The Ultimate Guide to Small Dogs Breeds

Small dogs are a joy to have as pets, and with so many breeds to choose from, it's no wonder why they're a popular choice for many dog owners.

The smallest dog breed is the Chihuahua, weighing in at just 2-8 pounds.

Their small size makes them perfect for apartment living, as they require minimal exercise and space.

One of the biggest advantages of owning a small dog is the low cost of food and supplies.

Small dog breeds are a delight to have as pets. They're often short and lightweight, typically weighing less than 14 to 18 pounds.

Some small dog breeds are bred solely for their companionship and perceived attractiveness. They're not necessarily bred for practical skills like pointing or retrieving.

Their small stature makes them perfect for city living or for families with small children.

Toy breeds are a group of dogs that are small in stature and bred solely for their perceived attractiveness and companionship. They typically weigh less than 14 to 18 pounds, but different kennel clubs have different breeds in their toy category.

The American Kennel Club lists the affenpinscher in the toy category, while the United Kennel Club classifies it as a companion dog breed. The Merck Veterinary Manual says toy dog breeds are those that weigh less than 10 pounds.

Some toy breeds are known for being super affectionate and cuddly dogs. They make great companions, but they do require regular dental care to prevent periodontal issues.

Toy breeds are generally healthier than larger breeds, but they can still be prone to certain health issues. The Havanese and miniature pinscher are considered to be two of the healthiest toy breeds.

Despite their small size, toy breeds can live well into the teens. In fact, some research has found that larger dogs do live shorter lives than smaller breeds.

See what others are reading: Dog Health Issues by Breed

The Cairn Terrier is a small dog breed that originated in Scotland and is known for its distinctive mustache-like facial hair. They typically weigh between 10-14 pounds.

Bull Terriers are another popular terrier breed, known for their muscular build and short coats. They can weigh anywhere from 50-80 pounds.

The Boston Terrier is a small to medium-sized breed with a short, easy-to-maintain coat. They are known for their friendly and outgoing personalities.

The Yorkshire Terrier, or "Yorkie", is a small dog breed that originated in England and is known for its silky, fine coat. They typically weigh between 7-15 pounds.

The West Highland White Terrier, or "Westie", is a small dog breed that originated in Scotland and is known for its white coat and friendly demeanor. They typically weigh between 15-20 pounds.

On a similar theme: White Dogs Breeds

Hound Breeds are known for their strong tracking instincts and endurance, making them perfect for active owners who enjoy outdoor activities.

The Beagle is a popular Hound Breed that weighs between 18-30 pounds and stands 10-15 inches tall, requiring regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Foxhounds are another type of Hound Breed that excel at tracking small game, with a short, easy-to-maintain coat that requires minimal grooming.

The Bloodhound has an incredible sense of smell, with a nose that's up to 15,000 times more sensitive than a human's, making them expert trackers.

Basset Hounds are a bit more laid-back, requiring daily walks but not as much exercise as some other Hound Breeds, and their short stature makes them a great choice for families with small living spaces.

Non-Sporting Breeds are a diverse group, but they all share a few key characteristics. They're often described as "companion dogs" because they're bred to be loving and loyal friends rather than working dogs.

The Havanese, a Non-Sporting Breed, is known for its silky coat and friendly demeanor. They typically weigh between 7-13 pounds and stand about 8.5-11.5 inches tall.

Non-Sporting Breeds like the Pug are often described as "small but mighty" due to their big personalities and adaptable nature. They're great city dogs because they don't require a lot of exercise.

The French Bulldog, another Non-Sporting Breed, has a unique appearance with its short stature and distinctive "bat ears". They're relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, but they do require regular veterinary care to stay healthy.

Non-Sporting Breeds like the Boston Terrier are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them a great choice for families with children.

Chihuahuas are one of the smallest dogs in the canine kingdom, known for their charming and sassy personalities. They're so tiny that they make great purse dogs!

Chihuahuas typically weigh between 2 to 6 pounds, with some examples weighing up to 6 pounds. You'll often find them with lively energy and fierce loyalty to their family.

Their temperament can be a bit reserved with strangers, and they tend to do best with kids who are older or more patient. Some Chihuahuas may also have vocal tendencies.

Chihuahuas are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to grooming, requiring only minimal care for short-coated varieties and occasional brushing for longer-coated varieties.

Here's a quick rundown of Chihuahua characteristics:

Chihuahuas are not mean dogs; they're just saucy and feisty, and that's part of their charm. They're perfect for those who want a loyal companion that's full of personality.

