Would you like a canine companion, but need a smaller breed? If you would prefer a smaller dog or live in a smaller space and can't accommodate a large dog, read on to learn our Echo Park vets' favorite 15 small dog breeds that will stay small forever.
15 Dog Breeds That Stay Small Forever
Whether you're looking for a small dog out of preference, or you live in a smaller abode like an apartment or condo, our Echo Park vets can help you find the perfect dog for you and your family. Here are 15 dog breeds that will stay small in size even as they get older.
1. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher, known as a little 'black devil' dog, was bred to hunt rodents.
These small wire-haired, terrier-like dogs often seem to believe that they are a much bigger dog than they actually are, and the Affenpinscher is particularly popular for its mischievous character and curious temperament.
2. Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a relatively new breed of dog whose name is an Inuit term translated as "small dog".
This Spitz-like energetic and intelligent breed resembles a smaller version of the Siberian Husky, but adults weigh at most 15 pounds.
3. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua can pack a powerful personality into its diminutive frame!
The world's smallest dog breed is popular for its confidence, enthusiasm, and loyalty and often considers itself the head of the household.
4. Miniature Dachshund
Miniature Dachshunds can measure up to 6 inches at the shoulder and they are known to be playful, affectionate, good with Children, and have good watchdog traits.
They come in three different coat types: Smooth or short, Wire, and Long-Hair
5. Boston Terrier
Although originally bred to be fighting dogs, today's Boston Terriers are gentle and affectionate companions.
This cute little pooch, weighing less than 25 pounds, has a unique tuxedo coat making these little dogs all the more adorable.
6. Pomeranian
Royal preference for this breed played a role in popularising Pomeranians, aided by these dogs' dainty appearance and outgoing character.
This diminutive breed is exceptionally loyal to its owners, making the Pomeranian a great watchdog and cuddly companion who enjoys both indoor play and short outdoor exertions.
Did you know? Pomeranians weren’t always this small. Earlier records of the breed show an average weight of 30 lbs – ten times more than what the breed typically weighs today! Years of breeding made Pomeranians go from a medium-sized breed to a small companion dog.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This affectionate and gentle toy dog breed thrives on being the center of attention.
A King Charles can easily adapt to any living situation, and these miniaturization of sporting spaniels are both friendly and easy to housetrain.
8. Pug
Originally bred to be lap dogs by the Shang Dynasty, Pugs have been beloved companion dogs for over two thousand years. Like Pomeranians, they weren’t always this small! After Pugs were brought to the Netherlands from China, the breed was intentionally bred to be smaller.
9. Havanese
The Havanese is a member of the Bichon family and officially the national dog of Cuba.
This compact canine is more than a loving addition to any family – this energetic breed is also useful for playing the role of a watchdog.
10. Papillon
Sometimes referred to as the butterfly dog because of their ears, the Papillon is a highly trainable companion dog.
They are very trainable and can familiarise themselves with completing virtually any task their owners give them. With high energy and a friendly character, Papillons get along well with other pets and strangers.
11. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the smallest terrier-type dogs. The breed standard is about 7 lbs at their maximum weight. Even though Yorkies are a very small breed, they maintain many of the Terrier characteristics – being brave, feisty and bossy is in their nature.
There is also the Teacup Yorkie, which is just a Yorkshire Terrier specifically bred to be small. Teacup Yorkies weigh only 2–4 lbs and stand between five and seven inches tall.
12. Pekingese
This breed was a favorite in the Imperial Palace in Peking (Beijing), and these small-scale dogs still retain a certain regality.
Weighing no more than 12 pounds, their small size makes them a good choice for apartment life, although Pekingese do enjoy regular walks and exercise.
13. Miniature Pinscher
While originally used for pest control, the "King of Toys" now relishes life as their family's center of attention.
These sturdy, compact dogs are well-known for their distinct high-stepping gait and vocal abilities, making Miniature Pinschers excellent watchdogs.
14. Schipperke
This Flemish barge dog, whose name means 'Little Skipper', was originally bred to be a watchdog and rat catcher on the river barges.
Small, foxlike in appearance, and enthusiastic, Schipperkes are known for their somewhat rebellious attitudes and distinctive matt-black coats.
15. Shiba Inu
These clever pooches originate from Japan, where their name translates as "small dog", these dogs were originally bred to hunt small game
With their alert and attentive characters, and their meme-friendly handsome faces, these dogs are increasingly popular as companion animals worldwide.
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.