The 20 Best Small Dog Breeds for Your Home

Maybe you’re living that apartment life, looking for a travel buddy, or just love a dog who can rock an adorably small sweater like no other. Whatever your reason, small dog breeds can bring so much joy into your life.

Even the smallest dogs can have giant personalities, which is just one of the reasons we love our pint-sized pooches, from the goofy Pug to the gentle Cavalier and the trendy Boston Terrier. 

To find a small dog that’s perfect for your home, explore our list of 20 of the best small dog breeds. We’ll also cover:

• The calmest small dog breeds
• The best small dog breeds for children
• Small dogs that don’t shed (much)
• Small dog breeds that stay small

Most small dog breeds fall into the Toy Group (per the American Kennel Club’s classifications), but some miniature pups, like the French Bulldog, fall into the Non-Sporting Group. Keep reading to learn tons more fun facts about these adorable pups.

The best small dog breeds

With so many charming small dog breeds, how do you even begin to choose your forever friend? 

To make your search a little easier, here are 20 of our favorite small dog breeds to consider inviting into your home.

Please note that in order to avoid controversy, we listed these dogs in alphabetical order, which is why your beloved Pug is number 18 on this list.

Now, let’s dig in…

1. Affenpinscher

Why we love them:

• Toy breed with big personalities 
• Independent streak 
• Bold and headstrong, may not back down from larger dogs

Personality: Affenpinschers are curious, loyal, and fun. 

Size: These are toy-sized dogs — they typically don’t get bigger than 10 pounds.

Fun fact: Due to their appearance, Affenpinschers are sometimes referred to lovingly as “monkey dogs.” They’re also likened to Ewoks from Star Wars.

Great for: Affenpinschers are great apartment dogs and a great hypoallergenic dog breed. Although they can get along with other dogs, they do not always do well with smaller animals like hamsters, ferrets, or other rodent-type pets.

2. Bichon Frise

Why we love them:

• Cheerful, joyful white ball of fur
• Surprising athleticism for their size

Personality: Bichons are happy, playful, and adaptable. These small dogs are known as popular companion dogs but also can be excellent watchdogs.

Size: Similar to the Affenpinscher, Bichons are also a toy breed. These dogs, however, usually weigh under 20 pounds.

Fun fact: The Bichon Frise has been a companion dog to French, Spanish, and Italian royalty throughout history.

Great for: Bichons are one of the most diverse small dog breeds. These are great city dogs, great apartment dogs, and a great hypoallergenic breed. In general, Bichons are excellent companions and can get along well with children and other dogs.

3. Boston Terrier

Why we love them:

• Iconic tuxedo markings
• Thrive on mental and physical stimulation
• Sensitive and affectionate
• Can go from zoomies to snuggles in an instant

Personality: Boston Terriers are friendly, lively, and sporty. Akin to the city they were named for, Boston Terriers have an equal balance of fun, curiosity, and alertness.

Size: Boston Terriers are one of the bigger small dog breeds, weighing up to 25 pounds. 

Fun fact: As a result of their “tuxedo” coat and polite personality, Boston Terriers have earned the nickname “the American Gentleman.”

Great for: Boston Terriers are excellent city dogs — and therefore, have no problem living in an apartment. They also make great family dogs but won’t necessarily be happy sitting around on the couch all day.

4. Brussels Griffon

Why we love them:

• Pint-sized pup with expressive face 
• Ideal lap dog
• Highly attuned to their environment and owner’s emotions

Personality: Perhaps not as well-known as some of the dogs on our list, but the Brussels Griffon is one of the smallest dogs with the biggest personalities. These dogs are energetic, human-like, and even a little sassy.

Size: Brussels Griffons are one of the Toy breeds; they typically weigh under 10 pounds.

Fun fact: There are two types of Brussels Griffon — those with smooth coats and those with rough coats. Rough-coated griffons do not shed, but generally, these dogs do have their hair clipped regularly by their owner or by a groomer.

Great for: If you’re looking for a constant companion, the Brussels Griffon is an excellent choice. This small dog breed can live practically anywhere, but their sensitivity isn’t always compatible with families with young children.

5. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Why we love them:

• Large, soulful eyes
• Air of sophistication
• Even-tempered and patient

Personality: As their eyes indicate, Cavaliers are sweet, affectionate, and loving. This small dog is a mix of a classic Toy breed and a traditional Spaniel — they’re active and fun but also can be perfectly content lap dogs.

Size: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels range a little in size, but generally fall into the 15 to 20 pounds range.

Fun fact: The Cavalier is named after King Charles I of Britain — this small dog breed was one of his favorites.

Great for: As long as you’re not looking for a hypoallergenic small dog, the Cavalier is one of the most versatile small breeds. These dogs are excellent companions, great for families, great in cities, in apartments, and in a wide variety of situations.