Shih Tzus are a beloved breed for their charming and affectionate nature. They're generally happy and upbeat, making them a joy to be around.

One of the best things about Shih Tzus is their loyalty and affection towards everyone, including strangers. This makes them excellent companions for families and individuals alike.

Shih Tzus are intelligent, but they can be stubborn at times, which can make training a bit challenging. However, their adorable nature makes it hard to stay mad at them for long.

These tiny dogs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise, requiring only a bit of time spent playing and occasional walks. A daily walk and some playtime should keep them happy and healthy.

Shih Tzus have a beautiful long, luxurious coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Be prepared to brush them daily and trim their coat every month or so.

Here are some key statistics about Shih Tzus:

Overall, Shih Tzus make wonderful pets for those who are willing to provide the attention and care they need.

The Pinscher breed is a delightful and energetic group of small dogs. They're known for their bold personalities and fearless attitudes.

One of the most iconic Pinscher breeds is the Affenpinscher, which is often described as plucky and curious. They're a great choice for apartment living due to their small stature, but they still need plenty of playtime and daily walks to stay happy.

Affenpinschers have a unique coat and signature beard and mustache that require regular grooming to prevent them from getting scruffy. They're also one of the toy dog breeds that don't shed too much.

The Miniature Pinscher, also known as the Min Pin, is another popular breed in the Pinscher family. They're fearless and fun-loving, but they do require a lot of activity to stay happy. They're also known for being vocal, so be prepared for some loud barking!

In terms of size, the Miniature Pinscher typically weighs between 8-11 pounds and stands between 10-12.5 inches tall. They have a short coat that requires minimal maintenance, making them a great choice for busy owners.

Here's a comparison of the height and weight of the two Miniature Pinscher breeds mentioned:

As for their lifespan, the Miniature Pinscher can live up to 15 years, making them a long-term companion for many owners.

The Cavalier Spaniel is a wonderful breed, known for its gentle demeanor and love of companionship. They make excellent family pets, especially for families with kids.

Playfulness is a key characteristic of the Cavalier Spaniel, as they love to sniff and chase. This moderate energy level means they need regular exercise, but it can be as simple as a quick walk around the block.

One of the reasons Cavalier Spaniels are so great with kids is their calm nature. They're easy to train and well-behaved, making them a great choice for first-time pet parents.

These sweet dogs have a moderate grooming need, requiring a brush every other day to keep their long coat looking its best. Occasional trimming is also necessary to prevent matting.

Here's a quick rundown of the Cavalier Spaniel's key stats:

They're also known for their affectionate nature, and their eagerness to please. This makes them a great choice for therapy work, but also means they adapt well to their owner's lifestyle, whether that's active or lazy.

Schnauzers are intelligent and charming dogs that thrive with exercise and mental stimulation. They need lots of physical activity due to their history as farm dogs.

Miniature Schnauzers are the smallest of the three types, weighing between 11 and 20 pounds. They stand between 12 and 14 inches tall.

These bearded puppies will have the time of their life if given a job to do. Mini Schnauzers also don't shed much, making them good pets for families with allergies.

Silky Terriers are native to Australia, and they're a breed that's often mistaken for Yorkies.

They're surprisingly energetic for their size, so they need plenty of exercise to stay happy.

Silky Terriers have a long, luscious coat that requires daily brushing to stay looking its best.

Pet parents need to be prepared to put in some extra effort to keep their Silky's coat clean and healthy.

Expand your knowledge: Do Small Dogs Need Small Breed Food

If you're looking for popular small dog breeds, you might be surprised to learn that there's no one definition of a toy dog breed. For instance, the American Kennel Club lists the affenpinscher in the toy category, while the United Kennel Club classifies it as a companion dog breed.

Toy dog breeds are typically small, weighing less than 14 to 18 pounds. Some are even smaller, weighing less than 10 pounds. These breeds are bred solely for their companionship and perceived attractiveness.

Some popular small dog breeds include the affenpinscher, which is known for being super affectionate and cuddly. They're perfect for people who want a small but loving companion.

Sporting Breeds are a group of small dog breeds that originated for hunting and retrieving game. The Affenpinscher, for example, was bred to hunt small rodents and is known for its agility and energy.

The Affenpinscher is a toy-sized dog that weighs around 7-13 pounds and stands about 9-12 inches tall. The Poodle, on the other hand, is a versatile breed that comes in a range of sizes, including Toy, Miniature, and Standard.

Poodles are known for their intelligence and trainability, which makes them a popular choice for obedience competitions. The Poodle's low-shedding coat also makes it a great choice for people with allergies.

