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These Adorable Small Dogs Are Just the Right Size for Your Family

small dog breeds
The Cutest Small Dog Breeds to Add to Your FamilyAnita Kot - Getty Images

The Drummond family may favor medium dog breeds and large dog breeds these days, but Ree will always have a special place in her heart for small dog breeds. That's because her very first dog was an adorable Jack Russell terrier named Suzie. The adventurous and affectionate Jack Russell makes the perfect family dog, and they're just one of many playful small dog breeds that are a joy to have as pets. Whether you're looking for a relaxed, cuddly dog or a high-energy breed to keep up with your active lifestyle, you're sure to find a small dog breed that's right for you on this list.

Just like humans, every dog comes with their own unique and special characteristics. Choose a natural comedian with loads of personality like a Yorkshire terrier or a dignified and determined pup with a humanlike manner like the Scottish terrier. There are also quite a few hypoallergenic dog breeds like the Bolognese and Maltese that are wonderful options, regardless if you have sensitivities or not. This list also includes some of the most loyal dogs, like a cocker spaniel or dachshund, as well as dogs that are great with kids.

While all of these dogs are on the small side, there's a range to choose from: This list has you covered whether you want a five-pound pup or a 20-pound hound. And once you've found your perfect pup, choose a fitting and unique dog name (or funny food names for dogs), then be sure to spoil them with the best dog toys, best dog bed, and lots of treats!

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Prepare for your pup with more ideas:

Russian Bolonka Tsvetnaya

Since bolonki were first bred to be the ultimate house pet, this companion dog is sweet, loving, loyal, and willing to please. They also tend to be clever and sociable, learning quickly and getting along well with other animals and kids. Bonus: This breed is hypoallergenic!

Weight: 6-9 pounds

small dog breeds russian bolonka tsvetnaya
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Yorkipoo

The Yorkipoo is a popular hybrid dog that comes from mixing a Yorkshire terrier and a toy poodle. They are friendly, lively, and intelligent pups that make the perfect first pet—especially since they get along with kids and other pets. Since they take traits from both breeds, they're plenty energetic but also enjoy downtime with their owner.

Weight: 3-15 pounds

small dogs yorkipoo
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Pekingese

Originally bred as lap dogs for the ruling classes of ancient China, Pekingese are dogs of sophistication and lots of loyalty. Just look at that mane! And because of their moderate to low energy levels, they'll make for great apartment dogs as long as they can go on short walks and get the occasional play session.

Weight: Up to 14 pounds

small dogs pekingese
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Basenji

Fun fact: The basenji is known as Africa's "barkless dog." Instead of a typical bark, they express their feelings with a high-pitched, yodel-like sound. They require at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, along with plenty of mental stimulation. Because of this, they're best suited for experienced pet owners who can offer patience and consistent training. But you'll be rewarded with plenty of loyalty!

Weight: up to 24 pounds

small dogs basenji
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Pumi

The pumi is a herding dog from Hungary that's actually pretty rare in the United States. Easily recognizable thanks to their corkscrew curls, these dogs are loved for their intelligence and agility. They were bred to be compact sheepdogs, so they've got boundless energy for work and play. They're also plenty cuddly and charming, too.

Weight: 22-29 pounds

small dogs pumi
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Norwich Terrier

These little guys are among the smallest working terriers. Yep, they were bred to hunt rats and foxes. So, they'll be up for running around the yard and playing fetch all day. But they're also tender enough to enjoy lap time, too. They get along with everyone from kids to other dogs and are extremely clever, too.

Weight: Up to 12 pounds

small dogs norwich terrier
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Shipperke

Known as Belgium's "little captain," the shipperke might be small, but they're built for tough work. This means they can be pretty independent and need plenty of opportunity for physical activity. But there will never be a dull moment! A dark coat and foxy face only add to their uniqueness.

Weight: 10-16 pounds

small dogs shipperke
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Brussels Griffon

Looking for a lifelong companion? The Brussels griffon, with their short, pushed-in face and expressive eyes, thrives on affection and will form a strong bond with their owner. They're also really intelligent and enjoy mental stimulation, though they can be stubborn at times.

