular, need training and exercise to thrive.

Additional reading: Small Bull Breed Dogs

Their weight range is quite manageable, between 50 to 70 pounds. This makes them suitable for many living situations. Bull terriers are very loving and make great pets when well-cared for.

Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a special history, but we'll save that for another time. French Bulldogs, on the other hand, are renowned for their tolerance and gentleness with young children.

They have a small stocky build and a unique appearance, with large square heads and erect bat-like ears. Their gentle nature has made them one of the most popular dogs in Australia. French Bulldogs don't require much exercise and need to live indoors.

Their easy-going playful temperament makes them a joy to be around, but they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. They also need consistent and patient training to thrive.

Whippets are a great choice for those who want a dog with a similar energy level to Italian Greyhounds but in a slightly larger package.

They are surprisingly quiet, despite their athletic build, and are known to be very affectionate.

Whippets can reach speeds of up to 35 miles per hour, making them the fastest animal of their size.

They love to run and play, but a couple of all-out sprints will tire them out for the rest of the afternoon.

Whippets typically weigh between 25 to 40 pounds, making them a great option for families who want a smaller to medium-sized dog.

Their friendly, even-tempered disposition makes them a great addition to any family.

The German Pinscher is a great option for those who want a smaller dog with big energy. They're known to be very smart.

If you're an experienced dog owner, you'll find that they're family friendly once trained. However, they do require a lot of stimulation and activity to keep them happy.

Their high energy level means they need regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Irish terriers are energetic, intelligent, and great with kids and families. They're best as a solo pet because they were originally bred to hunt small animals.

The Kerry Blue Terrier originally comes from Ireland. They have an extremely strong instinct to work and hunt, which makes them a great fit for active owners.

Irish terriers are very loyal and affectionate, so they're a great choice for people who want a dog that will give them lots of love and attention.

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies for short, are a popular small dog breed that pack a big personality in a tiny package. They weigh in at around seven pounds, making them a great choice for city living or for families with smaller spaces.

Their gorgeous, silky fur is not only a joy to look at, but it's also hypoallergenic, which is a bonus for those with allergies. Yorkies are known for their energetic and playful nature, which requires regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.

One thing to keep in mind when considering a Yorkie as a pet is that they can be wary of strangers, so it's essential to socialize them well from an early age. This will help them become confident and calm in new situations.

Welsh Corgis are loyal and loving companions that thrive on attention and interaction. They're also incredibly smart, making them a joy to train.

One thing to keep in mind is that Welsh Corgis are prone to becoming overweight if they don't get enough exercise. They need regular physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

Welsh Corgis are generally great with young children, but they may nip occasionally when their herding instincts kick in. This is usually just a sign that they're trying to herd the kids, not that they're being aggressive.

As a small dog breed, Welsh Corgis don't require a huge amount of space, but they do need a lot of love and attention. They're not the best choice for busy owners who are away from home all day.

Welsh Corgis are known for their short stature, but they're surprisingly tough and resilient. They're not afraid to stand up for themselves, even if they are small.

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The Jack Russell is a small but energetic breed that originated in England from dogs bred by Reverend John Russell to hunt small game. They're a joy to watch, with their big, bashful eyes and corkscrew curls.

Their predominantly white coat with markings or black or brown is a beautiful sight to behold, and they come in three different coat varieties: rough, smooth, or broken. I've seen some stunning Jack Russells in my time, but their looks are just the beginning.

Despite their small size, Jack Russells still require a long brisk walk daily as well as plenty of mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. This is essential for their well-being, and it's not just about exercise - it's about mental stimulation too.

Their intelligence and energy make them a great breed for active families or individuals who can provide the necessary care and attention. With the right owner, a Jack Russell can be a loyal and loving companion.

The Maltese Shih Tzu is a highly popular cross-breed dog in Australia, known for its gentle and peaceful nature.

They love to play, making them a great choice for families with young children. However, they can become lonely or bored if left unattended, leading to behavioral problems.

Their fluffy appearance belies the fact that they only shed moderate amounts of hair. This makes them a great option for people with allergies, as their white silky fur is hypoallergenic.

