Are you crazy about dogs? Do you prefer small dog breeds ? Or, on the contrary, do you like big dogs more? The truth is that for animal lovers like us, size surely doesn’t matter. Each dog and each breed has a series of characteristics and advantages that make it different and each one more special. But today, we want to share with you this guide to small dogs so that you can get to know some of the most beautiful and affectionate ones.
There are countless small dog breeds that are perfect for adopting or buying if you are thinking of getting a dog, and you will definitely not regret it. Small dogs are our favorites because they are adorable and generally very affectionate and cuddly with humans. Any dog is, but small/medium sized dogs have extra love built in. Let’s look at some of the advantages of small dog breeds and some of the most beautiful and affectionate ones. You will want to have them all!
Advantages of small dog breeds
Small and medium-sized dog breeds have many advantages over large dog breeds, although it is a matter of taste. They are certainly much easier to care for and their needs are less than those of a large dog. Let’s take a look at some of them!
They need less space : Generally you can have a small dog in an apartment, it is not like a large dog that needs as much space as possible.
They allow you to save some money on food : Feeding a small dog is much less expensive than feeding a large dog.
They are much more manageable in general : They do not need to be walked for hours and hours to burn energy, they are easier to transport when you go on a trip or when you go into a store, easier to bathe and dry, easier to control during the walk due to their weight, etc.
They are more cuddly and huggable : Although any breed of dog asks for love, their personality often also influences this. There are dog breeds that are very independent and others that are the complete opposite, that always need human contact, and in most cases this coincides with small dogs.
They are more accepted by passers-by : If you come across people who do not like dogs, they will be better accepted than if you had a large dog since they are much more imposing.
It is easier to find accessories and clothing for dogs : If you are one of those who loves to buy clothes and things for your dog, small breeds have much more variety to choose from, especially clothing.
Some small dog breeds have a much longer life expectancy than large breeds : Small dogs tend to live longer than large ones, although it will always depend on their health and the breed, since some of them are more delicate.
The 10 Cutest and Most Unique Small Dogs
We are sure that once you meet these small dog breeds you won’t know which one to choose because they are all pure beauty . Each of these breeds has something special and unique. You probably already knew many of them, but if not, discover them!
#1 Miniature Pinscher
best breeds of small dogs miniature pincher
Miniature Pinschers come from Germany and were bred to control rodents in stables. They look a lot like the Doberman but smaller. They usually weigh between 4 and 5 kg , and there are many colors nowadays. They are a brave, energetic breed and very loyal to their owner. They have quite a character and that is why proper training is important so that they do not become the leader of the house . If they are not educated and well socialized, they can be aggressive with other dogs and develop an excessive level of nervousness. Despite their small size and the fact that they are very active at home, they like to play , they need 3 or 4 walks a day to release tension and enjoy the outdoors.
#2 Chihuahua
best small chihuahua dog breeds
The Chihuahua weighs around 2-3 kg. There are short-haired and long-haired dogs in many colours. However, its size does not prevent it from being a tremendously active dog that is always looking to play and loves to be among people. It comes from ancient North American civilisations, where it was already characterised by its tenacity, cunning and mischief. What stands out the most are the large pointed ears they have for such a small size. It is a very affectionate dog, but at the same time it needs proper training and socialisation with dogs and people as it has quite a character. It is a somewhat delicate breed in winter and it is recommended to keep it well covered.
#3 Pomeranian
best breeds of small pomeranian dogs
The Pomeranian is a beautiful breed of dog, with an abundant, carded coat, and weighs only 3 and a half kilos (maximum) and is about 22 centimetres tall. It is a very homely and family-oriented breed , it is quite sociable and affectionate with dogs and humans. They are very intelligent dogs that need constant stimulation to satisfy their activity needs. They look a lot like Chihuahuas but with a little lion-like appearance. The most common are earth-coloured, but there are many more colours.
