When people think about adopting a dog, they usually have a vague idea of the size of dog they are looking for. In this article, Letsgetpet presents 20 small dog breeds with great personalities.
1. Welsh Corgi
Welsh Corgis have a short coat and weigh around 10 to 12 kg (≈ 22 to 26.5 lb). They originated in Wales. This dog breed is nicknamed the royal dog because the Welsh Corgi owes its fame to Queen Elizabeth II of England. She raised a large number of them during her reign.
Welsh Corgis are affectionate dogs who adapt very well to family life. They can adapt particularly well to life with children. In general, they enjoy being around humans and are never aggressive or fearful. However, it is important to provide your Welsh Corgi with firm education. That is because their intelligence means they can quickly cross boundaries that you do not wish them to!
When it comes to this dog breed’s health, the Welsh Corgi is relatively robust. When it comes to their average lifespan, they generally live around 11 and 13 years.
If you are thinking about adopting a dog for the first time, a Welsh Corgi would be the perfect companion. It is still recommended to take classes with a canine behaviorist or trainer while your Welsh Corgi is still young.
2. Maltese
Another adorable small dog breed is the Maltese. This breed has a rather long coat and weighs around 3 to 4 kg (≈ 6.6 to 8.8 lb). These dogs are of Italian origin. The Maltese is known as the Matron’s dog, as it was the companion of women in the first century BC. This dog was notably depicted in artwork by Goya and Rubens.
The Maltese is one of the most affectionate small dog breeds. They’re fairly calm and are able to adapt well to family life. Additionally, they love the company of children. Similar to the Welsh Corgi, the Maltese is highly intelligent. You’ll need to train this dog firmly, avoiding inconsistencies, to succeed in forming a harmonious bond together. If you live in an apartment, the Maltese is an ideal pet. This dog needs to be groomed regularly so that their coat can be untangled every day with an appropriate brush.
When it comes to the Maltese’s health, they are a rather robust breed. These dogs can live a minimum of 12 years and up to 15 years maximum.
3. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a popular dog that is easygoing. They can have long or short hair and weigh 3 to 4 kg (≈ 6.6 to 8.8 lb). The Chihuahua originated in Mexico. They came from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, where it lived in the wild before being domesticated.
The Chihuahua is an affectionate dog, and rather independent. However, they are not very calm and express themselves often through barking. They can be sociable with other dogs and generally get along well with children. In addition, they are wary around people they don’t know, and can even be aggressive.
Similar to the Maltese and Welsh Corgi, they need firm education and training because the Chihuahua is a rather stubborn dog. They are very intelligent, but can decide to not obey you if they do not want to. Apartment life is suitable for the Chihuahua, but is recommended to socialize them well with other dogs, but also with people outside of the close family from a very young age to avoid behavioral issues later on. They are very energetic and need daily outings.
Regarding the health of the Chihuahua, we can think that they are fragile because of their small size, however they are rather robust. It is simply necessary to pay attention to their eyes and the ears regularly. The Chihuahua can live between 14 and 18 years.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a very loyal dog with an outgoing personality. Originating from the United Kingdom, they come from a cross between the Maltese and many other local Terriers. They were initially crossed to hunt rabbits and rabbits in burrows. The Yorkshire Terrier is a long-haired dog that can weigh up to 3 kg (≈ 6.6 lb).
This dog is very affectionate. Notably with their owner. However, they are not very calm and express themselves often through barking. They can be sociable with other dogs and generally get along with children.
The training needs to be very rigorous for the Yorkshire Terrier because this dog breed is very stubborn. Their intelligence can play tricks on you, as this dog will always try to get the best of situations. It’s hard to stand up to their fluffy looks.
Apartment life and life in the city is suitable for the Yorkshire Terrier. They still need outings every day and it is recommended to let them wear a little jacket to protect their coat from environmental dirt. This dog is rather robust and can live between 10 and 16 years.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a very pleasant companion. They originated in China and were created through a cross between a Lhassa Apso and the Pekingese. Empress Tzu Hsi made one her pet, and after that, the Shih Tzu was named the empress’s pearl. It is a long-haired dog and weighs between 4 and 8 kg (≈ 8.8 and 17.6 lb).
The Shih Tzu is a very affectionate dog. They have many qualities: they are calm and playful, they appreciate children and always have a jovial spirit.