As a small breed, the Maltese Shih Tzu typically weighs between 3-4 kgs, making them easy to care for. They are also ideal as indoor dogs, requiring only a short daily walk.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Maltese Small Breed Dogs

Rat Terriers are a happy and friendly breed.

They love being part of a family and having regular close contact with their humans.

They come in two varieties – miniature and standard, with a height range of 10-18 inches.

Their silky-smooth coat is a bonus for dog owners.

A short walk or a game of fetch with a ball is sufficient exercise for these energetic dogs.

Their small size means they don't need a lot of space to run around.

They have a wide variety of colours, including combinations of white, black, tan, fawn, apricot, and lemon.

Their pied pattern options add to their unique charm.

They're excellent exterminators, perfect for city-dwellers with a rodent problem.

The Bichon Frise is a delightful small dog breed that's perfect for many families. They weigh between 3 to 6kgs, making them a great companion dog.

These dogs are known for being non-shedding, which means they're a great choice for people with allergies. They're also incredibly happy and loving, but can sometimes exhibit a stubborn streak.

The Bichon Frise is an old breed dating back to the 14th century. They have a puff-ball double coat that requires a lot of grooming, but it's worth it for their adorable looks.

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With an affectionate, gentle, and loving temperament, the Bichon Frise makes a great choice for the elderly or families with young children. They tend not to bark a lot, making them a good choice for apartment living.

Here are some key characteristics of the Bichon Frise:

If you're considering bringing a Bichon Frise into your family, make sure to provide adequate companionship, training, and exercise to prevent behavior problems from developing.

The Shih Tzu is a charming breed that will warm your heart with its gentle and loyal nature. They are intelligent, but can be stubborn at times, making training a bit challenging.

One of the best things about Shih Tzus is their playful and affectionate personality. They love to play and are always ready for a game, making them a great companion for families with children.

However, Shih Tzus do need attention and interaction to prevent boredom and loneliness, which can lead to behavioral problems. They are not suited for homes where they will be left alone for long periods of time.

Shih Tzus are also great for families with young children because they are generally gentle and tolerant. But, as with any small dog breed, it's essential to teach children how to treat them gently.

Here are some characteristics of Shih Tzus to consider:

The Miniature Poodle is a wonderful breed that's perfect for many families. They typically weigh in at a manageable 15 to 17 pounds.

Their intelligence is one of their best qualities, making them easy to train and fun to interact with. They're also a great choice for people with allergies because they shed very little.

One thing to keep in mind is that they do require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. This can be a bit of a challenge, but it's worth it for the affection and companionship they provide.

Despite their small size, Miniature Poodles are lively and fun-loving dogs that need lots of human attention. They thrive on interaction and can become bored or restless if left alone for too long.

Here are some key characteristics of the Miniature Poodle breed:

The Miniature Pinscher is a dog that carries itself with real confidence, thanks to its high-stepping gait that's almost like a horse on the trot.

They're fearless and fun-loving, requiring a lot more activity than their small frames suggest. Be prepared for some of their more vocal qualities as well.

They make wonderful guard dogs and will stand up to perceived intruders with a fearless courage way beyond their size.

However, their independent streak can make them resistant to training, which is why they need an experienced dog handler. This may make them unsuitable for families with young children.

Their intelligence is undeniable, but it's their bold and fearless nature that's truly impressive.

The Basenji is a unique breed that originated in Africa, where they were prized for their intelligence and independence. They were used as hunting dogs, making them a valuable asset for their owners.

One of the most distinctive features of the Basenji is their unusual sound - instead of barking, they make a chortle-like sound. It's a pretty funny quirk, and it's definitely a conversation starter.

The German Boxer is an established dog breed that is particularly popular in Germany. They're known for their energetic and playful personalities.

Boxers are a medium-sized breed, with males typically weighing between 60-70 pounds. Their sturdy build makes them well-suited for families with children.

The Field Spaniel is a breed that's perfect for families with children. They're incredibly loyal and friendly, making them a great addition to any household.

