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Small dog breeds have been bred for their compact, manageable size. In some cases, their petite size benefited their working or hunting ability, while in other cases, they were simply desirable as lap dogs and all-around endearing little companions. Small dogs are generally easy to transport, and they typically have lower food and medication costs than large breeds. Plus, many small dog breeds do well in homes with limited space.
Here are 32 of the best small dog breeds and their larger-than-life personalities.
Breed Characteristics
In general, dogs that weigh around 20 pounds or less are considered small. Some small breeds are very compact and low to the ground, while others can be relatively tall and lanky. Not all small dog breeds love being lap dogs, and many have more energy than some of their larger canine counterparts. So, if you're looking for a breed that can adapt to life in a small home, make sure to select one that’s known for its calm demeanor.
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Yorkshire Terrier
Natasha Japp Photography / Getty Images
Many Yorkshire terriers love to sit on their owners' laps and are fine with being carried. But they're not a wimpy dog. Yorkies make up for their small stature with huge personalities. They can be excellent watchdogs, vocally announcing any movement around the house. Still, they are first and foremost affectionate companions and don't need much space to get adequate exercise.
Breed Overview
Height: 7 to 8 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Compact body; silky coat; colors include black and tan, blue and tan, and more
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Dachshund
![Dachshund on furniture]()
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
The dachshund has many nicknames: doxie, wiener dog, sausage dog, hot dog, and more. Of course, these names mostly relate to the breed's distinct appearance. Dachshunds come in standard or miniature size, the latter being ideal for the small-dog enthusiast. They're sweet and affectionate with their families but can be wary of strangers.
Breed Overview
Height: 5 to 9 inches
Weight: Up to 32 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Low, long body; short legs; colors include chocolate, black, red, and more
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Miniature Poodle
![Poodle walking on grass]()
Consuelo Almazan Carretero / Getty Images
Poodles come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Standards are fairly large, while miniatures and toys fall into the small-dog category. The smaller poodles are known for their longevity, along with their intelligence and trademark curly coats. They can be loving companions but need activity to keep them entertained. Fortunately, the smaller poodles don't need that much space to get their energy out.
Breed Overview
Height: Miniature: 10 to 15 inches; toy: up to 10 inches
Weight: Miniature: 10 to 15 pounds, toy: 4 to 6 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Curly, dense coat; colors include white, apricot, black, brown, and more
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Shih Tzu
![Shih Tzu on furniture]()
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
The Shih Tzu is basically the poster child for lap dogs, which is no surprise as the breed originated strictly as a companion. These dogs sport long, silky hair, though many owners trim the coat short for easier maintenance. They tend to be fairly hardy with an alert, confident disposition.
Breed Overview
Height: 9 to 11 inches
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Long double coat; colors include black, blue, silver, white, and more
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Miniature Schnauzer
![Miniature schnauzer looking alert]()
Adi Wong/EyeEm / Getty Images
The miniature schnauzer is a spunky little dog with a friendly but tough personality. Easily recognized by its signature bearded haircut, this terrier has a strong sense of loyalty and protectiveness toward its family. It's also known to be a vocal breed and needs a solid foundation of training. Still, with daily walks and playtime, it's suitable for a small home.
Breed Overview
Height: 12 to 14 inches
Weight: 11 to 20 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Bushy beard and eyebrows; colors include black, silver, and more
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Chihuahua
![Chihuahua under blankets]()
SuperflyImages / Getty Images
Chihuahuas are some of the world's tiniest dogs and are often seen being toted around in carriers, but they have huge personalities. While lovable and loyal, chihuahuas are also active and sassy, with major "tough dog" attitudes. Many bond closely with their favorite humans but are wary of anyone else. The good news is that their tiny size means they don't need much space to play and get their energy out.
