In the world of canine companionship, size often matters, especially for those seeking a pint-sized partner that fits seamlessly into a compact lifestyle. Whether you’re living in a cozy apartment or simply prefer a dog that’s easy to manage, small breeds offer the perfect solution. With charming personalities and big hearts, these petite pups bring all the joy of larger dogs without overwhelming space or schedules. Discover the 9 best small dog breeds that stay small, each one brimming with unique traits and boundless affection, poised to become your new best friend in a compact package.
Small dogs that stay small are the ideal pets for those who love tiny, affectionate companions. These dogs not only retain their petite size throughout their lives, but they also offer loving and playful personalities that make them excellent companions. Whether you live in an apartment, have a small yard, or simply prefer a compact furry friend, these breeds fit seamlessly into various lifestyles.
Unlike larger breeds, small dogs that stay small require minimal space and can comfortably adapt to apartment living. Their small stature doesn’t mean they lack energy or personality—many of these breeds are lively, intelligent, and eager to bond with their owners. Additionally, their size makes them easier to handle and travel with, perfect for pet parents on the go.
From long-haired beauties to short-coated charmers, these tiny canines come with a variety of coat types and temperaments. Some are known for their affectionate lapdog nature, while others bring a spirited and confident personality despite their small size. Whatever your preference, a perfect little dog is waiting to be your loyal companion.
Small Dogs That Stay Small
1. Maltese
The Maltese is a classic companion dog, cherished for its small size and affectionate nature. These small dogs that stay small weigh between 4 to 7 pounds and have been originally bred as lapdogs for royalty. Their silky coats are one of their most recognizable features, giving them a regal elegance that makes them stand out in dog shows. Despite their delicate appearance, Maltese dogs are sturdy, lively, and full of personality.
These toy dogs are incredibly affectionate, always seeking the warmth of their owner’s lap. They thrive in small spaces and are perfect for apartment dwellers who prefer dogs that stay small forever. Their adaptability and intelligence make them excellent family dogs, as they form strong bonds with children and adults alike.
While their long coat is undeniably beautiful, it requires frequent grooming to maintain its shine and prevent matting. Regular brushing and professional grooming ensure their coat stays healthy. They are also considered hypoallergenic dogs, making them a great choice for allergy sufferers. Their average weight remains light, making them easy to carry around and travel with.
According to WebMD, Maltese dogs are prone to dental issues, such as tartar buildup and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated. They may also experience collapsed trachea, a condition that causes breathing difficulties in small breeds.
Training a Maltese is relatively easy due to their intelligent and eager-to-please nature. They respond well to consistent training, and their sociable personality makes them friendly with other pets and other dogs. Engaging them in indoor play or short walks ensures they stay active and mentally stimulated.
2. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is one of the smallest dog breeds, weighing between 3 to 7 pounds while possessing a personality much larger than their small size suggests. These small dogs that stay small have sassy personalities and love being the center of attention. Their fluffy coat types give them a distinct, plush look that makes them popular in dog shows.
Despite their small stature, Pomeranians are great watchdogs, always alert and quick to react to changes in their surroundings. They are known for their intelligence and adaptability, making them excellent pets for various lifestyles. While they enjoy short walks, they are just as happy engaging in indoor play, making them ideal for city dwellers who have less space.
Grooming is essential for a Pomeranian, as their thick silky coats require regular brushing to prevent matting. Pomeranians often face luxating patella, where the kneecap dislocates, causing intermittent lameness. They are also susceptible to tracheal collapse, which can result in a persistent, honking cough.
Training a Pomeranian can be enjoyable but requires consistent training, as they have a strong-willed personality. However, they are eager to please, and with positive reinforcement, they can learn various tricks and commands. They are social with other dogs but can sometimes be a bit territorial, making early socialization key.
3. Chihuahua
According to Britannica, Chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds, weighing between 2 to 6 pounds with a height at withers: 5–8 inches. It is famous for its bold personality and unwavering loyalty.
Despite their small size, these small dogs that stay small have a big-dog attitude and are fiercely protective of their owners. They have been originally bred as companion animals and have been cherished for over two thousand years, dating back to ancient civilizations in Mexico.
These tiny lap dogs are known for their sassy personalities and strong attachment to their owners. They thrive in small spaces and make excellent pets for apartment dwellers. Although they are tiny, Chihuahuas require mental stimulation and moderate exercise.
