If you’re thinking about bringing a new dog into your home, you’ve probably wondered: what small breed dogs actually fit my life? The truth is, when you breed dogs small, you’re not just getting a cute lap companion—you’re getting a personality that’s often bigger than the dog itself. Small breeds pack loyalty, spunk, and character into packages that weigh under 20 pounds. But here’s the real talk: not every small breed is right for every person. Some need serious grooming. Others have stubborn streaks that’ll test your patience. A few have health issues that come with the territory. This guide walks you through the best small breed dogs, what to actually expect, and how to pick one that won’t drive you (or your vet) crazy.
Why Small Breed Dogs Make Sense (and When They Don’t)
Small breed dogs have exploded in popularity over the past 20 years. And for good reason. They fit into apartments. They’re easier to travel with. Vet bills and food costs run lower than giant breeds. You can actually pick them up if they get into trouble.
But here’s where people mess up: they assume small = low-maintenance. That’s backwards. Some of the highest-maintenance dogs I’ve seen in the clinic are small breeds. A Shih Tzu’s coat doesn’t maintain itself. A Chihuahua’s anxiety won’t disappear because they’re “too small to matter.” A French Bulldog’s breathing problems are real medical issues, not quirks.
When you breed dogs small, you’re often getting a dog that’s been selectively bred for specific traits—sometimes traits that create genuine health challenges. That’s not a reason to avoid small breeds. It’s just a reason to go in with eyes open.
Small breed dogs make sense if you:
- Live in an apartment or condo with limited space
- Travel frequently and need a portable companion
- Want lower food and medication costs
- Have mobility issues and can’t handle a large dog
- Have the time and money for grooming and vet care
They’re NOT the right choice if you:
- Want a dog that can play rough with kids without injury risk
- Expect a dog to “raise itself” without training
- Have a tight budget (some breeds are expensive)
- Can’t commit to regular grooming
- Want a dog that’s independent and aloof
The Most Popular Small Breed Dogs
Let’s talk about the breeds people actually ask for when they want to breed dogs small. These are the heavy hitters in the small dog world.
Dachshunds (Wiener Dogs)
Dachshunds are stubborn, bold, and weirdly athletic for their size. They were bred to hunt badgers, so they’ve got prey drive that’ll surprise you. They come in three sizes (standard, miniature, and tweenie) and two coat types (smooth, wirehaired, longhaired). If you’re considering one, check out our guide on do weiner dogs shed because shedding is a real factor with this breed. They’re prone to back problems (IVDD—intervertebral disc disease) because of their long spine, so they need careful handling and can’t jump off furniture without consequences.
Chihuahuas
Chihuahuas are the divas of the small breed world. They’re fiercely loyal, often bonding intensely with one person. They have huge personalities packed into 2-6 pound bodies. The problem? They’re fragile. Rough play with kids can cause serious injury. They’re also prone to hypoglycemia, patellar luxation (knee issues), and heart problems. Training is essential because an untrained Chihuahua becomes a yappy, anxious mess. Socialization from puppyhood makes a massive difference.
French Bulldogs
Frenchies are charming, playful, and absolutely adorable. They’re also one of the most health-challenged breeds out there. Their flat faces (brachycephalic structure) mean breathing problems, overheating issues, and expensive vet bills. They often need surgery to improve their airways. They have skin fold infections, ear infections, and spine problems. If you’re set on a Frenchie, budget for vet care and buy from a responsible breeder who health-tests parents.
Pomeranians
Pomeranians are fluffy, confident, and surprisingly bold. They think they’re much bigger than they are. They shed like a husky, need regular grooming, and can be snappy with kids if not socialized properly. They’re prone to patellar luxation and dental disease. But they’re smart, trainable, and make excellent watchdogs despite their size.
Shih Tzus
Shih Tzus were bred to be lap dogs for Chinese royalty, and they take that job seriously. They’re affectionate, stubborn, and require professional grooming every 6-8 weeks (or daily brushing if you keep them long-coated). They have flat faces like Frenchies, so breathing and overheating are concerns. They’re prone to eye problems and ear infections because of their long hair and floppy ears.
