Written in collaboration with vets
Before we get into talking about the best small dog breeds, let’s take a moment to acknowledge their undeniable cute factor! These are pets who are just the right size for a cuddle.
Plus, what they lack in stature, they often make up for in personality. There are practical advantages to having a pet of a compact, manageable size, too, particularly if you live in a small apartment.
Choosing the right dog or puppy for you is a big decision, and what’s perfect for one family might not be ideal for another. Here we take a look at some cute small dogs, from mixed breeds to terriers to spaniels.
In this article you will:
It’s important to bear in mind that the best family dog breeds might well be a mixed breed. At Pedigree, we firmly believe that every dog deserves a loving home. We also know that many mixed breeds make unbeatable pets!
There are many misconceptions about rescue dogs, but reputable shelters work hard to match the right dogs with the right owners. The expert staff will meet with you to discuss your family and lifestyle, and what you are and aren’t looking for in a pet.
This guide, combined with their in-depth knowledge of the dogs in their care, makes it easier for you to find ‘the special one’. Our handy shelter finder will show you rescue centres near you.
We’ve reviewed 20 of the top 10 small dog breeds and other popular small companions, and what you can generally expect from them in terms of temperament and energy levels.
Many of these breeds are also considered among the best family dog breeds, thanks to their manageable size, friendly temperament and adaptability to different living environments.
Do remember that these are generalisations. Just like humans, all dogs are unique individuals. Want more information on a particular breed or explore small dog breeds that are calm and easy to train? Check out our full list of dog breeds.
Jack Russell terriers are lively little dogs who are always on the go. They are one of the top 10 small dog breeds. They make an excellent choice for active families. They’re known for being very loyal to their owners and will often pick a favourite person!
They come in three different coat types, all of which shed. These are smooth (short fur), rough (longer wiry fur) and broken (a combination of smooth and rough).
A Chihuahua weighs in at just 1.5 -3 kg, but they’re proof that good things really do come in small packages. They aren’t generally prone to disease, making them one of the longest-living dog breeds. Chihuahuas also come in two varieties: smooth-coated and long-haired.
These small balls of fluff are known for being particularly friendly, affectionate and cheerful. They tend to get along with everyone, from children to other pets to strangers. They have a curly, non-shedding double coat and are considered a small dog breed that are calm and easy to train.
As the Shih Tzu was bred to be companions in Chinese palaces, it’s hardly surprising they’re friendly and sociable. They’re generally a good choice for families with younger kids for this reason. They have a double coat of fur, consisting of a short undercoat and a long, silky outercoat.
Yorkies are intelligent small dog breeds that are calm and easy to train. They’re extremely loyal to their pet parents and tend to want to be around them at all times (prepare to be followed everywhere!).
The Poodle doesn’t shed its hair. They make excellent family dogs and come in three sizes: standard, miniature and toy.
When it comes to cute small dog breeds, it’s hard to beat Pomeranians. They are one of the top 10 small dog breeds, and we can see why!
These little balls of fluff aren’t just adorable, though, they’re also fiercely loyal, smart and generally fun to be around. They also have double-coated fur, consisting of a dense undercoat and longer, silky outercoat.
If you’re looking for a dog that will get on well with young children, a Cocker Spaniel makes a great choice. Their coats are flat and silky, and they come in a variety of colours.
As one of the top 10 small dog breeds, they’re also known for being gentle and playful, with a strong desire to please. The latter means training is often a breeze.
A Corgi is a great choice as a family dog and is one of the top 10 small dog breeds. They’re rarely aggressive and are intelligent, affectionate and willing to please. Although not particularly large, Corgis have a loud bark that they’re not afraid to use.
The Corgi’s bark makes them either effective watchdogs or plain annoying, depending on your perspective. Corgis have a thick double coat that is generally short, but a “fluffy gene” can cause some to grow longer fur.
Beagles are spirited and friendly and love company. They’ll enjoy being involved in whatever is going on in the family and are happy to live in the city or the countryside. They have a smooth, dense double coat that protects them from the elements.
The Cairn Terrier is a bold, fearless and entertaining companion who knows exactly what they do and don’t like. They can be quite feisty, which can cause problems with other dogs, cats or young children. Cairn Terriers have a double coat, made up of a wiry outer coat and soft undercoat.
Italian Greyhounds make the perfect little lap dogs, as these dainty creatures love human companionship. They’re also easy to train and love to play, but must be protected from boisterous play styles, as they are prone to injury. Italian Greyhounds have a soft, thin coat that sheds very little.
Miniature Pinschers are spirited, fearless little creatures that make ideal watchdogs due to their alert nature. They’re outgoing and incredibly fun to have around. They have a short, smooth coat that doesn’t shed much.