Like other breeds presented earlier, the Shih Tzu has a strong character and is very intelligent. In the same way, you need to be careful and give them firm training and education. To adopt a Shih Tzu, it is recommended to be very patient and compehensive, because the Shih Tzu can quickly take offense and do as they please.
This dog is mostly adapted to life indoors, but you need to make sure they have a corner that is all for them so that they can feel at ease. Also, Shih Tzus need their owners, they do like solitude and they do not handle it very well. If you need to be absent regularly, you need to teach your dog from a very young age so that they do not develop separation anxiety, a condition that affects many small dog breeds. The Shih Tzu is quite robust too, and generally lives between 11 and 14 years.
6. Dachshund
The Dachshund is a small outgoing dog. They come from Germany and their ancestor is the German Basset Hound. They were initially used as hunting dogs because they were very good at catching badgers. The Dachshund is a dog that can be three different sizes: miniature, standard, and kaninchen. Because of this, their weight can vary from 3 to 9 kg (≈ 6.6 and 19.8 lb) depending on their type. The same is the case regarding their coat, it can be long, rough, or hard.
The Dachshund is a dog that has a tendency to be very stubborn. Not very affectionate, but very attached to their owner. They like spending their time outdoors. Their hunting instincts gives them a very active, playful and determined temperament. This dog often expresses itself by barking, so you’ll need to watch out for excessive barking. It’s not advisable for Dachshunds to live with children, and it’s difficult to socialize them with other animals. But this can be managed from an early age if you’re proactive about his training.
Like explained earlier, the Dachshund can be dominant, you need to therefore be firm regarding their education. You mustn’t be lax, or you’ll end up living with your Dachshund instead of yourself! Fortunately, this dog is highly intelligent. With a little diligence, you’ll be able to train him easily.
The Dachshund is not an interior dog, they need to be able to use their energy, to run a lot. You can live with them in an apartment as long as they have long walks outside every day.
The Dachshund is a small dog that is rather robust, however pay attention to their weight gain. They can live between 12 and 14 years.
7. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers have a short coat and weigh 5 to 6 kg (≈ 11 to 13.2 lb). The Jack Russell Terrier originated in England. It was the Reverend John Russell who created the breed to obtain a fast hunting dog capable of going into burrows to catch foxes and game.
The Jack Russell Terrier is a small dog that is rather affectionate, but far from being calm. Cohabitation with children can be possible but you also need to be really vigilant. As the Jack Russell Terrier is a very energetic dog and very intelligent, any situation can get out of control. This dog breed is a hunting dog, their instincts can quickly lead them to not pay attention to you. The key to a harmonious relationship with a Jack Russell Terrier would be firm and positive education. It is greatly recommended to educate your dog with rewards (treats) to wish they are very receptive in order to stimulate them on a daily basis.
Regarding their health, the Jack Russell Terrifer is rather robust, and lives between 13 and 16 years. This dog is prone to hyperactivity and hereditary diseases due to inbreeding.
The Jack Russell Terrier is not recommended for someone who has never had a dog before. Also, they will adapt to life in the city as long as they live close to a park or green spaces. Their character is clearly incompatible with life in an apartment and too much solitude.
8. Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier originated in Scotland. They were created by a cross between Basset Hounds (originally introduced by the Vikings) and West Highland White Terriers. The Cairn Terrier was very popular thanks to their hunting skills: foxes, rodents and badgers were no match for this dog breed. These cuddly little dogs have very assertive personalities, enough to make any family looking for peace and quiet swoon! Physically, the Cairn Terrier has a medium-length coat and weighs between 6 and 8 kg (≈ 13.2 and 17.6 lb).
The Cairn Terrier is a really intelligent dog, just like the other hunting dogs presented earlier. They are active, lively, loves to play and is very curious. For this breed, you also need to be careful about training. If your training is too lax, the Cairn Terrier can quickly become unmanageable. This dog is very sociable with humans, but you need to be careful with other dogs of the same sex. Don’t hesitate to socialize them from an early age to avoid any problems.
Like mentioned earlier, it is not recommended to have a Cairn Terrier with children who have never had a dog. This dog’s overreactive nature could be the source of unfortunate accidents. They are, however, the ideal dog for a couple or a single person with lots of time on their hands.
Due to their active character, apartment life is not suitable for them. Unless they have a lot of time to go outside regularly in a green space that isn’t far from home.
This dog is rather robust and they can adapt to numerous climate situations. They live on average around 14 years.
9. Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier is known for its beautiful black coat and long bangs around the muzzle and eyes. They originated from the Scottish Highlands, as their name suggests. Like the Cairn Terrier, they are used as a hunting dog for finding numerous small indesirable animals in burrows. This dog has a medium-long coat and weighs between 8 and 10 kg (≈ 17.6 and 22 lb).
The Scottish Terrier has a rather balanced character. They are affectionate towards their owners, but they are still independent. Additionally, they are rarely aggressive and will always be motivated to go for a walk or play together. In addition, they are not very sociable with other dogs, but this can change if their education is adapted.
For the Scottish Terrier as well, firm education is important because they can be stubborn at times. If they are brought up well from a young age, you can live in harmony with this dog who is loyal to its owner. The Scottish Terrier is an easygoing dog as long as their needs are respected.
This dog adapts itself just as well to city life as life in the countryside. It is recommended for single people or couples.
Regarding the health of the Scottish Terrier, it’s important to note that they can be fragile. This breed is prone to Scottie’s cramp, Willebrand’s disease and dermatological problems. Nevertheless, they can live to between 12 and 15 years of age.
10. Westie
The Westie, also known as the West Highland White Terrier is a proud and very active dog. It is an English breed, although the first specimens descended from a cross with Scottish Terriers. They are white because Colonel Malcolm of Poltalloch shot one of his red Cairns while hunting. He mistook it for a fox, and so white-coated dogs were selected to prevent a recurrence. Westies are semi-long-haired and weigh between 7 and 10 kg (≈ 15.4 and 22 lb).
The little white dog has a rather affectionate character. Paradoxically, these dogs are not calm at all! They are very active dogs who need to move. As they are rather independent, their hunting instinct makes them curious about everything. They have a tendency to bark frequently to express themselves. Westies need to be stimulated daily by play, walks and socializing with other dogs to channel their energy.
Their education needs to be firm. They are very intelligent, stubborn, and have a mischievous air that will crack you up at the slightest whim! So be careful not to let your Westie get out of line.
The Westie can live in an apartment or in the countryside. They adapt easily to the way of life of their owners. If you live in a house with a garden, make sure that it is always closed to prevent your dog from running away.
Similar to many small dogs, you need to pay attention to the health of your Westie. This breed is predisposed to certain dermatological conditions, as well as a disease: pulmonary fibrosis. You’ll also need to pay attention to their ears, which can be affected by ear mange. Westies typically live between 12 and 14 years.
11. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a dog with a short coat that weighs between 4 and 6 kg (≈ 8.8 and 13.2 lb). This breed comes from Germany. In the past, they were also hunting dogs, accompanying coachmen in the Grand Duchy of Bavaria.
The Miniature Pinscher is very similar to its cousin the Pinscher. Only its size differs, and it’s better suited to life in an apartment. This intrepid little dog makes a wonderful companion. The Pinscher is sociable, cheerful, playful and very elegant. They are always ready to be gentle and affectionate when it’s the right time for them. They get along well with people, children and other dogs. Their well-balanced character means they can be left alone during the day, but they mustn’t be left alone for too long. No matter what, they should be allowed to go on daily walks. The only less attractive trait of this dog breed is their frequent barking, so be sure to teach your dog how to communicate in other ways.
Playing is their favorite activity, so it’s an essential part of their training. As with many small dogs, it’s important to train them when they are young. If this is your first dog, it is a good idea to be accompanied by a behaviorist.
The Miniature Pinscher is a robust dog, but be careful when it is cold and damp. There are certain diseases to watch out for, including necrosis of the head and neck of the femur, and corneal dystrophy. Their life expectancy is between 12 and 13 years.
12. The Pekingese
The Pekingese is a very lively and intelligent dog. In the past, the breed was sacred at the imperial court of China, where it originated. These dogs only weigh around 3 to 5 kg (≈ 6.6 to 11 lb). The coat of the Pekingese is long and requires regular grooming.
These dogs get very attached to their owners, but they can be quite fearful of people outside the home. They express themselves easily through barking. This aspect of their personality makes them very good alarm dogs. The Pekingese also knows how to be calm when they need to be. They are the ideal companion for elderly people or couples without children. Unfortunately, living in cohabitation with children is not suitable for them. These dogs do not require a lot of physical activity outside. Additionally, they can live very well in an apartment as long as they have a warm corner of its own.
