Searching for the perfect furry companion that not only fits your cozy living space but also harmonizes with other dogs? Look no further! Our guide to the “7 Cute Small Dog Breeds Good With Other Dogs” unveils a selection of adorable, pint-sized canines known for their friendly and social nature. These charming breeds bring joy and companionship to any household with their playful antics and gentle demeanor. Whether you are expanding your pet family or seeking a sociable partner for your existing pet, these small breeds promise a seamless integration and endless love. Discover the perfect petite pup for a harmonious home!
Ever met a small dog with a big attitude? Of course you have. They act like they own the place, and honestly, they probably do. But what if I told you some tiny dogs actually like other dogs? Shocking, I know.
Contrary to the ankle-biting stereotypes, not all small breeds are pint-sized divas. Some are downright social butterflies, trotting into dog parks like they’re running for mayor. These little extroverts thrive in multi-dog households, proving that the “Napoleon complex” isn’t a universal small dog trait.
Let’s be real—no one wants to play referee in an endless bark-off. If you’re dreaming of a peaceful home where your pups coexist instead of plotting against each other, you need a breed that plays nice.
Luckily, we’ve sniffed out seven small breeds that don’t just tolerate other dogs but enjoy their company. Yes, miracles do happen.
So, grab a treat (or ten) and keep reading—your future furry BFF might just be on this list.
7 Small Dog Breeds Good with Other Dogs
1. Bichon Frise
Imagine a fluffy cloud with legs—now give it an obsession with attention. That’s what you get with this little socialite. Originally bred to entertain royalty, this pup hasn’t forgotten its VIP roots. It thrives in multi-pet households, blending effortlessly with other breeds, humans, and yes, even cats (if the cat allows it).
Weighing in at a whopping 12–18 pounds, it’s about as intimidating as a marshmallow. But don’t let the size fool you—this breed has the energy of a toddler after a sugar rush. Playtime is non-negotiable, and daily exercise is a must unless you want a hyperactive tornado zooming through your house.
Grooming? Oh, you thought this level of fluff was low-maintenance? Cute. Regular brushing, professional trims, and vet checkups are essential to avoid turning your dog into a walking dust mop. Plus, those white coats attract dirt like a magnet.
Training is a breeze—kind of. This breed is smart but has a stubborn streak that says, “Make it worth my time.” Treats help, but so does pretending you’re not utterly wrapped around its tiny paw.
AKC reports that the temperament is pure charm. Friendly, affectionate, and always ready to get along with both existing pets and strangers, this breed is an ideal companion. Just don’t leave it alone for too long—it has zero chill when it comes to separation anxiety.
Fun fact: This dog was once a circus performer. Which explains why it thinks the world revolves around it. And honestly? It kind of does.
2. Boston Terrier
Meet the tuxedo-wearing comedian of the dog world. This dapper little dog comes with a playful nature, boundless energy, and a face that screams, “Love me or suffer.” Spoiler alert: You’ll love it.
Weighing 12–25 pounds, it’s compact yet muscular—a good fit for those who want a small dog with big-dog confidence. It was originally bred for rat hunting (yes, really) but traded its street-fighter past for a cushy family life.
Exercise is key unless you want a zoomie-fueled chaos machine. They need daily walks, playtime, and a decent dose of mental stimulation to avoid turning into tiny, hyperactive maniacs.
Training? Surprisingly easy—this breed is smart and eager to please. The only issue? They sometimes forget their size and challenge larger dogs like they’ve got something to prove. Confidence: 10/10. Logic: 2/10.
They’re affectionate and do well with other dogs, other pets, and existing pets—as long as everyone understands they are the star of the show. And the audience. And the director. They run the house.
Fun fact: These little goofballs snore like 90-year-old men. Loudly. Hope you like white noise.
3. Brussels Griffon
If grumpy old men were turned into dogs, you’d get this breed. With a face that looks permanently unimpressed, it’s the best dog breed for those who appreciate a little side-eye with their affection.
Tiny but mighty, this breed rarely hits 12 pounds, yet it acts like it’s the king of the house. It was originally bred to hunt rats, but now its main job is being your tiny shadow. Expect zero privacy—this dog follows you everywhere. Yes, even there.
PetMD reports that grooming is a commitment, especially with the rough-coated variety. Regular brushing is non-negotiable unless you want it looking like it just rolled out of bed (which, to be fair, is part of the charm).
Training can be… interesting. While smart, it has a “What’s in it for me?” attitude. Stay patient, use positive reinforcement, and remember: You’re not in charge. The dog is.
Surprisingly, it does well with other dogs and other pets—when properly socialized. However, it has no fear and may try to boss around larger dogs with its inflated sense of self-importance. Supervise interactions unless you enjoy refereeing unnecessary drama.
Fun fact: George Lucas based the Ewoks on this breed. So, yes, your dog is a space warrior. Kind of.
4. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
A long dog with short legs and a big attitude, this breed is proof that size doesn’t dictate confidence. Originally bred for herding, it still thinks everything (including you) needs to be herded. Don’t be surprised if it tries to direct foot traffic in your house.
Weighing up to 38 pounds, it’s a solid chunk of dog packed into a low-rider frame. It has the intelligence to learn anything but the stubbornness to pretend it didn’t hear you. Training takes patience—and a lot of snacks.
Exercise is crucial. This isn’t a couch potato; it needs walks, mental challenges, and some space to run. Otherwise, it’ll find “creative” ways to entertain itself (read: chaos).
