40 Adorable Small Dog Breeds We Love

Small dogs are playful and snuggly. They also love to spend time with their humans. Here are our absolute favorite small dog breeds.

By: Erin Gifford

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Cute and Cuddly Small Dogs

There’s just something special about small dog breeds. They’re cute, cuddly and affectionate. They love to play and spend time with their humans. They have energy to burn, but then they are all geared up for a snuggle session on the sofa. Ready to add a small dog to your family? Whether you live in the city or the 'burbs, we’ve got you covered with the right doggo to meet your needs.

From the dainty papillon that loves to spread kisses to the spunky miniature bull terrier that’s energetic and exuberant, we think you’ll find your match. There are designer dogs on this list, too — cross breeds that couldn’t get more cute and cuddly, like the cavapoo and yorkipoo. Adorable. Here are 40 of our favorite small dog breeds, including toy dog breeds and miniature dog breeds.

Also See: What's the Best Dog Breed for You?

Welsh Corgi

Corgis have long been a popular small breed choice, in large part because of Queen Elizabeth II. Since she became queen 70+ years ago she has owned more than 30 corgis. While corgis can weigh up to 30 pounds, many still consider this sturdy pup to be a small breed dog, maybe because of its signature short legs. There are two separate breeds, the Cardigan Welsh corgi and the Pembroke Welsh corgi, but both are laid-back, fun-loving and eager to spend time with family.

Papillon

The papillon is a playful teacup-sized dog. As they say, he may be small, but he is mighty. This pup tops out at only 10 pounds, but he’s energetic and exuberant. The papillon derived its name from the butterfly look of its wing-shaped ears. This dainty dog has a long, silky coat and loves to freely spread kisses. The outgoing papillon is just as happy spending time on your lap as he is running laps around the backyard.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The noble and affable cavalier King Charles spaniel tops out at just 18 pounds, yet he’s one of the largest of the small breed dogs. These gentle pups are good with children, they are eager to please, and they rarely bark. This friendly breed loves to shower owners with affection, making the cavalier King Charles spaniel a good choice for empty nesters in a quiet house. According to the American Kennel Club, this breed excels as a therapy dog thanks to its warm, loving nature.

Also See: The 20 Best Dog Breeds for Families With Kids

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont terrier is a small terrier breed that hails from Scotland and dates back to the 1700s. What distinguishes this intelligent and independent pup from the other terriers is his very long body and plumage of fur on top of his head. This sturdy small breed is equally well-suited for life on the farm and life in the city. This resilient dog loves to cuddle but is better suited for more predictable interactions of older children.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire terrier is the most popular toy dog breed in the United States, according to Dogtime. It’s true, everyone loves the "Yorkie." This toy pup is not the smallest in the terrier breed, though he does max out at a mere 7 pounds. For its petite size, the Yorkshire terrier is bold and confident, even feisty at times. Still, this hypoallergenic pup is a lover, not a fighter, and eager to be a good family companion.

Also See: 20 Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds That Won't Shed All Over Your House

Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan klee kai is an energetic small breed dog whose name literally means "small dog" in an Inuit dialect. This pup closely resembles a miniature husky, yet a standard klee kai only reaches a max of 20 pounds. A husky can weigh as much as 60 pounds. This dog is smart and curious, but he can be shy, especially around new people. This breed doesn’t like to bark a lot, but let’s just say, he can be chatty at times.

Fox Terrier

The fox terrier is loyal to his family and makes a good watchdog. Yes, this means that this scrappy pup likes to chase and bark. He likes to vocalize to express how he’s feeling and to get his owner’s attention, like when they’re on their phones. There are two kinds of fox terriers, including wire fox terriers and smooth fox terriers. The only real difference is their coats. Both small breeds have the same colorations and are equally energetic and devoted.

Shih Tzu

The shih tzu is a small breed dog known for being loyal and affectionate. He’s peppy and he loves to cuddle. He also likes to bark, so it’s not completely surprising that the word shih tzu means "little lion" in Mandarin. He may seem fierce, certainly quite spunky, but he’s a lover at heart. According to Dogtime, this breed just wants to be a loyal companion for life. He’ll follow you over to the couch for a snuggle or out to the park for a romp.

Brussels Griffon

In case you’re curious, yes, the Brussels griffon is named for its hometown, Brussels, Belgium. This small breed dog from across the pond is loyal and curious but also smart and fun-loving. This petite pooch tips the scales at 12 pounds and is a good family companion that can settle into an apartment as well as into a house with a big yard. These small hypoallergenic dogs are not prone to shedding, so that’s one more plus to this Belgian small dog breed.

