Small Dog Breeds: The Ultimate Resource Guide

From the Chihuahua to the Yorkie there are small dog breeds of every different color, shape, and personality type. There are small fluffy dog breeds, small dog breeds good with kids, and calm small dog breeds, in fact, there is a small dog breed with almost any trait you desire. But before you decide on what breed you ultimately want, here are a few reasons why small dogs are the choice of millions of dog owners worldwide.

Benefits of Owning a Small Dog 

Smaller Bills

One of the most obvious advantages of owning a small dog is the fact that everything is cheaper. And depending on where you live, this can mean saving a ton of money. Just the amount of cash you save on dog food alone over a year, not to mention the lifetime of your pet adds up to a lot.

Small dog breeds also cost less to maintain in many ways, not just food. Take the vet for example shots, medicines, and medical procedures are way cheaper for smaller dogs. Even such things as toys, dog beds, and dog kennels cost much less because they don’t have to be as large or as durable as they would with larger breeds.

Less Exercise

While many small dog breeds like the Jack Russell for example, are definitely high-energy and do need daily exercise, the amount required by small dogs is much less than with medium or large breeds. Where a larger dog might need a full hour of jogging or walking every day, many small dogs only require a good indoor play session or walk or two around the block.

Less Time To Maintain

Because small dogs have smaller bodies they are much easier to maintain and look after. They leave less hair around the house, leave less to pick up when going to the bathroom and take way less time to bathe and wash. Even if your dog needs to be groomed frequently it’s way easier and way less time-consuming than having to do so for a bigger dog.

Smaller Amount Of  Space

Sure it’s great to have a large yard for your dog to run and play in or a big house but small dog breeds simply don’t need it. An apartment is a perfect place for any of the small dog breeds so if you don’t have a huge space don’t despair. While a small apartment might seem like a shoebox for a big dog, for a small one it’s often more than enough and more like a mansion.

Sometimes Less Is More!

Every dog breed has a purpose. For some it’s tracking down game, for others it could be guarding homes and property, while other dogs were made to herd farm animals. Many of the small dog breeds were actually made to specifically be companion dogs.

Their job is to love their masters and family unconditionally as well as provide a lifetime of companionship. Of course, all dogs regardless of breed can do so, but small dogs do have big hearts and offer love and friendship which is eternal. And with the following small dog breeds list, you’ll have all the info you need to choose the perfect pint-sized pooch!                                                                          

Beagle

Country of Origin: England

Description: The Beagle is one of the most recognizable small dog breeds. It actually looks very similar to its larger relatives the Fox Hound and the Harrier but it’s much smaller. It has short muscular legs, long ears, and a dome-shaped head.

There are really 2 types of Beagles one with a rough coat and the other with a smooth coat, but both coat types are short and very easy to take care of with a quick brushing a few times per week. They are most often tri-colored (white, brown, and black) like most other hounds.

Size: From 18-30 pounds (8-13.5 kg.) and 13-16 inches (33-40.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: Because the Beagle is a dog that was made to hunt in packs it loves to be around other dogs and humans. This makes it one of the best small dog breeds for families. This is especially true of families with small children to which the Beagle is both loving but also very tolerant.

They are great with other dogs and always ready to play, but not extremely energetic like some of the terriers. Beagles do however need a moderate amount of exercise.

Uses: The Beagle is a hound and was made for tracking rabbits and pheasants. A long time ago the Beagle was actually carried on horseback by hunters following the larger hounds. The portable little Beagle would be set down when the hunters were close to the action or when the quarry entered thick brush.

Their noses are so good that they are often seen being used as service dogs, in airports sniffing out narcotics, and helping on rescue missions. Because they have such a lovely disposition they make excellent companion dogs as well.

 

 

Bichon Frise

Country of Origin: France

Description: One of the small fluffy dog breeds these dogs are often compared to a cotton ball or powder puff especially when it is clipped like a Poodle. The Bichon Frise has a white curly outer coat and a soft and silky undercoat. Their name in French actually means, “fluffy white dog.”

Sometimes their coat can have grey or cream markings. This coat does need brushing at least a few times per week. They have round dark eyes which really stand out against their coats.

Size: 7 to 12 pounds (3-5 kg.) and about 12 inches (30.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: While this breed does have a lot of energy it is usually only in short bursts. However,  these dogs do still require a daily walk. They are intelligent, learn very quickly, and are friendly to everyone including other dogs, animals, and strangers.

