The List: Best Small Dog Breeds, According to Pooch Experts
1. Toy/Miniature Poodle
While a standard poodle can reach 70 pounds, toy and miniature varieties remain much smaller throughout their lives. But just like their larger relatives, these dogs are smart and relational and make great pets. “Toy and Miniature Poodles are clever, sophisticated dogs that can pull off the most elaborate, iconic haircuts,” says Nylabone. “Both are highly intelligent, trainable dogs that excel in athletics. While the Poodle is often associated with dog shows, these curly-coated, muscular dogs are also great companions to welcome into your home.”
“The poodle comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy,” lists Southern Living. “The standard is too large to be considered if you want a small dog, but the miniature or toy versions can be just the right size. Poodles are among the smartest of dog breeds and can make an excellent addition to the family. They are easy to train, hardworking, and a tough competitor in sports.”
If you struggle with allergies, poodles are likely to be much friendlier to your system than most dog breeds. With a low-shedding coat that mimics human hair, toy and mini poodles make for a perfectly sized hypoallergenic pet. “Mini poodles stand at 15 inches or less and tend to weigh a maximum of 15 pounds,” explains Woman’s Day. “Their curly, low-allergen coat makes them ideal hypoallergenic dogs.”
2. Dachshund
Everyone knows the dachshund for their distinct long bodies. But what you may not know is that this breed is an affectionate, fun, and loyal pet in a small, short-legged package. “The miniature version of this breed weighs under 11 pounds. They are curious, and extremely friendly,” says Woman’s Day. “They don’t love long distance runs or swims, but other than that, they’re ready to play all day long.”
“Dachshunds have unmatched self-confidence and courage, a reminder that they were bred to fight the fearsome badger,” explains Nylabone. “They have a passion for their pet parents, are loyal protectors of their family, and can be stubborn at times. This breed is partly hound and partly terrier, making them an independent and feisty dog. They are extremely good looking and amusing dogs.”
While much smaller than your typical guard dog, dachshunds are determined to keep their family safe. “These smart watchdogs, commonly known as wiener dogs because of their elongated bodies, were bred more than 600 years ago in Germany as badger hunters,” adds The Pioneer Woman. “They’re loved for their big personalities and distinctive look!”
3. Pug
Pugs are beloved by all for their distinct facial features. With a fantastic personality to match, they make for a widely adored breed. “The Pug is one of the most recognized dogs in the world, with its wrinkled brows, glimmering eyes, and curly tail,” notes Nylabone. “The Pug is affectionate, playful, and even-tempered. This lovable breed is courteous to other people and animals and gets along with both kids and adults—making them a universal favorite.”
“There are a few theories based on the origin of the name ‘Pug,’ like that it could be based on the Latin word ‘pugnus,’ meaning ‘fist.’ This is due to the idea that the breed’s face looks a little like a tightened fist,” says Woman’s Day. “But no matter their name or scrunched up expressions, these cute 14-18 pound canines just want to please people all day, every day.”
If you have kids or other animals in the house, your pug will likely make fast friends with them all. “The fun-loving Pug is generally a real charmer who tends to get along well with everyone she meets — including children and other animals,” adds Southern Living. “She is not a jogging partner, but she does typically enjoy going out wherever you might go.”
4. Pomeranian
This pocket-sized pup looks like a cloud on legs walking down the sidewalk. Weighing in at less than 10 pounds, they are a beautiful breed that’s well-suited for an owner who wants an affectionate dog requiring little exercise. “Fabulously fluffy, a Pomeranian’s personality is just as adorable as you’d expect. These fun little pups don’t require much exercise and are perfectly content playing indoors,” explains Apartment Therapy. “They’re sweet, loyal and love it when you lavish them with attention.”
“Pomeranians look like a cross between a stuffed animal and a tiny lion, thanks to their long, fluffy coat,” says The Spruce Pets. “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.”
If you tend to travel frequently, a Pomeranian is a great choice to bring along for the journey. “The Pomeranian is a confident and lively dog that you can take anywhere, in your handbag. This pup tops out just seven pounds, so he’s a cinch to bring anywhere you want to go,” claims HGTV. “He’s fluffy and adorable, too, so it’s no wonder the Pomeranian has become so popular in recent years.”
5. Maltese
If you want a dog that will remain affectionate and relational throughout its life, look no further. A Maltese is a dog that bonds tightly with its owner and loves attention. “The Maltese, bred as a companion dog, often retains a puppy-like attitude all throughout his life,” says Southern Living. “He is definitely a looker, with those big button eyes and silky coat.”
“Although it’s tough to distinguish between all the small white dog breeds out there, this one counts as one of the oldest,” adds Good Housekeeping. “Maltese have entertained their owners for thousands of years. They’re so lovable that the ancient Greeks even built tombs in their honor.”
The Maltese has a great personality, but they are also beloved for their striking (and low shedding!) fur. “The Maltese breed can weigh up to seven pounds, but a lot of that weight might actually come from their long, silky coat, which usually tends to touch the floor,” notes Woman’s Day. “Despite their flowing hairstyle, they don’t typically shed.”
You might also be interested in:
- Best Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
- Best Dog Breeds for Families
- Best Dog Collars
- Best Dog Shampoo
- Best Dog Training Apps
- Best Dog Food
Sources:
- The Pioneer Woman
- Nylabone
- AZ Animals
- Southern Living
- Good Housekeeping
- Newsweek
- Woman’s Day
- Apartment Therapy
- The Spruce Pets
- HGTV
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