Maltese
Maltese dogs are tiny, white, and surprisingly sturdy despite their delicate appearance. They’re affectionate and good with older kids. They require regular grooming and are prone to patellar luxation, dental disease, and ear infections. They can be yappy and have anxiety if not properly trained and socialized.
Pug
Pugs are charming, funny, and social. They love being the center of attention. But like Frenchies, they’re brachycephalic and face serious breathing and overheating issues. They’re prone to eye problems (their eyes bulge out), spinal issues, and obesity. They need careful exercise management and climate control.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies are tiny, spirited, and have silky coats that need regular grooming. They were originally bred as ratters, so they have prey drive. They’re prone to patellar luxation, dental disease, and hypoglycemia. They can be snappy if not socialized, despite their small size.
Health Issues You Need to Know About
Here’s where the conversation gets real. When you breed dogs small, you’re inheriting certain health vulnerabilities. This isn’t meant to scare you—it’s meant to prepare you.
Patellar Luxation (Knee Dislocation)
This is the most common orthopedic problem in small breed dogs. The kneecap slides out of its groove, causing pain, limping, and eventually arthritis. Some dogs have mild cases that cause occasional limping. Others need surgery. It’s genetic, so buy from breeders who health-test parents.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
Flat-faced breeds (Frenchies, Pugs, Shih Tzus) have shortened airways that make breathing difficult. They overheat easily, snore, snort, and struggle during exercise. Some need surgical intervention to breathe better. In summer, these dogs need climate control and can’t do intense exercise.
Dental Disease
Small dogs have disproportionately large teeth in small mouths, leading to crowding and early tooth decay. Regular brushing and professional cleanings are essential. Many small breed dogs lose teeth by age 8 if their teeth aren’t maintained.
Hypoglycemia
Toy breeds (Chihuahuas, Maltese, Yorkies) are prone to low blood sugar, especially as puppies or if they go too long without eating. Signs include lethargy, weakness, seizures, or collapse. It’s serious and requires immediate vet attention.
Heart Problems
Mitral valve disease is common in older small breed dogs. It’s a degenerative heart condition that develops over time. Regular vet checkups with heart auscultation are important for early detection.
Ear Infections
Small breeds with floppy ears or long ear hair (Shih Tzus, Maltese, Poodles) are prone to recurring ear infections. Regular ear cleaning and grooming help prevent them.
Pro Tip: When considering any small breed dog, ask the breeder for health clearances from both parents. Check the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) database for breed-specific health testing results. This single step dramatically reduces the risk of inheriting serious health problems.
Training and Temperament: The Real Story
Here’s the myth: small dogs don’t need training because they’re small. Here’s the reality: small dogs often need MORE training because people enable bad behavior.
When a 80-pound Labrador jumps on you, you notice. When a 5-pound Chihuahua jumps on you, it’s “cute.” When a Lab barks excessively, you address it. When a Pomeranian barks excessively, people ignore it. This inconsistency creates behavioral problems.
Small breed dogs need:
- Socialization from 3-16 weeks old. Expose them to different people, places, sounds, and experiences. This prevents anxiety and aggression later.
- Consistent training. Teach sit, down, stay, come. Use positive reinforcement. Small dogs respond well to treats and praise.
- Boundaries. They’re not allowed on the couch just because they’re small. They’re not allowed to snap at kids just because they’re fragile. Consistency matters.
- Mental stimulation. Small dogs get bored. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive play prevent destructive behavior.
Some small breeds are naturally anxious or independent. Others are velcro dogs that follow you everywhere. Breed temperament matters, but training and socialization matter more.
If you’re considering a service dog role, check our article on can a pitbull be a service dog for context on how breed factors into working dog roles. While most small breeds aren’t ideal service dogs due to size and strength limitations, they can excel as emotional support animals or therapy dogs with proper training.
Grooming and Daily Care
Grooming costs are a real factor when you breed dogs small. Some breeds are relatively low-maintenance. Others require professional grooming every 4-8 weeks.
