The Ultimate Small Dog Breeds List
Explore our expert-curated small dog breeds list featuring 12 top picks compared by size, energy, grooming needs, and family fit to help you choose the right companion.
Small dogs pack enormous personality into compact frames, but choosing the right one requires more than picking the cutest face at the shelter. This small dog breeds list goes beyond generic rankings — we've evaluated 12 standout breeds against real-world lifestyle factors like apartment living, family compatibility, grooming budgets, and exercise requirements so you can make a genuinely informed decision.
How We Selected These Breeds
Every breed on this list meets all five criteria below. We sourced data from the American Kennel Club breed standards, the Merck Veterinary Manual, and veterinary breed-health surveys:
- Weight ceiling: Adult weight 20 lb (9 kg) or under at the breed standard's upper range
- Recognized breed status: AKC, UKC, or FCI-registered (no unstandardized designer mixes)
- Temperament test pass rate: Breeds with documented American Temperament Test Society (ATTS) pass rates above 80% where data exists
- Lifespan data: Minimum documented median lifespan of 12 years
- Availability: Breeds with sufficient US population that finding a responsible breeder or rescue is realistic (not ultra-rare breeds with multi-year waitlists)
12 Best Small Dog Breeds Compared at a Glance
| Breed | Weight (lb / kg) | Energy Level | Grooming | Apartment Fit | Family Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | 13–18 / 5.9–8.2 | Moderate | Moderate | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| French Bulldog | 16–28 / 7.3–12.7 | Low | Low | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Havanese | 7–13 / 3.2–5.9 | Moderate | High | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Miniature Schnauzer | 11–20 / 5.0–9.1 | High | High | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Pomeranian | 3–7 / 1.4–3.2 | Moderate | High | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Shih Tzu | 9–16 / 4.1–7.3 | Low | High | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ |
| Boston Terrier | 12–25 / 5.4–11.3 | Moderate-High | Low | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Papillon | 5–10 / 2.3–4.5 | High | Moderate | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Italian Greyhound | 7–14 / 3.2–6.4 | Moderate | Low | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Bichon Frise | 12–18 / 5.4–8.2 | Moderate | High | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 4–7 / 1.8–3.2 | Moderate | High | ★★★★★ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Dachshund (Miniature) | 8–11 / 3.6–5.0 | Moderate | Varies | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ |
Top Small Breeds for Families with Children
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Size class: Toy (13–18 lb / 5.9–8.2 kg) · Lifespan: 12–15 years · Key trait: Exceptionally gentle and eager to please
The Cavalier's defining quality is an almost uncanny ability to match their owner's energy — playful when you're active, a lap warmer when you're not. They rank among the highest-scoring toy breeds on the ATTS temperament evaluation. Their silky, medium-length coat needs brushing 3–4 times weekly and professional grooming every 8–10 weeks (budget $40–$65 per session). The critical health concern is mitral valve disease, which affects an estimated 50% of Cavaliers by age 5 according to the AKC Cavalier health page. Responsible breeders now perform cardiac screening through the OFA — always ask for documentation.
Why it made the list: Highest combined scores for family friendliness, apartment adaptability, and trainability among toy breeds.
2. Havanese
Size class: Toy (7–13 lb / 3.2–5.9 kg) · Lifespan: 14–16 years · Key trait: Sturdy toy breed that thrives with kids
Cuba's national dog has a springy, resilient temperament that bounces back from the chaos of family life better than most toy breeds. Unlike many small dogs that startle easily, the Havanese tends to approach new situations with curiosity rather than fear. Their double coat is hypoallergenic and low-shedding but requires daily brushing to prevent mats or a professional groom every 4–6 weeks ($50–$75). They excel in agility and trick training despite their small size — mental stimulation matters as much as physical exercise (plan for 30–45 minutes of combined activity daily).
Why it made the list: One of the few toy breeds that genuinely enjoys rough-and-tumble play without becoming nippy or fearful.
3. Bichon Frise
Size class: Small (12–18 lb / 5.4–8.2 kg) · Lifespan: 14–15 years · Key trait: Cheerful, allergy-friendly companion
The Bichon's powdered-puff appearance hides a genuinely athletic little dog. Originally bred as circus performers, they retain a love of learning tricks and entertaining audiences — making them natural therapy dogs. Their curly, non-shedding coat demands professional grooming every 4–6 weeks ($55–$80 per visit) plus brushing between appointments. Health-wise, Bichons are relatively robust for a small breed, though they're prone to bladder stones and allergies. Purchase price from a responsible breeder typically ranges $1,500–$3,500.
