Featured List of Small Dogs

When it comes to small dogs, most people either love ‘em or leave ‘em. To their owners, little dogs are cute, compact, loving and economical pets with personality to spare. They are great for seniors, apartment dwellers, and city residents who don't have big yards or active lifestyles. In fact, many experts suggest that first-time dog owners adopt a small breed. Weighing anywhere from 4 to 40 pounds, these dogs are typically easier to handle, and can live happily in any location. When owners are prepared to devote lots of time and attention to properly training and socializing a small dog, they make excellent companions. They have lots of love to give, and aren't afraid to shower their owners with kisses and attention.
Affenpinscher
Like many small dogs, Affenpinschers pack a lot of personality into a tiny package. They are mischievous, spunky and fearless, but Affens are quite easygoing and tend to adapt quickly to new people and new situations. Affens are territorial, however, and do best in homes without small children. Their compact size and low exercise requirements make them ideal for apartment life, but they can be happy in any sized home.
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Biewer Terrier
At first glance, these small dogs might seem fragile, but Biewer Terriers have no idea just how tiny they are. They are fearless, outgoing, and demand to be the center of attention at all times. They enjoy the company of both people and other dogs, and can thrive in homes of any size, though they should not be raised with cats. Biewers do not require vigorous exercise, but they thoroughly enjoy running, playing and chasing, and they like to be included in all types of family activities.
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Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are the smallest dogs in the world, with an average weight of four pounds or less. They do not require vigorous activity, but apartments are not always ideal living arrangements due to the Chihuahua’s propensity to bark. Like cats, they love to bask in the sun, and when the sun sets they tend to seek out a warm lap to curl up in. Chihuahuas do not eat much, and they are easy to clean up after, which makes them an ideal choice for a first-time dog owner.
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Havana Silk Dog
Havana Silk Dogs are not your typical toy breed. They are small and sassy, but do not demand attention. Instead, they depend on their natural charm to earn the treats and affection they seek. This breed has always been a companion animal, and while they enjoy playtime, are happiest when curled up with a loved one. In fact, they often have to be picked up and carried outdoors when it’s time to “go.” Their sweet disposition size makes them ideal for apartments, city life, and homes with older owners.
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Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a dignified and sensitive breed that enjoys the quiet company of the people they love. Because they are tuned in to the energy and emotions around them, they are not well suited for large, boisterous families. IGs prefer warm, dry weather and they will appreciate a jacket or sweater when it’s cold outside, but getting them to relieve themselves in snowy or rainy weather can be a challenge. They are quiet, clean dogs that do well in apartments, as long as they are exercised regularly.
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Lowchen
The Lowchen breed is nicknamed the “Little Lion Dog,” but that moniker is highly misleading. Tiny and sweet, Lowchens love people and happily play the role of lap dog. Even though they are small and enjoy cuddling, Lowchens also happen to love the outdoors. They enjoy raucous play with kids and other dogs, and make wonderful walking companions. They are easy to train, are compact and typically quiet, which makes them well-suited for first-time dog owners, city dwellers and people who live in apartments.
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Rat Terrier
According to legend, Theodore Roosevelt had Rat Terriers brought into the White House to clear up a rodent infestation, and they exceeded expectations. True to their name, they are heralded as the most effective of all ratting dogs. Their size makes them attractive for apartment life, but they require a lot of exercise in order to stay happy, healthy and even-tempered. Rat Terriers can be stubborn and independent, but owners say they bring endless joy and laughter into the home.
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Smooth Fox Terrier
Fox Terriers are small dogs, but they love nothing more than romping around outdoors to run, dig and play. Their size makes them amenable to apartment life, but owners must commit to providing their Fox Terrier with regular, vigorous exercise. They are prone to picking fights with larger dogs, so early socialization around other animals is essential. However, they are not aggressive and thoroughly enjoy the company of children, making them ideal family pets for experienced owners.
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