Top 20 Small Dog Breeds: All the Information 🐶

Are you looking for a loyal, affectionate, discreet, and easy-going companion, even in an apartment? Small companion dogs have it all: a miniature size, an endearing personality, and unparalleled adaptability. But you still have to choose carefully! Some breeds remain truly small their entire lives, while others grow larger than you might think...

In this article, discover our selection of 20 small dog breeds that stay small into adulthood, without compromising on personality. Whether they're playful, cuddly, lively, or quiet, these adorable companions adapt to all lifestyles: seniors, families, city dwellers, or those who love outdoor walks.

And if you thought the Chihuahua was the only small lap dog, think again! 🐶

🐶 1. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is undoubtedly the smallest dog in the world . Originally from Mexico, it impresses with its small size, but also with its big personality. It is a courageous, intelligent little dog, very attached to its owner and sometimes wary of strangers. Despite its reputation as a “handbag dog,” the Chihuahua is not a simple accessory: it needs interaction, attention, and consistency in training. It barks easily if not well socialized, but it can become a calm, affectionate, and very loyal companion. It adapts perfectly to apartment life and requires little physical exercise, but a lot of presence.

• Size: 15 to 23 cm
• Weight: 1.5 to 3 kg
• Temperament: Protective, alert, sometimes wary of strangers
• Suitable for: Apartment living, singles or couples
• Needs: Little exercise, but lots of interaction and human warmth

💛 The Chihuahua is the epitome of a lapdog: a huge heart in a tiny body.

🐾 2. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie,” is a lively little dog that charms with its neat appearance and dynamic temperament. Originating in England, it was originally a pest control dog in textile factories. Today, it has become a highly sought-after companion, especially in cities. The Yorkshire Terrier is highly intelligent, curious, and always ready to explore the world around it. It is also very affectionate, even clingy to its owner. It can be wary or barky if not sufficiently stimulated, but it is very trainable with patience. Its small size and energy make it a dog that is as elegant as it is alert.

• Size: 18 to 23 cm
• Weight: 2 to 3.2 kg
• Temperament: Lively, curious, affectionate
• Suitable for: City life, quiet homes, elderly people
• Needs: Regular grooming, daily walks

💛 A real concentrate of energy in a mini format, perfect for those looking for a small dog full of life.

🐕 3. Maltese Bichon

The Maltese Bichon is a small dog with long, silky white fur, known for its great elegance and gentle character. It is very ancient, and is believed to have appeared around the Mediterranean in ancient times. It has long been the favorite dog of European noblewomen. This companion dog is particularly affectionate, intelligent, and sensitive. It likes to be the center of attention and can suffer from loneliness if left alone for too long. Very calm at home, it can also be playful and expressive. Thanks to its small size, it adapts perfectly to apartment life, provided it has a routine and regular human contact.

• Size: 20 to 25 cm
• Weight: 3 to 4 kg
• Temperament: Gentle, sensitive, playful
• Suitable for: Families, seniors, indoor living
• Needs: Careful grooming, daily interactions

💛 A small, elegant and tender dog, always ready to cuddle.

🐩 4. Cavalier King Charles

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a small, noble, gentle, and sociable dog that has long been a favorite of English royal families. Recognizable by its large, pendulous ears and tender gaze, it is a remarkably gentle dog. It adores human company, does not tolerate solitude well, and adapts perfectly to indoor life. The Cavalier is also a joyful, playful dog that enjoys regular walks but remains relatively undemanding. It is often recommended for families with children or elderly people looking for an affectionate and easy-going dog. However, beware of its predisposition to heart disease, which should be monitored.

• Size: 30 to 33 cm
• Weight: 5 to 8 kg
• Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, sociable
• Suitable for: Apartment living, families, seniors
• Needs: Heart health monitoring, regular walks

💛 A tender and joyful companion, perfect for a life full of sweetness.

🐶 5. Toy Poodle

The Toy Poodle is the smallest variety of Poodle, and probably one of the most intelligent breeds among small dogs. This lively, elegant, and very sociable little dog adapts to almost any environment. Very attached to its owner, it seeks to please and responds well to training. It is ideal for those who want a dog that is easy to train, playful, but also discreet. The Toy Poodle loves to learn new tricks and participate in family life. It sheds almost no hair, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers. However, it does require regular coat maintenance.

