Thinking about adding a companion dog to your family? One of these small dog breeds could be the perfect match.
Perfect for smaller homes (and even apartments, in some cases) small dog breeds tend to require less exercise (most on this list need an hour a day, if not less) and live longer than their larger cousins too.
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Check out more information about these small dog breeds:
1. Chihuahua
- Life expectancy: 12-20 years
- How much exercise they need: 30 minutes per day
- Fur length: Short
A member of the “toy” breeds, Chihuahuas are tiny, with an average height of just 15 cm. They can be moody but have a strong bond with people they know well.
2. Pomeranian
- Life expectancy: 12-16 years
- How much exercise they need: 30 minutes per day
- Fur length: Medium
Also a proud member of the “toy” breeds, Pomeranians are easy to spot thanks to their fluffy and characteristic coat, which needs to be brushed up to three times a week. They are sociable, friendly, and love attention.
3. Pug
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- How much exercise they need: 45 minutes per day
- Fur length: Short
The socialites of the canine world, pugs love being around people. They thrive on contact (and belly rubs) and do not like being left alone for long periods. Due to their flat faces, there are unfortunately health concerns linked to the breed, something to consider before bringing one home.
4. French Bulldog
- Life expectancy: 10-14 years
- How much exercise they need: 1 hour per day
- Fur length: Short
Stubborn and clumsy are the first two words that come to mind when we think about French Bulldogs. The breed’s popularity has grown in recent years, largely thanks to its cheeky temperament and gentle nature with children.
5. Boston Terrier
- Life expectancy: 13-15 years
- How much exercise they need: 1 hour per day
- Fur length: Short
Often confused with French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers are taller and leaner than their more robust cousins. They love to have fun and are great with children but can suffer from a range of health problems. Ask the breeder or shelter about your new dog’s medical history to make an informed decision.
6. Yorkshire
- Life expectancy: 13-16 years
- How much exercise they need: 30 minutes per day
- Fur length: Long
They may be tiny, but don’t be fooled by a Yorkshire’s adorable exterior – they can more than defend themselves against larger dogs when it comes to barking! They love attention, which makes the necessary daily grooming more of a luxury than a tedious task. Their stubborn natures can make training tricky, but plenty of patience (and treats!) will reward you with a well-behaved dog.
7. West Highland Terrier
- Life expectancy: 12-16 years
- How much exercise they need: 1 hour per day
- Fur length: Medium
One of the best dogs for families, they are intelligent, adaptable, and super loving. They are stubborn (which can result in a lot of barking) and will live as happily in an urban environment as in the countryside.
8. Maltese
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- How much exercise they need: 30 minutes per day
- Fur length: Long
Another “toy” breed, Maltese are lap dogs and love to sleep snuggled up to their owners. They can be shy around strangers, so it’s important to socialize them as much as possible when they are puppies.
9. Bichon Frisé
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- How much exercise they need: 30 minutes per day
- Fur length: Medium
Bichon Frisé are loving dogs that get along well with children and other dogs – making them perfect family pets. To keep their fluffy coat in great condition, they need regular brushing and cleaning every two months.
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Life expectancy: 9-14 years
- How much exercise they need: 1 hour per day
- Fur length: Medium
Nicknamed “the comfort spaniel”, if you want a dog that loves cuddles, a Cavalier King Charles is the one for you. Gentle, sweet, and adaptable, they love to be with people and will get distressed if left alone for too long.
11. Dachshund
- Life expectancy: 12-16 years
- How much exercise they need: 1 hour per day
- Fur length: Medium
Full of energy, Dachshunds are small rockets. They love to exercise as much as they love a well-deserved nap. They can be standard or miniature, and have either long or short hair.
12. Jack Russell
- Life expectancy: 13-16 years
- How much exercise they need: 1 hour per day
- Fur length: Short
An adorable breed with an (unfair) reputation for being noisy and grumpy, Jack Russell dogs are extremely loyal, making them perfect companions. They love to run and are a good choice for first-time owners.
13. Lhasa Apso
- Life expectancy: 12-14 years
- How much exercise they need: 1 hour per day
- Fur length: Long
The Lhasa Apso just wants to be pampered by their owners but can be shy when it comes to meeting strangers. They need daily care to keep their long coat well groomed.
14. Miniature Schnauzer
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- How much exercise they need: 1 hour per day
- Fur length: Medium
The Miniature Schnauzer offers all the advantages of the full-size breed in a smaller package. Fun and bright, they should be introduced to children early on for maximum compatibility.
15. Pekingese
- Life expectancy: 12-15 years
- How much exercise they need: 30 minutes per day
- Fur length: Long
Not much time for walks? The Pekingese doesn’t need a lot of exercise to keep them happy and prefers to stay at home with their owners. Friendly and loyal, they tend to pick a favorite within the household.
