Top 62 Small Dog Breeds for Every Home

Ever dreamed of a furry friend that fits perfectly in your arms, a pint-sized pal with a personality as big as all outdoors? You're not alone! The world of small dog breeds is a delightful maze of tiny tails and adorable snouts, and if you're navigating the 'kinds of small dogs' for the first time, it can be a bit overwhelming. From the sassy 'mini dog types' to the fluffy 'toy dog breeds,' there's a little canine companion for every lifestyle. But with so many small dog breeds to choose from, how do you find the best breed for your family?

We're here to guide you through the wonderful world of little dog species, exploring everything from canine characteristics to breeds that don't shed, helping you discover the perfect pint-sized pooch to bring joy and laughter into your home. As a team of long time dog lovers, we've compiled this guide to help you make an informed decision and find the best small dog for you.

Top 62 Small Dog Breeds

Chihuahua

Height: 6-9 inches

A classic example of a little dog species, known for its feisty spirit and compact size.

Pomeranian

Height: 8-11 inches

One of the most popular mini dog breeds, celebrated for its fluffy coat and bold personality.

Shih Tzu

Height: 8-11 inches

A timeless miniature dog breed that makes a great companion, especially for families seeking a gentle breed dog small.

Pug

Height: 10-13 inches

This dog breed small dog is loved for its playful demeanor and distinctive, wrinkled face.

French Bulldog

Height: 11-13 inches

A top small dog breed that balances a sturdy build with an affectionate temperament.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Height: 12-13 inches

Often referred to as one of the best small dog breeds for family life due to its kind and loving nature.

Miniature Dachshund

Height: 5-6 inches

A unique mini dog type with a long body and an energetic, adventurous spirit.

Boston Terrier

Height: 11-15 inches

A great small breed dog that is as smart as it is affectionate, making it an ideal urban pet.

Maltese

Height: 8-10 inches

A tiny dog breed admired for its hypoallergenic coat, placing it among small dog breeds that don’t shed.

Yorkshire Terrier

Height: 8-9 inches

Recognized as one of the best little dog breeds for its spirited character and petite size.

Toy Poodle

Height: 10 inches or less.

A smart mini dog type that offers a hypoallergenic coat and versatile intelligence.

Bichon Frise

Height: 9.5-11.5 inches

This small canine breed is known for its cheerful personality and low-shedding coat, making it a standout choice.

Havanese

Height: 8.5-11.5 inches

A delightful companion in the realm of mini dog breeds, perfect for both first-time and seasoned pet owners.

Italian Greyhound

Height: 13-15 inches

A graceful example of a little dog species, ideal for those who appreciate elegance in a compact frame.

Jack Russell Terrier

Height: 10-15 inches

An energetic dog breeds small example, known for its lively personality and determination.

Miniature Pinscher

Height: 10-12.5 inches

A bold breed dog small that packs a lot of character into its small stature.

Papillon

Height: 8-11 inches

Named for its butterfly-like ears, this toy dog breed combines elegance with a spirited personality.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Height: 10-12 inches

While sometimes on the larger side, many consider this a small dog breeds small option due to its charming build and character.

Chinese Crested

Height: 11-13 inches

A unique mini dog type, available in both hairless and powderpuff varieties, adding a quirky twist to the list.

Japanese Chin

Height: 8-11 inches

This aristocratic little dog species stands out with its distinctive, refined look.

Scottish Terrier

Height: 10 inches

A small small dog breed with a dignified and spirited demeanor, making it a perennial favorite.

Silky Terrier

Height: 9-10 inches

A lively small canine breed known for its agility and friendly nature.

Affenpinscher

Height: 9-11.5 inches

A playful and curious breed dog small dog that provides plenty of entertainment and love.

Brussels Griffon

Height: 7-11 inches

A charming small dog breed small known for its expressive face and engaging personality.

Miniature Schnauzer

Height: 12-14 inches

Among the best small dog breeds for allergy sufferers, thanks to its low-shedding coat and spirited intelligence.

Norfolk Terrier

Height: 9-10 inches

A compact terrier with a friendly disposition, representing a perfect choice for good small dog breeds.

West Highland White Terrier (Westie)

Height: 10-11 inches

An all-time favorite in the world of nice small dog breeds, offering both charm and resilience.

Cairn Terrier

Height: 10-12 inches

A playful mini dog type with a robust personality and an adventurous spirit.

Australian Terrier

Height: 10-11 inches

This small good dog breed is known for its bold and independent character.

Toy Fox Terrier

Height: 8.5-11.5 inches

A compact and agile example of toy dog breeds, perfect for active households.

English Toy Spaniel

Height: 9-10 inches

A gentle, affectionate breed dog small dog that exudes classic charm and elegance.