The Affenpinscher's high energy level requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Poodles, by contrast, are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise, but they do require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.

For more insights, see: Toy Poodles Pros Cons

The Yorkipoo is a popular hybrid dog that comes from mixing a Yorkshire terrier and a toy poodle. They are friendly, lively, and intelligent pups that make the perfect first pet.

Yorkipoos are great with kids and other pets, which is a big plus for families. They're also energetic, but enjoy downtime with their owner.

Yorkipoos typically weigh between 3-15 pounds, making them a great choice for people who live in small spaces.

Pugs are a delightful breed that's perfect for apartment living or homes with limited outdoor space. They were once the chosen companions of Chinese emperors!

They're loving and playful, making them a great choice for a family pet. Pugs like to show off and clown around, but they're even-tempered and won't shy away from cuddles.

Pugs are not one of the best small dog breeds if you're looking for a workout buddy. They may wheeze in heat, so keep activity simple with short walks and a little play.

Their weight range is between 14 to 18 pounds, although some pugs can weigh up to 30 pounds. They're prone to gain weight, so they do need exercise—and a balanced diet.

Grooming needs for pugs are LOW to MODERATE. Plan on brushing a pug from time to time, along with a weekly cleaning of his wrinkles with a damp cloth.

Here's a quick rundown of pug stats:

Their motto is "multum in parvo", which translates to "a lot in a little." They're happy and energetic dogs with adorable facial expressions, and they'd rather cuddle than do anything too strenuous.

French Bulldogs are one of the world's most popular dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. They're loved for their adorable, bat-like ears and affectionate personalities.

French Bulldogs are fun-loving and carefree, with a sweet and snuggly side. They're great family pets who love to cuddle and snooze with their human companions.

One of the best things about French Bulldogs is their low activity level. Short walks should suffice to keep them happy, but take care in warm weather, as they don’t do well in a lot of heat.

French Bulldogs typically weigh between 16-28 pounds, making them a great choice for apartment living. Their fine, smooth coat doesn't need much maintenance, just an occasional brush.

Here are some key characteristics of French Bulldogs at a glance:

Pomeranians are super smart and playful, and they can master tricks easily.

Their fluffy double coat comes in almost two dozen colors, but it's usually seen in orange or red.

Poms are outgoing, friendly, and sometimes even cocky, with vocal tendencies that make them great watchdogs.

They're easily trained and very family-oriented, but because of their small size, they may do better with older children.

Pomeranians are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise - a short walk or play session is all they need to be happy.

Here are some key stats about Pomeranians:

Pomeranians have a moderate grooming need, requiring brushing about twice a week and trimming every 2-3 months.

Their playful demeanor will keep you active with short daily walks, and they love to be the center of attention.

Small dog breeds are a delight to have as pets, and for good reason - they're often affectionate, loyal, and low-maintenance.

Toy dog breeds, in particular, are a group of dogs that are small in stature and bred solely for their perceived attractiveness and companionship. They typically weigh less than 14 to 18 pounds, although different kennel clubs may have varying breed classifications.

Some toy breeds, like the Maltese, are known for their silky white hair, which requires daily brushing to prevent matting. They're also affectionate and loyal, making them a great option for families.

The Maltese is a small white dog that stands between 7 to 9 inches tall and weighs under 7 pounds. They have a long coat that's often labeled as "hypoallergenic", although there's no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog.

Intriguing read: Small Maltese Dogs

Here are some key characteristics of the Maltese breed:

Other small dog breeds, like the Italian Greyhound, are sociable and sensitive. They're best suited for families with older children who know how to safely play with these small, slender dogs.

Poodle is a popular small dog breed that comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They're known for their intelligence, playfulness, and affectionate nature.

Poodles are highly trainable and love to learn, making them great with kids and other pets. Their hypoallergenic coat requires regular brushing to avoid matting.

Toy Poodles are the smallest of the Poodle breeds, weighing between 4-6 pounds and standing up to 10 inches tall. They're perfect for city living or for families with small children.

Poodles are active dogs that enjoy play and swimming, and their coats are adapted to water. They should be trimmed every 6-8 weeks to maintain their signature look.

Here are some key facts about Poodles:

Poodles are long-lived dogs, with some living up to 18 years or more. They require regular grooming, including brushing and trimming, to keep their coat healthy and looking its best.

The Brussels Griffon is a small dog breed that's perfect for city living. They typically weigh between 8-10 pounds.

These little dogs are intelligent and thrive on mental stimulation, although they can be stubborn at times. They form strong bonds with their owners and love to be around them.

Their confidence is impressive, considering their small size. Brussels Griffons are expressive, intelligent, and endearingly mischievous.

They need daily physical and mental exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior, such as climbing or escaping your yard. A moderate to high activity level is recommended.

Their grooming needs are moderate, with two coat varieties: smooth and rough. The smooth coat requires occasional brushing and grooming, while the rough coat needs combing a few times a week and a trim every few months.

Here's a summary of their characteristics:

Brussels Griffons are social companions that don't like to be left alone at home. If they are, they'll likely bark their complaints for all the neighbors to hear.

The Bichon Frise is a sweet and sensitive breed that makes a great family pet. They're known for being friendly and playful, with a tendency to curl up for snuggles.

Their temperament is generally responsive to training, and they're good with children and other pets. However, they do have some barking tendencies.

Bichon Frises are active dogs that need daily exercise in the form of indoor play or short walks on a leash. They're a small breed, but they still require regular physical activity to stay happy and healthy.

Here's a quick rundown of their physical characteristics:

Their coat is one of their most distinctive features - it doesn't shed much, but does need regular trims and brushing to keep from matting. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies.

Overall, Bichon Frises are intelligent, loving, and lovable companions that are sure to bring joy to any family.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a fantastic choice for families with kids. They have a gentle demeanor and a quiet nature, making them an excellent companion for families.

Their personality is quite endearing - they're playful, loyal, and affectionate. This breed makes an excellent upbeat companion.

One thing to note is that they do require regular exercise, but it doesn't have to be intense. A moderate level of activity is sufficient, and they'll be happy with a quick walk around the block or some playtime.

On average, they weigh between 13-18 pounds, making them a great option for those who live in smaller spaces.

Their grooming needs are moderate, requiring a brush every other day and occasional trimming.

The Havanese is a unique and lovable breed that's perfect for those who want a small, affectionate companion. They're originally from Cuba and were bred to be pampered lap dogs among the aristocracy.

One of the best things about Havanese is their friendly and outgoing personality. They're intelligent, love to be the center of attention, and are great with kids and other pets. They're also relatively easy to train, but may be vocal from time to time.

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Havanese are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to exercise. They can do well in apartments, but still need daily play or short walks to keep them happy and healthy. Their activity level is classified as LOW to MODERATE.

If you're considering bringing a Havanese into your family, be prepared for regular grooming. They have a hypoallergenic coat that doesn't shed much, but requires regular trimming and brushing two to three times a week.

Here are some key facts about the Havanese breed:

Havanese are typically born trainable and love to learn new tricks. They're also excellent watchdogs, but only bark when they sense something's up.

The Pekingese is a small dog breed that's steeped in history and regality. They were once considered sacred in eighth-century China, and it's easy to see why - they exude a dignified and laid-back nature.

These little dogs are known for being brave, but they're also not afraid to show off their independent streak. They're affectionate and devoted to their family, but they can be a bit stubborn at times.

One thing to keep in mind is that Pekingese don't do well in extreme temperatures, so they're best suited for apartment living or cooler climates. They do enjoy a leisurely walk, but it's essential to keep an eye on them in hot weather.

Here are some key stats to keep in mind:

Their grooming needs are moderate to high, requiring regular brushing and trimming to keep their coarse coat looking its best. Don't forget to clean their wrinkles regularly with a damp cloth to keep them looking their regal best.

The Shiba Inu is a spirited and bold breed that's perfect for families with kids. They're always ready for adventure, but they do need firm training and may be vocal.

Shibas have a big personality, and they're not afraid to show it. They're independent and sometimes territorial, but they're loyal to family and those who earn their respect.

They do well with kids, but they need regular exercise and playtime to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk and some playtime in the yard is a great way to keep them entertained.

Shibas have a double coat that sheds moderately, so they need brushing about twice a week to keep them looking their best. They're relatively low maintenance when it comes to grooming.

Here's a quick rundown of the Shiba Inu's stats:

The Japanese Chin is a small dog breed that's sure to turn heads with its long, luscious fur and heavenly feathering on its legs and ears.

This breed is known for its meticulous grooming habits, and they'll spend plenty of time making sure their coat is looking its best. They're also a bit aloof and persnickety, so be prepared for some attitude.

Japanese Chins are relatively small, with a height range of 8 to 11 inches and a weight range of 7 to 11 pounds. They're a great choice for city living or for families with smaller living spaces.

Their life expectancy is around 10 to 12 years, which means you'll have plenty of time to spoil them rotten.