Their gentle nature means they're generally good with kids, and they're not as high-strung as some other breeds. Field Spaniels are also relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.

The Dutch Smoushond is a member of the dog family.

Originating from the Netherlands, this breed has a rich history.

The Dutch Smoushond is a relatively small dog breed.

It originally comes from the Netherlands, just like the Kooikerhondje.

This breed is known for its distinct characteristics.

Unfortunately, I couldn't find more information on this breed beyond the article section facts.

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The Norwegian Buhund is a friendly and alert Spitz. Its name suggests a connection to Norway, which is true.

This breed is known for its intelligence, making it a great companion for active families. They're highly trainable and love to please their owners.

Norwegian Buhunds are relatively small, with adults typically weighing between 25-40 pounds.

Here's an interesting read: Norwegian Dogs Breeds

The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, also known as the Toller, is a medium-sized dog breed. They're a bit on the smaller side, but still energetic and playful. The Toller is a versatile hunting breed that's also great with families. They're known for their intelligence and trainability. Their short coats make them a low-maintenance grooming option.

The Shetland Sheepdog, or Sheltie, is an ideal companion that loves human companionship and is very sensitive, gentle, affectionate and devoted.

They thrive on human interaction, but their high energy needs and intelligence must be fulfilled with lots of exercise and training.

Shelties can develop behaviour problems if they're not trained properly or become bored, so regular mental and physical stimulation is a must.

Excessive barking can be a problem if they don't receive enough exercise and training, so be prepared to put in the work to keep them happy and healthy.

They don't do well in loud or chaotic environments, so a quiet and calm home is best for these gentle dogs.

If you're looking for a small to medium-sized dog that's perfect for families, there are many breeds to consider.

The Maltese Shih Tzu, for example, is a great choice for families with young children. They have a gentle and peaceful nature, but also love to play.

The Boston terrier, Bichon frise, Border terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cesky Terrier, Havanese, Miniature Schnauzers, Welsh corgi, and Whippet are also well-suited for families with children.

These breeds tend to be more tolerant and gentle, making them perfect for households with kids.

The English Cocker Spaniel is another breed that's great with families, especially if you're willing to give them lots of playtime and attention.

If you're looking for a breed that's easy-going and gentle, consider the Spoodles. They're a crossbreed of two intelligent and loyal dogs, and are known for their easy-going nature.

The Field Spaniel is also a loyal and friendly breed, making them a great choice for families.

In fact, many small dog breeds are suitable for families with children, but it's essential to teach your kids how to treat the dog gently to avoid any problems.

Here are some small dog breeds that are particularly well-suited for families with children:

The Brussels Griffon is a small dog, weighing around 5 kg, and is perfect for an inside dog. They're very happy in a home environment, but still need regular exercise to stay healthy.

Their big gorgeous eyes and beard make them appear very human-like, which can be quite endearing.

They have two variations of coat: smooth or rough, and both require regular grooming to stay looking their best.

Cairn terriers are a delight, weighing in at just 6 to 8kg, making them a great option for city living.

Their wiry coat can look a bit untidy, but the good news is that it doesn't shed much.

Cairn terriers are absolutely loyal and deeply affectionate, they make great family pets.

However, like all terriers, they can be resistant to training, so it's essential to start early.

If you're considering bringing a Cairn terrier into your home, just remember to keep them away from smaller pets like rats and guinea pigs.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a gentle and affectionate breed that's perfect for families with children. They're known for being very tolerant and loving, making them a great addition to any household.

One thing to keep in mind is that they can be prone to health issues, so regular check-ups with the vet are a must. They also require plenty of attention and human companionship, so it's best to have a family that's home for most of the day.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are quite happy living indoors and generally get along well with other animals. They're also relatively small in size, weighing between 10-18 kg (22-40 pounds), making them a great choice for apartment dwellers.

Here are some small dog breeds that are particularly suited for families with children:

They're also relatively easy to train, responding well to positive reward training. This makes them a great choice for first-time dog owners or families with young children.

Dachshunds are a small breed dog known for their long bodies and short muscular legs. They're originally from Germany and were bred to hunt small animals.

