Top 10 Small Dog Breeds: A Comprehensive Guide

When considering small dog breeds, it’s important to recognize that these delightful companions come with diverse characteristics. From varying coat types to distinct personalities, small dogs can offer everything from lively playfulness to serene companionship. Selecting the ideal small dog involves understanding your preferences in temperament, grooming needs, and activity levels. Here, we present an in-depth look at ten of the best small dog breeds, detailing their unique traits, care requirements, and interesting facts.

1. The first small dog breed is Maltese

Temperament

The Maltese, known for its luxurious white coat, is a perfect blend of elegance and energy. This breed is fiercely loyal and enjoys being a lap dog. Despite their small size, Maltese are spirited and were historically used as rat hunters. Their boldness and playfulness make them excellent companions for people of all ages.

Grooming

Maltese dogs require regular grooming to maintain their soft and silky coats. Many owners opt for a shorter cut to simplify care. It’s crucial to clean their eyes frequently to prevent tear stains.

Exercise

Moderate exercise, such as daily walks or indoor play sessions, keeps Maltese healthy and happy.

Fun Fact

Historically known as the “Roman Ladies’ Dog,” the Maltese was a symbol of prestige in the Roman Empire, often carried by aristocratic women.

The Maltese Dog: Comprehensive Guide to This Charming Breed

2. Boston Terrier

Temperament

Boston Terriers are charming and sophisticated with a touch of humor. Known for their alertness and intelligence, these dogs are energetic yet enjoy family time. They tend to be loyal to one person but are friendly to everyone.

Grooming

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, but their adorable nose wrinkles need regular cleaning to prevent dirt buildup.

Exercise

A walk around the block or indoor play keeps Boston Terriers fit.

Fun Fact

Named after Boston, Massachusetts, this breed is ideal for city living due to its compact size and adaptability.

3. Dachshund

Temperament

Dachshunds, with their distinctive elongated bodies, are confident and courageous. They were bred to hunt badgers and exhibit fierce loyalty and protectiveness towards their families.

Grooming

Grooming needs vary: smooth-coated Dachshunds require minimal grooming, while longhaired and wirehaired varieties need more frequent care.

Exercise

Daily walks are essential, but avoid strenuous activities as they are prone to back issues.

Fun Fact

The term “hotdog” was inspired by the Dachshund sausage, named after these delightful dogs.

4. Shih Tzu

Temperament

Shih Tzus are known for their bright eyes and affectionate nature. They are great with families and love being lapdogs, a trait from their royal Chinese ancestry.

Grooming

A Shih Tzu’s coat can be kept long or short, but daily brushing is necessary to maintain their silky fur.

Exercise

Daily walks or engaging in indoor play sessions are generally adequate for meeting the exercise needs of this breed.

Fun Fact

Shih Tzus were pets of Chinese emperors and remained unknown to the outside world until the 1930s.

5. Pug

Temperament

Pugs are loving and playful companions who get along with everyone. Their friendly nature makes them a favorite among families. Known for their unique facial wrinkles and expressive eyes, pugs are truly one-of-a-kind pets.

Grooming

Pugs have a short coat that sheds, and their facial wrinkles need regular cleaning to prevent infections.

Exercise

Daily walks and playtime keep Pugs fit and happy.

Fun Fact

The origin of the name “Pug” is unclear, but one theory links it to the Latin word “pugnus” (fist), referring to their wrinkled faces.

6. Pomeranian

Temperament

Pomeranians are social, intelligent, and devoted to their owners. These energetic dogs make excellent watchdogs and can learn a variety of tricks.

Comprehensive Guide to the Pomeranian Dog Breed

Grooming

Regular brushing is needed to manage their constant shedding.

Exercise

Pomeranians enjoy regular exercise, including walks and playtime.

Fun Fact

Queen Victoria popularized Pomeranians after bringing one back from Italy, leading to their global fame.

7. Chihuahua

Temperament

Chihuahuas may be small, but they have large personalities. They are loyal, brave, and form strong bonds with their owners. They can be protective and are often wary of other dogs.

Grooming

Longhaired Chihuahuas need frequent brushing, while shorthaired ones require occasional grooming. Their eyes should be cleaned regularly due to their proximity to the ground.

Exercise

Daily walks or following their owners around the house suffices for their exercise needs.

Fun Fact

Chihuahuas have the largest brain-to-body size ratio of any dog breed.

8. Yorkshire Terrier

Temperament

Yorkshire Terriers, or Yorkies, are playful, and energetic, and make excellent watchdogs. They are intelligent and easy to train but can be possessive of their owners.

Grooming

Yorkies require daily brushing if their coat is kept long. Many owners prefer a shorter cut for easier maintenance.

Exercise

Moderate exercise, such as walks and outdoor play, is ideal for Yorkies.

Fun Fact

The first therapy dog was a Yorkshire Terrier named Smoky, who comforted injured soldiers during World War II.

9. Poodle

Temperament

Toy and Miniature Poodles are known for their intelligence and trainability. They excel in dog sports and are great companions, though Toy Poodles prefer quieter environments.

Grooming

Poodles have hypoallergenic, non-shedding coats that require regular grooming and maintenance.

Exercise

High-energy Poodles enjoy long walks, runs, and swimming.

Fun Fact

Poodles’ show coats were initially practical, designed to keep them warm while retrieving ducks from cold water.

10. Bichon Frise

Temperament

Bichon Frises are cheerful, affectionate, and friendly. They thrive on companionship and get along well with children, adults, and other pets.

Grooming

Though hypoallergenic, Bichon Frises need daily brushing and regular eye cleaning to prevent tear stains.

Exercise

Daily walks and playtime are essential to manage their bursts of energy.

Fun Fact

Bichon Frises were popular in street performances and circus acts in the 19th and 20th centuries due to their adorable looks and charming tricks.

By thoroughly understanding these breeds’ unique traits and care requirements, you can select the perfect small dog to match your lifestyle and preferences. Each breed offers something special, ensuring that there is a perfect small dog for every home.

See All Smallest Dog Breeds