Best Small Dog Breeds

With so many dog breeds to choose from, it can be a daunting task to find which dog is best for you. If you’ve narrowed down your search to small dogs, there is still a lot more to think about. Dogs vary in the daily activity they need, temperament, affection and/or needing a companion around, grooming frequency, and dietary or health concerns. Looking at personality, barking, intelligence, or allergies, here are eight of the best small dog breeds to consider. 

Quiet Dogs

Havanese 

The Havanese is social, charismatic, and a loyal watchdog. They are the only dogs to come from Cuba, making them pretty unique. Havanese dogs won’t bark much, making them a great pet for apartments or busy households where extra noise isn’t desired. When they want attention, they’ll quietly let you know. They also love to snuggle and have company. However, their watchdog mentality may cause them to still bark at guests or people at the door, but that is hard to avoid in nearly any breed. Havanese dogs have soft coats that can be groomed in a variety of styles. Havanese dogs are the perfect fit for someone who wants a loving and quiet dog. 

French Bulldog 

French Bulldogs are smaller than the standard Bulldog and are known for their pointed ears and fun temperament. They are quiet and calm but alert watchdogs, perfect for those who want a loving, loyal pup but without the extra barking. These dogs are great for a variety of living situations– big family or single owner, a small apartment or a large house– as long as they have a companion. Frenchies don’t require much exercise or activity either, another added bonus for those in tight apartments or for those who want a low-maintenance small dog. The French Bulldog is a great choice for anyone who wants an adaptable, quiet, and fun-loving dog. 

Hypoallergenic Dogs

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are cousins of the terrier, making them smart, friendly, and above all, hypoallergenic. Although there are no dogs that are entirely allergen-free, Mini Schnauzers don’t shed much, making them a suitable choice for owners with pet allergies. These dogs have a unique look with their bushy eyebrows and beard, but can be groomed in a couple of styles. Schnauzers can be trained easily, as they are very obedient, and are very adaptable– they’ll be happy in a cozy apartment, or in a house with sprawling land. If you want a hypoallergenic, smart, and extremely loyal pet, a Schnauzer is a good choice. 

Shih Tzu 

A Shih Tzu is known for its lavish coat and, although it requires a bit of frequent maintenance, it is hypoallergenic. Even though you will need to brush a Shih Tzu’s coat daily, it will not shed– keeping your home cleaner and allergens down. Their small size means they won’t need to go on long walks, but will still need a bit of indoor play or a shorter walk, making them a good fit for apartment living. Shih Tzus love to stay inside and sit on your lap– they really are the perfect lapdog with a posh, stylish look. 

Smart Dogs

Miniature Poodle

Poodles are extremely smart and proud pups. Poodles can be easily trained to be obedient dogs as well as to do agility training. They are very active and agile, so be sure to give them plenty of time to run around and play. This makes them a great fit for active families so they have playmates for walks and playtime. One of the most hypoallergenic dog breeds is the Miniature Poodle. They rarely shed, are highly trainable and smart, and come in a range of sizes from standard, to miniature, to toy. Poodles a good choice if you want a smart, hypoallergenic, and active dog. 

Pembroke Welsh Corgi 

Corgis are known for being hardworking herding dogs and watchdogs. Although they are small in size, they have a loud bark and a big personality. They are very loving and extremely smart. They are a bit stubborn but can be easily trained if you have a consistent training and socialization regimen. Corgis love to play and run around and go on walks, which makes them a great choice if you want a smart and active puppy. They are even good choices for a family pet since they love to please people and are quite affectionate. 

Big Personalities 

Dachshund

The Dachshund is very social, fun-loving, and active. Despite their small size, Dachshunds have big personalities. They love to please their owners, are curious and smart, and enjoy playing and hunting. They have a couple of varieties of coat types, such as wirehaired, smooth, and longhaired, and come in standard or miniature sizes. Their short legs make them prone to injury and they cannot walk for long, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t active. A Dachshund will always be excited to do something with you and loves attention, so if you are looking for an outgoing, affectionate dog, these are great. 

Affenpinscher

A lot of this dog’s personality and charm come from its funky, unique look. The Affenpinscher’s funny-looking face and unruly coat are comical but endearing. This dog is the perfect companion– they are serious and loyal but love to play and show affection. They can be a bit demanding, but that is one of their charms. They love to play by themselves or with others and can be trained. If you are looking for a unique puppy that is sure to be entertaining, loving, fun, and your best friend, the Affenpinscher is a fantastic option. 

While there are so many great small dog breeds out there, this guide serves as a good starting point for your dog searching journey. Always remember to consider your wants and needs as well as those of various breeds to make sure you and your dog are a good fit for each other. Your home environment, activity levels, allergy concerns, and ability to care for a pet will all be factors that influence the best breed for you.