Introduction:
From my experience with small dog breeds, choosing the perfect one starts by understanding how AKC groups classify little dogs by personality, activity level, and coat type. Many people assume they must constantly work off high energy. But most are suitable for apartment life, even though not all are lap warmers.
Some personalities are tough as nails, especially certain breeds like Dachshunds. And small terriers that enjoy country life, the opportunity to run, and being part of a family. Homes with young children should ensure the dog has space to be alone. When necessary, and it’s wise to research breeds that fit your lifestyle. Because in fact some are too delicate to compete with a boisterous household and prefer quieter environments.
As a playful nod to Shakespeare, though little, they are fierce, showing big personalities that are smart, playful, and loving, always ready to protect their people from strangers and other threats. When you start looking for a small-sized dog to love, remember that the biggest personalities often come in the smallest packages. With a wide range of smaller-sized breeds to choose from.
I’ve helped clients by keeping it easy with a list of the most popular options in Australia, covering history, temperament, common breed diseases, conditions. And other interesting facts as a practical guide to finding the right small dog for your family.
Cute and compact, there are a lot of types, and no two are exactly alike, from the best toy choices that fit a household. Where people think only large breeds belong in a yard, bounding around. However, small dogs prove that size doesn’t limit immense loyalty, affection, or charm.
These pint-sized companions bring warmth to a cozy apartment or a sprawling suburban home, thanks to adaptability and intelligence. And endearing personalities that make them favorites around the world. By definition, they’re weighing under 22 lbs, with toy dogs as a category classified between 5 and 12 lbs. This guide helps you explore various breeds and decide what’s right for you.
| Breed | Temperament Highlights | Size (Weight & Height) | Family/Lifestyle Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miniature Schnauzer | Alert, intelligent, and highly protective. Known for being fearless watchdogs and very devoted to their families. | 11–20 lbs; 12–14 inches | Excellent for active families and apartment living due to moderate energy levels and manageable size. Requires consistent training. |
| Dachshund | Brave, curious, and can be quite vocal. Possesses a strong prey drive but is extremely loyal and affectionate with its family. | Up to 11 lbs (miniature) or 16–32 lbs (standard); 5–9 inches | Best for families that can provide a fenced-in area and are mindful of their delicate backs (avoid jumping/stairs). Great watchdog. |
| Chihuahua | Tiny in size but with an oversized personality. Bold, alert, and very loyal to their chosen person/family, often acting as effective deterrents with their bark. | Up to 6 lbs; 5–8 inches | Ideal for singles, couples, or families with older, respectful children due to their delicate nature. Adapts well to apartment living. |
| Pomeranian | Energetic, curious, bold, and can be a bit bossy, but intensely loyal. Their alertness makes them excellent watchdogs. | 3–7 lbs; 6–7 inches | Great for families or individuals who can provide consistent training and don’t mind a vocal companion. Thrives on human interaction. |
| Cairn Terrier | Spirited, intelligent, and fearless. Originally bred to hunt vermin in the Scottish Highlands, they are sturdy and love a good adventure. | 13–18 lbs; 9–10 inches | Good for active families with room to explore. Requires a firm leader and early socialization, especially around other small pets due to high prey drive. |
| Jack Russell Terrier | High-energy, intelligent, and famously fearless with a high prey drive. They need a lot of physical and mental stimulation. | 13–17 lbs; 10–15 inches | Best for experienced, very active owners or families who can provide substantial daily exercise and consistent training. May not be ideal with other small pets. |
| Maltese | Gentle and playful, yet brave and alert. They form strong bonds and thrive on companionship, acting as a great little alarm system. | Up to 7 lbs; 7–9 inches | Perfect lap dog for calmer households, seniors, or families with older children who can handle them gently. Requires regular grooming. |
Small Dog Breeds overview:
Chihuahua Small Dog Breeds:
People use the Spanish name Chihuahueño for the Chihuahua, a Mexican toy dog that ranks among the smallest dog breeds in the world. The name comes from the Mexican state of Chihuahua, where this small dog breed became a beloved companion animal. Despite their size, they are famous for a big personality.