Their history gives them traits similar to terriers, making them love to chase and dig. This means owners need to train them well and give them moderate exercise.

Dachshunds come in two sizes: standard and miniature. Their coat is most commonly seen in tan, reddish-brown, and black.

Due to their elongated bodies, they're prone to spinal problems. Owners should be aware of this and take necessary precautions.

Dachshunds are very loyal and make great companions for families. They typically do well with other animals and love to snuggle on the couch with their owners.

The Maltipoo is a popular cross-breed dog that's great with families, especially those with young children. They have a gentle and peaceful nature, but also love to play.

They require attention and interaction to prevent behavioural problems, so make sure to spend quality time with your Maltipoo. If left alone for too long, they can become lonely and bored.

Maltipoos are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, shedding only moderate amounts of hair.

Here's an interesting read: Maltipoo Wikipedia

The Miniature Schnauzer is a feisty breed that's full of personality. They're highly intelligent and curious, which is great for learning new tricks, but can also make them a bit wilful.

They need consistent training to keep them on track, and they'll bark a lot if they get bored. They're good with children, though, and love to be indoors around their humans.

These little dogs may be small, but they need lots of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They shed very little hair, which is a bonus for some owners.

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The Norfolk Terrier is a confident and excitable breed that loves to be around people and other dogs. They're one of the smallest terrier breeds, standing at just 10 inches tall.

They have a unique double coat, with a wiry, straight outercoat and a soft undercoat. This means they'll need regular grooming to keep their coat looking its best.

One thing that sets the Norfolk Terrier apart from other breeds is their folded ears, which differentiate them from the Norwich Terrier.

Pugs are originally from China, bred as lap dogs for royal families and later imported to Europe in the 16th century.

Their stocky build might lead you to think they're a larger breed, but they're actually classified as toy size.

Pugs have flat wrinkly faces with large eyes, which can make them prone to breathing and eye problems.

Their coats are short and smooth, coming in a variety of colours including black, fawn, and apricot.

Pugs are known for being friendly and easy-going, making them great family pets.

The Schipperke is a confident and inquisitive breed.

They have black fur and pointed ears.

Their small yet strong and stealthy bodies make them well-suited for ratters and watchdogs.

Originating in Belgium, they were bred to chase and catch rats.

Due to their size, they can be kept in smaller homes and yards as long as they are walked regularly.

If not trained, they are prone to excessive barking.

They prefer owners who can dedicate time to training, exercising, and bonding with them.

Skye terriers are very loyal and affectionate companion dogs that adore being the centre of attention.

They have a soft undercoat beneath their long-haired overcoat.

Skye terriers don't need large amounts of exercise, making them a great choice for city dwellers or those with limited space.

Consistent training is a must for these intelligent dogs to reach their full potential.

The Sussex is a happy, calm, and loving dog that enjoys a good romp outdoors. They're not the fastest movers, but they still love to get some exercise.

Their barking can be a bit of a concern, but it's not excessive. They do like to make some noise, after all.

These dogs shed frequently, which means they need regular grooming to keep their coat looking its best.

The Swedish Vallhund is a cheerful and friendly breed.

They are naturally very eager to please their owners.

Their long and low body is designed to help them nip at cattle.

Their coat is dense and medium-length, shedding a fair amount.

They have pointed ears, a distinctive feature of this breed.

For centuries, they were used to herd cattle in Scandinavian Viking days.

They are high-energy and always alert, making them an active companion.

Small to medium dog breeds are perfect for families and individuals alike, offering a great balance between size and maintenance. They typically fall in the weight range of 20–60 pounds.

These breeds are not too big, not too small, making them ideal for a variety of living situations. Medium sized dogs are the best of all, with a shoulder height from 40 to 59 cm.

If you're looking for a dog that's not too big and not too small, you're in luck. There are 40 medium dog breeds that can make ideal companions for families and individuals.

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Some small dog breeds have a tendency to develop the idea they’re the leader of the pack and become a little snappy. But some dogs are just more tolerant than others.

Here are some small dog breeds that are particularly suited for families with children: