If you're looking for a small female dog that's perfect for families, you'll want to consider breeds that are gentle, playful, and adaptable. These characteristics make them ideal for households with children.
The Bichon Frise is one such breed, weighing in at 7-12 pounds and standing about 9-12 inches tall. They require moderate exercise and grooming.
Small female dogs like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are known for their gentle nature and affectionate personalities. They weigh between 10-18 pounds and reach a height of 13-15 inches.
Their small size makes them a great fit for families with smaller living spaces or for those who want a low-maintenance pet.
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Popular Small Dog Breeds
If you're looking for a small dog breed that's full of energy, the Yorkshire Terrier is a great choice. They pack a big punch in a tiny package, weighing in at just seven pounds.
These little dogs are also known for their beautiful, silky fur, which has the added bonus of being hypoallergenic. I've seen many people with allergies who have successfully owned a Yorkie without any issues.
Yorkies are also highly intelligent and can be trained to be great companions. They're perfect for families with kids or for people who want a small dog that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
The Norwich Terrier is another small breed that's worth considering. They're small in size, but big on personality, and are known for being friendly and outgoing. They weigh up to 12 pounds, making them a great choice for people who want a small dog that's still sturdy.
Chihuahuas are also a popular small breed, and for good reason. They're tiny, weighing in at just up to six pounds, and make great purse dogs due to their small size.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are tiny dogs with a big personality, weighing in at just seven pounds and standing between seven and eight inches tall.
Their long, glossy coats make them a stunning sight, and they're also quite protective of their owners.
Yorkies are known for being very energetic, packing a punch in a small package.
Despite their small size, they're very protective and make great companions for families.
These little dogs are also hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
Their friendly and playful nature makes them a perfect first pet, especially for families with kids and other pets.
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Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a feisty little breed that's full of energy.
They need a lot of activity to keep them happy and healthy, which might be surprising considering their small size.
Be prepared for some of their more vocal qualities, as they can be quite loud when they want to be.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs, weighing no more than six pounds and standing between five and eight inches tall.
Their charming and sassy personalities make them great companions, and they're known to be super energetic.
As "purse dogs", Chihuahuas are perfect for carrying around, but they're surprisingly not the most kid-friendly dogs.
Their gorgeous, silky fur is hypoallergenic, which is a bonus for people with allergies.
These little dogs pack a big punch in a small package, and they're definitely a popular choice among dog owners.
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Other Small Dog Breeds
If you're looking for even smaller companions, there are plenty of other small dog breeds to consider.
The Bichon Frise, weighing in at around 7-12 pounds, is a playful and affectionate breed that's perfect for apartment living.
Similar to the Chihuahua, the Pomeranian is a tiny dog that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their thick coat.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a charming breed that will win your heart with their gentle and loyal nature. They're known to be proud with an aristocratic temperament, which can sometimes make them a bit stubborn.
Their small size makes them a great companion for apartment dwellers, but be prepared for regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their long coat. Shih Tzus are adaptable to city living, but they do need daily walks to stay happy and healthy.
Their loyal nature makes them great family pets, but early socialization is key to ensure they get along with children and other pets. With proper training and care, Shih Tzus can thrive in a variety of living situations.
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Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier is a great choice for families with kids - they get along with everyone from kids to other dogs.
They're also quite clever, which makes them a joy to train and interact with.
These little dogs are bred to hunt, so they're up for running around the yard and playing fetch all day.
They weigh up to 12 pounds, making them a great companion for apartment living.
They love lap time too, so don't be surprised if they snuggle up next to you on the couch.
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Russian Bolonka Tsvetnaya
The Russian Bolonka Tsvetnaya is a sweet, loving, and loyal companion dog.
They were bred to be the ultimate house pet, making them perfect for families.
This breed is also clever and sociable, learning quickly and getting along well with other animals and kids.
They're a great choice for those who want a pet that's easy to train and will be a loving friend to the whole family.
Bonus: This breed is hypoallergenic, making them a great option for people with allergies.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are super smart and playful, and they can master tricks easily. They come in almost two dozen colors, but are usually seen in orange or red.
Their fluffy double coat is one of their most distinctive features. Poms are active, and despite their small size, they make great friends.
These pooches are always on the lookout, and their protective nature makes them great watchdogs. They're only between six and seven inches tall and weigh between three and seven pounds.
Their small size doesn't mean they're lazy, though - Pomeranians need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
Maltese
The Maltese is a delightful small dog breed that's sure to capture your heart. Their gorgeous, snowy white coats and big, dark eyes will earn them countless compliments.
Measuring between seven to nine inches tall, they're the perfect size for snuggling. Weighing under seven pounds, they're also easy to handle and transport.
Toy Fox Terrier
Toy Fox Terriers are tiny dogs, measuring only between 8.5 and 11.5 inches in height.
They're big on personality, which makes them a joy to be around.
Toy Fox Terriers weigh between four and nine pounds, so they're perfect for city living or small homes.
These little dogs are easy to train, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners.
They're small but energetic, so be prepared for plenty of playtime and exercise.
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Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a great choice for families, with their playful and cute nature making them a joy to be around.
They have a glorious hypoallergenic white coat that's perfect for allergy sufferers.
Measuring under a foot in height, they're a compact breed that's easy to care for.
Their signature round haircut really makes them stand out from other small dog breeds.
Weighing between 12 to 18 pounds, they're a great size for apartment living or homes with small yards.
The Bichon Frise is a great pet for those who want a small but lively companion.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a small pup with a big personality, weighing between eight and 10 pounds. They're not ideal for young kids who tend to roughhouse.
These little dogs are perfect for families with older kids or for people who live in small spaces, as they don't require a lot of room to run around.