When it comes to training, you’ll still need to be patient and firm. Power struggles should be avoided with the Pekingese. This dog thrives on positive training. Reward their good behavior and avoid giving in to their charm when they do something wrong, and everything should go smoothly!
When it comes to the Pekingese’s health, pay attention to their sensitive eyes. Their oral health is also very important; you’ll need to make sure tartar doesn’t build up on their teeth, otherwise they’ll fall out prematurely in their old age. The Pekingese’s life expectancy is between 13 and 15 years.
13. The Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is a very joyful dog. They are believed to have originated in Tibet, as their name suggests. This dog breed is as old as the Pekingese, Shih Tzu, and the Lhassa Apso. These dogs have a medium-long coat and can weigh between 4 and 7 kg (≈ 8.8 and 15.4 lb).
The Pekingese, which was previously presented, is quite similar to the Tibetan Spaniel. They also have a very cheerful attitude and are very loyal to its owners. Generally, this dog does not feel very comfortable with strangers. The Tibetan Spaniel is a good alarm dog.
This dog breed is one of the smallest, most intelligent and obedient dogs. Their training and education needs to be firm and playful. The Tibetan Spaniel can live very well in an apartment.
Unfortunately, the Tibetan Spaniel is prone to a number of health conditions, including generalized retinal atrophy, patellar luxation, urinary stones, and persistent pupillary membrane. With that being said, the Tibetan Spaniel generally lives between 12 and 15 years.
14. Fox Terrier
The Fox Terrier is one of the oldest small dog breeds. These dogs were originally used for hunting foxes. That is why “fox” is in their name. These dogs are quick, brave, and determined. The Fox Terrier weighs between 6 to 9 kg (≈ 13.2 and 19.8 lb) and they have a short coat.
The Fox Terrier is a very good companion dog. However, it is important to be aware of their high energy. Their character is a bit like the Jack Russell Terrier. They love playing, and this is the best way to educate and train them. However, their education should start at a young age because the Fox Terrier is a stubborn dog.
This dog is much better suited to country life than city living. This is because they need to roam in wide open spaces to exercise. These dogs are also very good at guarding! They are ideal for an owner who can devote a lot of time and energy to spending time with them. These dogs are far from couch potatoes. Additionally, they can live happily in a family setting, but be careful to always establish boundaries between your children and your dog.
The Fox Terrier is a very robust dog. However, you need to pay attention to their cardiac health as these dogs are very active. Also, beware of congenital megaesophagus because these dogs are predisposed to it. Their life expectancy varies between 10 and 13 years.
15. Coton de Tulear
This little dog is very dynamic and intelligent. While the Coton de Tulear is believed to have originated in Madagascar, there are many doubts when it comes to their origins. However, these dogs seem a lot like the Maltese, as their coat is long . These dogs weigh between 3 to 6 kg (≈ 6.6 and 13.2 lb) depending on the sex of the dog.
As they are very affectionate, the Coton de Tulear can be appreciated by all members of the family. They are very easygoing and get along well with children. In addition, they get along very well with other dogs and strangers. Moreover, they are rather calm, do not really have hunting instincts and therefore, do not know how to be very protective of their family. It is important to note that this dog breed does not handle solitude well. They need human presence by their side.
Once you start your Coton de Tulear’s education, you will notice that they use their charm to try to get what they want. Their intelligence and charm could get the better of your good will when it comes to training and education. Because of this, you have to be firm with them if you don’t want them to step all over you.
The Coton de Tulear can adapt to your lifestyle. They can live happily in an apartment or a house. The only requirement is to make sure that they have enough time for daily walks.
Laslty, regarding their health, the Coton de Tulear is quite robust. Unfortunately, they can suffer from some skin problems, but nothing serious. The breed can live between 14 and 16 years.
16. Lhassa Apso
The Lhassa Apso, nicknamed the dog with a lion’s roar, is a fearsome alarm dog. They originated in Lhassa, the capital of Tibet, where they lived with Buddhist monks. This strong-tempered dog has a long coat that to be groomed regularly. They weigh around 4 to 7 kg (≈ 8.8 to 15.4 lb).
These dogs can live happily in an apartment. In addition, they get very attached to their family and are good at protecting the household. Their small size does not prevent them from expressing themselves in a harsh and striking manner in the event of an intrusion. Apart from this alarm dog behavior, the Lahasa Apso is a lively dog with an overflowing love of life.
