Top 40 Small Dog Breeds That Will Melt Your Heart!

From fluffy to sleek, meet your perfect forever pal among these tiny treasures.

Embarking on the journey of finding the perfect furry companion is an exhilarating experience, and for those who have a penchant for petite pups, the world of small dog breeds holds a treasure trove of delight.

In this comprehensive exploration, we unveil the enchanting realm of the “Top 40 Small Dog Breeds,” offering a curated list that celebrates the diversity, charm, and unique qualities of these pint-sized companions.

Small dogs have woven themselves into the fabric of human companionship, bringing boundless joy, loyalty, and a hefty dose of cuteness to countless households around the globe.

From the feisty Chihuahua to the elegant Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, each breed possesses its own distinct personality, characteristics, and endearing quirks that make them stand out in the canine crowd.

Throughout this journey, we’ll delve into the fascinating histories behind these breeds, exploring their origins, roles in society, and the traits that make them well-suited for various lifestyles.

Whether you’re a seasoned dog lover looking to expand your four-legged family or a first-time pet parent seeking the ideal small companion, this compilation aims to be your guide, shedding light on the best small dog breeds that captivate hearts and make lasting impressions.

Join us as we navigate through this charming canine panorama, offering insights, recommendations, and a celebration of the delightful world of small dogs.

1. Chihuahua

Chihuahua known for their big personalities in tiny packages, Chihuahuas make loyal and spirited companions. Their diminutive stature doesn’t hinder their bold presence.

Height: 6-9 inches
Weight: 2-6 pounds

2. Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier with their elegant coats and lively demeanor, Yorkshire Terriers add a touch of glamour to the small dog world. Despite their small size, they possess a confident and feisty nature.

Height: 7-8 inches
Weight: 4-7 pounds

3. Dachshund

These wiener dogs boast a distinctive elongated body and a courageous spirit. Dachshunds are playful, making them great family pets.

Height: 8-9 inches (Miniature)
Weight: 11 pounds and under

4. Pomeranian

Fluffy and vivacious, Pomeranians are known for their outgoing personalities. Despite their small size, their hearts are as big as their abundant fur.

Height: 6-7 inches
Weight: 3-7 pounds

5. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus, with their regal appearance and flowing coats, bring a touch of royalty to the list. Known for their affectionate nature, they make excellent companions for families and singles alike.

Height: 9-10.5 inches
Weight: 9-16 pounds

6. Maltese

The Maltese, adorned with a silky white coat, exudes elegance. Despite their dainty appearance, they are lively and full of energy, making them wonderful playmates.

Height: 8-10 inches
Weight: 4-7 pounds

7. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs, with their distinctive bat ears and compact build, charm everyone they meet. Their affectionate and adaptable nature makes them a popular choice for city dwellers.

Height: 11-12 inches
Weight: 16-28 pounds

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel known for their expressive eyes and gentle temperament, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are true companions. Their moderate size and friendly disposition make them excellent family pets.

Height: 12-13 inches
Weight: 13-18 pounds

9. Boston Terrier

With their tuxedo-like coat, Boston Terriers are known for their friendly and lively nature. They make excellent companions for those seeking a small dog with a big personality.

Height: 12-17 inches
Weight: 12-25 pounds

10. Pug

Pugs, with their wrinkled faces and curled tails, are delightful clowns with a heartwarming charm. Despite their stocky build, they are surprisingly agile and love being the center of attention.

Height: 10-13 inches
Weight: 14-18 pounds

11. Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers are characterized by their distinctive beards and bushy eyebrows. Known for their intelligence and loyalty, they are adaptable to various living situations, from apartments to houses.

Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 11-20 pounds

12. Italian Greyhound

Graceful and slender, Italian Greyhounds are the epitome of elegance in the small dog world. Despite their delicate appearance, they are known for their agility and love for play.

Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 7-14 pounds

13. Papillon

The Papillon, with its distinctive butterfly-like ears, is a small dog with a big personality. Intelligent and alert, these charming companions are often agile competitors in dog sports.

Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 5-10 pounds

14. Shetland Sheepdog

Shetland Sheepdogs, often referred to as “Shelties,” are known for their luscious double coat and intelligence. They excel in various dog activities and are devoted family members.

Height: 13-16 inches
Weight: 14-27 pounds

15. Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels, with their soulful eyes and gentle disposition, make affectionate companions. Their silky, medium-length coat requires regular grooming, but their loving nature makes it worthwhile.

Height: 14-15 inches
Weight: 20-30 pounds

16. Havanese

The Havanese, with its charming personality and abundant, silky coat, is a delightful small breed. They thrive on companionship and are known for their playful antics.

Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 7-13 pounds

17. Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise, with its fluffy white coat and playful demeanor, is a bundle of joy. Known for their cheerful disposition, they make fantastic family pets and are often great with children.

Height: 9.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 12-18 pounds

18. Pekingese

Pekingese dogs, with their distinctive lion-like mane, have a regal presence. Despite their small size, they are known for their independent spirit and loyalty to their owners.

Height: 6-9 inches
Weight: 7-14 pounds

19. Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher, often called the “Min Pin,” is a compact and energetic breed. With a fearless personality, they have a big-dog attitude in a small package.