Also See: The 15 Best Dog Breeds for Apartment Dwellers

Boston Terrier

The Boston terrier is a friendly and energetic small breed dog known for his signature black and white coat. Some say he looks like he’s sporting a tuxedo. These pups are quiet and good-natured, but they can get mouthy from time to time, especially if another dog steps into their space. Boston terriers are playful and eager to please, so they make good family dogs. They’re also tops for first-timers eager to have a small breed dog by their side.

Bichon Frise

It’s hard not to love a bichon frise. They are so cuddly and adorable with their fluffy white coats and shiny black eyes. This small breed dog is playful, gentle, affectionate and — best of all — not prone to barking, certainly not at 3 a.m. These furry doggos love a good snuggle and don’t need a lot of space for exercise. However, they do enjoy a stroll now and again to meet and greet neighbor pups on their block.

Cavapoo

If you’ve never heard of a cavapoo, you are not alone. However, this small breed dog that’s a cross between a cavalier King Charles spaniel and a poodle is straight-up adorable. This designer cross-breed is outgoing, energetic, affectionate and — did we mention? — adorable. The cavapoo has also been called a cavoodle and a cadoodle, but thankfully, the world settled on cavapoo. Adorable. This pup is quiet and adaptable, but daily exercise is good to keep barking to a minimum.

Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell terrier may be small, but he can pack a punch. He is lively, alert and energetic, but it’s no surprise, given he was bred for fox hunting. This fun-loving pooch is good as a family dog and is just as happy in the city as in the country. Just make sure to let this sturdy pup burn off energy with lots of daily exercise to keep his body and mind active.

Miniature Bull Terrier

It may come as no surprise to find that a small breed called a miniature bull terrier is known for being tough, independent and spunky. Native to England, this pup from across the pond is energetic and curious, eager to run and play, even hike. He may be petite, but he’s no lap dog. He likes to get outside, if only to dig up the yard at times, but this breed loves to be active with his humans.

American Hairless Terrier

The American hairless terrier is the only hairless breed native to the United States, according to Dogtime. This breed may be hairless, but they do still shed dander, so they are not entirely hypoallergenic. With no hair, this terrier can be prone to sunburn, so look for a pet-safe sunscreen, which should be used on this pup anytime he is outside. Given his playful and lively nature, the American hairless terrier (sometimes called AHT) enjoys his playtime outside.

American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo dog, also called an Eskie, is a small breed dog that comes in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard. These soft and fluffy pups are just begging for a cuddle. These dogs are loyal, energetic and wonderful companions, given their gentle and protective nature. The Eskie is also well-regarded as a smart and easy-to-train breed. Of note, this breed was once popular with the traveling circus for its agility tricks.

French Bulldog

French bulldogs love to play and spend active time with their humans, but they love their alone time, too. These small breed dogs are known to spend 12 to 14 hours a day eyes-closed in a good snooze. This small, compact dog is smart and brave but also affectionate and fun-loving. Frenchies don’t need loads of exercise — just a stroll around the block — and they don’t like to bark. They’d rather spend their time doting on their humans.

Chihuahua

For those who need to know, yes, the Chihuahua is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. This quick-witted and alert teacup pup is also the national symbol of Mexico. This breed may be small, but don’t let him fool you, he’s got a big personality. As in, he likes to bark, but it’s usually just because he’s being protective. They like attention and are not typically best for families with small children, though they are good for first-time dog owners.

Pug

Everybody loves a pug. Just look at that face. You can’t not smile when you look at that squinched-up face with the shiny eyes. This small breed dog hails from China and easily wins over humans with his charm and affectionate nature. These petite pooches max out at 20 pounds, but don’t let those little legs fool you. Pugs love to run, jump, play and swim. Yes, swim. Like second nature, pugs will begin to paddle when placed in the water. Don’t forget the dog life jacket.

Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a confident and lively dog that you can take anywhere, in your handbag. This pup tops out just seven pounds, so he’s a cinch to bring anywhere you want to go. He’s fluffy and adorable, too, so it’s no wonder the Pomeranian has become so popular in recent years. We all want a Pom, but keep your eyes on this one. He’s got a sizeable personality and thinks he can take on the big dogs, so he can be prone to barking.