6. Chihuahua 

Why we love them:

• Pocket-sized powerhouse
• Feisty attitude and diva-like behavior

Personality: The smallest of the small dog breeds, Chihuahuas are not short of personality. These dogs are sassy, confident, and full of fun.

Size: As small as it gets! This toy dog breed usually falls around 6 pounds.

Fun fact: Chihuahuas are one of the oldest dog breeds in the Americas — their ancestors date back to the Toltecs in Mexico around 1,000 years ago.

Great for: These small dogs are well-regarded as top companion dogs, experienced apartment dwellers, and can excel in the city or countryside. They may need special care in colder weather climates but generally will be happy as long as they’re an integral part of your family life. 

7. Chinese Crested

Why we love them:

• Lively and alert, known for their playful antics
• Extremely unique looks instantly set them apart.

Personality: Chinese Crested dogs are affectionate, playful, and loving. They are happy family dogs with an unmistakable appearance.

Size: As far as small dogs go, the Chinese Crested falls in the middle range. These dogs can weigh anywhere from about 8 to 12 pounds.

Fun fact: The Chinese Crested can be hairless or can have some hair — the kind with hair are called “powderpuff.”

Great for: Chinese Crested dogs are one of the great small dog breeds for allergy sufferers — or if you’re just looking to minimize grooming. You will, however, have to pay special attention to skincare with this dog breed. In addition, they’re excellent companion dogs — whether for families, couples, or individuals.

8. Dachshund

Why we love them:

• Perhaps better known as “weiner dogs”
• Half-a-dog high, a whole dog long
• Playful and high energy, prepare for the zoomies
• Digging enthusiast

Personality: Perhaps better known as “weiner dogs,” Dachshunds are small dogs with big dog personalities. These dogs are smart, bold, and independent.

Size: Dachshunds can come in both a standard and a miniature variety — meaning they grow into a range of sizes, from around 10 pounds and under to 30 pounds.

Fun fact: The word Dachshund is German — meaning “badger dog” — and refers to their historical purpose of hunting badgers.

Great for: As lively hound dogs, Dachshunds make great watchdogs, as well as sporting and hunting dogs. They’re also excellent family dogs — well-suited to live in a variety of environments.

9. French Bulldog

Why we love them:

• The “couch potato” of the small dog world (a perfect companion for binge watching Netflix) 
• Affectionate and even-tempered, they can thrive even in small apartments
• This breed will need a lifejacket for lake vacations — French Bulldogs can’t swim

Personality: The playful and adaptable French Bulldog has exploded in popularity in recent years. These dogs are extremely popular in major cities including New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco due to their friendly personalities and the fact that they don’t require too much exercise.

Size: Of the best small dog breeds, the Frenchie is one of the biggest — or, at least, the thickest. These dogs can reach almost 30 pounds — meaning they’re certainly on the line between small dogs and medium dogs.

Fun fact: According to American Kennel Club statistics, the French Bulldog is now the most popular dog breed in the United States. When it was named the most popular breed in 2022, it ended the 31-year run of peak popularity enjoyed by the Labrador Retriever. While they may have usurped the top spot from the famous working dog, labs are still very good dogs.

Great for: As we mentioned, Frenchies are one of the best dogs for city dwellers as they don’t require a lot of exercise and are also great apartment dogs. These dogs are gentle and loving companions, happy with all family members, and can also make surprisingly good watchdogs.

10. Havanese 

Why we love them:

• They’re the national dog of Cuba and the only dog native to the country
• Cheerful and outgoing, love human interaction

Personality: Smart, easily trainable, and adaptable, the Havanese are well-known for their good nature and ability to get along well in social environments.

Size: Weighing about 7 to 13 pounds, Havanese are a nice compromise for those looking for dogs that are neither too small nor too big.

Fun fact: The Havanese is the national dog of Cuba and the only dog native to the country. These dogs were bred as lapdog companions for Cuban aristocrats.

Great for: With their size and social skills, Havanese are perfect city dogs, although they can adapt to any type of living environment. These dogs are generally good watchdogs and desire lots of attention.

11. Lhasa Apso

Why we love them:

• Their long, flowing hair = major fashion statement
• Excellent watchdogs with a sharp, loud alarm-like bark

Personality: Lhasa Apsos are smart, confident, and elegant. These dogs can be fun and easygoing with their families but more reserved with strangers.

Size: Lhasas are in the middle range of small dog breeds. They typically weigh anywhere from 12 to 18 pounds.

Fun fact: Lhasa Apsos historically served as sentinel dogs guarding palaces and monasteries in the Himalayan mountains.

Great for: Lhasas can make great watchdogs and apartment dogs, and although they can be stubborn at times, they’re generally willing to work with you. 