Weight: 8-10 pounds

small dogs brussels griffon
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Whippet

Though the whippet is actually related to the greyhound, they're much smaller in size. They possess many similar qualities, such as intelligence and speed—and can reach up to 35 mph! Along with their athleticism, they also have an affectionate nature and are known to bark very little.

Weight: 20-35 pounds

small dogs whippet
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Border Terrier

Described as "hard as nails" when working, the border terrier has a good-tempered and affectionate personality when in the house. Though they're bred to be country dogs, they'll adapt well to city living if given plenty of exercise time.

Weight: 11-15 pounds

small dogs border terrier
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Chihuahua

One of the smallest dogs in the canine kingdom definitely gets a spot on our list. Chihuahuas are known for their charming and sassy personalities, and since they're so tiny, they make great purse dogs!

Weight: Up to 6 pounds

best small dog breeds chihuahua
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Pug

These smush-faced dogs are the descendants of royalty: Pugs were once the chosen companions of Chinese emperors! They're also great house dogs for apartments or homes with limited outdoor space.

Weight: 14 to 18 pounds

best small dog breeds pug
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Corgi

There are two different breeds of these dogs to choose from: the Pembroke Welsh corgis (pictured) and Cardigan Welsh corgis, both which were bred as cattle herding dogs. The biggest difference is their tails: Cardis have tails, while Pembroke corgis do not. But both breeds are smart, affectionate, and athletic, despite their short statures. They're also one of the top ten most popular dog breeds.

Weight: Up to 30 pounds

best small dog breeds corgi
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Yorkshire Terrier

You probably know Yorkies by the glamorous floor-length coats they sport at dog shows, but the breed was actually once used for a less fancy job, as ratters in mines and mills. Today, they are one of the most popular American dog breeds, and their owners love them for their feisty personalities.

Weight: 7 pounds

best small dog breeds yorkshire terrier
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French Bulldog

French bulldogs are also one of the world's most popular dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. They're loved for their adorable, bat-like ears and affectionate personalities. Frenchies are also known not to bark much, so they're great for apartments and other communal living situations!

Weight: Up to 28 pounds

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Daschund

These smart watchdogs, commonly known as wiener dogs because of their elongated bodies, were bred more than 600 years ago in Germany as badger hunters. They're loved for their big personalities and distinctive look. They come with various hair lengths, too!

Weight: 16 to 32 pounds (standard), under 11 pounds (miniature)

best small dog breeds dachshund outdoors
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Scottish Terrier

Scotties are known for their dignified, humanlike manner and determination. (They're not nicknamed "the Diehard" for nothing!) They have a strong hunting instinct and may not play well with other dogs or cats, but they are loyal companions to humans.

Weight: 18 to 22 pounds

best small dog breeds scottish terrier
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Boston Terrier

These adorable American dogs are known for their dapper tuxedo pattern, which earned them the nickname "The American Gentleman." Boston terriers are a super-friendly breed that are great for city dwellers, just like their name suggests.

Weight: 12 to 25 pounds

best small dog breeds boston terrier
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Pomeranian

Lovable poms are distinguished by their fluffy double coat, which comes in almost two dozen colors but is usually seen in orange or red. Poms are super smart and playful, and they can master tricks easily.

Weight: 3 to 7 pounds

best small dog breeds pomeranian
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Maltese

These pups are covered from head to foot with a mantle of silky white hair, which is frequently cut short in pets for convenience (like this cutie here), but is grown long on show dogs. Maltese dogs are affectionate and loyal, making them a great option for families.

Weight: Up to 7 pounds

best small dog breeds havanese maltese
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Havanese

Havanese, the only dog breed native to Cuba, are known for being cheerful and sociable companions. Their adaptable nature and social skills make them an ideal city dog. They're also prized for being trick dogs and natural comedians.

Weight: 7 to 13 pounds

best small dog breeds havanese
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Shih Tzu

These adorable dogs, which come in a variety of coat colors, were bred to live in Chinese royal palaces, making them a great breed for apartments and smaller spaces. They're also known to be super charming and affectionate with children.