Short walks and indoor play sessions keep them happy and well-balanced. Their small size also makes them easy to travel with, and they are often seen accompanying their owners wherever they go.
Grooming needs vary depending on whether you have a long coat or a short-haired Chihuahua. The long coat variety requires regular brushing, while the short-haired type is easier to maintain. They shed minimally and are relatively low-maintenance compared to other breeds with silky coats.
Training a Chihuahua requires patience and consistent training, as they can be stubborn at times. However, their intelligence and eager-to-please attitude make them highly trainable with the right approach. They can be wary of other dogs and strangers, making early socialization essential to prevent excessive barking or fear-based behaviors.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a beloved small breed known for its silky coats, intelligence, and feisty personality. Weighing under 7 pounds, this breed is often seen as a symbol of elegance and charm. Yorkshire Terrier specifically bred for hunting vermin in textile mills became one of the most popular dog breeds due to their affectionate nature.
Despite their small size, Yorkshire Terriers are incredibly confident and carry themselves with pride. These small dogs that stay small have a bold yet loving temperament, making them excellent lap dogs and great pets for various types of owners. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in small spaces, making them a favorite among apartment dwellers.
One of their most stunning features is their long coat, which requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty. Yorkshire Terriers have silky coats that, while luxurious, are prone to tangling if not properly cared for. Many owners choose to keep their coats trimmed for easier maintenance. Their coat is also hypoallergenic, making them a good option for allergy sufferers.
Training a Yorkshire Terrier can be both fun and challenging. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, but their independent nature means they require consistent training. Early socialization is key to ensuring they get along well with other dogs and other pets. They also enjoy dog sports and thrive on mental stimulation.
For those who want a loyal and affectionate companion dog, the Yorkshire Terrier is a fantastic option. These pups bring joy, energy, and devotion to any household.
5. Pug
The Pug is one of the most endearing small breeds, known for its expressive eyes, wrinkled face, and affectionate personality. Weighing between 14 to 18 pounds, they are slightly larger than some small dogs that stay small, but they remain compact and easy to handle. They were originally bred to be lapdogs for Chinese emperors, and their loving nature has made them beloved family dogs worldwide.
These great family pets are incredibly sociable and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are natural clowns, bringing laughter and fun into any home. Despite their playful nature, pugs are content being lap dogs, often curling up next to their owners for long naps. They thrive in small spaces and don’t require excessive exercise—short walks and moderate playtime are sufficient to keep them happy.
Their short coat is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing to remove loose hair. Unlike hypoallergenic dogs, pugs do shed, so prospective owners should be prepared for some hair around the house.
Pugs frequently suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome, causing breathing difficulties due to their flat faces. They are also prone to skin infections in their facial folds, which require regular cleaning to prevent irritation.
Training a pug is relatively easy due to their affectionate and eager-to-please nature. However, they can be a bit stubborn, so positive reinforcement methods work best. They are excellent with kids, other pets, and other dogs, making them one of the best family dogs available.
6. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a charming companion dog known for its luxurious long coat, affectionate nature, and regal history. Weighing between 9 to 16 pounds, these small dogs that stay small were originally bred as palace pets for Chinese emperors and have maintained their royal demeanor for centuries. Their name means “lion dog” in Mandarin, and their flowing silky coats and dignified presence certainly give them a majestic look.
These lap dogs thrive on human companionship and are incredibly affectionate, making them fantastic family dogs. They are gentle, friendly, and enjoy being the center of attention. While they adore cuddling with their owners, they also have a playful side and enjoy indoor play sessions, making them great for apartment living.
Grooming is a significant commitment with a Shih Tzu due to its long coat, which requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and matting. Many owners opt for a shorter “puppy cut” for easier maintenance. Their coat is also hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers.
Training a Shih Tzu requires patience and consistent training, as they can sometimes be stubborn. However, they are eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement. They get along well with kids, other pets, and other dogs, making them excellent for multi-pet households.
Shih Tzus are susceptible to dry eye, a condition where insufficient tear production leads to eye irritation and ulcers. They may also face brachycephalic issues, making them prone to overheating and breathing challenges.
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful and energetic companion dog that remains small throughout its life. Weighing between 10 to 18 pounds, this small breed is famous for its soft, curly hypoallergenic dog coat and friendly disposition.
These small dogs that stay small are highly social and love being around people. They make great family pets, getting along well with kids, other pets, and other dogs. Their playful and mischievous nature makes them a joy to have around, and they thrive in homes where they receive plenty of attention and affection.