#4 Pug
best small dog breeds pug
Pugs are said to be descended from ancient Pekingese, others from the bulldog or the French mastiff. Pugs have a very cheerful and lively attitude. They can be very unruly especially when they are puppies, but this makes them even more adorable and beautiful. It is a breed that does not need much activity, much calmer than the previous ones although it will depend on their personality. They are not usually very barking dogs and they get along well with children and other pets . Their weight is usually between 6 and 8 kg but it is still a small and manageable size.
#5 French Bulldog
best small dog breeds french bulldog
The French bulldog originated in England, although it has gradually grown internationally. The French bulldog is a companion dog, it was not bred to hunt birds in the countryside or to get into rabbit holes. It is smart and refined and was bred to keep man company, some say they were made to walk in palace gardens. Very similar to pugs in size and physical shape, it usually weighs between 8 and 14 kg . It has a unique personality, is super affectionate, dependent on people and perfect with other pets and children.
#6 Dachshund
best small dog breeds daschund
The dachshund or sausage dog comes from Germany, originally it was used to dig burrows in search of badgers or rabbits, in fact the German word “dachs” means badger. They weigh between 7 and 14 kg , and there are different colors, and you can find them with short or slightly longer hair. They are intelligent, curious, brave and funny dogs . They are affectionate and sociable dogs, but proper education and socialization are vital. They are charming dogs and very good for family life.
#7 Bichon Frise
best small dog breeds bichon frise
The Bichon Frise is another small dog , weighing between 2 and 4 kg , which looks much bigger because of its fluffy white afro coat. It always has a happy and fun face. Its coat is also very soft and is often groomed to keep it decent. Its history is full of ups and downs, as it went from being a common dog among the Mediterranean nobility to being almost abandoned. It is an ideal companion dog, tireless when it comes to playing and needs to feel loved by the family , always looking for pampering and affection. The care of its coat and eyes is the most essential since it has delicate fur and its white color makes it stain easily.
#8 Shih Tzu
best small dog breeds shitzu
The Shih Tzu is a small dog originating in China. Its name means ‘lion dog’, which, given its meager 25 cm and its weight of between 5 and 8 kg , is exaggerated. You can find it in many different colors. It is a very affectionate, clever and intelligent dog . It is characterized by having a strong character that can already be seen on its face, but it likes family life and being made to feel loved, as long as it has its moments of independence. It is also necessary to take care of its hair frequently so that it does not get tangled or parasites caught.
#9 Yorkshire Terrier
best small dog breeds yorkshire terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is perhaps one of the quintessential small breed dogs that we all know. It is a breed that originated in England, originally intended for hunting in burrows, but ended up being liked by the bourgeoisie and today these dogs have become a cult object for lovers of small breeds. They usually weigh about 3 kg and the colour of their coat is brindle on the face, and golden and blackish on the body. They have so much hair that it is rare to see a Yorkshire Terrier on the street without a clip or a bow holding back its fringe. To keep it well cared for, daily brushing and combing is essential. They are very affectionate, loyal and protective of their home, but it is also very important to socialize them well so that they do not become extremely protective.
#10 Jack Russell
best small dog breeds jack russel
And finally, the Jack Russell , the famous dog with the mask or “Paco” from the lottery advertisement. It weighs between 6 and 8 kg , with short legs, which is why it is also considered a small breed. It is an active, playful and affectionate dog . They love playing with toys and with their owners. They also have fun with other dogs or pets because they are very sociable . Their hunting instinct sometimes needs to be corrected by a dog trainer.
Choose a loyal and affectionate dog breed
As you have seen throughout the article, small dog breeds are simply great, they have a special beauty and are very cuddly. Any small dog breed you choose to be part of your family will be a sure success, but remember that proper training from puppyhood is essential.
Did you know all these small dog breeds? What other dog breeds would you add? Which is your favorite? If you found this article interesting, don’t hesitate to leave us a comment and share it on your favorite social networks.