Uses: Originally these were really the dogs of the Spanish sailors, then companion dogs of the Italian nobles as a result of trading, and finally popularized in France as a circus dogs because they easily learned tricks and were just so likable and cute. These dogs obviously make excellent companions and are one of the best breeds for families with small children.

 

Border Terrier

Country of Origin: On the border of both Scotland and England hence its name the Border Terrier.

Description: The Border Terrier is the smallest dog in the terrier group and comes in red, pepper and salt, reddish blue, and wheat-colored. They have a broad head yet short muzzle and small V-shaped ears that fall forwards. This dog has a thick double coat that is both weather and dirt-resistant.

Size: Usually weighing between 13-15 pounds (6-7 kg.) and only about 10 inches (25.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: Very intelligent, this breed loves children. The Border Terrier is easy to teach and excels at agility. This lively little breed is the favorite of many dog owners, especially in the U.K.   

Uses: A fox hunting dog, the Border Terrier was also used to hunt other small game such as martens and was often used when other hunting terriers were too big to fit into the burrow of the quarry. Its small size and bold personality made it perfect for this job, however, it is also a great companion dog and does well in an apartment when given daily exercise.

 

Boston Terrier

Country of Origin: USA

Description: This dog originated in Boston, Massachusetts, unlike its ancestors which were the Boxer, Bulldog, French Bulldog, and Bull Terrier. They have a handsome appearance and are very popular. The Boston Terrier is sometimes called the “American Gentleman,” because of its striking black and white coat that looks like a tuxedo.

While the chest and in-between the eyes of the Boston Terrier are white, the rest of the body can be black or brindle. They have small erect ears and a short and square muzzle. Like the Bulldog this breed does tend to snore.

Size: Anywhere from 15 -25 pounds (7-11 kg.) and 15-17 inches (38-43 cm.) high.

Personality: This is a very well-behaved dog that is extremely loyal to its master. The Boston Terrier is intelligent and one of the small dog breeds good with kids, making it an excellent choice for a family. They make excellent watchdogs because they only tend to bark when very excited or when they hear suspicious sounds. These energetic dogs do need daily exercise, but not too much as they are prone to overheating.

Uses: Originally bred for fighting they are now one of the most popular companion dogs in the U.S. and are great for apartment and city living.

 

Cairn Terrier

Country of Origin: Scotland

Description: Known for playing Toto in The Wizard of Oz, the Cairn Terrier has the widest and shortest head of any terrier. It has short strong legs and a long body. These dogs have erect pointed ears and can range from light brown or red to almost black in color. Its coat needs a good combing once a week.

Size: 10-14 pounds (4.5-6.5 kg.) and up to 12 inches (30.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: High in energy, this small breed needs daily exercise. They are good with kids, love to play, and are easily trained to do tricks. The Cairn Terrier is also known for being very well-mannered when walking on a leash, unlike many other terriers which tend to pull and get very excited when walking.

Uses: Now mostly used as a companion dog, this breed has been used for hundreds of years to hunt small game such as foxes, badgers, rabbits, and otters by digging into their dens.

 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Country of Origin: England

Description: This small spaniel has a flat head with high set and long ears. The breed is known for its characteristic long hair on its feet. It has large open nostrils as well as big dark-colored eyes. Its coat is long and silky and even sometimes wavy, but never curly.

Size: 13 to 19 pounds (6-8.5 kg.) and 12-13 inches (30.5-33 cm.) tall.

Personality: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is very friendly, happy to meet dogs, other pets, and even strangers. They are great with small children as they are a gentle breed, and love human interaction. Unlike some other small dogs, they are very quiet and don’t bark often.

Uses: While they can be used for hunting small game birds like all spaniels, and they do have excellent vision and smell, they have almost always been used as a companion dog. This can be seen in the many paintings of them with royalty, the wealthy, and of course their namesake King Charles II, who was enamored with the breed and helped to make it so popular.

 

Chihuahua

Country of Origin: Mexico

Description: While the smooth-coated Chihuahua only needs to be groomed about once a month, the long-coated type requires brushing about once a week. No matter which type, they both have large eyes, big erect ears, and an apple-shaped head. Their bodies are longer than they are tall, with a tail that curves over their back.

Chihuahuas can be many different colors, but the most common are fawn(light brown), black (many times with white or tan markings), gray, and chocolate-colored. They are best kept indoors especially when it is cold because they cannot handle it well. Many owners deal with this by purchasing dog coats to keep their Chihuahua snug and warm.

