Do you want to have a cute little puppy that will never grow up? While most puppies grow to be strong and large dogs over time, some breeds remain small throughout their lives. These small breeds of dogs have no problem living in an apartment. They are often quite loyal dogs and a lot of fun. If you are thinking of welcoming a cute and cuddly little furball into your household, take a look at the following small dog breeds and find the right information to make an informed choice.

Small dog breeds were bred for their compact size and easier to manage. In some cases, their small size was useful for their working or hunting ability, as they can get into small spaces when their owners (and larger dogs) get stranded at the entrance. In other cases, it was simply for their pleasant and endearing side as companion dogs.

Small dogs are generally easy to transport, and their food and medicine costs are generally lower than those of large breeds. Additionally, many breeds of small dogs do very well in homes with limited space.

In general, dogs weighing less than 10 kg are considered small. Some small breeds are very compact and low to the ground, while others can be relatively tall and slender. Not all breeds of small dogs like to be companion dogs, and many are bursting with energy when large dogs are fairly calm and placid.

So, if you are looking for a breed that can adapt to living in a small house, be sure to pick one that is known for its calm demeanor.

Small dogs often make up for their size with huge personalities, which means they will need a consistent and rigorous education. And even calm little dogs need exercise and daily activities to stimulate their body and mind.

Many Yorkshire Terriers love to sit on their owners’ knees and love to be carried. But he is not a weak dog. The Yorkies make up for their small stature with assertive personalities. They can be excellent watchdogs, vocally announcing any movement in the house. Above all, however, they are affectionate companions, who do not need a lot of space to get adequate exercise.

Breed overview

Height: 15 to 20 cm;

Weight: 3 kg;

Physical characteristics: compact body; silky coat; dark gray or black dress on the upper body, fawn on the chest and extremities, caramel.

The dachshund has many nicknames: sausage, hot dog, door sausage, etc. Of course, these little names relate primarily to the breed’s distinct appearance. Their elongated back can sometimes, but rarely, lead to intervertebral problems, which can lead to paralysis of the hindquarters (it is best to avoid letting them jump high or descend from a great height to avoid back injury). Dachshunds come in either standard or small size, the latter being ideal for lovers of small dogs. They are kind and affectionate with their families, but can be wary of strangers.

Breed overview

Height: 12 to 20 cm;

Weight: up to 15 kg;

Physical characteristics: low and long body; short legs; black and tan coat, chocolate and tan, harlequin (chocolate or dark), brindle, red, boar, etc.

Poodles come in four sizes: toy, dwarf, medium, and large. Only dwarves and toys belong to the category of small dogs. Small poodles are known for their longevity, as well as their intelligence and curly coats. It was once a dog adapted to duck hunting in water, which explains the “lion” grooming that is often applied to it. Poodles are renowned for being cheerful, curious, friendly, and intelligent dogs who need stimulating activities to keep them entertained. Fortunately, small poodles don’t need a lot of space to burn off their energy.

Breed overview

Height: dwarf: 25 to 40 cm; toy: less than 25 cm;

Weight: dwarf: 5 to 7 kg; toy: 2 to 4 kg;

Physical characteristics: Curly, dense coat; colors include black, brown (light brown and dark brown), gray, apricot (or tawny orange), white, and tawny red.

The Shih Tzu is the perfect shot of the companion dog in commercials, which is not surprising as the breed was created strictly to make companions. These Tibetan-born dogs sport long, silky hair, although many owners cut the coat short for easier maintenance. They tend to be quite hardy and enduring, with an alert and confident disposition. Sociable by nature with other dogs, it can coexist with cats.

Breed overview

Height: 20 to 30 cm;

Weight: 4 to 8 kg;

Physical characteristics: long double layer; colors include black, blue, silver, white, etc.

The Miniature Schnauzer is a courageous little dog of German origin, with a friendly but stubborn personality. Easily recognizable by its muzzle hair that gives it long eyebrows and a sort of beard, this terrier has a strong sense of loyalty and protection towards its family. It is also known to be a barking breed, and requires a solid education. Still, with daily walks and hours of play, it’s suitable for a small home.

Breed overview

Height: 30 to 35 cm;

Weight: 5 to 8 kg;

Physical characteristics: bushy beard and eyebrows; colors include black, salt and pepper, black and silver, and white.

Chihuahuas are some of the smallest dogs in the world and are often seen in carrier bags, but they have huge personalities. While friendly and loyal, Chihuahuas are also active and sassy with “stubborn dog” attitudes. Many bond closely with their favorite humans, but are wary of others. The good news is, their small size means they don’t need a lot of space to play and burn off their energy.

Breed overview

Height: 5 to 8 inches;

Weight: up to 6 pounds;

Physical characteristics: alert expression; short or long hair; all colors, often one-color, white and black or cream or tan color (only merle color is prohibited).

These little round dogs have jovial souls. Pugs were once the pets of royalty and companions of Tibetan monks. Affectionate and even-tempered, they can fit into many different living situations, including tiny homes. They love children, enjoy company and find it hard to be alone all day. They tend to develop breathing problems and eye problems, so regular check-ups are a must.

Breed overview

Height: 30 to 40 cm;

Weight: 8 to 12 kg;

Physical characteristics: square body; short legs and face; dress sand or black or apricot (very dark brown) or silver or white.

Dwarf Spitz look like a cross between a stuffed animal and a small lion, thanks to their long, fluffy coat. They tend to be alert and sometimes bossy dogs with intense loyalty to those around them. He is a good watchdog, despite his small size. They need a consistent upbringing and boundaries to keep their stubborn minds in check. Due to their small size, a few daily walks and playtime should be enough to meet their exercise needs.

Breed overview

Height: around 20 cm;

Weight: 1,5 to 3 kg;

Physical characteristics: compact body; fluffy coat; colors include black, brown, white, orange, wolf gray, cream, cream sable, orange sable, black and tan, cream stripe and variegated.

The Boston Terrier is a cheerful, loyal and even-tempered dog. The breed originated from the crossing of an English Bulldog with a White English Terrier and was named after the city in which it was bred. Bostons tend to be very playful, although they also enjoy spending time on their owners’ laps. They are generally very adaptable to apartment living. Intelligent and affectionate, he is occasionally restless and has a good sense of humor. His quick wit allows him to understand very quickly.

Breed overview

Height: 40 to 45 cm;

Weight: 5 to 12 kg;

Physical characteristics: short face; smooth coat; brindle coat color “seal” or black variegated with white (with a white band around the muzzle, a white list between the eyes and white on the chest).

The Bichon Maltais tends to have a gentle but courageous disposition. This dog is generally playful and friendly, and he bonds closely with his family. The breed dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was the beloved companion of royalty and nobility. Today’s Maltese still love to be pampered and don’t need a lot of space to move around. Robust in health, they are seldom sick, just sometimes the eyes that tear when the tear channels get blocked.

Breed overview

Height: 20 to 25 cm;

Weight: 2 to 4 kg;

Physical characteristics: dark, alert eyes; silky white coat.