Best small dog breeds

Big dogs or small dogs? Couples often disagree about whether to add a large dog or small dog to their family but did no-one ever tell them that good things come in small packages? Tiny canines are incredibly popular as pets and it’s easy to see why. If you’re about to add a teeny new member to the family, then check out our list of some of the most popular small dog breeds in the UK.

Chihuahua

Height 5.85 – 8.97 inches (15.0 – 23.0 cm)

Weight 2.2 – 6.6 pounds (1.0 – 3.0 kg)

The Chihuahua is often considered to be the smallest dog in the world. Light, delicate and very petite, the Chihuahua often comes up smaller than the average sized cat – but don’t be fooled by it’s size – as it certainly has an all dog temperament! The Chihuahua is an extremely loyal, very brave, fast, lively, intelligent and sensitive dog with a bark that gives the impression of a bigger dog. They tend to bond strongly with their owners and if socialised from an early age, they will accept children and be good with strangers. The Chihuahua is a good pick for adult owners and those able to devote a lot of time to their dog.

Chihuahua Portrait

Toy Poodle

Height 9.75 – 14.82 inches (25.0 – 38.0 cm)

Weight 8.8 – 13.2 pounds (4.0 – 6.0 kg)

The toy poodle is the smallest of the poodle family but still shares the same characteristics. Well known for its distinctive coat, the poodle is lively and intelligent and would be well suited for an active household. Highly responsive, it is also said to be one of the most easy to train breeds as well. Sweet, cheerful, perky and lively, the toy poodle likes to be with people.

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Maltese

Height 7.8 – 9.75 inches (20.0 – 25.0 cm)

Weight 4.4 – 6.6 pounds (2.0 – 3.0 kg)

Though these dogs don’t come cheap, they are definitely one of the best small dogs you could own. Maltese dogs enjoy being loved, cuddled with and need human contact, but they also aren’t needy and can do their own thing if you’re busy. They are one of the most beloved breeds – so much so the Greeks loved them that much they even built tombs for them! The Maltese is not only cute but he is also friendly and gets along well with other dogs and pets. They also have a low level of activity but that doesn’t mean that he will refuse a long walk!

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Yorkshire Terrier

Height 4.29 – 8.97 inches (11.0 – 23.0 cm)

Weight 4.4 – 6.6 pounds (2.0 – 3.0 kg)

The Yorkshire Terrier is a friendly but somewhat noisy dog from the terrier group! They are excellent family dogs as they get along with children and other household animals. With a medium level of activity, they enjoys short walks. They are also very sensitive dogs that needs a lot of love and affection so owners need to be able to give them plenty of play, attention and exercise. If you want a friend for life, consider a Yorkie as they really love their owners!

Yorkshire Terrier

Shih Tzu

Height 7.8 – 10.53 inches (20.0 – 27.0 cm)

Weight 8.8 – 15.4 pounds (4.0 – 7.0 kg)

The Shih Tzu is a cute-looking little dog with a big personality! Not only is this dog good for the family, it also makes an ideal pal for someone living on their own. They are good companions to people of any age, are friendly and sociable, and get along with other dogs and children. Like all small dogs, the Shih Tzu must be properly trained, as they have a tendency to believe they are the dominant role within the household so train them when they are young! They aren’t super high energy dogs, so don’t need lots of exercise – just lots of affection!

Shih Tzu Portrait

Pomeranian

Height 8.97 – 10.92 inches (23.0 – 28.0 cm)

Weight 4.4 – 6.6 pounds (2.0 – 3.0 kg)

The Pomeranian could easily be mistaken for a small fox couldn’t it? They are very fluffy, longhaired dogs that often appear bulkier than they are due to their impressive coat.  They are laid back, friendly and good with children, but can be prone to a lot of barking to get attention so they may not be the best choice if you have a very small child!

Pomeranian Portrait

Pug

Height 9.75 – 13.65 inches (25.0 – 35.0 cm)

Weight 13.2 – 17.6 pounds (6.0 – 8.0 kg)

The pug is the ultimate family dog! It’s a small-sized, short, square-shaped, chubby dog that everybody just can’t get enough of! Not only do these dogs love children, they are also packed with energy and are really easy to train. Pugs are intelligent and inquisitive but they can be prone to obesity if not correctly fed and exercised, so they need lots of walks, care and affection.

Pug Portrait