Why it made the list: Combines hypoallergenic coat, outgoing personality, and above-average health span in a compact package.
Best Small Breeds for Apartment Living
4. French Bulldog
Size class: Small (16–28 lb / 7.3–12.7 kg) · Lifespan: 10–12 years · Key trait: Low exercise needs, minimal barking
The Frenchie has dominated US popularity rankings for good reason: they genuinely thrive in small spaces. A brachycephalic breed, they require only 20–30 minutes of gentle daily exercise and are prone to overheating — never walk them in temperatures above 80°F (27°C). Their short coat sheds minimally and needs only weekly brushing. The trade-off is significant health investment: brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) affects an estimated 50%+ of French Bulldogs, and many require surgical correction ($2,000–$5,000) at some point. Pet insurance is strongly recommended — budget $50–$90/month for comprehensive coverage.
Why it made the list: Unmatched apartment compatibility due to low exercise demands, quiet nature, and genuine contentment with indoor living.
5. Italian Greyhound
Size class: Toy (7–14 lb / 3.2–6.4 kg) · Lifespan: 14–15 years · Key trait: Elegant, quiet, and fastidious
Think of the Italian Greyhound as a cat in a dog's body: they groom themselves, claim the highest cushion in the house, and sprint in short, explosive bursts before returning to their favorite blanket. They need 30–40 minutes of daily exercise — a mix of leash walks and safe off-leash sprinting in a fenced area. Their thin coat and minimal body fat mean they need a sweater below 50°F (10°C). House training can take 4–8 months (longer than average) because they genuinely dislike going outside in cold or wet weather — many owners successfully use indoor grass patches as a supplement.
Why it made the list: Near-silent in apartments, extremely clean, and compact enough for the smallest studio layouts.
6. Shih Tzu
Size class: Toy (9–16 lb / 4.1–7.3 kg) · Lifespan: 10–18 years · Key trait: Bred exclusively for companionship
The Shih Tzu is one of the few breeds with no working-dog history — they were literally created to sit on laps, and they do it brilliantly. Exercise needs are minimal: two 15-minute walks daily is sufficient. Their luxurious double coat requires daily brushing in full coat, though most pet owners opt for a "puppy cut" maintained by a groomer every 6–8 weeks ($45–$70). Being brachycephalic, they snore, may have breathing difficulties in heat, and need careful monitoring during exercise. Dental disease is a major concern — plan for professional cleanings every 12–18 months ($300–$700 under anesthesia).
Why it made the list: Purpose-bred companion with genuinely low activity requirements and a calm, affectionate disposition ideal for smaller spaces.
High-Energy Small Breeds for Active Owners
7. Miniature Schnauzer
Size class: Small (11–20 lb / 5.0–9.1 kg) · Lifespan: 12–15 years · Key trait: Athletic, alert, and highly trainable
If you want a small dog that can genuinely keep up on hikes, the Miniature Schnauzer is your answer. Originally bred as ratting dogs on German farms, they retain a work ethic and stamina unusual for their size. Plan for 45–60 minutes of daily exercise including off-leash play, puzzle toys, or structured training sessions. Their wiry coat requires hand-stripping or clipping every 5–8 weeks ($50–$70). They're vocal dogs — excellent watchdogs who will alert you to visitors, but this means training a reliable "quiet" cue early using positive reinforcement methods. Health screenings should include tests for pancreatitis predisposition and urinary stones, both common in the breed.
Why it made the list: Highest exercise capacity and trainability among small breeds — a genuine adventure companion under 20 pounds.
8. Papillon
Size class: Toy (5–10 lb / 2.3–4.5 kg) · Lifespan: 14–16 years · Key trait: The smartest toy breed, period
The Papillon consistently ranks among the top 10 most intelligent dog breeds regardless of size, competing successfully in agility, obedience, and rally against dogs five times their weight. They need 30–45 minutes of combined physical and mental exercise daily — puzzle feeders, trick training, and agility courses satisfy their busy minds. Their single, silky coat is surprisingly low-maintenance: brushing 2–3 times weekly keeps it tangle-free without professional grooming. Despite their delicate appearance, Papillons are sturdy and athletic, but their small bones mean no jumping from heights over 2 feet — provide ramps for furniture access.
