Do you want a dog, but there is not enough space at home for a big one? And there is no time to walk for two hours a day? Take a look at the list of the best small dog breeds in this article below.
Miniature dog breeds are breaking all records as every year they’re receiving more and more love and preference from dog parents. Understandably, small size, and unpretentiousness in care, maintenance, and walking makes a dog parent choose specifically in favor of toy dog breeds. Ready to know which breeds are at the top of the smallest dogs list and why?
Let’s now know in detail about some of the most popular small dog breeds that you can have even in a small apartment. Because all these small dog breeds are perfect for small apartment living.
What Breeds Are Small Dogs Breed?
Although there are various AKC (American Kennel Club) groups for small dogs, there’s an ideal breed for any fan of small dog breeds in terms of temperament, degree of activity, and also coat type. Depending on height and weight, small dogs are divided into three groups:
- Toy dog breed (up to 28 cm and 2 kg)
- Dwarf dog breed (up to 35 cm and 5 kg) and
- Small dog breed (up to 40-45 cm and 10 kg)
The smallest breed in the world is the Chihuahua. Among the miniature representatives of the canine family, one can meet both the usual Pekingese, pugs, and Yorkshire terriers, as well as snow-white Bichons Frize and Papillons – favorites of kings.
Small breeds of dogs have a special, disarming charm. Cute, affectionate, and smart, these pets will help relieve stress after a hard day and will happily take a seat next to the owner on the couch. At the same time, you should not underestimate the crumbs and treat them like toys. Animals need attention, education, and care.
So, let’s now check out the top 10 best small dog breeds that you can buy in 2023 to keep in your small apartment.
List Of Top Small Dogs Breed
Very often, when choosing a pet, urban residents consider small breeds of dogs. And no wonder: miniature four-legged animals are easier to keep in an apartment – there is no need for a large space. So, here is a list of the best small dogs.
American Eskimo dog
The American Eskimo Dog is incredibly good-looking, but that’s not what he’s valued for. Representatives of this breed are ideal pets that combine the qualities of a companion and an excellent watchman.
They are easy to train, which is why Eskimos are so often seen at agility competitions. These Pomeranians are incredibly loyal, practically in love with their owners, enjoy playing with children, and are ready to make friends with any stranger, but only if he is introduced by “their people”.
Other Names
- American Spitz
- American Eskimo Spitz
- Miniature Eskimo Dog
- Eskie
- Standard Eskimo Dog
- Spitz
- Toy Eskimo Dog
Temperament
American Eskimo dogs are affectionate and loving small-breed dogs. Playful and Hardy, they’re excellent with kids. This little dog is not only charming but also alert, intelligent, and eager to please the owner.
Weight And Height
- Toy: 6 to 10 lb and 9 to 12 inches
- Miniature: 10 to 20 lb and 12 to 15 inches
- Standard: 18 to 35 lb and over 15 to 19 inches
Health Issues
Prone to progressive retinal atrophy and hip dysplasia. Some are also allergic to fleas. Can gain weight if overfed or if it doesn’t get enough exercise.
Alaskan Klee Kai
Do you dream of a husky, but your rooms are too small for a large dog? There is a great way out – get an Alaskan Klee Kai. It looks just like a husky but weighs up to 10 kilograms. This is a high-energy breed with a big personality.
Other Names
- Miniature Alaskan Husky
- Klee Kai
- AKK
- Mini Husky
Temperament
These dogs shed and bark a lot as well as have a high level of energy, thus, not making them perfect choices for beginners. Without proper daily physical exercise, these dogs may become high-strung.
Weight And Height
- Toy: Under only 10 lb and only 13 inches
- Miniature: 15 lb and 13-15 inches
- Standard: 23 lb and 15-1705 inches
Health Issues
Prone to exposed stomach issues
Boston Terriers
Affectionate nature and great with older children, the Boston Terrier is different from other dogs of the terrier category – he does not have an explosive temperament. But this dog loves attention, so get ready to stroke your pet for hours.
Other Names
- Boston Bull Terrier
- Boston Bull
Temperament
They are alert, gentle, well-mannered, enthusiastic, and very intelligent. Boston likes to learn and thus isn’t difficult to train.