Breed Overview
Height: 5 to 8 inches
Weight: Up to 6 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Alert expression; smooth or long coat; colors include black, tan, and more
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Pug
![Pug lying in grass]()
Alf Jönsson / Getty Images
These round little dogs are jovial souls. Pugs were once the pets of royalty and companions of Tibetan monks. Affectionate and even-tempered, they can fit into many different living situations, including small homes. But they do have a tendency to develop breathing problems and eye issues, so regular health checkups are a must.
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Square body; short legs and face; colors include black and fawn
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Pomeranian
![Pomeranian on couch]()
Andrew Fladeboe / Getty Images
Pomeranians look like a cross between a stuffed animal and a tiny lion, thanks to their long, fluffy coat. They tend to be alert and sometimes bossy dogs with an intense loyalty to their loved ones. They need consistent training and boundaries to keep their strong-willed spirit in check. Due to their small size, a couple daily walks and playtime should be enough to meet their exercise needs.
Breed Overview
Height: 6 to 7 inches
Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Compact body; fluffy coat; colors include black, orange, and more
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Boston Terrier
![Boston terrier on chair]()
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
The Boston terrier is a cheerful, loyal, and even-tempered dog. The breed originated from crossing an English bulldog with a white English terrier and was named after the city in which it was created. Bostons tend to be playful, though they also love to spend time in their owners' laps. They generally are very adaptable to apartment living.
Breed Overview
Height: 15 to 17 inches
Weight: 12 to 25 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Short face; smooth coat; colors include black and white, seal and white, and more
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Maltese
![White Maltese dog]()
Andrey Medvedev / iStock
The Maltese tends to have a gentle yet brave disposition. This dog is generally playful and friendly, and it bonds closely with its family. The breed can be traced back to ancient times, where it was the beloved companion of royalty and nobility. Today's Maltese still loves to be pampered and doesn't need much room to roam.
Breed Overview
Height: 7 to 9 inches
Weight: Up to 7 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Dark, alert eyes; silky, white coat
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Toy Poodle
![Toy poodle in a park]()
Naho Yoshizawa/Aflo / Getty Images Much like her larger counterparts, the toy poodle is known for being incredibly intelligent and athletic, regularly performing well in dog shows. She also boasts a charismatic personality, making her the center of attention in any situation. Toy poodles do well around children and other pets and boast a curly coat in a variety of colors.
Breed Overview
Height: 8 to 10 inches
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Curly and dense coat; colors include apricot, black, blue, brown, cafe au lait and more
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Bichon Frise
![Bichon Frise standing on grass]()
f8grapher / Getty Images
Hailing from Spain, bichons are beloved lap dogs, especially because they resemble a living stuffed animal and have very affectionate, playful personalities. In order to keep his fluffy coat looking its best, routine grooming is necessary. Schedule your bichon to be groomed every four to six weeks.
Breed Overview
Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Dark eyes; long, curly coat; colors include white, white and apricot, white and buff and more
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Chinese Crested
![Female pure breed Chinese Crested dog]()
tsik / Getty Images This eye-catching breed also has a winning personality. Chinese crested dogs are bright, affectionate companions who excel at training and love to play. Half of all Chinese crested dogs have mostly hairless bodies with large poufs of hair on their heads, paws and tails while the powderpuff variety has fur throughout.
Breed Overview
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Soft, silky hair only present on the head, feet, and tail (or "powderpuff" fully-coated variety); colors include white, gray, or black hair and gray, pink, or brown skin with white patches
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Italian Greyhound
![Italian Greyhound standing in grass in garden]()
christina / Wikimedia Commons / Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license
Italian greyhounds were originally bred to be companion dogs and easily adjust to apartment life so long as there's a person nearby. This shorthaired breed is sensitive to the cold due to his low body fat, so investing in a dog sweater or two is a good idea as colder months approach.