Toy Manchester Terrier

Height: 10-12 inches

A sleek mini dog type perfect for those who appreciate both style and vivacity.

Lhasa Apso

Height: 10-11 inches

An ancient little dog species known for its loyal nature and protective instincts.

Sealyham Terrier

Height: 10-11 inches

A lesser-known small canine breed with a devoted personality and a dash of spunk.

Miniature Bull Terrier

Height: 10-14 inches

A smaller version of the robust Bull Terrier, blending cuteness with playful mischief.

Russian Toy Terrier 

Height: 8-11 inches

One of the really small dog breeds, celebrated for its delicate build and lively attitude.

Rat Terrier

Height: 10-18 inches (miniature varieties are on the smaller end of this range)

A smart and energetic small dog breed that makes for a fun and engaging companion.

Miniature American Eskimo Dog

Height: 9-12 inches

A fluffy mini dog type that stands out for its alertness and affectionate nature.

Coton de Tulear

Height: 9-11 inches

This dog breed small dog is cherished for its soft, cotton-like coat and joyful disposition.

Bolognese

Height: 10-12 inches

A calm and loving small canine breed that adapts beautifully to indoor living.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Height: 8-11 inches

Recognized for its unique, low-slung build and friendly demeanor among small breed dog types.

Basenji

Height: 16-17 inches (on the edge of small/medium)

Known as the “barkless” dog, this mini dog breed is full of character and intrigue.

Japanese Spitz

Height: 12-15 inches

A compact and fluffy small dog breed option celebrated for its loyalty.

Pekingese

Height: 6-9 inches

A regal mini dog type with a flowing mane, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of royalty.

Shiba Inu

Height: 13.5-16.5 inches (on the edge of small/medium)

Often bordering on medium dog types, this breed is still considered a fantastic example of small dog breeds small due to its spirited personality.

Tibetan Spaniel

Height: 10 inches

A smart, alert little dog species that adapts well to various living situations.

Japanese Terrier

Height: 8-13 inches

A delightful and lesser-known mini dog type with a friendly, approachable nature.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

Height: 13-15 inches

A unique hound with an unmistakable look, adding diversity to our list of small dog breeds.

Miniature American Shepherd

Height: 13-18 inches (on the edge of small/medium)

A compact herder that, while sometimes listed among medium breed dogs, fits perfectly into our world of small breed dog types.

American Hairless Terrier

Height: 12-16 inches

An intriguing, nearly hairless small dog breed ideal for those seeking a low-shedding pet.

Mini Goldendoodle

Height: Varies, but smaller varieties can be 10-15 inches.

A trendy mix that combines the intelligence of a poodle with the friendly nature of a retriever, making it a standout among mini dog breeds.

Biewer Terrier

Height: 7-11 inches

A rare and striking small canine breed known for its long, silky coat and gentle temperament.

Maltipoo

Height: 8-14 inches

A popular designer dog that blends traits of the Maltese and Poodle, a true gem among mini dog types.

Yorkipoo

Height: 7-15 inches

This fashionable hybrid of Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle is a wonderful example of good dog breeds small.

Pomapoo

Height: 8-10 inches

A delightful mix of Pomeranian and Poodle that fits perfectly into the category of mini dog breeds.

Chiweenie

Height: 6-10 inches

A spirited cross between Chihuahua and Dachshund, this little dog species is both energetic and endearing.

Puggle

Height: 8-15 inches.

A charming mix of Pug and Beagle, ideal for those seeking a fun and friendly toy dog breed.

Shorkie

Height: 6-14 inches

Combining Shih Tzu and Yorkshire Terrier, this breed dog small dog offers affection and energy in equal measure.

Cavachon

Height: 12-13 inches.

A blend of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Bichon Frise, frequently listed among the best small dog breeds for families.

Pomsky

Height: 10-15 inches.

A striking mix that often qualifies as a mini dog type, merging a playful demeanor with an eye-catching appearance.

Morkie

Height: 7-10 inches

A hybrid of Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier, highly favored among those looking for a good small dog breed.

Teacup Poodle

Height: Under 9 inches.

A petite version of the Toy Poodle, perfect for those who adore an extra-tiny mini dog type.

So, there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the enchanting realm of miniature dog breeds. Whichever small dog breed you are attracted to, remember that each little pup brings a unique blend of love and companionship. Considering factors like shedding (for those seeking small dog breeds that don't shed), temperament, and lifestyle compatibility is key to finding the small dog that fit your home. And ultimately, remember that the best is the one that brings the most joy to your family. We hope this exploration has helped you narrow down your search and opened your heart to the wonderful world of small dogs. Remember, responsible ownership means understanding the needs of your chosen breed, ensuring a happy and healthy life for your new furry friend. Happy tail wags and puppy love!"