Looking for the perfect small dog to fit your life? These small dog breeds are charming, full of personality, and great for different living spaces. Here are the 21 top small dog breeds that make the best companions, whether you live in an apartment or a house.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are tiny dogs with huge personalities and lots of love for their owners. For example, Pet Plan writes, “They bond strongly with their owners, [and] are quick-witted and easily trained.” They’re super alert and energetic, making them great watchdogs. Whether in an apartment or a big house, they’ll fit right in.
French Bulldog
We all know that French Bulldogs are adored for their loving nature and cute, bat-like ears. They’re ideal for apartments since they don’t bark much and don’t need lots of exercise. Perfect for families or singles, these dogs offer lots of love and companionship without needing a lot of grooming or activity.
Pomeranian
How can a person not love Pomeranians with their fluffy coat and fun, outgoing personality? They might be small, but they’re super energetic and perfect for active people. Even though they’re tiny, they act like they’re big dogs, which makes them even more charming and lovable.
Dachshund
Also known as the weiner dog, Dachshunds, with their long bodies and short legs, are playful and courageous. They come in various coat types, including smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. These dogs are loyal and make great companions, fitting well into families or as single-person pets.
Shih Tzu
As you may be aware, Shih Tzus are known for their luxurious coats and friendly personalities. They make excellent lap dogs and enjoy being pampered, including lots of treats. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their beautiful fur, but their affectionate and gentle nature makes them a favorite among small dog enthusiasts.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers, shortened to Yorkies, are small dogs with big personalities, making them the perfect companion. They’re full of energy and love to play, so you’ll need to make sure you’re an active person. Even though they’re tiny, you’ll find that all Yorkies are fearless.
Pug
Pugs are best known for their wrinkly faces, but they also have exceptionally cute personalities. They’re friendly, loving, and great with kids. They don’t need a ton of exercise and are perfect for apartment living. Their playful and affectionate ways make them a great choice of pet for both families and singles.
Boston Terrier
You may have noticed that Boston Terriers have also been nicknamed the “American gentleman,” thanks to their tuxedo-like coat. This breed of dog is super friendly, smart, easy to train, and great with kids. These adaptable dogs are perfect for both apartments and houses and form strong bonds with their families.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The major benefits of owning a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are that they’re loving and friendly dogs who enjoy being around people. They get along well with kids and other pets, making them perfect family dogs. Their sweet demeanor and ability to adapt to different living spaces, including apartments, make them very popular.
Maltese
It’s hard not to love Maltese dogs, thanks to their silky white fur and sweet personalities. They love being close to their owners and make great lap dogs. This breed is both gentle and playful, making them a great choice for families. Just remember, they need regular grooming to keep their beautiful coats looking good.
Miniature Schnauzer
This spirited and friendly dog is well known for its distinctive beard and eyebrows, making it look cute and adorable. They are intelligent and easy to train, making them great for families and individuals. These dogs are also hypoallergenic, which is ideal for those with allergies, and they thrive in various living environments.
Bichon Frisé
There’s no denying that Bichon Frisés are cheerful, small dogs, making them a great breed of dog to choose. They’re loved for their curly coats and joyful disposition, as well as being hypoallergenic. The Bichon Frisé is great for families with children or individuals seeking a playful companion.
Papillon
Owners love Papillons because they’re elegant dogs with butterfly-like ears and a lively personality. They are highly intelligent and excel in agility and obedience training. These dogs are friendly and great with families or single owners, providing endless companionship and entertainment.
Havanese
If you’re looking for a small and sturdy dog that’s known for its friendly and affectionate nature, then a Havanese is your answer. They have a silky coat that requires regular grooming. These dogs are great with children and other pets, making them perfect for families or individuals seeking a loyal and playful companion.
Pekingese
This small breed of dog is best known for its distinctive lion-like mane. Pekingese are affectionate and devoted to their owners, often forming strong bonds; this makes them incredibly loyal. These dogs are well-suited for apartment living and require regular grooming to maintain their beautiful coats.
Coton de Tuléar
As you can guess from their name, Coton de Tuléars are known for their cotton-like coats and playful personalities. They are hypoallergenic and great for families with children or individuals seeking a gentle companion. These dogs are adaptable and thrive in various living situations, providing endless love and companionship.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are like Greyhounds but smaller, with elegant, slender bodies and a gentle and affectionate nature. They are great with families and individuals, requiring moderate exercise to stay happy and healthy. These dogs are well-suited for apartment living due to their small size and calm demeanor.
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apsos are small dogs with a long, flowing coat and a loyal personality, making them a dog that will always be by your side. They are great watchdogs, alert and protective of their families. These dogs require regular grooming but reward their owners with endless affection and companionship.
Brussels Griffon
One thing owners love about Brussels Griffons is their expressive faces and lively personalities. They are intelligent and affectionate, forming strong bonds with their owners. These dogs are great with families and individuals, providing companionship and entertainment in various living environments.
Japanese Chin
Japanese Chins are elegant, small dogs with a distinctive, plumed tail and a loving nature. They are gentle and affectionate and great with families or single owners. These dogs thrive in apartments and larger homes, requiring moderate exercise and regular grooming to keep their beautiful coats in top condition.
Scottish Terrier
You may also know the Scottish Terrier as a Scottie; these small and sturdy dogs have a distinctive beard and an independent personality. They are loyal and protective, making them excellent watchdogs. These dogs are great with families or single owners, thriving in various living environments and providing endless companionship.
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