Breed Overview
Height: 13 to 15 inches
Weight: 7 to 14 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Long snout and skinny tail; short, smooth coat; colors include gray, black, fawn, chocolate, tan, and more
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Papillon
![close up of papillon dog face with ears perked, tongue out, and smiling]()
RichLegg / Getty Images
Papillon means "butterfly" in French, which refers to this small dog breed's butterfly-like ears, which can also appear in a drop-eared variety. Papillon dogs are one of the smartest dog breeds that enjoy lounging on their owner's lap as well as plenty of exercise (two or three walks daily). A great way to exercise this breed is to get them involved in dog sports, which takes care of their need for both mental and physical exercise.
Breed Overview
Height: 8 to 11 inches
Weight: 6 to 10 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Erect ears or drop-eared; straight, long coat with colorful markings and mask; colors include red, sable, black, or lemon
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Cockapoo
![black and white cockapoo puppy]()
Jackie Bale / Getty Images
This hybrid breed of the cocker spaniel and the poodle is well-loved due to their combination of their parents' best traits, including the poodle's intelligence and hypoallergenic coat and the spaniel's loving personality. They can excel in a variety of home situations, including small apartments and homes so long as their owner gives them plenty of attention.
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 15 inches
Weight: 10 to 25 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Curly, mid-length coat; colors include in black, white, buff, cream, apricot, red, and chocolate
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Jack Russell Terrier
![Jack Russell Terrier running on grass]()
Brighton Dog Photography / Getty Images
Originating in England in the 1800s, this feisty dog was bred to catch foxes. Now, he makes for a great companion for energetic, experienced dog owners. Although they are small in stature, Jack Russell terriers are very active, agile dogs. Due to his high prey drive, this dog thrives best in households where he is the only small pet.
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 15 inches
Weight: 13 to 17 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Smooth or rough short coat; colors include white coat with black, tan, or brown markings
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Cavapoo
![Cavapoo standing in grass with a toy.]()
Cavapoos are a cross between a Miniature Poodle and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Getty Images/chrisuk1
The cavapoo is another beloved poodle mix, parented by the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the toy poodle. They are slightly smaller than cockapoos but are just as lovable. Cavapoos have moderate exercise requirements and love their daily walks around the neighborhood. Like many other poodle mixes, cavapoos are a low-shedding breed, making them a great choice for owners with dog allergies.
Breed Overview
Height: 9 to 14 inches
Weight: 9 to 20 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Wavy or curly medium-length coat; colors include cream, fawn, chocolate, gold, or chestnut
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Rat Terrier
![Rat Terrier]()
Getty Images
Also known as a "rattie," rat terriers are born hunters with lots of love and affection for their family members. This dog breed thrives in an environment where she has access to a large space for running around. If you live in an apartment and don't have access to a fenced-in area, long walks coupled with training games will do wonders for this small dog breed.
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 13 inches (miniature); 13 to 18 inches (standard)
Weight: 10 to 25 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Smooth, shiny short coat; colors include white, black, brown, tan or gray
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
![Cavalier King Charles Spaniel dog outdoors in nature]()
Bigandt_Photography / Getty Images As the name suggests, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has a long history of being adored by royalty for generations due to her affectionate, family-friendly personality. She thrives in environments where's she's able to socialize, whether with humans or other dogs. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel distinguishes herself from her other spaniel family members by sporting wispy, feathered features, giving her a gentle appearance that matches her gentle demeanor.
Breed Overview
Height: 12 to 13 inches
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Long, sleek and silky coat with feathering around ears, feet, chest, and tail; colors include, Blenheim (red and white), ruby, and black and tan
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Havanese
![Havanese dog breed information]()
@Hans Surfer/Moment/Getty Images The Havanese has an easy-going temperament and love companionship, two characteristics that likely led to this breed being named the national dog of Cuba. To keep your Havanese looking and feeling the best, make sure to brush his coat once or twice per week. His silky coat not only looks great but also protects this breed from the hot sun and keeps him warm during the winter.