Size: From 2 to 6 pounds (1-3 kg.) and 6-9 inches (15-23 cm.) tall.

Personality: These tiny dogs have big hearts and really love their owners. They are known for being family dogs but usually become very attached to one person more than others in the household. While they love to play care should be taken that it’s not too rough because they can be quite fragile.

Uses: The Chihuahua is a companion dog. It makes a great friend that is small enough to take anywhere and wants to be with its owner no matter what they are doing.

 

Dachshund

Country of Origin: Germany

Description: Sometimes called a “wiener dog,” because of its elongated shape just like a hot dog, there are 3 different varieties: short-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired. The long-haired variety does need to be groomed regularly. There are also 2 different sizes: standard and miniature.

The Dachshund no matter what type or size, are all long-bodied with short legs. They have long heads and folded-down ears that should reach their cheeks. They are typically either solid in color or bi-colored. The solid-colored is either all yellow or all tan and the bi-colored is brown, black, or gray with light brown markings.

Size: The standard Dachshund weighs around 20 pounds (9 kg.) and is 8-9 inches (20.5-23 cm.) tall while the miniature weighs around 10 pounds (4.5 kg.) and is 5-6 inches tall (13-15 cm).

Personality: While all Dachshunds are high-energy dogs, they don’t really require too much exercise. They are good family dogs and love children but not always ones with whom they are not familiar, as they can be stand-offish and nippy with strangers. These little dogs regardless of their size, are fearless.

Uses: The Dachshund’s excellent sense of smell, long body, and fearless nature, made it perfect for hunting animals in tunnels, burrows, and dens. And, they are still used to do so in many places today. Dachshund actually means “badger dog,” in German. They make good companion dogs, as well as watchdogs because they have a very loud bark.

 

French Bulldog

Country of Origin: France

Description: The most distinct feature of this breed are its large bat-like ears. French Bulldogs have wide chests, eyes that protrude slightly, and a small docked tail that is carried low. Like other bulldogs, they have very short noses, large heads, and wrinkled faces. These wrinkles need to be wiped clean frequently. Because of their short nose, they do tend to snore.

And because of the shape of their muzzle, they also tend to drool. They are a dog that should be kept indoors because they are not very tolerant of the cold and tend to overheat if the weather is too hot. Their short coats are very low-maintenance and do not require frequent grooming. Typically they are light brown, brindle, brindle and white, or all-white in color.

Size: 13-26 pounds (6-12 kg.) and around 12 inches (30.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: This is an intelligent breed that is easy to train. Like other bulldogs, they are not high-energy. However the French Bulldog is more active than its cousin the English Bulldog and does need at least some exercise every day, but nothing intense. The French Bulldog is very friendly with other dogs and animals.

Uses: Originally lapdogs of the French elite, they still perform this task well with their friendly nature and small size. They also make good little watchdogs as well, and many love to hunt mice.

 

Jack Russell Terrier

Country of Origin: England

Description: Created by Parson Jack Russell, this breed is sometimes called the Parson Russell Terrier. There are two different types of Jack Russell: the smooth-haired and the wire-haired. Both of these types are double-coated to protect the dog when hunting in the field.

They have folded-down v-shaped ears as well as a narrow chest to help them get into the burrows of animals, and short legs. The Jack Russell can be all white, white and brown, white and black, or white, brown, and black. They are a very long-lived breed and many live for more than 15 years.

Size: There is no actual standard for the Jack Russell Terrier however most weigh around 10 pounds (4.5 kg.) and stand about 9-16 inches (23-40.5 cm.) high at the shoulder.

Personality: Very intelligent and independent, these dogs are known for being one of the most, if not the most energetic dog breed in the world. They need at least a good hour of daily exercise to keep them happy. If they don’t get it, they might use this energy to get into mischief in your home or apartment.

While they are good with children, because of their very high energy level they are more suited towards families with older kids. They are loyal and obedient dogs, but they do need firm training at an early age to teach them what their boundaries are.

Uses: This dog’s boundless energy and small size were a big advantage when it came to hunting. They could dig into the burrows of small game faster than many other breeds, fit into tighter spaces, and dispatch them with greater efficiency. Also, excellent fox hunters, are tough, sturdy, and very fast despite their small size.

 

Lakeland Terrier

Country of Origin: England

Description: The Lakeland Terrier comes from the lake district of England, hence the name Lakeland. Known for their good looks Lakeland Terriers have a long and elongated head with long hair that forms a beard. They have small V-shaped ears and a thick wiry coat that protects them from the weather.