Height: 10-12.5 inches
Weight: 8-12 pounds

20. Brussels Griffon

Brussels Griffons, with their distinctive facial expressions, are affectionate and lively companions. They form strong bonds with their owners and are known for their entertaining antics.

Height: 7-10 inches
Weight: 8-10 pounds

21. Toy Poodle

Toy Poodles are known for their intelligence and hypoallergenic coats. These versatile dogs excel in various activities, from agility to being affectionate companions, making them suitable for various lifestyles.

Height: 10 inches or under
Weight: 4-6 pounds

22. Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos, with their long, flowing coats and distinctive “lion’s mane,” bring a touch of Tibetan charm. Despite their dignified appearance, they are playful and make devoted family members.

Height: 10-11 inches
Weight: 12-18 pounds

23. Cairn Terrier

Made famous by the wizardry of Toto in “The Wizard of Oz,” Cairn Terriers are spirited and friendly. Their wiry coat and lively nature make them wonderful companions for those who enjoy an active lifestyle.

Height: 9-10 inches
Weight: 13-18 pounds

24. Shiba Inu

Shiba Inus, with their fox-like appearance, hail from Japan and are known for their independence. They are loyal and bold, making them a unique and captivating small dog breed.

Height: 13.5-16.5 inches
Weight: 17-23 pounds

25. Jack Russell Terrier

Jack Russell Terriers are renowned for their boundless energy and intelligence. With a love for play and a keen mind, they thrive in active households and make devoted companions.

Height: 10-15 inches
Weight: 14-18 pounds

26. Affenpinscher

Affenpinschers, often called “Monkey Dogs” due to their playful expressions, are compact yet spirited. Despite their small size, they have a bold personality and are known for their charming antics.

Height: 9-12 inches
Weight: 6-13 pounds

27. Rat Terrier

Rat Terriers are versatile and energetic, excelling in various activities from agility to obedience. With a friendly disposition, they make loving additions to active households.

Height: 10-18 inches
Weight: 12-35 pounds

28. Tibetan Spaniel

Tibetan Spaniels are known for their friendly and independent nature. Their distinctive lion-like mane and charming personality make them excellent companions for those seeking a unique small breed.

Height: 10 inches
Weight: 9-15 pounds

29. Silky Terrier

Silky Terriers, with their luxurious, silky coats, are both elegant and playful. These Australian natives are known for their loyalty and make wonderful companions for families and singles alike.

Height: 9-10 inches
Weight: 8-10 pounds

30. Miniature Bull Terrier

Miniature Bull Terriers are muscular and full of character. With their distinct egg-shaped head and outgoing personality, they make loyal and affectionate members of the family.

Height: 10-14 inches
Weight: 25-33 pounds

31. Beagle

Beagles, with their distinctive long ears and pleading expression, are beloved for their friendly and sociable nature. They are known for their keen sense of smell, originally bred for hunting, and make excellent family companions.

Height: 13-15 inches
Weight: 20-30 pounds

32. Japanese Chin

Japanese Chins, with their aristocratic appearance, are characterized by a silky, flowing coat and a distinctive pushed-in face. They thrive on human companionship, making them affectionate lap dogs.

Height: 8-11 inches
Weight: 4-9 pounds

33. West Highland White Terrier (Westie)

Westies, with their distinctive white coats and lively personalities, are charming and confident companions. Their friendly nature and adaptability make them well-suited for both urban and suburban living.

Height: 10-12 inches
Weight: 15-20 pounds

34. Chinese Crested

Chinese Cresteds, known for their hairless bodies and tufts of fur on the head, are unique and affectionate. They form strong bonds with their owners and can thrive in a variety of living environments.

Height: 11-13 inches
Weight: 8-12 pounds

35. Icelandic Sheepdog

Icelandic Sheepdogs, with their thick double coat and fox-like expression, are a versatile and hardworking breed. Known for their intelligence, they make excellent companions for those who appreciate an active lifestyle.

Height: 12-16 inches
Weight: 20-30 pounds

36. Lowchen

Lowchens, often referred to as “Little Lions,” are known for their lion-like mane and friendly demeanor. Despite their small size, they possess a confident and affectionate personality.

Height: 12-14 inches
Weight: 9-18 pounds

37. Tibetan Terrier

Tibetan Terriers, despite their name, aren’t true terriers but are cherished for their friendly and adaptable nature. With a distinctive shaggy coat, they are well-suited for families seeking a loyal and affectionate companion.

Height: 14-17 inches
Weight: 18-30 pounds

38. Toy Fox Terrier

Toy Fox Terriers are lively and intelligent, embodying a big spirit in a small body. Their smooth coat and alert expression make them ideal companions for those seeking an active and playful small dog.

Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
Weight: 3.5-9 pounds

39. Norfolk Terrier

Norfolk Terriers, known for their wiry coats and expressive eyes, are lively and fearless. They form strong bonds with their families and thrive in environments where they receive ample love and attention.

Height: 9-10 inches
Weight: 11-12 pounds

40. Border Terrier

Border Terriers, with their wiry coat and friendly demeanor, are known for their intelligence and agility. They make excellent companions for those with an active lifestyle, excelling in various dog sports.

Height: 11-16 inches
Weight: 11.5-15.5 pounds