The Bichon Frise has a distinctive white fur coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Their coat is hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. Routine grooming and professional trims help keep their fur soft and fluffy.
Training a Bichon Frise is relatively easy due to their intelligence and eagerness to please nature. They excel in dog sports and dog shows, showcasing their agility and charm. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are known for their ability to learn tricks quickly.
Bichon Frises often experience allergies, leading to itchy skin and chronic ear infections. They are also prone to bladder stones, which can cause discomfort and require dietary adjustments or surgical intervention.
For those searching for a lively, affectionate, and beautiful companion dog, the Bichon Frise is a perfect match. Their playful nature, combined with their adaptability to small spaces, makes them ideal for apartment dwellers and families alike.
8. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a unique toy dog breed with a bold personality and an unmistakable appearance. Weighing between 7 to 10 pounds, these small dogs that stay small have a wiry coat and a distinctive face that resembles a little monkey, hence their name. They were originally bred in Germany to hunt rats and vermin in homes and stables.
Despite their small stature, Affenpinschers have a fearless and confident personality. They are highly intelligent and independent, often displaying a mischievous streak.
They are affectionate with their families but can be wary of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs. These small breed dogs thrive in small spaces, making them well-suited for apartment living.
Their wiry coat requires minimal grooming, with occasional brushing to keep it tidy. Unlike hypoallergenic dogs, they do shed slightly but are still considered a low-maintenance breed in terms of coat care. Their expressive eyes and animated expressions make them incredibly charming and entertaining companions.
Training an Affenpinscher requires patience, as they have a strong-willed nature. However, with consistent training and positive reinforcement, they become well-mannered pets. They are energetic and enjoy short walks and indoor play, but they don’t require excessive exercise.
9. Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a sturdy and energetic small breed that weighs between 12 to 16 pounds. These small dogs that stay small were originally bred in Australia for hunting vermin and guarding homes, making them tough little dogs with big hearts. They are among the smallest working terriers but retain the intelligence and boldness of their larger counterparts.
Despite their working-dog heritage, Australian Terriers are affectionate and devoted to their families. They make great pets for active households, as they enjoy short walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. Their lively nature and intelligence make them a joy to train, and they excel in dog sports such as agility and obedience competitions.
Their harsh, weather-resistant coat is relatively low-maintenance, requiring only weekly brushing to keep it neat. Unlike hairless dogs, their fur protects against various weather conditions. They have a distinctive scruffy appearance that adds to their charm.
Socialization is key for Australian Terriers, as they can sometimes be reserved around other dogs and strangers. However, with proper training, they become well-adjusted and friendly companions. Their alert nature also makes them great watchdogs, as they are quick to sound the alarm if something seems amiss.
Australian Terriers are at a higher risk of diabetes mellitus, which requires careful monitoring of diet and insulin levels. They may also develop luxating patella, a common joint issue in small breeds that affects mobility.
For those seeking an energetic, intelligent, and devoted pet, the Australian Terrier is a fantastic option.
Conclusion
Small dogs that stay small are perfect companions for those seeking a loyal and affectionate pet. These breeds thrive on human interaction and quickly form deep bonds with their owners. Whether you’re looking for a devoted lap dog, an energetic playmate, or a friendly companion for your family, these small breeds excel in providing love and joy. Their small size makes them ideal for apartment living and various lifestyles, ensuring they bring happiness to any home.
For individuals with busy schedules, these breeds can also fit into your life with ease. Many are easy to train, respond well to positive reinforcement, and maintain a strong desire to please. With minimal space requirements and maximal love to give, small dogs that stay small are a perfect match for those seeking joy, companionship, and unwavering loyalty in a pint-sized package.
Choosing one of these breeds ensures not just a pet, but a devoted, life-long companion that will fill your home with love, laughter, and warmth. Their ability to seamlessly blend into a variety of lifestyles ensures that every moment spent with them is filled with boundless affection and lasting memories.
In conclusion, selecting a small dog breed that remains petite throughout its life can bring immense joy and companionship to families and individuals alike. These dogs, often characterized by their gentle demeanor, adaptability, and manageable size, make excellent pets for those living in urban environments or smaller homes. Breeds such as the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, and Dachshund offer diverse personalities and unique care needs, ensuring there’s a perfect match for every lifestyle. Ultimately, these small breeds not only provide affection but also enrich their owners’ lives with their playful and loyal nature.