Why it made the list: Unmatched intelligence-to-size ratio — ideal for owners who want a competition-capable dog in a portable package.
9. Boston Terrier
Size class: Small (12–25 lb / 5.4–11.3 kg) · Lifespan: 11–13 years · Key trait: Playful, athletic, and people-oriented
The "American Gentleman" of dogs earns that nickname with a tuxedo-like coat and genuinely friendly personality toward strangers and other dogs. Bostons need 30–45 minutes of daily exercise and love fetch, flirt poles, and short jogging sessions (keep runs under 2 miles due to their brachycephalic structure). Their smooth coat is virtually maintenance-free — a weekly rubber curry brush and occasional bath is all they need. They can be stubborn during training but respond well to food-motivated positive reinforcement. Watch for corneal ulcers (their prominent eyes are vulnerable) and patellar luxation.
Why it made the list: Athletic enough for active owners yet compact and low-grooming enough for easy daily care — the best balance of energy and convenience on this list.
Compact Companions for Low-Key Households
10. Pomeranian
Size class: Toy (3–7 lb / 1.4–3.2 kg) · Lifespan: 12–16 years · Key trait: Bold personality in the smallest package
Pomeranians carry themselves with the confidence of dogs ten times their size — they descended from large Arctic sled dogs, and that heritage shows in their fearless attitude. They need only 20–30 minutes of daily exercise, making them ideal for less active owners or those with mobility limitations. Their profuse double coat requires brushing 3–4 times weekly and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks ($45–$65). Pomeranians are prone to tracheal collapse — always use a harness, never a collar, for leash walking. They tend to bond intensely with one person and can be wary of strangers, making early socialization (8–16 weeks) critical.
Why it made the list: True lapdog size with a bold, entertaining personality that prevents the "fragile" feeling common in ultra-small breeds.
11. Yorkshire Terrier
Size class: Toy (4–7 lb / 1.8–3.2 kg) · Lifespan: 11–15 years · Key trait: Hypoallergenic coat with terrier spunk
The Yorkie's human-like, hair-like coat is genuinely hypoallergenic and low-shedding, making them one of the best small breeds for allergy sufferers. Daily brushing is essential to prevent painful mats, and most owners maintain a shorter "puppy cut" with grooming visits every 4–6 weeks ($50–$70). Despite their tiny size, Yorkies are true terriers — bold, opinionated, and sometimes scrappy with other dogs. They need 20–30 minutes of daily activity and enjoy indoor play on bad-weather days. Dental care is non-negotiable: their tiny mouths crowd 42 teeth into a space designed for fewer, making daily tooth brushing and annual veterinary dental checkups essential.
Why it made the list: Best hypoallergenic option among the smallest breeds, with enough terrier personality to keep life interesting.
12. Miniature Dachshund
Size class: Small (8–11 lb / 3.6–5.0 kg) · Lifespan: 12–16 years · Key trait: Distinctive build with big-dog attitude
The Miniature Dachshund's elongated body and short legs aren't just charming — they reflect a breeding history as badger hunters, and that tenacious, independent streak remains. They need 30 minutes of daily exercise but should never be allowed to jump on/off furniture or navigate steep stairs, as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) affects an estimated 25% of Dachshunds during their lifetime. Invest in a set of pet ramps ($30–$60) from day one. Their coat comes in smooth (minimal grooming), longhaired (brushing 3x/week), or wirehaired (hand-stripping 2–3 times yearly). They can be challenging to house train — expect 4–6 months of consistent crate training and frequent outdoor trips.
Why it made the list: Unique personality and iconic appearance with moderate care needs — but owners must commit to spinal health management.
How to Choose: A Decision Framework
Narrowing this small dog breeds list down to your ideal match depends on three lifestyle factors. Use this flowchart to identify your top 3, then research each deeply:
- How much time can you dedicate to grooming?
- Less than 30 min/week → French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Italian Greyhound, smooth-coat Dachshund
- 30–60 min/week + regular groomer visits → Cavalier, Havanese, Bichon Frise, Miniature Schnauzer, Papillon
- Daily brushing + frequent groomer → Shih Tzu, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier
- What's your daily exercise capacity?
- Under 20 min/day → Shih Tzu, French Bulldog, Pomeranian
- 20–45 min/day → Cavalier, Havanese, Bichon Frise, Italian Greyhound, Yorkie, Dachshund, Boston Terrier
- 45–60+ min/day → Miniature Schnauzer, Papillon
- Who's in the household?