Dachshund

The dachshund is one of the most widely recognized small breed dogs, better known as a "wiener dog" for its long body and short legs. Dachshunds can be good family dogs, but know that they like to bark, a lot. They were bred to be hunting dogs, so their bark can be loud, too. However, these pups are also curious, spirited and affectionate. Given their small size, they don’t need a big backyard, but they do love a good walk outside for fresh air and exercise.

Maltese

Like a lot of small breed dogs, the Maltese is known for being both gentle and spirited — as in, fearless and eager to give that German shepherd walking by a bark or two. The Maltese is playful, smart and adorable. Their fluffy, white fur is so soft, you won’t want to stop petting, and this pup will love you even more. The beloved Maltese has even been cross-bred to create such new breeds as the maltipoo (Maltese and poodle mix) and the morkie (Maltese and Yorkshire terrier mix).

Poodle

We all love poodles. They are seriously so cute. They are well-behaved, smart and good-natured. They are also playful and energetic, but they don’t like to bark to get their point across. They’re protective of their humans, ready when called on to watch over the children in the backyard. Poodles are a popular cross-breed choice, too. We know you’ve heard of a schnoodle (schnauzer and poodle mix) and a pugapoo (pug and poodle mix).

Lowchen

The lowchen is an even-tempered pooch that’s among the rarest breeds in the world. Its wavy coat can make him look more like a lion than a dog, giving him the nickname "little lion." This friendly pup is a wonderful companion, especially for city dwellers living in small apartments. He doesn’t need a lot of exercise, but a good frolic at the park will make him happy. He’ll then want to settle in for a snuggle on the sofa.

Havanese

Few people know that the Havanese is the national dog of Cuba. This friendly small breed dog that can weigh up to 13 pounds is actually the only dog breed native to Cuba. It’s hard not to love this pup’s silky hair and floppy ears. Even better, this pooch is just the right size for a cuddle. The Havanese is easy to train with a fun-loving personality. He’s loyal, too, and always eager to be right by the side of his human, even on his lap.

Cockapoo

The cutie cockapoo is a cross-breed, a mix between a cocker spaniel and a miniature poodle. Many consider the cockapoo to be among the first hybrid dogs, sometimes called "designer dogs." This small breed dog is affectionate, fun-loving and ready to play. These little dogs love to socialize, even with strangers, eager to give and receive love. They do well in apartments and in houses with backyards. Get them outside and keep them groomed. They need to be brushed four to five times a week.

Bedlington Terrier

The Bedlington terrier hails from across the pond, from a small mining town in England called Bedlington. This small dog was bred as a hunter, then was used in dog racing, so it’s no wonder this breed is so active and energetic. This pooch is loving, playful and eager to be the apple of your eye. This pup that looks curiously like a little lamb is good with kids, even strangers.

Chinese Crested

The Chinese crested is an adorable hairless breed that curiously originated from Africa, not China, as one might assume. This unusual-looking speckled pup has no hair, except for on his head, legs and tail. Still, he is hypoallergenic thanks to low dander and light shedding. This elegant pooch is a playful, fun-loving companion. He’s suited for both single life in the city and a family home in the suburbs. A pet-safe sunscreen is a must with this pup, as his hairless skin can burn in the sun.

Coton de Tulear

You may not have heard of a coton de Tulear — join the club — but you will quickly fall for this pint-sized pooch. This fluffy, white doggo with a happy-go-lucky personality will win you over in a heartbeat. This social and affectionate breed loves its humans, but may be sad when you leave the house. They’d prefer that you stay in for a cuddle session. This pup loves to get outside and play, but likes to be active indoors, too.

Japanese Chin

Not all small dogs like to bark, including the Japanese chin, a small dog breed known for its gentle and calm demeanor. This smart and sensitive dog is good as a family dog but also as a companion for a single in the city. This pup is easy-going and loving with those he knows well, but holds his cards close with strangers, taking time to warm up to new faces.

Pekingese

The Pekingese from China was once favored by royalty. This small breed dog can weigh up to 14 pounds. It’s also known to shed more than its share. Just look at that silky, luxurious coat. Their luscious manes have led them to be nicknamed "lion dogs." As for grooming, brush him daily to keep the tangles at bay. Pekingese pups are friendly, but also fearless. They are intelligent, loyal and don’t need much exercise, just a walk around the block.

Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa apso can easily be mistaken for a Havanese, maybe a bichon frise, but this small dog breed from Tibet is one of a kind. Interestingly, Lhasa is the city in Tibet where this pup originates and "apso" translates into "dog." This ancient breed once served as a watchdog in Tibetan palaces and monasteries. This pup can still stand watch — sounding an alarming bark from time to time — but he’s also content to snuggle up on the sofa.

Norwich Terrier

The Norwich terrier is one of the smallest breeds in the terrier family, tipping the scales with a weight of just 12 pounds. He’s a portable pup, too, which makes him a cinch to tote around when you run errands. He’s a loving and easy-going pooch that does well with kids, adults and even other pets in the household. The Norwich terrier may be petite, but he loves to play catch and burn off energy in the backyard. Socialize this pup on strolls around the neighborhood.

Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is an affectionate and loyal breed, but he can also be impatient, making him a better choice for adults, singles and dog owners with experience. Native to Japan, he’s also a quiet pup, unlikely to bark unless it's really necessary. The Shiba Inu is one of the world’s oldest breeds and was bred as a hunting dog. This alert and athletic dog loves to exercise, but be warned about fenced yards as this dog can be an escape artist.

Basenji

The basenji is affectionately known as Africa’s "barkless" dog, attracting admirers as much for his docile nature as for his short, smooth coat. Of course, this small breed dog does have a bark, but it’s more of a yodel, and one that’s all over YouTube, in case you’re curious. Once a hunting dog, the basenji now prefers to settle in with a good family. He sheds very little, too, so you won’t spend all day picking up after the kids and cleaning dog hair off the sofas.

Rat Terrier

The rat terrier is a small breed dog that’s actually a lot more of a cutie than his breed name leads you to believe. This friendly pup is smart and inquisitive, even elegant. He’s also an adventurer with a curiosity that can get the best of him, so keep this pooch on a leash or in a fenced-in yard. This energetic dog makes a good addition to a busy family where there is lots of love to give and receive.

Yorkipoo

The yorkipoo is a cute and cuddly hybrid pup — a cross between a Yorkshire terrier and a toy poodle. This teacup pup is snuggly, loving and smart, too. The yorkipoo is well-suited for apartment living. With such small legs, he doesn’t need a big yard or a long walk. A quick stroll around the block will do. Get ready to be showered with love by these tiny dogs that love to romp and play with their humans.

Miniature Pinscher

The miniature pinscher — you know, the min pin — is a small pooch, topping out at just 11 pounds. He’s also known as the "King of the Toys," so it’s no surprise that this doggo is energetic, brave and fearless. He’ll go paw to paw with any pup of any size, so yes, he tends to be a barker, too. He’s not ideal for a first-time dog owner, but if you’re up for the challenge, he’ll reward his human with cuddles and genuine affection.

Biewer Terrier

The Biewer terrier is a lesser-known terrier breed that’s a rare pure breed, the product of a recessive gene from two Yorkshire terriers. This new breed that’s pronounced like "beaver" was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in January 2021, enabling these pint-sized pups to compete in dog shows. This dog breed is small, weighing in at four to eight pounds, as well as smart and outgoing. They are hypoallergenic and only bark when truly necessary.

Affenpinscher

The loyal and inquisitive affenpinscher is a small breed dog that’s not a terrier. Wait, actually it is — "pinscher" means "terrier" in German. Since "affen" means "monkey," this dog is sometimes called the “monkey dog.” Poor pup. This playful and adventurous pooch is most often black and fluffy, but affenpinschers can also be tan, gray, red, silver or belge (a black and red mix). This playful and fun-loving pup is affectionate and adaptable.

40 Adorable Small Dog Breeds We Love

Related To:

Shop This Look

Cute and Cuddly Small Dogs

Welsh Corgi

Papillon

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier

Alaskan Klee Kai

Fox Terrier

Shih Tzu

Brussels Griffon

Boston Terrier

Bichon Frise

Cavapoo

Jack Russell Terrier

Miniature Bull Terrier

American Hairless Terrier

American Eskimo Dog

French Bulldog

Chihuahua

Pug

Pomeranian

Dachshund

Maltese

Poodle

Lowchen

Havanese

Cockapoo

Bedlington Terrier

Chinese Crested

Coton de Tulear

Japanese Chin

Pekingese

Lhasa Apso

Norwich Terrier

Shiba Inu

Basenji

Rat Terrier

Yorkipoo

Miniature Pinscher

Biewer Terrier

Affenpinscher

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