Choosing a Small Dog
If you are looking for a small dog breed that will be just right for your lifestyle there are certainly plenty of breeds to choose from! From small and lazy (yes that's you Pug) to fast and playful there is a small dog breed to fit perfectly into any family. Below are just a few of our favorites.
1. Italian Greyhound
Not only does the Italian Greyhound look exactly like a miniature version of a regular-sized greyhound, but they are also good with both children and strangers alike!
2. Maltese
Maltese Dogs have been around for a long time, but little is known about the breed's beginnings. There is compelling evidence that the Maltese descended from spitz-type dogs in south-central Europe. The Maltese have the most trendy selection of hairstyles of any dog breed. Popular hairstyles for this petite breed include the regular cut, show cut, bob cut, puppy clip, and teddy bear cut.
3. Shi Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a popular toy breed with a long, straight coat and a curving tail. The breed is also hypoallergenic and loving, having a strong desire to spend time with their human friends. They are warm, attentive, and clever.
4. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a playful and affectionate breed that is good for first-time dog owners. They rarely exceed 12 pounds and come with two types of coats: smooth and rough
5. Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a newer breed of dog whose name is an Inuit phrase that translates as "little dog." This lively and clever breed closely resembles a smaller version of the Siberian Husky.
6. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are among the most popular little dog breeds. The breed is well-suited to apartment living and is extremely devoted to its owner. Their active dispositions and friendly temperament may make an excellent family companions. Behavioral issues may be rectified with training.
7. Cavoodle
The Cavoodle is a mix between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Toy Poodle. They are hypoallergenic, playful, social, and don't bark much. They usually range from around 11-22 pounds.
8. Bichon Frise
This is a little white breed with lovely "frise" corkscrew curls that originated in the Mediterranean. It resembles a child's toy and is usually praised for its mischievous behavior and affectionate demeanor.
9. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are now considered a little dog breed, although they were not always so. Earlier records of the breed reflect an average weight of 30 lbs, which is 10 times more than the breed's current weight. Years of breeding have transformed the Pomeranian from a medium-sized breed into a little companion dog.
10. Mini Dachshund
Playful and affectionate, the Mini Dachshund is great with children and even has some good watchdog traits. It has three different types of coats: smooth or short, wire, and long-hair
11. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are gentle and affectionate companions. The gorgeous small body, weighing less than 25 pounds, has a distinctive tuxedo coat, making these little canines even cuter.
12. Pug
Pugs were first developed as lap dogs by the Shang Dynasty circa 300 BC. Queen Victoria popularized the Pug in the nineteenth century. The Pug is described by the Kennel Club as "a lot of dog in a tiny frame." Pugs are recommended by the AKC for persons who live in compact spaces, such as flats, and for those who have little children.
13. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A King Charles Spaniel is an affable and gentle toy dog breed that flourishes in the center of a family. A King Charles Spaniel can quickly adapt to any living condition, and these little sporting spaniels are both affectionate and easy to housetrain.
14. Bolognese
The Bolognese maxes out at around four to eight pounds. They are playful. affectionate, and fairly easy to train. Plus they're great with kids.
15. Pomsky
A bit bigger than the others, Pomskys are a designer breed that was created to combine the very best qualities of Pomeranian, Siberian Husky, American Eskimo and German Spitz bloodlines. These dogs are joyful, affectionate and have a great sense of humor. They adore their people and can be great with kids, other dogs and cats.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.