Their coats need to be combed at least once a week and can range in color from red, black, blue, brown, or wheaten. They have long legs that help them to run fast and narrow bodies which originally helped them get into tight spaces and burrows when hunting.

Size: 15-18 pounds (7-8 kg.) and about 14 1/2 inches (37 cm.) tall.

Personality: Lakeland Terriers are a lively breed and therefore do best with an active family. While they can be stubborn and independent, they are very affectionate and loving. They can be aggressive to small animals because of their hunting background and some tend to be aggressive with other dogs as well.

Uses: These terriers are adept at hunting game both in and out of the water as well as underground. Originally used to hunt otters, badgers, and foxes, today they are most often used as companion dogs but can also make excellent watchdogs.

 

Lhasa Apso

Country of Origin: Tibet

Description: This dog is of the most well-known long-haired small dog breeds. It is famous for its long coat which covers its body and forms a long dark beard and mustache. The Lhasa Apso also has long hair stemming from its ears as well.

Its tail is carried over its back and it has deeply set dark eyes. The coat of this breed is strong, and hard, and needs to be combed frequently. They can be honey-colored, sandy brown, slate, or even black.

Size: 13 to 15 pounds (6-7 kg.) and 10-11 inches (25.5-28 cm.) tall.

Personality: The Lhasa Apso is a confident breed which means sometimes it can also be quite stubborn. They are also loyal dogs that love to stay by their master’s side. The breed is often reserved with strangers and can be good with children as long as they are not overly rough.

Uses: The Lhasa Apso makes a good companion as well as a watchdog. With its excellent hearing, in the past, it was used to guard the monasteries of Tibet where it was also considered to be good luck.

 

Maltese

Country of Origin: Malta

Description: Most recognizable by its gorgeous long white coat the Maltese is a great-looking dog. Its coat should touch the ground and be pure white, as well as thick and shiny. It’s this all-white hair that makes its black nose and eyes stand out tremendously. The tail should fall over its back and similar to its ears is covered with long hair. The Maltese does need grooming daily to maintain its coat’s natural beauty.

Size: From 6 to 9 pounds (3-4 kg.) and 8-10 inches (20.5-25.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: These are smart dogs that are easily trained. Owning a Maltese, you can rest assured your children will have a gentle and loving playmate who is not shy when it comes to showing affection.

Because of this, they are known worldwide for being one of the small dog breeds good with kids. They are active little dogs so they will need at least a quick walk or play session every day. Some do not get along well with other dogs.

Uses: The Maltese is an ancient breed of dog and has always and will always be used as both a lap and companion dog. In fact, it served both these functions for both Napoleon and Aristotle among a long list of other well-known Maltese admirers. Because they are an alert breed, they are good at sounding the alarm to let their family know if they hear a strange sound or see a suspicious person.

 

Manchester Terrier

Country of Origin: England

Description: Sometimes also called the Black and Tan Terrier, there is actually a toy version of this breed as well. This is a sleek, lean, yet muscular dog. It has a short coat that does not require regular maintenance and is always black and tan in color with v-shaped ears that are folded forward.

Size:16-18 pounds (7-8 kg.) and 16 inches (40.5 cm.)  tall.

Personality: These are very loyal dogs who are very devoted to their masters and family. An interesting trait of this breed is that they are known to be amazingly clean and love to groom themselves constantly. They are also very versatile and are happy both in an apartment or in the country and are easily trained.

Uses: This breed was nicknamed the “Rat Terrier,” because it was so proficient at killing rats and all types of rodents. This skill combined with their pleasant personalities and small size made these dogs very popular to keep in shops, houses, and on farms for keeping the rodent population down while also providing a loyal companion.

They are also actually excellent rabbit hunters too. And because they usually only bark when they hear or see something which seems suspicious, they make very good little watchdogs as well.

 

Miniature Bull Terrier

Country of Origin: England

Description: This is the smaller version of the Bull Terrier. Probably the most distinct-looking of all the dog breeds in the world it has an egg-shaped oval head and is the only dog breed to have triangular-shaped eyes. Pound for pound Bull Terriers also have more muscle than any other breed.

They have erect triangular ears which stand up on their own and do not need to be cropped. They are classified as either all white, white with other colors on its head, or colored which could be brindle, black, brown, or tri-colored. Some white bull terriers both standard and miniature are prone to deafness.