• Size: 24 to 28 cm
• Weight: 2 to 4 kg
• Temperament: Intelligent, sociable, cheerful
• Suitable for: Families, children, active people
• Needs: Mental activity, frequent grooming

💛 A smart, elegant and humorous little dog: it's hard not to fall for him.

🐾 6. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu, nicknamed the “lion dog,” is an ancient breed originating from Tibet. With its long, silky coat, it boasts a noble appearance reminiscent of its imperial origins. This small dog is known for its jovial, playful, and affectionate nature. It adapts well to apartment life and enjoys the company of its owners. However, it can be stubborn and requires gentle but firm training.

• Size: 20 to 28 cm
• Weight: 4 to 8 kg
• Temperament: Jovial, playful, affectionate
• Suitable for: Apartment living, families, seniors
• Needs: Regular grooming, moderate walks

💛 A gentle and loving companion, ideal for those looking for a small dog with a zen character.

🐶 7. Pomeranian

The Pomeranian, also known as the Miniature Spitz, is a small dog with an irresistible charm. With its abundant coat and expressive face, it attracts all eyes. Behind this fluffy appearance hides a lively, intelligent dog that is very attached to its owner. It is also known for its alert temperament, making it an excellent alert dog despite its small size.

• Size: 18 to 22 cm
• Weight: 1.5 to 3.5 kg
• Temperament: Lively, intelligent, alert
• Suitable for: Apartment living, single people or families
• Needs: Regular grooming, daily exercises to channel energy

💛 The Pomeranian is a bundle of energy and affection in a small, furry body.

🐕 8. Russkiy Toy

The Russkiy Toy is a Russian breed that is still little known in France, but is worth discovering. This elegant little dog, with large ears and a lively gaze, is very attached to its owner. It is sociable, playful, and adapts easily to different lifestyles. Its small size makes it an ideal companion for apartment living.

• Size: 20 to 28 cm
• Weight: 1.5 to 3 kg
• Temperament: Sociable, playful, affectionate
• Suitable for: Apartment living, single people or families
• Needs: Social interactions, daily play

💛 The Russkiy Toy is a small dog with a big heart, always ready to share special moments with its owners.

🐩 9. Miniature Dachshund

The Miniature Dachshund, affectionately known as the "sausage dog," is a miniature version of the Standard Dachshund. Originally from Germany, it was bred for hunting badgers and rabbits. Its elongated body and short legs allow it to squeeze into burrows. Despite its small size, it is courageous, determined, and has a strong personality. It adapts well to apartment life, provided it is given regular walks to channel its energy.

• Size: 16 to 21 cm
• Weight: 3 to 5 kg
• Temperament: Courageous, determined, affectionate
• Suitable for: Apartment living, active people
• Needs: Regular exercise, special attention to the back

💛 The Miniature Dachshund is a bold and endearing little dog, perfect for those looking for a companion full of character.

🐾 10. Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is a small, energetic, and intelligent dog from England. Originally bred for fox hunting, it is now a beloved companion for its boundless energy and lively spirit. It is very playful and curious, and requires firm training from an early age. The Jack Russell adapts well to apartment living, provided it is provided with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation.

• Size: 25 to 30 cm
• Weight: 5 to 6 kg
• Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, playful
• Suitable for: Active people, sporty families
• Needs: Daily exercise, consistent education

💛 The Jack Russell Terrier is a lively little dog, ideal for dynamic owners looking for a loyal and playful companion.

🐶 11. Miniature Schnauzer

The Miniature Schnauzer is the miniature version of the Standard Schnauzer, while retaining its proud appearance and famous beard. Originally from Germany, it is an energetic, intelligent, and very loyal little dog. It is distinguished by its guarding instinct: despite its size, it is always alert and protective of its family. Very playful, the Miniature Schnauzer needs physical and mental stimulation to thrive. It can live in an apartment provided it has regular outings and a caring environment.