Weight: 9 to 16 pounds

best small dog breeds shih tzu
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Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The cavalier King Charles spaniel gets its name from its ties to British history: the ill-fated King Charles I and his son Charles II were known for loving toy spaniels in the 17th century. These silky-soft dogs come in four elegant colors, Blenheim (chestnut markings on white), tricolor (black markings on white), black and tan (black with tan markings) and ruby red (pictured here).

Weight: 13 to 18 pounds

best small dog breeds cavalier king charles spaniel
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Papillon

This cute toy spaniel gets its name from its full, fringed ears that resemble butterflies. Papillons make great family dogs and are known for being especially good with young children. These affectionate pups are also very athletic and can be trained to do all kinds of tricks.

Weight: 5 to 10 pounds

best small dog breeds papillon
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Toy Poodle

Much like their larger counterparts, standard and miniature poodles, toy poodles are known for their intelligence. The American Kennel Club says that poodles are so smart, they sometimes act more like people than pups!

Weight: 4 to 6 pounds

best small dog breeds toy poodle
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Beagle

No matter what kind of dog you're looking for, a smart hunting companion or a cuddly, playful pet, a beagle can probably fill the void. Beagles are commonly called "merry" by their owners, and they're not quiet about their joy—they're known to bark and howl quite a bit.

Weight: Up to 30 pounds

best small dog breeds beagle
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English Cocker Spaniel

These floppy-eared dogs are loved for their energetic demeanor and upbeat personality, but they're also beautiful on the outside. Their super-silky coats can be found in a variety of colors and patterns, and are soft and cuddly to the touch.

Weight: 26 to 34 pounds

best small dog breeds english cocker spaniel
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Westie

West Highland white terriers, commonly known as "Westies," are popular for their toy-like face and playful personalities. Despite their adorable looks, they're surprisingly strong and tough.

Weight: 15 to 20 pounds

best small dog breeds westie
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Japanese Chin

These tiny indoorsy companions make great lap dogs—they're sensitive, intelligent, and adorable! Another bonus? Their thick coat is gorgeous but doesn't require much care.

Weight: 7 to 11 pounds

best small dog breeds japanese chin
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Jack Russell Terrier

Just like Ree's late pup Suzie, most Jack Russell terriers are fiercely loyal and super energetic. They're also totally adorable thanks to big, round eyes and expressive ears. Russell terriers come in three coat types that are all mostly white with markings that are tan, black, or both.

Weight: 9 to 15 pounds

best small dog breeds jack russell terrier
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Shiba Inu

This ancient Japanese breed is the most popular companion dog in Japan, but it was only brought to America 60 years ago. Since then, it's grown in popularity stateside thanks to its adorable, teddy bear-like face and sweet disposition. Now it's common to see Shibas all over the country!

Weight: 17 to 23 pounds

best small dog breeds shiba inu
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Miniature American Eskimo

With a dense, lion-like but sparkling white coat, this loyal and affectionate dog is a great option for families. They're also friendly with strangers, which is good to keep in mind if you like to have company over.

Weight: 10 to 20 pounds

best small dog breeds miniature american eskimo
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Coton de Tulear

These charming, happy-g0-lucky companions will bring a lot of joy and laughter into their human's life. They're natural clowns with a knack for walking on their hind legs. They get their name from their fluffy, cotton-soft white coats.

Weight: 18 to 22 pounds

best small dog breeds coton de tulear
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Toy Fox Terrier

The toy fox terrier may be small but it comes with a big personality! These pups are known for their smooth, satiny coats, affectionate nature, and intelligence.

Weight: 4 to 9 pounds

small dog breeds toy fox terrier
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Australian Terrier

Calling all moms and dads—these spirited and affectionate pups are known for being great with kids. They're also said to be quick learners when it comes to training. Just think of all the fun tricks you could teach your new Australian terrier!

Weight: 15 to 20 pounds

small dog breeds australian terrier
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Bolognese Dog

You'll love this fluffy pup just as much as you love the sauce whose name it shares! The Bolognese, which hails from Italy and is a member of the bichon family, is known for its intelligence, wit, and calmness. If you're looking for a dog that isn't too high-energy, you've met your match!