Size: 20 to 30 pounds (9-13.5 kg.) and 10-14 inches (25.5-35.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: Not realizing it is the smaller type of the Bull Terrier, the Miniature Bull Terrier is a ton of dog in a small package. It has the same personality as its larger counterpart and is extremely loyal to its family and master. This is a dog that needs to be around people, however, it does need supervision when around children.

This is because it tends to get very excited and sometimes does not realize its own strength despite its small size. These dogs need to be socialized when they are young so that they remain friendly with other dogs as well as other pets. They also can be very independent and stubborn so firm training is a must.

Uses: The Miniature Bull Terrier is a companion dog, despite its use in the past as a fighting dog. They are great mouse and rat hunters and as well, and are also excellent watchdogs.

 

Miniature Pinscher

Country of Origin: Germany

Description: Looking like a miniature Doberman this recognizable breed is often called the “Min Pin” for short. This breed has cropped (cut) ears and oval-shaped eyes. They also have a short docked tail which is carried straight up.

Their coat is short, hard, shiny, and very low maintenance. The Min Pin can be: all black, chestnut, red, or black and tan. This breed is known for its high gait (similar to a trotting horse) despite its small size.

Size: 13 to 18 pounds(6-8 kg.) and 18-19 inches (45.5-48 cm.) tall.

Personality: Sometimes stubborn, these dogs are at the top of the list when it comes to energy. They are always ready to play and are much more athletic than the majority of small dog breeds. The Miniature Pinscher is very loyal to its master and can be a pleasure to own if you have the patience required to train them and don’t mind owning a smart dog which can sometimes be a little mischievous.

Uses: While they started out as rat hunters, today they are companion dogs that also makes great watchdogs as they are naturally alert. Miniature Pinschers are also fearless and will not hesitate to make use of their sharp teeth to defend their home or property.

 

Miniature and Toy Poodle

Country of Origin: Germany/France

Description: Both the Miniature Poodle and the Toy Poodle are smaller versions of the Standard Poodle. All of which are one of the most recognizable dogs in the world. They all have dense curly coats which don’t shed. They are also the favorite of many dog owners who are actually allergic to dogs because their coat is hypoallergenic.

This coat does grow out quickly and needs professional grooming on a regular basis. All poodles should only be a single solid color which can be white, black, silver, brown, or cream. With all coat colors, the nose should be black except for brown-colored dogs which have a brown or liver-colored nose.

Size: The miniature is around 26 pounds(12 kg.) and between 10-14 inches tall (25.5 cm-35.5 cm.) while the toy poodle is about 15 pounds (7 kg.) and under 10 inches(25.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: These are good-natured dogs that are great with children. They are also very smart which means they are easy to train but also confident dogs. Poodles of all sizes are very active dogs and need at least a good exercise or play session daily.

Uses: While today it is a companion dog, in the past the Poodle was in the past actually used as a water retriever because of its excellent swimming ability. In fact, the famous way in which the Poodle’s coat is clipped was actually first used by hunters to help the Poodle move through the water more efficiently while at the same time keeping their joints warm.

Many Miniature Poodles were used to help find truffles in the field and Toy Poodles were often seen in circuses around the world because of how easy they are to train.

 

Miniature Schnauzer

Country of Origin: Germany

Description: The Miniature Schnauzer like all Schnauzers are most well-known for their long beard, eyebrows, and leg hair but short and wiry body hair. They are aptly named, as Schnauzer actually means “small beard.” They only need to be combed weekly and do not shed much which makes them one of the more popular small dog breeds. The Miniature Schnauzer can be all black, salt and pepper, or silver and black.

Size: Between 12-15 pounds(5.5 -7 kg.) and 13-15 inches(33-38 cm.) high.

Personality: This breed is different than many other terriers in that it generally gets along well with other dogs, pets, and animals. They are playful dogs that are well-behaved and loving. Easy to train, the Miniature Schnauzer is very adaptable and can live in an apartment or in the country. However, it is best raised indoors as it is happiest when with its owners.

Uses: The Miniature Schnauzer was developed as a small game hunter. It was an especially good rat hunter as well as a farm dog. While it still does both of these today, it is almost always used as a companion dog, and an extremely popular one at that. They also are very good watchdogs as they are always alert.

 

Norwich Terrier

 

 

Country of Origin: England

Description: The Norwich is one of the smallest terriers. Despite its small size, it is still a sturdy dog. It has a compact stocky little body with strong short legs. The Norwich Terrier has stiff coarse hair which forms a double coat and needs a weekly combing. It is usually brown, salt and pepper, red, red wheat, or black and tan. The ears are always upright and its tail is docked to 50% of its length.