Fans often call them Chis and praise them for their loving nature, quick trust, and strong bonds with their families. From my own experience, they make excellent companions and true lap dogs, always wanting to stay close. Old documents show that conquistadors in the 16th century noticed small dogs in the region that later became common house pets in the early 20th century.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) officially recognized the breed in 1904. These little dogs usually top out around 6 pounds, stand 5–8 inches tall, and may have long-haired Chihuahuas or short coats. Another key trait is their skull shapes, known as apple head and deer head, which I often explain to new owners when helping them choose the right fit.
Pomeranian Small Dog Breeds:
The Pomeranians we see today come from the Spitz family of sled dog breeds like the Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Chow Chow, and Samoyed, making them a miniaturized descendant of powerful working dogs. According to the American Pomeranian Club, people originally used Pomeranians for herding, and they once weighed up to 30 pounds.
Over time, breeders reduced their size, creating one of the smallest dog breeds today. Now, this toy breed stands just 6–7 inches in height and weighs 3–7 pounds in weight, yet still carries strong lineage and ancestry. From my experience with this small dog, that careful size reduction never removed their bold spirit.
Modern Pomeranians display stunning colors and patterns, including tri-color, sable, brindle, merle, white, and black coats. Their appearance features a foxlike face, thick scruff around the neck, a square body, and a fluffy, double coat that defines their physical traits. These playful, peppy pups love keeping their paws moving, showing a bright mind that stays engaged.
With a peppy personality, the delightful Pom becomes a lively bestie whose love language is quality time. In daily life, I’ve found them energetic, alert natured, and deeply affectionate, making them an ideal companion. Their temperament, behavior, and intelligent, active style reflect a true domestic dog with a proud fluffy coat legacy.
Yorkshire Terrier Small Dog Breeds:
The Yorkie, also called the Yorkshire Terrier, may look tiny, but this spunky and entertaining companion has a serious past. Before becoming a popular lapdog, Scottish weavers trained this breed to chase rodents in noisy textile mills after moving to England in the mid-1800s, according to the Yorkshire Terrier Club of America.
From my hands-on experience, that working background still shows in how alert and responsive these dogs are at home, even when they relax beside you. A full-grown Yorkie is 7–8 inches tall, weighs up to 7 pounds, and has a confident attitude that ignores its small stature. The most notable physical characteristic is the long, straight, blue, and tan hair, often trimmed short into a fashionable haircut.
This sprite and spirited dog is fiery yet loyal, clearly clever and outgoing, and these pups carry a huge personality in a super small frame. With proper care, they often enjoy 11–15 years of life, and in my experience, their energetic and feisty personality stays strong well into adulthood.
Shih Tzu Small Dog Breeds:
Breeders in Tibet developed the Shih Tzu as a furry companion centuries ago. Later, the American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed in 1969. People call them little lion dogs because their name represents strength. According to the Shih Tzu Club, Buddhist communities carefully bred them to resemble lions.
Imperial rulers kept them to alert their homes to visitors with a sharp bark, giving them a role beyond beauty. Over time, breeders in China crossed this working guardian dog with Pugs and Pekingese, creating a calm companion that stays deeply people-focused and emotionally aware.
Today’sShih Tzu is active and friendly, usually weighing 9–16 pounds, a healthy weight range, with an average height of 10 inches. Their look stands out with long fur, smooth fur, a squished muzzle, pronounced underbite, short floppy ears, round heads, bulbous eyes, and expressive eyes.
Despite a royal legacy, this dog is very down-to-earth, playful, and charming, preferring cuddles over heavy exercise. In my experience as a handler, they thrive with caring pet parents who give full attention, and with proper care, enjoy a lifespan and life expectancy of 10–18 years.
Papillon Small Dog Breeds:
The Papillon gets its name from a French word meaning butterfly, and this Papillon dog breed truly reflects that charm. These small dogs have big ears with long wispy hairs that resemble butterfly wings, a look often depicted in artwork from the 16th century in Western Europe.
