Miniature dog breeds are those that are small and stay small throughout their life. These are little dogs, and among the most popular dog breeds. Are you ready to be owned by a miniature or small breed dog? Most small breed dog owners do feel that way!
Beyond the obvious similarities, miniature dog breeds vary widely according to temperament, activity levels, grooming needs, trainability, friendliness, and affection levels. So, if you are interested in a pint-sized pooch, a little bit of research before you buy is essential.
Remember, the one thing that all miniature dog breeds have in common is that cuteness factor. It’s hard to resist that tiny puffball with such a big personality.
All of these dogs are 22 pounds (10 kg) or smaller. You may notice that some of these breeds are also listed on our Medium Size Breeds Pages. That is because their weight range falls into both categories.
![Top 76 Popular Miniature Dogs [Infographic]](https://www.dog-breeds-expert.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Top-76-Miniature-Dog-Breeds-Infographic.png)
Affenpinscher
Although the Affenpinscher dog breed may look like terriers, they are actually from the pinscher-schnauzer family which makes them more tolerant towards other dogs and pets.
They are inquisitive, affectionate and playful and are very loyal and protective towards other family members although they can be a little territorial when it comes to their food or toys so they are not advised for families with very small children.
Origin: Germany
Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm)
Weight: 8-13 lb (4-6 kg)
Ease of Training: Moderate
Alaskan Klee Kai
You may have heard of the Alaskan Klee Kai, but you probably haven’t seen one; they are relatively rare, and were only recognized by the AKC in 1997. With the Alaskan Husky as a forebear, the Alaskan Klee Kai belongs to the Spitz family of dogs. It is significantly smaller than the Husky, however, and many people think it is still a puppy, even when fully-grown.
Origin: USA
Height: Up to 13 in (33 cm) (Toy)
13-15 in (33-38 cm) (Miniature)
15-17 (38-44 cm) (Standard
Weight: Up to 9 lb. (4 kg) Toy
9-15 lb (4-7 kg) Miniature
15-22 lb ( 7-10 kg) Standard
Ease of Training: Moderate
American Eskimo Dog
The American Eskimo Dog is a smart, affectionate pet that loves to be around its family. They are playful and energetic without being too rambunctious. These dogs are small enough to live in apartments, so long as they get ample exercise.
This being said, they are not best for owners who will not be home for most of the day, as they are prone to separation anxiety and will bark as a result.
Origin: USA
Height: 15-19 in Standard
12-15 in Miniature
9-12 in Toy
Weight: 20-40 lb Standard
11-20 lb Miniature
6-10 lb Toy
Ease of Training: Moderate
American Hairless
The American Hairless is a small dog of the Terrier Group weighing just 12 to 16lbs, with a feisty nature. The breed actually has hairless and coated variations. The hairless dog is hypoallergenic, but has a few issues that potential owners should be aware of.
With no normal coat to protect the skin, they may get sunburned if out in bright sun for too long. At the other extreme, they lose body heat quickly if out in the cold, and need a dog jacket to keep them warm and prevent hypothermia.
Origin: USA
Height: 10-18 in (25-46 cm)
Weight: 7-13 lb (3-6 kg)
Ease of Training: Moderate
Australian Terrier
Did you know that Australian Terriers are actually one of the smallest members of the working terrier group? Don’t let their size fool you though – these dogs have a big bark and an even bigger heart. I think you’ll be amazed by how much love and loyalty comes in such a small package.
Origin: Australia
Height: Up to 10 in (Up to 26 cm)
Weight: Up to 15 lb (Up to 7 kg)
Easy of Training: Easy
Basenji
The Basenji dog is a very unique breed for many different reasons, both physically, and emotionally. One of the most unique characteristics that stand out from the others is that the Basenji is a “barkless” breed. They do not bark like other breeds of dogs, but with this being said, they are not entirely silent.
Origin: Central Africa
Height: 16-17 in (40-43 cm)
Weight: 20-24 lb (9-11 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Beagle
The Beagle dog breed is a favorite breed of friendly, affectionate and energetic family dogs. They are known primarily for their friendliness and small size, making them not at all aggressive, and great for people of all ages.
The Beagle dog breed is a favorite breed of friendly, affectionate and energetic family dogs. They are known primarily for their friendliness and small size, making them not at all aggressive, and great for people of all ages.