Size: Between 10-14 pounds(4.5-6.5 cm.) and 10 inches(25.5 cm.) high.

Personality: Lively and very affectionate, the Norwich Terrier makes an excellent apartment dog but it needs to be exercised daily. The females have been known to be very protective of their puppies.

Uses: Originally used for hunting small game in their burrows and dens, today it is mostly a companion dog. This breed is the mascot of Cambridge University.

 

Papillon

Country of Origin: Italy/France

Description: This breed was named for its large erect ears which resemble the wings of a butterfly as Papillon means “butterfly,” in French. These very distinct ears have long and wavy yet fine hairs. Their colored mask also helps to accentuate this butterfly look. They have a long tail that is carried over their body and looks similar to that of a squirrel.

The Papillon’s coat is one of 3 color types: brown and white, black and white, or black and white with tan. Their coat allows them to deal with the heat quite well but not the cold. It does need a moderate amount of grooming.

Size: 9 to 10 pounds(4-4.5 kg.) and about 11 inches(28 cm.) tall.

Personality: These dogs have a good amount of energy and love to play, but they do not require much exercise. This breed does need to be socialized when young so it can get along with other dogs and pets. Time and patience should be taken when training the Papillon because it can be quite stubborn and independent.

Uses: The Papillon has been and always will be a companion and lapdog. Because it is also a very alert breed it does make a good watchdog as it’s always ready to bark at something it finds suspicious.

 

Pekingese

Country of Origin: China

Description: Often described as looking like a little lion, the Pekingese has a double coat with long straight hair. This is a sturdy dog despite its size, that has a short nose and large dark eyes which are set far apart on its broad head.

Its ears are long and heart-shaped. The Pekingese can be any color. It needs to be groomed at least a few times a week and is not tolerant of heat at all. It should therefore be an indoor dog and kept cool.

Size: 8-10 pounds(3.5-4.5 kg.) and from 6 to 9 inches(15-23 cm.) tall.

Personality: Very confident and courageous for its small size, the Pekingese is very loyal and affectionate to its family and master. It is a good breed with children however this breed is known for its stubbornness, so patience is required when training. A Pekingese make an excellent choice for someone living in an apartment because it is not an active breed and only requires a minimal amount of exercise.

Uses: This dog was once only allowed to be owned by royalty in China and was actually treated like royalty themselves. This was due to their lion-like looks which was a symbol of Buddha. They have always been a lapdog and in China were actually carried in the large sleeves that were the fashion at that time.

Despite being a lapdog as well as a companion dog, the Pekingese can also make a confident little watchdog as well because it is naturally alert.

 

Pomeranian

Country of Origin: Germany/Poland

Description: As a member of the Spitz group of dogs, the Pomeranian looks like a typical Spitz only smaller with its curly tail, pointy small ears, dark eyes, and thick double coat. This coat does need frequent grooming and is typically orange or red in color. However, the Pomeranian can actually also be white, gray, black, or uni-colored.

Size: Around 11 pounds(5 kg.) and not more than 12 inches(30.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: These are very energetic little dogs with very lively personalities. Despite how outgoing they are they do not require much exercise. They are easy to train and obedient family dogs. This breed thrives when raised indoors closely with its owners. The Pomeranian is good with children however some do tend to bark a lot, especially at strangers.

Uses: In the past this breed was actually much larger than it is today, weighing in at around 30 pounds or so, and was used as a herding dog to round up sheep. It was also an able-bodied guard and watchdog.

Today’s Pomeranian being much smaller, is exclusively a companion dog and like the Bichon Frise is one of the most popular fluffy small dog breeds. They do make good watchdogs and despite their small size are not afraid to defend their home if they feel it is necessary.

 

Pug

Country of Origin: China

Description: A very easy and low-maintenance breed, the Pug is a dense and muscular dog. They have a small body yet large head with small folded ears and a short twisted tail that rests on their hindquarters. The Pug has a short nose and a deeply wrinkled forehead.

Their short, shiny coat only needs occasional grooming and can be yellow, black, or silver. However, all Pugs no matter what color have a black mask on their face. Pugs should be kept indoors and out of high heat.

Size: 14-18 pounds(6.5-8 kg.) and 10-11 inches(25.5-28 cm.) tall.