Low-Grooming Breeds
Chihuahuas and Italian Greyhounds have short coats that need occasional brushing and baths. Budget $30-60 for professional grooming a few times a year.
Moderate-Grooming Breeds
Dachshunds (smooth coat), Pugs, and French Bulldogs need regular brushing and occasional professional grooming. Budget $50-100 per grooming session, 3-4 times yearly.
High-Grooming Breeds
Shih Tzus, Maltese, Poodles, and Yorkies require professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Budget $60-150 per session, which adds up to $400-800 yearly. If you keep them in a “puppy cut” (short all over), grooming is easier. If you keep them long-coated, daily brushing is mandatory to prevent mats.
Real Talk: If you’re not willing to brush your dog 3-4 times a week or pay for professional grooming, don’t get a high-grooming breed. Matted coats are painful and lead to skin infections. It’s not fair to the dog.
Beyond grooming, small dogs need:
- Regular nail trimming every 3-4 weeks (small dogs’ nails grow fast)
- Ear cleaning weekly for floppy-eared breeds
- Teeth brushing several times weekly to prevent dental disease
- Eye care for breeds prone to eye issues (Pugs, Shih Tzus)
Living Space and Exercise Needs
The assumption is that small breed dogs need less exercise. That’s partially true—they need less *space* to exercise. But their exercise *requirements* vary wildly.
Low-Energy Breeds
Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Maltese are content with short walks and indoor play. They’re fine in apartments. They’re prone to obesity, so you still need to keep them active, but they don’t need hours of exercise daily.
Moderate-Energy Breeds
Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkies need daily walks and play sessions. They do fine in apartments if they get 30-45 minutes of activity daily. They’re alert and can be territorial, so they need mental stimulation.
High-Energy Breeds
Dachshunds (especially wirehaired) and some Terrier mixes have serious prey drive and hunting instinct. They need daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. They’re not content to lounge around. Without adequate exercise, they become destructive and develop behavioral problems.
The good news: small dogs can exercise in small spaces. A 600-square-foot apartment is fine for most small breeds as long as you provide daily walks and playtime. A house with a yard is nice but not required.
Cost and Long-Term Commitment
When you breed dogs small, you’re making a financial commitment. Here’s what to budget:
Upfront Costs
- Purchase price: $500-$3,000+ depending on breed and breeder
- Initial vet exam, vaccines, and microchip: $200-400
- Spay/neuter: $300-600
- Supplies (crate, bed, toys, collar, leash): $300-600
- Training classes: $200-500
Annual Costs
- Food: $300-800 (small dogs eat less, but quality matters)
- Routine vet care (annual exam, vaccines, heartworm prevention): $300-600
- Grooming: $0-800+ depending on breed
- Supplies (replacement toys, bedding, etc.): $100-300
- Pet insurance (optional but recommended): $200-600
Emergency/Unexpected Costs
This is where small breed ownership gets expensive. Dental cleanings run $800-1,500. Patellar luxation surgery costs $2,000-4,000 per knee. Emergency vet visits run $1,000-3,000. A single health crisis can cost thousands. Pet insurance helps, but it doesn’t cover pre-existing conditions.
Safety Warning: Don’t get a dog unless you can handle a $3,000-5,000 emergency vet bill. If cost is a barrier, pet insurance is worth serious consideration.
Regarding diet, many owners wonder about food quality and what’s appropriate. Check our guides on can dogs eat ground beef and is pedigree good for dogs for specific nutrition questions. Small dogs have different caloric needs than large dogs, and overfeeding is a common problem that leads to obesity and joint issues.
How to Choose the Right Small Breed for You
Choosing the right small breed dog is like matching a roommate. You need compatible lifestyles, energy levels, and expectations.
Step 1: Assess Your Lifestyle
Are you active or sedentary? Do you travel? Do you have kids? Do you work long hours? Do you have allergies? These questions narrow down which breeds work for you.
Step 2: Research Breed Temperament and Health
Read about the breed’s typical personality, health issues, and care requirements. Talk to breed clubs and rescue organizations. Spend time with the breed if possible.
Step 3: Find a Responsible Breeder
A responsible breeder:
- Health-tests both parents (OFA, genetic testing, etc.)