Weight: 6 to 10 pounds

small dog breeds bolognese dog
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Alaskan Klee Kai

If you love huskies but don't love their size, then this loyal little dog is perfect for you. It was specially bred to be a companion-sized version of the Alaska husky!

Weight: 6 to 25 pounds

small dog breeds alaskan klee kai
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Silky Terrier

These 10-inch-tall pups are a little larger than their close cousin, the Yorkshire terrier, and decidedly less yappy. You'll love petting your silky terrier's soft, glossy blue-and-tan coat!

Weight: 10 pounds

small dog breeds silky terrier
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Lhasa Apso

This thousand-year-old breed once served as sentinels at palaces and monasteries in the Himalayas. Smart and lively, the Lhasa Apso is very affectionate with family but can be aloof with strangers—which just means more cuddles for you!

Weight: 12 to 18 pounds

best small dog breeds lhasa apso
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Cairn Terrier

If this dog looks familiar to you, it's probably because of its famous Hollywood ties: Toto from The Wizard of Oz was played by a cairn terrier! These pups are known for being alert, intelligent, and long-lived. Naturally curious and bred to be small prey hunters, cairns love having a place to explore and dig.

Weight: 13 to 14 pounds

best small dog breeds cairn terrier
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Affenpinscher

Some people think these furry cuties look like Wookies or Ewoks from Star Wars! Despite their small size, they're not lacking in personality: Affens are known to be super curious and entertaining.

Weight: 7 to 10 pounds

best small dog breeds affenpinscher puppy
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Italian Greyhound

Elegant, alert, and playful, these miniature greyhounds make the perfect little lap dogs. They might make a pretty picture sitting on your couch, but they're coursing hounds at heart with a love of the chase.

Weight: 7 to 14 pounds

best small dog breeds italian greyhound
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Chinese Crested Dog

Chinese Crested dogs have a look all their own with spotted pink skin, a spiky "crested" hairdo, and a feathery tail. Their personalities are just as fun as their look: They're known for being playful, affectionate, and totally devoted to their humans. Since they're hairless, you won't have to worry too much about doggy odor or shedding.

Weight: 8 to 12 pounds

best small dog breeds chinese crested dog
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Shetland Sheepdog

If you love collies but feel they might be too big for you, consider their smaller cousin, the Shetland sheepdog. Shelties are known for being smart, easy to train, and affectionate. They also make excellent watchdogs since they like to bark and can be wary of strangers.

Weight: 15 to 25 pounds

best small dog breeds shetland sheepdog
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Wire Fox Terrier

Wire fox terriers are known as friendly, high-energy dogs with loads of personality. A natural comedian, this dog would make a delightful family pet. They're also low-shedding, which means less cleanup for owners!

Weight: 15 to 18 pounds

best small dog breeds wire hair fox terrier
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Rat Terrier

Legend has it that it was Teddy Roosevelt who coined this breed's name. Rat terriers are super playful thanks to their history as working dogs, so they make great playmates for children as they grow up.

Weight: 10 to 25 pounds

best small dog breeds rat terrier
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Miniature Schnauzer

Thanks to their bushy beards and eyebrows, miniature schnauzers have hilarious, almost human-like expressions. Mini schnauzers make great family dogs because of their gentle temperament. Bonus: They're a low-shedding breed, so you won't have to vacuum up fur all the time.

Weight: 11 to 20 pounds

best small dog breeds miniature schnauzer
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Pekingese

These toy dogs were one of a few breeds bred to be lapdogs for the ancient Chinese ruling class. They're best known for their glamorous "lion’s mane" coats and their affectionate personalities.

Weight: up to 14 pounds

best small dog breeds pekingese
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Bichon Frisé

Bichon frisé are famous for being smart and charming. The bichon's signature feature is its white hypoallergenic coat, which makes them perfect small dog breed for allergy-prone families.

Weight: 12 to 18 pounds

best small dog breeds bichon frise
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Miniature Pinscher

Min Pins, as they are affectionately called, are protective watch dogs that have big dog energy and personality, despite their tiny size. Their smooth, shiny coat comes in solid red, chocolate-and-rust, or black-and-rust.

Weight: 8 to 10 pounds

best small dog breeds miniature pinscher
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