According to the Papillon Club of America (PCA), this elegant breed has remained one of the most popular family dogs and trusted canine companions even today. From my own experience, their alert expressions and graceful movements always catch attention in any home.
Built to adapt, Papillons stand 8–11 inches tall, weigh 5–10 pounds, and are compact yet highly adaptable. Their dainty stature and elegant coat suit any climate and any setting, which explains their lasting popularity as family pets and companion dogs. These happy, friendly dogs love spending time with humans, show strong intelligence, and maintain an active nature.
I’ve seen them excel in the agility ring, and many also serve as therapy dogs and service dogs. With a size, weight, and height that fit modern living, and a long lifespan of 14TO16YEAR years, also noted as 8-11INCHES, they balance beauty and purpose effortlessly.
Toy Poodle Small Dog Breeds:
From my time living with a Toy Poodle, the first thing that stands out is how smartest they feel among dog breeds, while staying endlessly entertaining. Though just 10 inches tall and usually 4–6 pounds in Weight, this dog’s big personality easily fills a room. They are naturally playful, often acting like a best friend rather than just a pet.
The breed’s reputation traces back through France, but historically links to Standard Poodles from Germany, where duck hunting shaped their sharp minds. Over time, breeders developed Toy and Miniature Poodles from the larger Standard Poodle, and they still show strong working-dog intelligence today, according to The Poodle Club of America.
Living with one also teaches you the value of routine and care. A tiny yet super smart companion, the breed’s characteristic curls need daily upkeep, something many pet parents quickly learn through daily grooming.
In return, you get an eager-to-please dog that’s easy to train, surprisingly sturdy for 4–6 pounds, and emotionally tuned in. With a Life Expectancy of 10–18 year, this isn’t a short-term bond—it’s a long one that rewards patience, consistency, and affection.
Maltese dog Small Dog Breeds:
Small dog breed lovers often discover the Maltese through its graceful presence and instantly recognizable luxurious floor-length white coat paired with a naturally playful personality. Origin stories point to the Mediterranean island of Malta, where these dogs became loyal companions over centuries, earning mentions in Ancient Greek texts and Roman literature.
Known as tiny white dogs, they remain highly adaptable, charming, and deeply bonded as devoted companions, traits I’ve personally seen make them thrive in both quiet homes and busy households.Often called the ancient Maltese, this glamorous little dog grew into a popular breed worldwide, admired for elegance as much as temperament.
Classified by Size as Toy, with a Height of 7 to 9 inches and a Weight of 4 to 6 pounds, they balance delicacy with confidence. Their Coat stays Long, requiring care, but that grooming time strengthens trust something experience teaches you quickly when sharing daily life with this breed.
Bichon Frise Small Dog Breeds:
If you’ve ever seen a Bichon Frise among stuffed animals, it’s easy to spot the poofy white one that could be mistaken for a plushie. Beyond their cute exterior, these dogs are surprisingly intelligent and make loyal companions. From my experience, they truly shine when exercising, learning new tricks, and spending time with their favorite person, that’s you.
Their energy and playful nature can instantly brighten up a home, making them more than just a charming sight. Despite their small size, their weight ranges from 12 to 18 pounds, and their height is about 9.5–11.5 inches.
With a life expectancy of 14–15 years, Bichons offer a long-term bond and consistent joy. Whether you’re teaching them new activities or simply enjoying quiet time together, these loyal companions bring endless love and intelligence into daily life.
Affenpinscher Small Dog Breeds:
The Affenpinscher is a German breed, a small toy dog of Pinscher type, originally developed as a mouser but now loved as a companion worldwide. This rare small-dog breed is known for its spirited, terrier-like personality and monkey-like face, earning the nickname The Monkey Dog.
Originating in 17th-century Germany, these dogs were bred to hunt rats in homes, stables, and shops, according to the Affenpinscher Club of America (ACA). Over time, the working dog became a beloved companion, combining a quirky appearance with bold, confident, and animated behavior.