Origin: UK
Height: 13-16 in (33-40 cm)
Weight: 20-24 lb (9-11 kg)
Ease of Training: Moderate
Bedlington Terrier
Don’t be deceived by this Terrier. They have a fragile lamb-like appearance – BUT underneath those cute little curls is a hardy little dog which has feistiness and affection in equal measures!
The Bedlington Terrier enjoys being part of a household and absolutely adores being the centre of attention. Although loyal and loving to all, he tends to choose one member of the family to bond closest with, and may well spend all his time following them around!
Origin: UK
Height: 16 in (41 cm)
Weight: 17.5-23 lb (8-10.5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Moderate
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a breed of small, energetic dogs, well known for its size as well as its intelligence. These dogs are famous for their ability to entertain, having been taught to perform professionally throughout history. Alongside making for great entertainment, these dogs are ideal companions for families.
The Bichon Frise is a breed of small, energetic dogs, well known for its size as well as its intelligence. These dogs are famous for their ability to entertain, having been taught to perform professionally throughout history. Alongside making for great entertainment, these dogs are ideal companions for families.
Origin: France/ Belgium
Height: Up to 12 in (30 cm)
Weight: 6-13 lb (3-6 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Biewer Terrier
Origin: Germany
Height: Up to 8.5 in (22 cm)
Weight: Up to 7 lb (3.1 cm)
Ease of Training: Moderate
Bolognese
Origin: Italy
Height: 10-12 in ( 25-30 cm)
Weight: 5.5 – 8.8 lb (2.5-4 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Border Terrier
The Border terrier is often described as independent, courageous, persistent, agile and intelligent. They are friendly dogs and will greet every visitor by jumping up on them to lick and welcome them into the house. They are frequent, loud barkers, and may howl and sing several times a day; Possibly not the best dog to have if you have close neighbors!
Origin: UK
Height: 13 in (33 cm)
Weight: 11-16 lb (5-7 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Moderate
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a very alert, friendly, overall happy go lucky type of dog. They are very family oriented and do great with children and other pets. This is a good breed of dog if you are looking for an energetic little bundle of joy that will keep you entertained for hours on end.
Origin: USA
Height: 15-17 in (38-43 cm)
Weight: 11-24 lb (5-11 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Moderate
Brazilian Terrier
Origin: Brazil
Height: 13-16 in (33-40 cm) Males are larger
Weight: Up to 22 lb (10 kg)
Ease of Training: Moderate
Brussels Griffon
Also Known As Griffon Bruxellois
The Brussels Griffon is a fun, inquisitive, watchful little companion dog who is very eager to please! They have huge hearts and are so affectionate – they just love jumping up for snuggles! Brussels Griffon’s must have human company. They absolutely crave it and will become depressed and withdrawn if denied. They tend to bond extremely closely with one person in the family so may not be the best choice if you are looking for a dog who will love everyone equally.
Origin: Belgium
Height: 10 in (25 cm)
Weight: About 9 lb ( 4 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Moderate
Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier was originally bred in Scotland to detect and dig out small rodents, larger animals in burrows, and even foxes. They still keep the instinct to dig and burrow, and will chase any small animals they see. They are small enough to fit comfortably on your lap, yet tough enough for a romp around the garden in any weather.
Origin: UK
Height: 11-12 in (28-31 cm)
Weight: 13-18 lb (6-8 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Moderate
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers are great dogs for families. Their gentleness and calm demeanor make them great for people of all ages. They are well known for their use as therapy dogs because of these traits. This breed is recommended for families with children, although an adult should monitor small children when they are playing with dogs.
Origin: UK
Height: 10-13 in (25-43 cm)
Weight: 10-19 lb (4-9 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Cesky Terrier
Origin: Czech Republic
Height: 10-13 in (25-32 cm)
Weight: 13-22 lb (6-10 kg)
Ease of Training: Moderate
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a funny, small companion. They are well known for their size, being the world’s smallest dog. Their personality outsizes their body, making them a lively, social and friendly companion. The world’s smallest dog holds the ranking as the 11th most popular breed in the United States.