12. Maltese

Why we love them:

• Fearless despite their size, they’ll take on a Great Dane if they have to 
• Professional lap warmers, perfect for chilly nights

Personality: Like many of the other Toy dog breeds on our list, the Maltese is affectionate, happy, and charming — but also quite stubborn. 

Size: Maltese are definitely one of the smaller dog breeds, usually weighing under 10 pounds.

Fun fact: The Maltese has been a member of aristocratic families dating back 28 centuries — with ancient Greeks even erecting tombs to their Maltese dogs.

Great for: The Maltese are well-known lap dogs, making them great companions for all sorts of family members. Despite their toy size, they can also be excellent watchdogs and excel in a variety of environments.

13. Miniature Pinscher

Why we love them:

• Big dog attitude in a tiny, high-stepping package
• Energetic and assertive

Personality: The Miniature Pinscher is definitely a small dog breed with a big personality. Akin to Dachshunds, Min Pins are fearless, fun-loving, and very smart.

Size: Despite the physical resemblance to Doberman Pinschers, Miniature Pinschers are not a smaller version of the Dobie. Min Pins also weigh much less than the Dobie — they typically fall between 8 and 10 pounds, whereas Dobies can reach up to 100 pounds.

Fun fact: In line with their personalities, Min Pins are often known as the “King of the Toys.”

Great for: Min Pins make great watchdogs and are willing to adapt to different living and family scenarios. These dogs will definitely want some exercise, though. And with their independent streak, you’ll want to make sure you have time for training.

14. Papillon

Why we love them:

• It’s hard to miss a Papillon when you see one with those elegant butterfly ears
• Always ready for an adventure
• A true Toy Group dog breed

Personality: Papillons are friendly, athletic, and happy — one of the best small dog breeds for learning new tricks and skills.

Size: Although their ears might be deceiving, the Papillon is on the smaller side. These dogs usually weigh under 10 pounds.

Fun fact: Papillon is French for butterfly — and it’s where this small dog breed’s name comes from.

Great for: The Papillon is certainly a versatile dog. These dogs can excel in any location, are great with families, and will be happy as long as they’re with their humans as much as possible. Papillons love to please and will be the perfect dog for various activities — from dog shows to walks in the park and everything in between.

15. Pekingese

Why we love them:

• A lion in a dog’s body (protective and courageous) 
• Independent and opinionated

Personality: Similar to the Maltese and Lhasa Apso, Pekingese are affectionate, loyal, and confident dogs with a history of royal companionship. 

Size: As far as our small dog breeds go, Pekingese fall in the middle, weighing around 15 pounds. These dogs are also known for their thick double coat and long-haired “lion’s mane” (where their coat grows longest at the neck and shoulders) which can make them look bigger than other pups their size.

Fun fact: The dog of ancient Chinese royalty, one legend says Pekingese were created by The Buddha, who shrunk a lion down to dog size.

Great for: Pekingese are small but mighty, making them great watchdogs and excellent companions, bonding well with family members. Although they can make good family dogs, they may not be as easygoing as some of the other small dog breeds on our list. That said, the Pekingese don’t require too much exercise and will be happy wherever their family lives.

16. Pomeranian

Why we love them:

• Always the life of the party, even if it’s just you and them
• Extroverted and vocal, love to be the center of attention
• Will earn you approving smiles from strangers on the street

Personality: Active, fun, and alert, Pomeranians are among the most popular small dog breeds, as well as one of the most popular Toy dog breeds. These foxy faces are adored by dog owners around the U.S. (and the world), and despite their size, they give off a big dog presence.

Size: Weighing as little as 3 pounds in some cases, but up to 7 pounds more often, the Pomeranian is one of the smallest dog breeds.

Fun fact: The Pomeranian descends from sled dogs of Iceland and Lapland — very likely making it a distant cousin of breeds like the Icelandic Sheepdog and Finnish Lapphund.

Great for: There’s no doubt that Pomeranians are ideal pets for both individuals and families. Poms are great city dogs but can also do well in the countryside. Plus, with their alert attitude and trainability, they even make good watchdogs.

17. Poodle (Miniature or Toy)

Why we love them:

• Can rock any haircut, from classic to avant-garde
• Elegant and intelligent
• Creates strong bonds with their family

Personality: Active, smart, and proud — the Poodle consistently ranks as one of the most popular breeds in the United States (see also: the closely related Goldendoodle, which isn’t technically a breed of its own). These dogs are loved by many, and both the Miniature and the Toy varieties can fit the small dog breed definition.

Size: Miniature Poodles usually weigh 10 to 15 pounds and stand 15 inches or under. Toy Poodles, on the other hand, typically weigh 4 to 6 pounds and stand no more than 10 inches tall.

Fun fact: Although there is no dog breed called the “French Poodle,” the Poodle is the national dog of France. In France, Poodles are simply known as the Caniche, or “duck dog.”