- Provides a written health guarantee
- Takes the dog back if you can’t keep it
- Asks you questions about your lifestyle and home
- Doesn’t breed dogs with serious genetic health problems
- Raises puppies in a home environment, not a kennel
Avoid backyard breeders and puppy mills. They prioritize profit over health. The money you save upfront gets spent on vet bills later.
Step 4: Consider Rescue
Small breed rescue organizations exist for almost every breed. Adult dogs are often already trained, housetrained, and past the puppy chaos phase. You’ll know the dog’s actual personality instead of guessing based on breed traits. Adoption fees run $100-300, which is far less than a breeder.
Step 5: Prepare Your Home
Before bringing a small breed dog home, puppy-proof your space. Remove toxic plants, secure electrical cords, put away small objects they could swallow, and set up a safe space (crate, pen) where they can rest.
Step 6: Plan for Training and Socialization
Sign up for a puppy class or hire a trainer. Small dogs need the same training and socialization as large dogs—maybe more, because people are less likely to correct bad behavior in small dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best small breed dog for apartments?
– French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Maltese are good apartment dogs because they’re low-energy and don’t need extensive exercise. Dachshunds and Chihuahuas work too if you’re willing to provide daily walks and mental stimulation. Avoid breeds with excessive barking tendencies unless you’re committed to training.
Are small breed dogs good with kids?
– It depends on the breed and the individual dog. Breeds like Beagles (small version) and Poodles are generally good with kids. Chihuahuas and Yorkies can be snappy if not socialized well. Dachshunds have prey drive. Always supervise interactions between small dogs and young children because small dogs are fragile and can be injured by rough play.
How long do small breed dogs live?
– Small breed dogs typically live 12-18 years, longer than large breeds. Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Yorkies often reach 15+ years. This is a long-term commitment. Make sure you’re ready for 15+ years of responsibility.
Do small breed dogs bark a lot?
– Many small breeds are prone to excessive barking, especially Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkies. It’s not inevitable—training and socialization help—but it’s a breed tendency. If noise is a concern, ask breeders about parent dogs’ barking levels and consider breeds known to be quieter (Bulldogs, Maltese).
What should I feed a small breed dog?
– Feed high-quality dog food formulated for small breeds. Small breed formulas have appropriate calorie density and kibble size. Ask your vet for recommendations. Avoid overfeeding—obesity is a major problem in small dogs. If your dog has digestive issues, check our guides on what to give a dog for an upset stomach and how much pumpkin to give a dog for diarrhea.
Are small breed dogs hypoallergenic?
– No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but some breeds shed less and produce fewer allergens. Poodles, Maltese, and Shih Tzus are better for allergy sufferers than Chihuahuas or Dachshunds. If you have allergies, spend time with the breed before committing.
How much exercise do small breed dogs need?
– It varies by breed. Low-energy breeds like Pugs need 20-30 minutes daily. Moderate-energy breeds like Chihuahuas need 30-45 minutes. High-energy breeds like Dachshunds need 45-60+ minutes. Mental stimulation (training, puzzle toys) counts as exercise.
Should I buy from a breeder or adopt from rescue?
– Both options are valid. Breeders allow you to choose a specific breed and know the genetic background. Rescues are cheaper, and adult dogs are often already trained. If you choose a breeder, make sure they’re responsible and health-test their dogs. If you choose rescue, work with breed-specific rescues that know the dogs’ personalities.
What’s the most expensive small breed?
– French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs command high prices ($2,000-5,000+) because of breeding difficulty and high demand. Designer breeds like Cavapoos and Goldendoodles also run expensive. But price doesn’t equal quality. A $1,000 dog from a responsible breeder is often better than a $3,000 dog from a backyard breeder.
Can small breed dogs be left alone during the day?
– Most small breed dogs can handle 4-8 hours alone if they’re trained and have access to water and a potty break. Puppies and dogs prone to separation anxiety struggle more. If you work long hours, consider a dog walker or doggy daycare. Some breeds (like Chihuahuas) bond intensely with owners and develop anxiety when left alone for extended periods.