The Lhassa Apso can get along well with children, families and the elderly. However, for this, they need to be socialized and trained rigorously while they are still young. Positive education works well with the Lhassa Apso. They respond very well to receiving rewards for good deeds.
When it comes to their health, they are rather robust. Just make sure to watch out for dirt getting in their floppy ears. The Lhassa Apso generally lives around 12 to 14 years.
17. German Spitz
Also known as the Pomeranian, or Dwarf Spitz, this dog is popular for its cuteness! Their bushy fur and cheerful demeanor are very charming. German Spitzes generally weigh around 2 to 20 kg (≈ 4.4 to 44.1 lb), which is quite a range, as this breed can also be medium-sized.
The German Spitz is lively and affectionate. These dogs get very attached to their family, and especially to their owners. As they truly love pleasing their owners, it makes training much easier. However, it’s important to point out that the German Spitz expresses itself a lot by barking. Because of this, they make excellent watchdogs.
Generally speaking, the Pomeranian can live happily in an apartment. They can also live happily in a house. With that being said, you need to pay attention to their small size and teach them the recall command. This is so as not to lose your dog if they go outdoors.
To keep their coat healthy and beautiful, they need to be brushed weekly.
When it comes to their health, German Spitzes are very robust. However, pay attention to their weight because they can become overweight. This dog breed like to eat. Generally, this dog breeds lives between 12 and 16 years.
18. Papillon dog
This dog is surprisingly robust. The Papillon dog, which is also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, can have lifted or falling ears. The drop-eared Papillon dog is known as a Phalène. The breed originated in France and Belgium. Their coat is long and graceful. They usually weigh between 1 and 5 kg (≈ 2.2 and 11 lb).
The Papillon dog is a affectionate dog. They are rather calm and discrete and know how to live in harmony with children. They love strangers but may be reluctant to deal with other animals.
Similar to other dogs that were previously mentioned, their training and education needs to be both firm and positive. It’s important to be very coherent and to not break when they give you puppy eyes.
They can live happily in an apartment, especially in the city. Any type of family can adopt this dog breed.
The Papillon’s health is robust. We only recommend one thing: beware of strong temperature variations, which this breed does not tolerate very well. Alos, be sure to clean their ears regularly. The Papillon’s life expectancy is between 12 and 15 years.
19. Poodle
The Poodle is popular thanks to its joyful and energetic character. Additionally, this dog breed is easygoing and doesn’t need to be groomed a lot daily. The Poodle is a French dog breed that used to be used to hunt ducks. They have a medium-long coat and can be white, black, apricot, or cream-colored. This dog breed weighs between 6 and 23 kg (≈ 13.2 to 50.7 lb) depending on the type of Poodle.
These dogs are very affectionate and close with their owners. Despite being small dogs, they are excellent watchdogs. In addition, they do not hesitate to express themselves when they feel the need to. The Poodle knows how to be gentle and share tender moments. This makes the Poodle a very balanced dog. Moreover, they can live peacefully with children.
Because this dog breed learns very quickly, it is not difficult to train this breed. However, you need to be careful to not offend this dog or rush them. These dogs are very sensitive dog. It is best to use positive reinforcement training to form a harmonious relationship with them.
Small Poodles are able to adapt to living in an urban area and in an apartment. If you have a large Poodle, they instead need large, open spaces.
When it comes to the Poodle’s health, they have an average lifespan that is rather high for this type of dog: they live for around 15 years on average and some of them can even live up to 19 years. However, this breed can develop ear infections. It’s also important to pay attention to their oral health.
20. Brussels Griffon
Have you ever heard of the Brussels Griffon? This small and elegant dog originated in Belgium. They are known to be intelligent and brave. Additionally, this breed is easygoing. Their beautiful coat is medium-long and they weigh around 3 to 6 kg (≈ 6.6 to 13.2 lb).
The Brussels Griffon is a very loyal dog. They are also very proud and energetic during walks. Because they are very balanced throughout their daily life, they are described as exemplary companions. However, this dog does not handle solitude very well. It is important to make sure that you have enough time to dedicate to this breed.
When it comes to training and educating this breed, it is important to be both firm and gentle. The Brussels Griffon has adapted well to urban life. They need daily walks, but they do not necessarily need big open spaces to spend time in. This is because they love spending time cuddling with their owners more than anything.
Regarding the Brussels Griffon’s health, this breed is rather robust. Nevertheless, this breed is prone to hip dysplasia and kneecap dislocation. It’s also important to pay attention to their eye health.