Breed Overview
Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Double coat that is long, silky, and either straight or wavy; colors include include black, silver, white, cream, tan, and more
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Miniature Pinscher
![Miniature pinscher running]()
Miniature pinschers look like tiny versions of Doberman pinschers. Mikkel Bigandt/Shutterstock The miniature pinscher is a toy dog breed that, despite his name, is not related to the Doberman pinscher at all. The min pin is his own dog, and a bold, energetic dog he is. His appearance could get him confused with a chihuahua, but there's one sure way to tell the min pin apart: his walk. Miniature pinschers have what is called a "hackney gait," which resembles a horse's prance but only affects the front feet.
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 12.5 inches
Weight: 8 to 10 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Short, shiny fur coat; colors include red, stag red (red with some black hairs), black with rust markings, chocolate with rust markings
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Pekingese
![A Pekingese dog looking into the camera.]()
Alan Shapiro/Moment/Getty Images
This wrinkly small dog is known as the Pekingese, originally bred to accompany Chinese royalty. Legend has it that the breed was actually created by the Buddha by shrinking a lion down to the Pekingese's compact size The Pekingese is as indepedent yet charming lapdog companion who is better suited for experienced dog owners due to the amount of coat maintenance and resistance to training.
Breed Overview
Height: 6 to 9 inches
Weight: Up to 14 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Flat face; long, thick double coat; colors include gold, red or sable, black and tan, white, and more
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Schipperke
![Happy Schipperke Dog Looking Up with Mouth Open]()
Purple Collar Pet Photography / Getty Images
This small dog breed was originally developed in Belgium to be a barge watchdog. Today, schipperkes are adorable, mischievious dogs that love to have fun with their humans, especially around water—a tribute to their roots. This dog breed has a distinct, fox-like appearance and most often have a solid black coat. Schipperkes are naturally curious dogs and known escape artists, so make sure to keep your feisty pup on a leash!
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 10 to 16 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Pointed face; straight coat; colors include black, cream, ivory, wheaten, gold, red, white, blue, and chocolate
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Pembroke Welsh Corgi
![Pembroke Welsh Corgi Running Over Field]()
Tara Gregg / EyeEm / Getty Images The Pembroke Welsh corgi is the shortest member of the herding dog breed group due to being achondroplastic, a dwarf breed with shortened legs. Pembrokes are actually one of two types of corgis and are the smaller of the pair. This corgi also has a rich origin story, with experts believing the breed dates back to 1107 A.D. Pembrokes are excellent at dog sports and herding and require at least an hour of exercise every day to keep their energy levels at bay. If you can provide the correct amount of exercise outside the home, Pembrokes can make great apartment dogs.
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 12 inches
Weight: 24 to 30 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Low-set body; large, erect ears; medium-length double coat; colors include black and tan, red, sable or fawn, all usually with white markings
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Pumi
![Pumi dog on bench]()
Rita Fodorne Mate / iStock / Getty Images
The curly-haired Pumi is well-known for his exceptional intelligence, unique personality and his athleticism. His history is thought to have originated in the country of Hungary and to this day, the breed is most commonly found in Hungary, Finland and Sweden. Be aware that these dogs love to voice their opinions, so if you share walls with a neighbor, the vocal Pumi may not be for you.
Breed Overview
Height: 15 to 18.5 inches
Weight: 22 to 29 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Curly or wavy medium-length double coat; colors include black, fawn, gray, silver-gray, white, brown (some born gray or brown, which fades over time)
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Affenpinscher
![profile of dark brown affenpinscher]()
With a name that originate from the German word for "ape" or "monkey," the affenpinscher is a goofy-looking small dog that have a playful, amusing personality to match. As a flat-nosed dog breed, affenpinschers can overheat quickly, so the best way to exercise your dog is to go on multiple brisk walks per day instead of one long stroll. When it comes to grooming, give your affenpinscher a brush and comb at least twice a week and make sure his hair gets trimmed enough to not block his sightline.