• Size: 30 to 36 cm
• Weight: 4 to 8 kg
• Temperament: Loyal, lively, intelligent
• Suitable for: Active families, people who love lively dogs
• Needs: Regular brushing, structured education, varied activities

💛 The Miniature Schnauzer is a small dog with a big heart, perfect for those who want a smart and loyal companion.

🐾 12. Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier is one of Scotland's oldest breeds. Hardy, sturdy, and full of energy, this small dog was once used to flush pests from cairns. It is a cheerful companion, very attached to its owner, but retains an independent streak. Its coarse, dense coat protects it from the elements, and its playful temperament makes it very popular with families. It adapts equally well to the countryside and the city, provided its need to explore is satisfied.

• Size: 23 to 33 cm
• Weight: 6 to 7.5 kg
• Temperament: Cheerful, curious, independent
• Suitable for: Families, city or rural life
• Needs: Regular outings, socialization from a young age

💛 The Cairn Terrier is a rustic and cheerful little dog, who loves to go on adventures with you.

🐕 13. English Cocker Spaniel

The English Cocker Spaniel is one of the most popular hunting dogs turned companion dogs. Behind its long ears and gentle eyes lies a joyful, very affectionate, and sometimes slightly stubborn dog. It loves to be around people, play, and explore its surroundings. The Cocker Spaniel is known for its infectious “joie de vivre.” It needs attention, daily walks, and a loving but firm environment. Its long coat requires minimal maintenance, but in return, it provides gentle and loyal companionship.

• Size: 36 to 41 cm
• Weight: 12 to 15 kg
• Temperament: Happy, cuddly, playful
• Suitable for: Families with children, active people
• Needs: Regular brushing, daily activities

💛 A tender and energetic dog, ideal for active and affectionate homes.

🐩 14. Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher, often nicknamed “the king of small dogs,” is a bundle of energy and alertness. Originally from Germany, it is distinguished by its slim, muscular build, proud bearing, and strong character. It is courageous, very lively, and retains a certain natural distrust of strangers. It is an excellent little guard dog despite its compact size. It forms a strong attachment to its owner and needs a stable environment and regular play to thrive.

• Size: 25 to 30 cm
• Weight: 4 to 6 kg
• Temperament: Lively, courageous, loyal
• Suitable for: Active owners, apartments with frequent outings
• Needs: Consistent education, physical activity, attention

💛 The Miniature Pinscher is a tireless, elegant and loyal mini guardian to his family.

🐶 15. Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear is a small dog native to Madagascar, renowned for its fluffy, cotton-like white coat. It is a cheerful dog, very close to its owners, and gets along wonderfully with children and other animals. It is gentle, playful, and very easygoing. Its mischievous gaze and affectionate attitude make it an ideal companion for families. It is also very well-suited to apartment living, as long as it has plenty of time to interact and play.

• Size: 22 to 28 cm
• Weight: 4 to 6 kg
• Temperament: Affectionate, playful, sociable
• Suitable for: Families, children, seniors
• Needs: Coat maintenance, regular interactions

💛 The Coton de Tuléar is a real bundle of affection, perfect for family life.

🐾 16. Westie (West Highland White Terrier)

The West Highland White Terrier, better known as the Westie, is a small, all-white dog from Scotland. It is easily recognizable by its thick coat and mischievous face. The Westie is a robust, energetic dog, and very attached to its family. Always cheerful, it loves to play, go for walks, and doesn't hesitate to make itself heard. Although small, it has a strong temperament and likes to maintain a certain independence. It is ideal for active homes, with or without a garden, and adapts well to city life if it is sufficiently exercised.

• Size: 25 to 30 cm
• Weight: 6 to 8 kg
• Temperament: Lively, independent, affectionate
• Suitable for: Active families, city or house living
• Needs: Regular brushing, daily activity, mental stimulation

💛 The Westie is the little dog with a big character who will conquer your daily life.

🐕 17. Lhasa Apso

Originating from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is a small dog with long, silky hair, formerly bred in Buddhist monasteries to serve as a watchdog. He is calm, thoughtful, very loyal to his master, but also wary of strangers. He is not a dog for everyone, but a deep and affectionate companion with his family. Very attached to his home, he can be independent, but remains sensitive. He appreciates tranquility, routines, and a relationship based on trust.