Physically, compact dogs stand about 9–12 inches tall and weigh 7–10 pounds, with a scruffy coat that can be black, gray, silver, or red. Their expressive face, short muzzle, and dark, round eyes give them a unique monkey-like appearance. Curious and clever, these small dogs thrive on attention from pet parents, needing consistent training, positive reinforcement, and careful guidance.
Whether you’re around the home for most of the day or engaging them in activities. The Affenpinscher proves to be a big dog in a little package. With Weight Male 7-10 pounds for males. A,nd 7-10 pounds for females, Height Male 9-11.5 inches Female 9-11.5 inches for females, and a Life Expectancy 12 to 15 years.
Brussels Griffon Small Dog Breeds:
The Brussels Griffon is a small dog with a one-of-a-kind look that instantly catches the eye. Their flat face, big round eyes, and dashing beard give them a distinctive appearance. But they are more than just cute. With a lively, smart, and slightly goofy personality, these dogs are full of energy and joy. From my experience, their playful and charming nature makes them wonderful companions, especially for families.
These dogs form strong bonds with their family and are famously known as Velcro dogs. Always wanting to stay close to their loved ones. Whether greeting you at the door or curling up nearby. The Brussels Griffon combines a unique look with affectionate, entertaining behavior, making every day a little brighter.
Weight:
- Male: 8-10 pounds
Female:
- 8-10 pounds
Height:
- Male: 7-10 inches
- Female: 7-10 inches
Life Expectancy:
- 12-15 years
Australian Terrier Small Dog Breeds:
The Australian Terrier may be short in stature, but it has a big personality and is a lively companion. This terrier originated in Australia in the 1800s through cross-breeding of small terrier breeds from England, including the Cairn, Skye, and Yorkshire Terrier.
The goal was to create a dog with agility and tenacity to assist Australian ranchers. And farmers in protecting property from rodents and other predators. By the 1850s, the breed had its own identity. And became the first native breed to gain recognition in the land down under. Later acknowledged by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1960.
A full-grown Australian Terrier is 10–11 inches tall and has an average weight of 15–20 pounds. These high-energy pups are best suited for active pet parents who can provide plenty of exercise and attention. While exuberant pups are easy to groom, their high energy levels. Ameans And independent nature mean they need lots of training and playtime. This combination of agility, charm, and spirited personality makes them a truly rewarding companion.
French Bulldog Small Dog Breeds:
The French Bulldog is a breed of nonsporting dog that was developed in France in the late 1800s from crosses between small native dogs. And small Bulldogs of a toy variety. This small counterpart of the Bulldog stands out with large, erect ears. Are rounded at the tips and resemble those of a bat.
Its skull is flat between ears. And domed above eyes, giving it a unique expression that is alert rather than morose, unlike the Bulldog, whose nickname is sourmug. Frenchies are valued companions. And watchdogs with a short fine coat that comes in several colors like brindle, grayish brown (fawn), or white.
These easygoing, happy little dogs make loving companions with a good-natured temperament, bright personality, and compact size. Their charm and playful behavior have made. Them one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S., combining style, loyalty, and fun in one small package.
Havanese Small Dog Breeds:
The Havanese is an energetic and entertaining toy breed that belongs to the Barbichon family of dogs, which also includes the Bichon Frise, Bolognese, and Maltese. Full-grown, they stand under a foot tall and weigh 7–3 pounds. Once called the Havana Silk Dog or Spanish Silk Poodle, the Havanese is the only dog breed native to Cuba.
According to the Havanese Club of America, the ancestors of today’s breed were brought from Spain in the 1600s. A nd during the Cuban Revolution in the 1950s, some Cubans fled to the U.S., bringing these delightful dogs along.These doting, delightful dogs love attention. And are cheery, small dogs that act as bite-sized mood boosters.
They make a great fit for almost any home, especially one that is lively and social. From my experience, their playful nature and affectionate personality. Man ake the Havanese one of the most charming and rewarding companions for families and individuals alike.