Breed Overview
Height: 9 to 11.5 inches
Weight: 7 to 10 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Wiry short-to-medium length coat; colors include black, black and silver, black and tan, belge (black and reddish-brown), and red with a black mask
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Brussels Griffon
![Brussels Griffon Dog Breed Photo - Picture of Brussels Griffon Dog Breed]()
8-month-old Brussels Griffon Photo © Aaron & Katie Brussels griffons (griffs) are small dogs that possess charming looks, complete with distinctive facial hair, and a playful and joyful demeanor. They are also known for forming strong bonds with their owners, craving companionship and affection. With their lively nature and charming looks, griffs make delightful companions for those seeking a devoted and entertaining canine friend.
Breed Overview
Height: 7 to 10 inches
Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Rough-coated OR smooth-coated; colors include red, black and tan, solid black, or belge (mix of black and reddish-brown)
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Biewer Terrier
![biewer terrier with tongue out in the grass]()
Pavel1964 / Getty Images
Thanks to her compact size and larger-than-life personality, the German-born Biewer terrier is an ideal companion for families and individuals alike. With proper socialization and training, the Biewer Terrier thrives in various living environments, from apartments to suburban homes. They also are infrequent barkers and rarely shed, making them an all-around low-maintenance—and not to mention adorable—small dog breed.
Breed Overview
Height: 7 to 11 inches
Weight: 4 to 8 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Perky ears and fluffy tail; long and silky single coat; colors include blue and black, gold and tan, or white
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French Bulldog
![French Bulldog on couch]()
Jessica Peterson/Getty Images
French bulldogs, affectionately known as "Frenchies," are a popular small dog breed renowned for their distinctive bat-like ears, trademark face wrinkles, and sturdy yet compact build. Despite their muscular appearance, French bulldogs are gentle and affectionate. And while they can be a bit stubborn, their level of intelligence and eagerness to please make them perfectly trainable.
Breed Overview
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 19 to 28 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Short and smooth coat; colors include brindle, fawn white, or combination of brindle and white or fawn and white coloring
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Japanese Chin
![japanese chin]()
Liliboas / Getty Images
Originating from ancient China and later refined in Japan, this small dog breed is distinguished from other toy breeds by her large, dark eyes set in a small, rounded head and luxurious silky hair. With a lively and affectionate temperament, the Japanese Chin is known for her devotion to her human companions. And despite her more royal demeanor, this breed maintains a playful and mischievous streak, delighting in interactive games and entertaining owners along the way.
Breed Overview
Height: 8 to 11 inches
Weight: 4 to 9 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Long, sleek smooth coat; colors include black and white, lemon and white, sable and white, red and white, or black, white, and tan
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Beagle
![Beagle]()
Many Beagles get along well with cats. As a family favorite, the beagle is one of the most recognizable dog breeds. They are known for their floppy ears, compact body and upright tail. Beagles are energetic and great family dogs that get along with a variety of other pets—even cats. Originally rabbit-hunting hounds in England, beagles today still enjoy regular exercise. When it comes to grooming, beagles are very low-maintenance thanks to their short coats that are water-resistant. Just make sure to wipe the insides of their floppy ears to prevent ear infections from popping up.
Breed Overview
Height: Under 15 inches
Weight: 20 to 25 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Short, tricolor coat; droopy ears; long, white-tipped tail; colors include tan, black, white, reddish brown, and pale lemon
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Breeds to Avoid
It might seem obvious for small-dog lovers to avoid large breeds, such as German shepherds and Siberian huskies. But it's just as important to rule out any undesirable characteristics, including high energy levels or high grooming frequency, before deciding on a breed. However, you can make for a great owner of any of these small dog breeds if you're willing to commit to their individual needs.
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What is the calmest small dog?
Several small dogs are quite calm, but the Chinese Crested and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are two of the calmest small dog breeds.
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What's the most low-maintenance small dog?
Italian greyhounds and beagles are two small dog breeds that are low maintenance, thanks to their short coats that require minimal grooming and family-friendly demeanors.
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What is the friendliest tiny dog?
Toy dog breeds are especially known for their friendliness, due to being bred primarily for companionship. Some of these breeds include pugs, shih tzus and the Maltese.