• Size: 25 to 28 cm
• Weight: 5 to 8 kg
• Temperament: Calm, loyal, independent
• Suitable for: Adults, calm people, indoor living
• Needs: Careful grooming, respect for space, early socialization

💛 The Lhasa Apso is a spiritual and loyal companion, perfect for a serene and respectful home.

🐶 18. Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher, nicknamed “the monkey dog,” is a German breed with an atypical, very expressive face. This small, compact, muscular dog is full of humor, energy, and curiosity. It is often described as an endearing little clown, always ready to have fun. Very loyal and sometimes possessive of its owner, it can be wary of strangers, but remains a wonderful companion at home. The Affenpinscher is lively, alert, and requires firm and kind training to channel its energy.

• Size: 23 to 30 cm
• Weight: 3 to 6 kg
• Temperament: Expressive, playful, alert
• Suitable for: Active people, households without young children
• Needs: Varied activities, socialization, reassuring environment

💛 A funny and lively little dog, with a real personality to discover every day.

🐩 19. Welsh Corgi Pembroke

The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small sheepdog originating from Wales, made famous by the Queen of England. Despite its short legs, it is an active, hardworking, and intelligent dog. It is also affectionate, sociable, and very attached to its family. The Corgi is ideal for active homes, families with children, and can live in apartments if sufficiently exercised. It loves to learn, please, and be involved in its owners' lives.

• Size: 25 to 30 cm
• Weight: 9 to 12 kg
• Temperament: Sociable, lively, intelligent
• Suitable for: Families, active people, urban or rural life
• Needs: Daily activity, attention to weight gain, positive education

💛 The Corgi is a small, regal dog, as endearing as it is energetic, who loves to take part in all your adventures.

🐕 20. Australian Terrier

The Australian Terrier is a small, hardy, energetic, and intelligent dog, originally from… Australia, as its name suggests. It was developed for hunting pests on farms, but quickly established itself as an excellent companion dog. It is loyal, courageous, and always up for an activity or a walk. It also enjoys quiet time with its family. Its strong character requires early and consistent training, but it offers great loyalty in return.

• Size: 23 to 28 cm
• Weight: 5 to 7 kg
• Temperament: Determined, loyal, energetic
• Suitable for: Active owners, country or city life with activity
• Needs: Regular walks, structured framework, presence

💛 The Australian Terrier is a sturdy little companion, ideal for households on the move.

🐾 Conclusion: Choosing your little companion carefully

Small dogs offer a variety of personalities and needs. Among them, the Chihuahua stands out as the smallest breed in the world, sometimes weighing less than a kilogram. Other breeds, such as the Miniature Dachshund, the Bichon Frise, or the Shih Tzu, also remain small throughout their lives.

Choosing the “best” small dog depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you’re looking for an affectionate and calm companion, the Maltese or the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may be ideal options. For those looking for a more energetic and playful dog, the Jack Russell Terrier or the Yorkshire Terrier are worth considering.

Small dogs have several advantages: they are easy to transport, adapt well to apartment living, require less food, and are often very affectionate. However, it is essential to consider their specific needs. For example, some breeds, such as the Jack Russell Terrier, need a lot of exercise, while others, such as the Shih Tzu, require regular grooming.

When it comes to health, some small breeds are particularly robust. The Jack Russell Terrier, for example, is known for its vitality and resilience. However, as with all dogs, special attention must be paid to their well-being, particularly with regard to diet, exercise, and regular veterinary care.

In short, adopting a small dog is a decision that must be carefully considered. By taking into account your lifestyle, your environment, and the specific needs of each breed, you can find the ideal companion that will bring you joy and affection every day.

🐶 Discover our selection for small dogs

Have you found the breed that suits you? Now all you have to do is welcome it in the best conditions! At Mon Petit Chihuahua , we have selected products specially designed for the comfort, safety and well-being of small dogs: fitted harnesses, compact transport bags, cozy baskets, cute and useful accessories...

👉 Discover the store and equip your companion with products adapted to his size… and his style 🐾

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