Weight And Height
- Weight: 10 to 25 lb
- Height: 15 to 17 inches
Health Issues
Prone to issues with eyes, such as late-onset cataracts, juvenile cataracts, entropion, glaucoma, distichiasis, corneal dystrophy, cherry eye, corneal ulcers, and Keratitis Sicca (dry eyes). Also, they are highly exposed to patellar luxation, deafness, and heart & skin tumors, such as mast cell tumors.
Bichon Frise
A Terrier-crossed English Bulldog breed that is amiable, devoted, and well-behaved. Because of this, they have an intriguing appearance, including a flattened muzzle, long ears that protrude, and huge eyes.
The Boston Terrier behaves honorably and does not drool, unlike bulldogs. This member of the Bichon family is renowned for its intellect, gentleness, and wit, making them an excellent family pet.
Other Names
- Bichón Tenerife
- Bichon à poil frisé
Temperament
They are fluffy, small white dogs that love human company. They have a self-sustaining spirit and are affectionate, intelligent, lively, and bold. This gentle, dog charming isn’t a yapper. Its self-assured, joyful temperament makes it easy to live with.
Weight And Height
- Weight: 7 to 12 lb
- Height: Females 9 to 11 inches, Males 9 to 12 inches
Health Issues
Some are highly prone to cataracts, watery eyes, ear, and skin ailments, also dislocated kneecaps and epilepsy. They can also be especially sensitive to bites of fleas.
Brussels Griffon
This dog is also a Belgian Griffon and Petit Brabancon. These small – weighing up to six kilograms – dogs are smart and friendly. And they invariably attract attention with an almost human facial expression.
Other Names
- Brussels Griffon
- Griffon
- Griffon Belge
- Petit Brabancon
- Griffon Bruxellois
- Belgian Griffon
Temperament
It’s a cheerful intelligent dog with the disposition of a terrier. They not only make s great companions but also is good with other pets and even your family cat.
Weight And Height
- Weight: 6 to 12 lb
- Height: 7 to 8 inches
Health Issues
Prone to have slipped stifle, respiratory and eye issues. Sensitive to heat.
Chihuahua
Named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, these loyal and energetic dogs prove that happiness is sometimes delivered in small packages: to be precise, parcels up to three kilograms. These tiny dogs are distinguished not only by their courage and fighting spirit but also by their good health and high intelligence. It is a Mexican national dog.
Other Names
- Chihuahueño
Temperament
They make one of the best furry friends. They were originally bred to be courageous, proud & adventurous, extremely lively, and affectionate. These dogs are also very cheerful, brave, and also agile. They are just the right size to make great companions in your small apartment.
Weight And Height
- Weight: 2 to 6 lb
- Height: 6 to 9 inches
- Health Issues
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Both King Charles I and Charlotte York from Sex and the City-owned these affectionate and gentle dogs. These spaniels were originally bred as hunting dogs, but now they are much more likely to act as companions. To maintain their silky coat, do occasional brushing. Regular brushing will keep their coat silky and smooth.
Other Names
- Blenheim Spaniel
- Ruby Spaniel
Temperament
They are affectionate, eager, and also happy, always appearing to be waggling their tail. Sportive and outgoing, these fun-loving, brave, and energetic little dogs are willing and eager to please.
Weight And Height
- Weight: 10 to 18 lb
- Height: 12 to 13 inches
Health Issues
Prone to syringomyelia, genetic eye disorders such as patella (dislocating kneecaps), cherry eye, back troubles, early onset of hearing trouble or deafness, and ear infections. Often hip dysplasia. Tends to easily gain weight. Also, prone to heart problems.
Cairn Terriers
The Cairn Terrier dog is one of the oldest terrier breeds. These dogs are distinguished by independence, as well as a rather sharp disposition. Cairn Terriers do not get along very well with cats, and they do not like other dogs either.
Other Names
- Cairn
Temperament
They are alert, hardy, curious, loyal, lovable, cheerful, and also a friendly dog who enjoys playing with kids.
Weight And Height
- Weight: Females 13 to 17 lb, Males 14 to 18 lb
- Height: Females 9 to 12 inches, Males 10 to 13 inches
Health Issues
Usually allergic to fleas and easily gains weight so they need consistent training.
Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire terrier dogs weigh up to 3 kg, but they have crazy energy. Yorkshire Terrier dogs are hypoallergenic, and their coat is similar to your hair: it has no undercoat and rarely falls out. Yorkies are true terriers.