- Children under 8 → Cavalier, Havanese, Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier (sturdy, tolerant breeds)
- Adults only / quiet home → Italian Greyhound, Papillon, Shih Tzu, Yorkie
- Multi-pet household → Cavalier, Havanese, Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier (generally dog-friendly)
The overlap reveals your best match. For example: if you want low grooming, moderate exercise, and have young children, the Boston Terrier appears in all three categories — making it your strongest candidate.
Honorable Mentions and Breeds to Consider Carefully
Honorable Mentions (Didn't Quite Make the Cut)
- Maltese: Excellent apartment dog and hypoallergenic, but their extremely high grooming demands (daily brushing + professional grooming every 3–4 weeks) and tendency toward separation anxiety kept them off the primary list.
- Chinese Crested: Unique and affectionate, but their hairless variety requires sunscreen application, skin moisturizing, and temperature management that adds significant daily care complexity.
- Brussels Griffon: Charming personality and great apartment fit, but limited breeder availability in the US means waitlists often exceed 18 months.
Breeds to Approach with Eyes Open
- Chihuahua: Popular and undeniably portable, but they score lower on temperament testing (ATTS pass rate ~70%) and are prone to fear-based reactivity without intensive early socialization. They can be wonderful dogs with experienced owners who commit to structured positive reinforcement training from puppyhood.
- Toy Poodle: Highly intelligent and hypoallergenic, but their grooming costs are among the highest of any small breed ($60–$90 per professional session every 4–6 weeks), and they're prone to anxiety when left alone for extended periods. They thrive best with owners who work from home or can arrange midday visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best small dog breeds for first-time owners?
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Havanese, and Bichon Frise are the most forgiving breeds for new owners. They're trainable without being stubborn, sociable without being overwhelming, and their health profiles are well-documented so you know what to expect. Avoid highly independent breeds like the Dachshund or highly sensitive breeds like the Italian Greyhound for your first dog.
Why is the French Bulldog on this list despite health concerns?
The Frenchie's apartment compatibility is genuinely unmatched — they need less exercise than any other breed on this list and rarely bark excessively. We include them with the explicit caveat that owners should budget $3,000–$5,000 in potential health costs over the dog's lifetime and carry comprehensive pet insurance. If health-related veterinary costs would create financial hardship, consider the Boston Terrier as a healthier alternative with similar traits.
How much do small dog breeds cost annually?
Beyond the initial purchase price ($800–$3,500 from a responsible breeder, or $100–$500 from a rescue), expect annual costs of $1,200–$2,800 depending on grooming needs and health status. Breakdown: high-quality kibble $300–$500/year, routine veterinary care $400–$700/year, grooming $400–$1,200/year (breed-dependent), pet insurance $400–$1,000/year, and supplies/medications $100–$300/year.
Are small dogs good with cats?
Breed matters more than size. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, and Havanese generally coexist peacefully with cats because they have low prey drive. Terrier-type small breeds (Miniature Schnauzer, Yorkshire Terrier) may chase cats due to their breeding history as vermin hunters. Always introduce any new dog to cats gradually using scent swapping and controlled visual access over 1–2 weeks.
Which small dog breeds live the longest?
Among the breeds on this list, the Havanese (14–16 years), Papillon (14–16 years), Italian Greyhound (14–15 years), and Bichon Frise (14–15 years) have the longest documented median lifespans. The Shih Tzu has the widest range (10–18 years), with some individuals reaching 18+ with excellent care. French Bulldogs have the shortest lifespan on this list at 10–12 years, largely due to brachycephalic-related health complications. For any breed, maintaining a lean body condition score (BCS of 4–5 on a 9-point scale) is the single most impactful factor you can control for longevity.
Should I get a small dog from a breeder or rescue?
Both are valid paths. Responsible breeders (those who perform OFA/PennHIP health testing, provide take-back clauses, and raise puppies with early neurological stimulation) offer predictability in size, temperament, and health. Breed-specific rescues — find them through the AKC Rescue Network — often have adult dogs whose personalities are already known. Avoid pet stores and online puppy marketplaces, which frequently source from puppy mills regardless of how they market themselves.
Always consult your veterinarian before bringing a new breed into your home if you have specific health concerns, existing pets, or household members with allergies. Your vet can also recommend breed-appropriate preventive care schedules from day one.
Jonas Cole
All our authors care for dogs every day — read more of their work on the authors page.