Havanese
The Havanese is a lively pooch native to Cuba, bursting with energy. They get high marks across the board for friendliness.
Their silky coats make stroking hard to resist, and they're super social, playing well with others, including other pups.
Whippet
Whippets are the fastest animal of their size, reaching speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.
A couple of all-out sprints will tire them out for an entire afternoon, making them a great breed for owners who enjoy short, energetic play sessions.
Lists and Rankings
If you're considering bringing a small female dog into your family, you'll want to know about the top 5 smallest dog breeds in the world. These tiny dogs are perfect for apartment living or for those who want a low-maintenance pet.
The smallest dog breed in the world is the Chihuahua, weighing in at just 2-8 pounds.
Small female dogs like the Chihuahua are also known for their long lifespan, with some living up to 15-20 years with proper care and attention.
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25 Most Popular Dog Breeds in America
The Labrador Retriever takes the top spot as the most popular dog breed in America, according to the American Kennel Club. They've been a favorite for decades, known for their friendly and outgoing personalities.
The German Shepherd ranks second, often serving as police and military dogs due to their intelligence and loyalty. Their high energy levels require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
The Golden Retriever comes in third, famous for their luscious golden coats and friendly demeanor. They're also highly intelligent and easy to train.
The French Bulldog has become increasingly popular in recent years, often described as adaptable and affectionate companions. Their unique appearance and playful nature make them a sought-after breed.
The Beagle rounds out the top five, known for their curious and energetic personalities. They're relatively small in size but require plenty of exercise and attention.
The Bulldog takes the seventh spot, often associated with their distinctive "sourmug" face and sturdy build. Despite their tough exterior, they're known for being gentle and affectionate.
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The Poodle comes in eighth, renowned for their intelligence and trainability. They're highly versatile, coming in a variety of sizes from toy to standard.
The Rottweiler ranks ninth, often misunderstood due to their intimidating appearance. However, they're loyal and loving companions when properly socialized.
The Shih Tzu takes the tenth spot, prized for their long, flowing coats and outgoing personalities. They're well-suited for apartment living due to their calm nature.
The Yorkshire Terrier ranks eleventh, often referred to as "Yorkies" due to their spunky and affectionate nature. They're highly intelligent but can be challenging to train.
The Boxer comes in twelfth, known for their playful and energetic personalities. They're highly social and require plenty of attention and exercise.
The Dachshund rounds out the top fifteen, famous for their short stature and long bodies. They're often described as brave and loyal companions.
The Great Dane takes the sixteenth spot, often referred to as gentle giants due to their massive size and friendly nature. Despite their size, they're known for being calm and gentle.
The Doberman Pinscher ranks seventeenth, often associated with their sleek and athletic builds. They're highly intelligent and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
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The Australian Shepherd comes in eighteenth, prized for their intelligence and agility. They're highly versatile and often work as herding dogs.
The Corgi takes the nineteenth spot, famous for their short stature and intelligent nature. They're often described as loyal and loving companions.
The Chihuahua ranks twentieth, often referred to as the smallest dog breed in the world. Despite their small size, they're known for being bold and confident.
The Pug comes in twenty-first, prized for their unique appearance and playful nature. They're often described as adaptable and affectionate companions.
The Cocker Spaniel ranks twenty-second, known for their beautiful coats and friendly demeanor. They're highly social and require plenty of attention and exercise.
The Shetland Sheepdog takes the twenty-third spot, often referred to as "Shelties" due to their intelligent and loyal nature. They're highly trainable and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.
The Collie comes in twenty-fourth, famous for their intelligent and loyal nature. They're often described as protective and loving companions.
The Border Collie ranks twenty-fifth, prized for their intelligence and agility. They're highly versatile and often work as herding dogs.
The American Kennel Club recognizes these breeds as the most popular in America, based on registration data.
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Cute Pokémon Names
Cute Pokémon Names are perfect for small dogs. They're inspired by the adorable creatures from the popular Pokémon series.
Pokémon is a great source of inspiration for cute names. You can find many adorable names in the Pokémon universe.
Here are some of the most popular cute Pokémon names: JigglypuffDratiniShayminLillipupEmolgaClefairySnorlaxTeddiursaSkittyVulpixSquirtleCharmanderTogepiMewEeveePikachuEmolgaKomalaMeloettaShinxSkittyPopplioTreekoCubchoo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best dog for a little girl?
For a little girl, a gentle and playful breed like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or a friendly and outgoing breed like the Beagle can make a great companion, teaching her valuable life skills and creating lifelong memories.
What is the best small dog to have in the house?
There is no single "best" small dog breed, but popular options include the French Bulldog, Jack Russell Terrier, and Miniature Schnauzer, each with unique characteristics and needs. Consider factors like energy level, grooming, and training when choosing the perfect small dog for your home.
What is the calmest small dog?
For calm companionship, consider the Maltese Bichon or Shih Tzu, both known for their gentle nature.
Sources
- Sophie Turner's adorable pup (instagram.com)
- loving and lovable (akc.org)
- 50 Best Small Dog Breeds to Take Home to Your Family (thepioneerwoman.com)
- Love Dachshunds? Learn more about them at AKC.org (akc.org)
- Is a Miniature Schnauzer right for you? Learn more at AKC.org (akc.org)
- Get more information about the happy Havanese at AKC.org (akc.org)
- Learn more about the colorful Chihuahua at AKC.org (akc.org)
- Read more about the magnificent Maltese at AKC.org (akc.org)
- 40 Small Dog Breeds That Stay Tiny Forever (countryliving.com)
- Adorable Small Dog Names Perfect For Your Pup (raisedrightpets.com)
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