Origin: Mexico
Height: 5 in (13 cm)
Weight: 1-6 lb (0.5-2.5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a lively, alert, energetic breed that makes an excellent companion, and their size fits just about any environment. They make for lively company, but also like relaxing around their owners. They’re almost always up for playing, making them fun, interactive pets. This breed loves to be around people, whether it’s a vigorous game of fetch or just watching TV.
Origin: China
Height: 9-13 in (23-33 cm)
Weight: Up to 12 lb (5.5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Coton de Tuléar
With a surprising origin on the big island of Madagascar, off the South East coast of Africa, the Coton is an endearing and happy toy dog breed with a strong desire to please their owners. They are companion dogs, and love being with their special person.
Origin: Madagascar
Height: 10-11 in (25-28 cm)
Weight: 12-15 lb (5-7 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Dachshund
Dachshunds are probably one of the most recognised breeds in the world, and this breed of dog comes in six varieties – Long Haired, Short Haired and Wire Haired and all three of these varieties come in Standard size and Miniature size.
Dachshund breed dogs are, surprisingly, commonly quoted as being among the most aggressive of breeds. While they are unlikely to inflict much damage to an adult, they could seriously hurt a child that they perceive as a stranger. Despite their tiny size, these dogs are brave, alert and playful little companions They are great watchdogs but also great for getting cuddles and having fun with.
Origin: Germany
Height: (Toy) Up to 12 in (30 cm)
(Dwarf) 12-13.7 in (30-35 cm)
(Standard) 13.75 in (35 cm)
Weight: (Toy) Up to 9 lb (4kg)
(Dwarf) 14.4 lb (7 kg)
(Standard) Over 14.4 lb (Over 7 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a big dog in a small body, according to the AKC, bursting with confidence and energy, ready to chase anything that moves. Their ancestors were bred in the Border area between Scotland and England for controlling small wildlife, taking on badgers and otters. The Dandie has a long body, short legs, a large head and a thick and muscular neck.
Origin: Great Britain
Height: 8-10 in (20-25 cm)
Weight: 16.6 lb (8 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Dutch Smoushond
Origin: The Netherlands
Height: 14-17 in (35-42 cm)
Weight: 20-22 lb (9-10 kg)
Ease of Training: moderate
English Toy Spaniel, or King Charles Spaniel
Origin: Great Britain
Height: 8-12 in (22-30 cm)
Weight: 7.7-14.3 lb (3.5-6.5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
French Bulldog
The Frenchie, as they are often called is a breed of small, happy dogs. Their energy exceeds their size, as this dog loves to run and play. These dogs are known for their insatiable desire to hang around people. They are little bundles of fun and great additions to any family they join.
Origin: France
Height: 12 in (30 cm)
Weight: 13-26.5 lb (6-12 kg)
Ease of Training: Very Easy
Fox Terrier (Smooth & Wire)
Origin: Great Britain
Height: 15 in (39 cm)
Weight: 17.5 lb (8 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
German Hunting Terrier (Jagdterrier)
Origin: Germany
Height: 13-16 in (33-40 cm)
Weight: 18-22 lb (8-10 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Havanese
Affectionate, charming and energetic, these playful dogs act like ambassadors to the world, bring fun and entertainment to everyone they meet. They know no strangers – friends to all, lovers of children, strangers, dogs and any other type of pet, they make the best family dog for those who prefer small breed dogs. Although very friendly, some can be wary of strangers which make them a decent watchdog.
Origin: Western Mediterranean
Height: 8-11 in (20-28 cm)
Weight: 13 lb (6 kg)
Training: Easy
Italian Greyhound
Although this dog breed carries the name “Greyhound”, it is about half the size of the standard Greyhound. In the Middle Ages, it was used for hunting small game, but also found favor as a companion or “lap” dog with the wealthy classes in Europe. It’s small size made it very popular with the ladies. Frequently referred to as the “I.G.” for short, this abbreviation is sometimes pronounced “iggy”.
Origin: Italy
Height: 13-15 in (32-38 cm)
Weight: 11 lb (5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Jack Russell Terrier
There are three breeds of Terrier that are often confused; The Jack Russell Terrier, the Parson Russell Terrier, and the Russell Terrier. They may look similar, but there are differences in size and physical proportions. This is an energetic breed that never seems to run out of steam. Originally bred over 200 years ago to hunt fox, their job was to detect where a fox had gone to ground, and to get down the fox hole to either flush it out or else to corner it until the hunters could dig the fox out.