Personality: The Pug is a loving and affectionate breed. They are very playful and friendly dogs both with people and animals. However, they may be suspicious of strangers. A moderate walk or play session is all the Pug needs for a daily exercise session.

Uses: The Pug was created to be a lap dog and but because of its sweet nature and the fact that it is very even-tempered and easy to take care of, it is now one of the most popular small dog breeds in the world, especially in Asia and the United States.

 

Scottish Terrier

Country of Origin: Scotland

Description: Also known as the “Scottie”,  this breed is one of the most recognized small dog breeds in the world. This small-bodied dog has a distinct beard and long eyebrows which are a breed hallmark. They have pointy ears that stand erect and large noses and teeth for a small dog.

Their double coat is very coarse and needs frequent combing to keep it looking good. While most people believe these dogs are only black, they actually can be white or brindle as well.

Size: About 20 pounds(9 kg.) and 11 inches(28 cm.) tall.

Personality: These dogs are unbelievably courageous especially given their small size. They are unafraid and brave in the face of any type of danger. However, they are also known for being extremely gentle when it comes to dealing with children and are therefore ideal family dogs.

Many owners say their Scottie is a big dog in a small dog’s body. The Scottish Terrier will do well in an apartment but because they are an active breed they do need daily exercise.

Uses: With their strong little bodies and tenacious temperament these dogs were made for dealing with prey like badgers as well as rabbits and otters. They are now mostly very popular as companion dogs because of how well they get along with children and of course their families. They also make good watchdogs as they are naturally protective of their home and those that they care about.

 

Shetland Sheepdog

Country of Origin: Scotland

Description: Also known as the “Sheltie,” physically it looks very much a miniature version of the Rough Collie. It comes in 4 color varieties: brown and white, blue merle, black and white, and tri-color (black, brown, and white).

This breed has a double coat. It has a rough outer coat that keeps out water and a soft undercoat which keeps it both cool in the heat and warm in the cold. Like the Rough Collie, it has a large amount of hair around the neck.

Size: Anywhere from 10-25 pounds(4.5 -11.5 kg.) and 13-16 inches(33-40.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: While it can be a little stubborn, this is a very smart breed. It is warm and loving to its family yet may be reserved with strangers. The Shetland Sheepdog is excellent with children and like most herding dogs has a great deal of energy.

Uses: This is a great companion dog and unlike many small dog breeds the Shetland Sheepdog is a working dog. Despite its small size, it is an excellent herding dog capable of herding both small and large size livestock. Because of their natural aversion to strangers than can make good watchdogs as well.

 

Shih-Tzu

Country of Origin: China

Description: Known for its small size and long flowing straight hair, the Shih-Tzu is a very popular small breed. These dogs have wide skulls and short noses with a large space between their eyes. Their ears are long and its tail is carried over its back.

The Shih- Tzu’s hair grows from all over its face creating not only a beard but a mustache as well. Their long coat needs combing at least a few times a week and this breed should be kept indoors as it does not handle the heat or cold well.

Size: Not more than 14 pounds(6.5 kg.) or 10.5 inches(26.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: These are sweet and affectionate pets that are good with other small animals and other dogs. Shih-Tzus are perfect for families with small children because they are so gentle. They are also very trusting, even with people they don’t know. These dogs are an active breed that needs at least a short walk daily.

Uses: Like the Pekingese, the Shih-Tzu was revered by Buddhists because of the fact that it looked similar to a lion. In fact, its name actually means “lion dog.” Because of this, it was considered a holy animal.  Now it is a lap and companion dog that is well-known worldwide.

 

Smooth Fox Terrier

Country of Origin: England

Description: While it is a small dog, the Smooth Fox Terrier has the strength in both its body and jaws of one which is much larger. A thin but muscular breed it is white in color with black and or brown marks. They have smooth short hair that is easy to maintain and only requires an occasional brushing. The tail is usually docked to about 25% of its total length.

Size: Around 16-18 pounds(7-8 kg.) and about 16 inches(40.5 cm.) tall.    

Personality: This is an energetic dog that loves to play. The Smooth Fox Terrier is also a very loving family dog and while it is good with small children, like many other terriers it may tend to not get along with other dogs. This breed needs an exercise session daily to keep it happy.

Uses:  As you could probably guess from its name, this breed was originally used for fox hunting. Small enough to get into a fox’s den as well as strong and tough enough to fight the fox to the death, they also were used to hunt many other types of small game too. Because they are avid barkers the Smooth Fox Terrier can also make a good watchdog for your home or apartment.