Japanese Chin Small Dog Breeds:
Japanese Chin Known for its silky fur, broad head, short muzzle, and widely spaced eyes, this perfect lap dog stands 8–11 inches tall and weighs no more than 11 pounds. Despite its name, which is a misnomer, the Japanese Chin Club of America (JCCA) notes that this breed often originates in China, though the true roots of this ancient dog remain murky.
Historically, Japanese Chin were cherished by Buddhist monks and gifted to nobility, becoming common sights in Imperial palaces. From personal experience, these dogs combine elegance, affection, and playful energy, making them both a charming companion and a lively indoor friend. Their small size and gentle temperament perfectly suit lapdog life while still allowing for bursts of energetic play.
Dachshund Small Dog Breeds:
Dachshunds, also called hot dogs, wiener dogs, or Doxies, are known for their long silhouette, short legs, and muscular legs, giving them a truly brave, energetic personality. Always on the lookout, these dogs were bred in 18th-century Germany as badger dogs. Their name comes from German words dachs (badger) and hund (dog).
Dachshunds are independent hunters of dangerous prey, with forward-flopping ears protecting ear canals from foreign material in brush, and a curled-up tail that signals human hunting partners. With a long-and-low body, charming nature, and tenacious attitude, they’ve become one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S..
These dogs come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and coat types. Standard Dachshunds weigh 16–32 pounds and stand 8–9 inches tall, while Miniature Dachshunds are under 11 pounds and 5–6 inches tall. Known as lively dogs with a long body, deep chest, and tapering muzzle, they can be fearless, relentless, and reckless, but with sufficient exercise, they are also quiet house dogs.
Available in two sizes (standard, miniature) and three coat types (smooth, longhaired, wirehaired), they need coat care, daily opportunities to run and investigate, and caution to avoid activities that stress the back due to intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Small Dog Breeds:
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a toy dog that originated in England in the 1900s from the English Toy Spaniel. This small, spaniel-like dog has a gentle, sweet expression and a silky coat that comes in four color patterns: Blenheim, ruby, black and tan, and tricolor. Known for their sweet, gentle, and loving nature, these dogs make ideal house dogs and companions for children and seniors.
They have moderate energy levels and enjoy exploring, retrieving, and swimming. Regular brushing and occasional bathing are needed for proper coat care, and owners should be aware of susceptible health problems like syringomyelia and mitral valve heart disease, which require regular screening.
Cavaliers are popular family dogs because of their small size and love of people. They were originally bred as companion dogs and thrive when they can enjoy the company of their families. These dogs are kind, loyal, and need constant company since they get upset being left alone.
They are adaptable, happy, and do well in both city living and country living, provided they receive plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Their average height is 30-33 cm, average weight is 5.4-8.2 kg, average lifespan is over 12 years, minimum exercise per day is 1 hour, coat length is medium, and minimum cost per month is £70.
Chinese Crested Small Dog Breeds:
The Chinese Crested is a unique dog loved for its hairless appearance and elegant, graceful nature. This toy breed stands 11–13 inches tall and usually weighs 8–12 pounds, making it perfect for small spaces. This breed comes in two varieties. The hairless type has smooth skin and silky hair on the head, feet, and tail. The powderpuff type has a full coat of long, soft locks.
Despite the name, this breed likely did not originate in China. Genetic studies suggest it came from Mexico. Over the centuries, breeders shaped these dogs into affectionate companions. Their delicate size and gentle temperament make them ideal for families seeking a lively but loving pet.
Both hairless and powderpuff Chinese Cresteds fit easily into most homes. They bring charm, elegance, and playful energy. They also need very little space.
Coton de Tulear Small Dog Breeds:
The Coton de Tulear is an easygoing and sunny island dog with a small. And the fluffy breed looks that reminds many of a cotton ball. Named after the port city of Toliara in Madagascar. This breed originates from dogs that likely arrived by ship in the 15th century. And were bred with local wild dogs. When France colonized Madagascar in the 1700s, this rare breed became the must-have dog for nobles. Earning the nickname Royal Dog of Madagascar, according to the United States Coton de Tulear Club (USCTC).