Other Names
- Yorkie
Temperament
They’re eager for adventure, highly energetic, loyal, clever, and brave. The Yorkie is a great companion! They are affectionate with their master, but they can become distrustful of strangers and fierce to strange small animals and other dogs.
Weight And Height
- Weight: 7 lb
- Height: 6 to 7 inches
Health Issues
Prone to bronchitis, slipped stifle, eye infections, poor anesthetic tolerance, early tooth problem, and also delicate digestion. If your dog shows any sign of early tooth decay make sure you take him to the vet.
French Bulldog
Representatives of this breed are smart, mobile, have a stable psyche, love children, and joyfully welcome guests, but in case of danger, they are ready to protect all family members. Some of them may be aggressive towards other dogs and cats, but this depends on the temperament of the individual dog.
Other Names
- Frenchie
- Bouledogue Francais
Temperament
They are pleasant and easy-care companions. Playful, affectionate, and alert, making this small package with big personalities the perfect small companion. Also lively and enthusiastic, without being loud and yappy, which makes it an almost barkless dog.
Weight And Height
- Weight: Female 19 to 22 pounds and male 22 to 28 pounds
- Height: up to 12 inches
Health Issues
Prone to joint problems, heart defects spinal disorders, and also eye problems. They often experience respiratory problems.
Jack Russell terriers
Everyone knows Jack Russell Terriers – they managed to light up in many films. The reason filmmakers love Jack Russell terriers so much is that they have a sharp minds and a high ability to learn. But keep in mind: Jack Russell terrier needs long walks and can be quite stubborn.
Other Names
- Russell Terrier
- Jack
- Rebel Terrier
- JRT
Temperament
They are merry, cheerful, loving, and devoted. It’s obedient and spirited, yet fearless.
Weight And Height
Weight: 11 to 18 lb
Height: 8 to 15 inches
Health Issues
Prone to kneecap dislocation, inherited eye infections, Legg Perthes, and deafness. Also, prone to issues like mast cell tumors.
Shih Tzus
Shih Tzu dogs are so adorable that they will melt the heart of even the most severe person. Also, Shih Tzu dogs are gentle and loyal, but proud and sometimes a bit stubborn streak.
Other Names
- Lion Dog
- Chrysanthemum Dog
- Chinese Lion Dog
Temperament
Alert, lively, gentle, happy, hardy, loyal, and also packed with character. They can easily make friends and responds to patient, consistent training well. They are perfect alert watchdogs.
Weight And Height
- Weight: 9 to 16 lb
- Height: Not more than 11 inches
Health Issues
Prone to spinal disc disease and slipped stifle caused by short legs and long back. Also, they may suffer from ear infections and eye problems like cherry eye, as well as may get early tooth loss, can have respiratory problems, easily gain weight, etc.
Toy poodles
Initially, the toy poodle was a working dog, but over time it became a companion as they enjoy hanging with people. This did not prevent the dogs of this breed from maintaining a sharp mind – the poodle ranks second in the ranking of the most intelligent breeds compiled with different personalities.
Other Names
- Teddy Poodle
- Barbone
- Caniche
- Chien Canne
- Puddle
- French Poodle
- Teacup Poodle
Temperament
Highly responsive, remarkably intelligent, and among the fastest animal to be easily trained. Cheerful, sweet, lively, and perky, it likes older kids. They are also even-tempered.
Weight And Height
- Weight: 6 to 9 lb
- Height: Not more than 10 inches
Health Issues
Subject to numerous genetic diseases and may suffer from Anemia, diabetes, slipped stifle, heart disorders, epilepsy, PRA, ear infections, runny eyes, and also digestive tract issues.
Toy Fox Terrier
Other Names
- Amertoy
- American Toy Terrier
Temperament
It is active, intelligent, curious, loving, inquisitive, pleasant, alert, sensitive, and also very quick.
Weight And Height
Weight: 3.5 to 7 ib
Height: Up to 10 inches
Health Issues
Fairly healthy dog breeds; nevertheless, some are inclined to stifle and Legg-Calvé-Perthes, which are specific toy problems. They are often allergic to wheat, beet pulp, and corn.
FINAL WORDS
Summing up, it is worth remembering that the breed must be chosen not only for beauty and character but also to pay attention to the size. Large breeds will be cramped in small apartments. Such dogs need a long walk, exercise, and proper nutrition. So, if you don’t have much time and a small apartment then small dogs are your best choice.