Despite its herding past, it does well with other dogs and other animals if properly socialized. However, it may attempt to herd anything that moves, including smaller animals and unsuspecting guests.
It’s affectionate, fiercely loyal, and always up for playtime. Just don’t expect it to back down from a challenge—this breed has the heart of a big dog trapped in a tiny body.
Fun fact: Unlike its cousin, the Pembroke, this Corgi has a tail. And it’s very proud of it.
5. Bolognese
If a cotton ball had legs and an attitude, it would be this dog. This little aristocrat was originally bred to be a pampered lapdog for European nobility, and honestly, it still expects royal treatment. Affectionate and clingy, it’s a living, breathing shadow. Privacy? You can forget about that.
Weighing 5–9 pounds, this pup is tiny but mighty in personality. It’s got a gentle nature but a stubborn streak that makes training a test of wills. Want to listen? You’d better bring high-value treats. And maybe a negotiation strategy.
Despite its diva status, it does well with other dogs, other pets, and existing pets. It’s too classy to start drama, but I will judge from the sidelines if another dog is acting out. Expect side-eye worthy of an Oscar nomination.
Grooming is where things get serious. That fluffy coat? Yeah, it needs daily brushing unless you want your dog looking like it lost a fight with a tumbleweed. And baths? More often than they’d prefer.
With the right amount of playtime and cuddles, it’s the ideal companion for someone who wants a tiny, furry best friend. Just know that separation anxiety is real—this dog doesn’t do “alone time.” Ever.
Fun fact: This breed has been around for over 1,000 years. That’s a millennium of perfecting the art of being spoiled. And they’re still going strong.
6. Affenpinscher
Imagine a tiny gremlin with a Napoleon complex. Now, give it a mustache. That’s this dog. Originally bred to hunt rats, it still thinks it’s the toughest dog in the room—even if the room has a big dog in it. Spoiler: It’s not. But don’t tell it that.
At just 7–10 pounds, it has no concept of its size. It will challenge larger dogs, demand respect, and act like it’s the leader of your house. Confidence level? Off the charts. Self-awareness? Nonexistent.
Despite the bravado, it’s affectionate, loves its people, and does well with other dogs—as long as they understand it’s the boss. Properly socialized, it can even get along with other pets and smaller animals, but supervision is always a good idea.
Purina notes that grooming is surprisingly low-maintenance. That scruffy coat needs weekly brushing, but it doesn’t shed much. However, its facial hair does require regular trimming unless you’re into the “wild professor” look.
Training? Let’s just say it listens when it feels like it. This breed is smart but has selective hearing. Be careful—give an inch, and it’ll take a mile (and probably your bed, too).
Fun fact: It’s name means “monkey dog” in German. And yes, it looks exactly like one.
7. Australian Terrier
Take a standard poodle’s energy, pack it into a 15-pound frame, and give it a personality that says, “I run this place.” That’s this little firecracker. Originally bred to hunt vermin and snakes (yes, really), it has a strong prey drive and an even stronger ego.
Don’t let the size fool you—this dog is smart, tough, and fearless. It’s got the confidence of a big dog trapped in a pint-sized body. But, when properly socialized, it can do well with other dogs and even other animals (as long as they don’t resemble prey).
Exercise is non-negotiable. This isn’t a lapdog—it needs playtime, training, and mental stimulation. If it’s bored, your furniture might become a chew toy. You’ve been warned.
Grooming? Pretty easy. Its rough coat needs occasional brushing, but that’s about it. Low maintenance, high energy—the ultimate good fit for active owners.
Training is fun if you like a challenge. This breed is smart and eager to learn, but also stubborn enough to pretend it forgot everything the moment you stop holding treats.
Fun fact: This is one of the few terriers that enjoys multi-pet households. That’s right—some terriers do well with other pets. It’s rare, but it happens.
Conclusion
So, there you have it—seven small dogs that won’t turn your home into a reality show filled with endless barking and passive-aggressive standoffs. Who knew small breeds could be so dog-friendly? Turns out that not every tiny pup has a secret vendetta against their resident dog or thinks they need to boss around larger dogs.
Of course, if none of these caught your eye, don’t panic. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Maltese, and Cocker Spaniel are also excellent choices for multi-dog households. And if you’re thinking bigger, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and even the towering Great Dane are known for their calm nature and social skills.
Choosing the best dog breed isn’t just about cuteness (though let’s be real, that helps). It’s about finding the right combination of temperament, energy, and compatibility with your existing pets—whether they’re other dog breeds, cats, or a suspiciously independent hamster.
Thinking of bringing a new puppy into your pack? Consider how they’ll interact with your adult dog and whether they can handle the chaos of two male dogs in the same house. A little research now saves you from future “Why is the couch shredded?” moments.
Still undecided? Maybe a Beagle, Miniature Schnauzer, or Pembroke Welsh Corgi is your perfect match. Just remember—training, playtime, and proper socialization are key to a happy, harmonious home.
Now, go forth and make an informed decision—your future furry friend (and your furniture) will thank you!
In conclusion, choosing a small dog breed that is good with other dogs can enhance the joy of multi-pet households. Breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Bichon Frise, and French Bulldog are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them excellent companions for other dogs. Their adaptable temperaments and playful demeanor help foster positive interactions, ensuring harmony and camaraderie within the home. By selecting a breed that thrives in social settings, owners can enjoy the companionship of a pet that not only bonds well with humans but also enriches the lives of other dogs around them.