Full-grown Coton de Tulear dogs stand 9–11 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 8–15 pounds. usually having primarily white coats, sometimes with spots or slightly grayer in color. As a Toy breed group, these toy breeds are small companion dogs or lap dogs who love attention, are friendly, and affectionate. They don’t require large amounts of exercise.
Loyal and loving dogs, they thrive on family life and make excellent family pets. Intelligent dogs who are keen to learn respond well to training, especially reward-based techniques. Which makes teaching them relatively easy and enjoyable for both dogs and pet parents.
Miniature Pinscher Small Dog Breeds:
The Miniature Pinscher, often called Min Pins, is known as the king of toy breeds for good reason. Despite being only about 1 foot tall at the shoulder and weighing no more than 11 pounds, these regal, commanding dogs have a big personality.
Miniature Pinschers are energetic and confident dogs. They show boundless curiosity during walks and playtime. As a result, every outing feels like an adventure. Hundreds of years ago in Germany, people used them to keep rats out of barnyards.
Contrary to common belief, they are not mini Doberman Pinschers. Instead, the Miniature Pinscher Club of America states that they come from Dachshund and Italian Greyhound lines. These dogs show strong intelligence and a bold nature. They act as lively companions and alert little guardians. As a result, they suit families who enjoy playful small dogs.
Miniature Schnauzer Small Dog Breeds:
The Miniature Schnauzer is a descended old breed of hardworking German dogs originally used to pull carts, herd livestock, and hunt rats. Known for being friendly and whip-smart, this adaptable family pet is perfect for both energetic and calm households.
The first image of this breed appears in the late 1400s, according to the American Miniature Schnauzer Club (AMSC). Their long beards inspired the breed name: Schnauze, a German word for muzzle, which reflects their alert and intelligent expression.These small dogs generally stand 12–14 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 10–20 pounds, making them the smallest of the three Schnauzer sizes, alongside the Giant Schnauzer and Standard Schnauzer.
Despite their small stature, they are sturdy, muscular dogs with a sharp, alert outlook. Their eyebrows, moustache, and leg hair give them a distinctive appearance, blending charm with practicality. Owning a Miniature Schnauzer means having a watchful and playful companion that is full of personality and loyalty.
Final Thoughts:
People love small dog breeds for their compact size, which makes them ideal for apartments and homes with limited space. They usually cost less to feed and care for, and many have friendly, affectionate temperaments that build strong bonds with families.
Small dogs can be easier to groom and handle. Their playful energy and loyal nature make them great companions for people of all ages. Every dog needs proper training, exercise, and love. Many small breeds offer joy, closeness, and adaptability, fitting naturally into busy lifestyles and creating lasting friendships.
FAQs?
Popular small dog breeds include French Bulldogs, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Shih Tzus. Families around the world love these breeds for their playful personalities, apartment-friendly size, easy care, and strong family bonds..
Small dog breeds are perfect for families seeking compact, affectionate, and low-maintenance companions. Their manageable size, friendly temperament, and playful energy fit apartments. And busy lifestyles, while offering loyalty, fun, and emotional support to children, seniors, and single owners alike.
The best time to adopt a small dog is when your family can commit time, care, and training. Puppies or adult dogs thrive with stability, routine, and attention, ensuring they grow happy and healthy. And socially well-adjusted for lifelong companionship.
You can find small dog breeds through local shelters, breed-specific rescues, reputable adoption websites, and certified breeders. Always prioritize adoption, check health records, and meet the dog to ensure a safe, loving match for your family.
Small dogs suit apartment dwellers, busy professionals, families with children, seniors, and first-time dog owners. These dogs show a loving nature and need little space. They adapt easily to different energy levels. As a result, they offer companionship, emotional support, and daily entertainment.
This makes them a great fit for many lifestyles.