Maltese are an extremely popular small dog breed, with a white, silky coat. They’re also known for being lively and playful. This is a breed so lovable, the ancient Greeks built tombs in their honour! Be warned, though, they can be quite stubborn.
Strong-willed, intelligent and loyal, the typical Lhasa Apso is often playful but considered a calm dog breed. They can be suspicious of strangers and have a bark that belies their small size. They have a beautiful, long, silky coat that is low shedding.
Lakies are lively, feisty little dogs who thrive on company. They’re cheerful, energetic and confident, and many of their pet parents claim they have an excellent sense of humour! Lakelands have a thick bushy, wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat.
The typical Schnauzer has a gentle disposition, making them an excellent choice for an older person or a family with young children. Schnauzers tend to be very protective of their pet parents and make good watchdogs.
They come in three sizes: miniature, standard and giant; and three coat types: wire-haired, super coat (silkier and finer fur) and mega coat (soft and luxurious feel).
Norfolk Terriers are lovable, alert, inquisitive and sometimes a little foolhardy! As a true terrier, they love to run, dig and hunt, and so they’re a good choice for an active family. They have a double coat that consists of a soft and fluffy undercoat and a wiry outercoat.
The dog that’s immortalised as one of the game pieces in Monopoly, the Scottish Terrier, is independent and self-assured. They tend to be one-person dogs and can be tricky to train. They’re a double-coated breed, with a soft undercoat and medium-length wiry outer coat.
Westies, as they’re affectionately known, typically have a sunny disposition and make easy-going, laidback companions. They’re one of the few terrier breeds that are known for getting on well with other pets. They have a low-shedding double coat, made up of a soft undercoat and wiry outer coat.
If you’re looking for small dog breeds that are calm and easy to train, visiting a reputable shelter can be a great place to start for advice. Shelter staff can help match you with a dog whose temperament suits your lifestyle.
Some breeds that are often recommended for quieter households include the Cocker Spaniel and the Lhasa Apso. These dogs are generally known for their relaxed temperament, making them good companions for owners who prefer a more laid-back pet.
However, temperament varies from dog to dog, so speaking with a shelter or breeder can help you find a calm dog breed that fits your home environment.
It’s difficult to say which is the easiest small dog to care for, as it depends on whether you’re looking for a dog that needs less exercise, minimal grooming, or simple training. Some owners prefer small dog breeds that are calm and easy to train, especially if they are first-time pet parents.
Many smaller breeds can adapt well to different living situations, but it’s still important to consider their exercise needs, grooming requirements and temperament.
Ultimately, choosing from the top 20 small dog breeds or other popular companions is a personal decision. Factors such as your lifestyle, living space and family situation all play a role. If you have children, it’s also worth researching the best family dog breeds for families and children to find a pet that suits everyone in the household.
While temperament varies between individual dogs, small breeds generally considered calm include the Cocker Spaniel and the Lhasa Apso. However, many mixed breed dogs from reputable shelters can also have wonderfully mellow personalities. Shelter staff can help match you with a calm dog suited to your lifestyle.
The best small dog to own depends on your lifestyle, living space and activity level. Active families may prefer energetic breeds like Jack Russell Terriers, while those looking for a lap companion might consider breeds such as the Shih Tzu or Italian Greyhound. Mixed breeds can also make excellent pets and are often available through local shelters.
Many small breeds are known for their friendly nature, including the Bichon Frise, Shih Tzu and Cocker Spaniel. These breeds are typically affectionate and sociable with families, children and even strangers. Keep in mind that personality can vary from dog to dog.
Yes, many small dog breeds adapt well to apartment living due to their compact size. However, energy levels matter more than size alone. Some small breeds require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, so it's important to match a dog’s needs to your daily routine.
Small dog breeds often considered hypoallergenic include the Bichon Frise, Poodle (Toy and Miniature), Maltese, Lhasa Apso, Italian Greyhound and West Highland White Terrier. While no dog is completely allergy-free, these breeds typically shed less and may be more suitable for allergy sufferers.
Yes, mixed breed small dogs can make wonderful pets. Many are available through reputable shelters that carefully assess each dog’s temperament and needs. Mixed breeds often combine positive traits from different breeds and can be matched to families based on lifestyle and preferences.
The easiest small dog to care for depends on whether you prefer lower exercise needs or minimal grooming. Some breeds require regular grooming due to long or curly coats, while others may need more daily activity. Consulting a reputable shelter can help you find a dog that fits your care preferences.
Learn more about the wonderful work shelters do and how you might be able to help
Buy Now
Click to buy from any of the retailers below