 

Tibetan Terrier

Country of Origin: Tibet

Description: While it is in the terrier group the Tibetan Terrier is not a true terrier, it was called this because its size was similar to that of terriers and the name stuck. It is actually one of the main breeds used to create the Shih-Tzu and the Lhasa Apso.

These compact dogs have long hair covering their eyes and body which helped them to stay warm in their native Tibet. This double coat comes in almost every color and needs at least weekly grooming. The Tibetan Terrier has large feet which functioned almost like snowshoes when walking and climbing in Tibet’s snowy conditions.

Size: 18-30 pounds(8-13.5) and 12-16 inches(30.5-40.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: Usually reserved with strangers, they are very affectionate with their family and children. They are medium-energy dogs but don’t need as much exercise as many other terriers and are also not prone to be aggressive with other dogs or small animals.

Uses: These dogs were originally kept in Tibetan monasteries and thought to bring good luck. They are companion dogs but also make good watchdogs as they have a very loud and deep bark.

 

West Highland White Terrier

Country of Origin: England

Description: This breed is actually the all-white version of the Cairn Terrier. Also known as the “Westie,” they are small yet tough dogs with little erect ears and an all-white coat. Their dense double coat is rough on the outside but soft on the inside. Their long tails were used by hunters to pull them out of holes when hunting.

Size: From 15-20 pounds(7-9 kg.) and about 12 inches(30.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: These dogs are confident and friendly. They are known to bark a lot and also for their fondness for digging. They can be a little stubborn when it comes to training and do need daily exercise to help them use up their energy. Westies make are great with the family, especially kids, however, they usually do not like small animals and will most likely consider them to be prey.

Uses: Like the Cairn Terrier it was bred for hunting small game underground. Today however it makes an excellent companion dog that does not need a lot of space.

 

Wirehaired Fox Terrier

Country of Origin: England

Description: Similar to the Smooth Fox Terrier in color and body type however the Wirehaired Fox Terrier’s coat is shaggy looking and much denser. Its coat has a wiry feel and needs regular brushing and its tail should be docked to around 25% of its length.

Size: Not more than 18 pounds(8 kg.) and no taller than 15.5 inches(39.5 cm.) tall.

Personality: Similar in personality to the Smooth Fox Terrier it’s known for being very energetic, playful, great with small kids, and an alert watchdog.

Uses: As a fox and small game hunter it was used to enter the den of its quarry and dispatch it. It is now used as a companion dog.

 

Yorkshire Terrier  

Country of Origin: England

Description: Another one of the small long-haired dog breeds the Yorkshire Terrier is probably the most well-known and recognizable. Also called the “Yorkie,” its most notable feature is its long and silky coat. This coat is actually very similar to human hair and is always straight.

Many owners use a bow or clip to keep the hair off of the dog’s face, which not only helps to keep the hair out of the dog’s food and allows it to see much better, but makes it look even cuter as well.

Yorkies are blue and tan colored with either erect or semi-erect small ears. Their tail should be docked and while they do have a long coat they do not handle the cold well and should be kept indoors and warm in the winter. Many owners buy dog jackets to help them do so. They also do need to be groomed at least a few times per week.

         

Size: About 8 pounds(3.5 kg.) and 9 inches(23 cm.) tall.

Personality: These dogs are one loyal breed and love their owners unconditionally. They are an energetic and lively breed that is good with children because they are naturally gentle. Like many terriers, some Yorkies do not get along with other dogs but can with the proper socialization.

This is also an independent breed and will not hesitate to check out new places, things, or whatever it is they are focused on. They need daily exercise but a short walk will be enough.

Uses: Most people don’t realize that the Yorkie, like all terriers, was once a hunting dog. Named after the county in England where it originated, Yorkshire, this little dog was actually first created to hunt down and kill rats in the local mines and mills.

Today, the Yorkshire Terrier is exclusively used as a companion dog and one which is not only one of the most popular small dog breeds, but one of the most popular of any dog breeds ever created. They love to do everything and go everywhere with their owner whether it’s a walk around the block, doing errands, or just relaxing on the couch.

The Yorkie provides excellent company no matter what you’re doing and always attracts a ton of attention everywhere it goes because of its friendly disposition, long silky coat, and adorable good looks.

Also a very alert breed they will not hesitate to bark if they feel there is a need to sound the alarm for their family making them a good pint-sized watchdog. And any dog barking regardless of the size of the dog it’s coming from is always a good deterrent to thieves.

 

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