Great for: Poodles are great family dogs. They can live in the city, suburbs, or countryside, and are generally excellent companions. These are very smart dogs who love activities — so despite their size, they aren’t one of the best lap dogs. Plus, Poodles are relatively non-shedding, which makes them a worthwhile option for someone seeking a hypoallergenic dog.

18. Pug

Why we love them:

• Just look at that smooshy face!
• Social butterfly that enjoys being around people and other dogs
• Professional snugglers

Personality: With an expressive face and recognizable coloring, the appearance of the Pug matches their personalities. These dogs are fun-loving, curious, and even a little mischievous. They certainly don’t lack personality.

Size: One of the bigger toy breeds, the Pug weighs anywhere from 14 to 18 pounds and has a much more muscular build in comparison to some of the other small dog breeds on our list.

Fun fact: A group of Pugs is not referred to as a pack, but a grumble — a grumble of Pugs!

Great for: Another small dog with a big dog personality, Pugs are excellent house companions. These dogs can excel in an apartment or a house, city or country, with children or a young couple; they’re truly an adaptable breed.

19. Shih Tzu

Why we love them:

• Bred to be a companion, will stick next to you 24/7
• Happy to go with the flow, as long as they’re with you

Personality: Another dog with a history of royal companionship, the Shih Tzu is loving, affectionate, and playful; they’re known for their dark eyes and sweet expression.

Size: Shih Tzus can range anywhere from 9 to 16 pounds. 

Fun fact: The name Shih Tzu means “lion dog” or “little lion.”

Great for: An excellent lap dog for any family, individual, or couple, the Shih Tzu is an ideal house companion and known to be great with children. That said, Shih Tzus are also perfectly happy to live in an apartment — as they’re much more inclined toward indoor playtime and occasional walks as opposed to more strenuous physical activity. 

20. Yorkshire Terrier

Why we love them:

• The original “teacup” dog, before it was a trend
• Tiny but tenacious (a bit of a Napoleon complex)

Personality: This breed may be small in size, but they have a big attitude. The Yorkie has a lot of personality, and they’re known for all the characteristics that make up a classic terrier — brave, feisty, vocal, determined, and yet still affectionate. 

Size: Yorkies are still a toy breed; these dogs weigh around 7 pounds.

Fun fact: One of the most famous Yorkshire Terriers is Smoky, a dog who served with U.S. soldiers in World War II.

Great for: With a terrier personality and compact size, the Yorkie is an ideal city dog and is often one of the most popular dogs in the biggest cities across the U.S. In addition, Yorkies are great watchdogs, excellent house companions, and (with a coat similar to human hair) generally friendly for allergy sufferers. However, they’re not a great choice if you’re looking for a quiet small dog breed.

What are the calmest small dog breeds?

Looking for a dog who’s happy to snuggle on the couch? Or are you afraid of getting a dog that yaps every time they hear a noise outside?

Calm small dog breeds are ideal for first-time dog owners. They bark less, have lower energy levels, and are happy to just hang out and enjoy your company.

These calm dog breeds will match your zen: 

• Pugs
• Havanese
• Bichon Frise
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• French bulldogs
• Boston Terriers
• Shih Tzu
• Lhasa Apso
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Pomeranian

What are the best small dog breeds for kids?

Not all small dog breeds are great companions for kids. Look for dogs that have a gentle temperament and high trainability. Not only are they less likely to accidentally knock over a toddler, but their smaller size can make them less intimidating to young kids.

Some of the best dog breeds for kids include:

• Pugs
• French bulldogs
• Boston Terriers
• Bichon Frise
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Shih Tzu
• Maltese
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Pomeranian

But don’t forget — it works both ways. Teaching your children how to handle dogs respectfully and with care is vital.

Small dog breeds that don’t shed

If you’re a dog lover but sensitive to fur or have allergies, you’re in luck. Plenty of small dog breeds can offer cuddles with less sneezing and sniffling.

While no dog is completely hypoallergenic, some produce less dander, the main culprit behind allergies. These breeds tend to shed less and require less grooming (and less vacuuming):

• Affenpinscher
• Bichon Frise
• Brussels Griffon
• Maltese
• Poodle
• Shih Tzu
• Chinese Crested Dog
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Havanese
• Coton de Tulear

Every few years, teacup pigs go viral, and a new round of folks learn that these adorable piglets won’t stay small for long. So, if you’re looking for a dog that will never outgrow your lap, these toy breeds are specifically bred to weigh less than 15 pounds: 

• Chihuahua
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Pomeranian
• Toy Poodle
• Maltese

Big things come in small packages

All of these dogs prove that small bodies can hide big hearts.

Whether you find the perfect couch companion or expand your search to large dog breeds, being a responsible pet owner means being prepared for the unexpected. Learn more about pet insurance so you can provide the best care for your new family member. 

Small dog breeds: FAQs

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