Origin: UK
Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm)
Weight: 11-13lb (5-6kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Japanese Chin
These dogs are famously compact and can live in most environments, mainly apartments. They are not incredibly energetic breeds, and will happily become accustomed to a slow, relaxed pace of living. This being said, they can also be enthusiastic participants in all kinds of activities.
Origins: Japan
Height: 11 in (28 cm)
Weight: 6.6 lb (3 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Japanese Spitz
Origin: Japan
Height: 12-15 in (30-38 cm)
Weight: 11 lb (5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Japanese Terrier
Origin: Japan
Height: 15-16 in (38-42 cm)
Weight: 17-18 lb (7.5-8 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Kyi Leo
Origin: Japan
Ease of Training: Medium
Height: 15-16 in (38-42 cm)
Weight: 17-18 lb (7.6-8 kg)
Lakeland Terrier
Origin: Great Britain
Height: 14 in (36 cm)
Weight: Up to 17 lb ( Up to 7.7 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Medium
Lancashire Heeler
Origin: Great Britain
Height: 10-12 in (25-31 cm)
Weight: 7-13 lb (3-6 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Lhasa Apso
This is an unusual breed from Tibet, bred to act as a watchdog inside Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. They have exceptionally god hearing, even for dogs, and regard all strangers with suspicion. They need to be socialized from an early age, otherwise they can be aggressive towards people they don’t know.
Origin: Tibet
Height: Approx. 10 in ( 25 cm)
Weight: Approx. 13-22 lb (6-10 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Löwchen (aka Petit Chien Lion, Little Lion Dog)
Origin: France
Height: 12.5 in (32 cm)
Weight: 11 lb (5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Medium
Lundehund (Norwegian)
Origin: Norway
Height: 12.5 – 15 in (32-38 cm)
Weight: 13.2-17.6 lb ( 6-8 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Medium
Maltese
This is a breed that seems to behave like a puppy for its whole life. They are always playful and bright, and looking for attention. They were bred specifically to be human companions, and so they seek out and need the company of humans.
Origin: Italy
Height: 8-10 in (20-25 cm)
Weight: 4-6.6 lb (2-3 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Manchester Terrier (Toy) English Toy Terrier, Blue and Tan Toy Terrier
The Toy Manchester Terrier (MT) was once an excellent ratter, ridding the Manchester part of England of all its vermin. Nowadays, this breed has all but retired from that role and enjoys the life of a regular canine companion. He is alert and often wary of strangers — two traits that make them excellent watchdogs. Being a terrier, these dogs are likely to be diggers, talkers, chasers and possessive of their belongings. Most terrier breeds have these inborn characteristics – “hunting tendencies” to one extent or another.
Origin: Great Britain
Height: 15-16 in (38-41 cm)
Weight: 11-22 lb (5-10 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Medium
Miniature Pinscher
Despite its shape and colors, the Miniature Pinscher is not a small version of the bigger Doberman Pinscher. It’s easy to see how this misconception comes about, since the 2 breeds have very similar coloring and general shape. In addition, the Doberman was exported to America before the Miniature, and so many people naturally assumed the Miniature was bred from the Doberman. In fact, the Miniature is a much older breed than the Doberman.
Origin: Germany
Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm)
Weight: 8.8 lb (4 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Medium
Miniature Poodle
The poodle is a fascinating and special breed of dog for many different reasons. One of the more prominent characteristics that separate this breed from the rest of the bunch is that they are said to be the only breed that comes in three different sizes!
Miniature Schnauzer
Have you ever wondered how the Miniature Schnauzer got to be so much smaller than his standard and giant cousins? This is a prime example of how breeders can breed-down or miniaturize a larger breed. In fact, the mini version is less than 1/5 the size of the Giant and 1/3 the size of the Standard Schnauzer. This breed is most common of the Schnauzers, for many reasons. Owners enjoy their affectionate and loyal personalities, which is paired with their playful energy. Their intelligence makes them responsive and quick learners.
Origin: Germany
Height: 12-14 in (30-36 cm)
Weight: 13-15 lb 6-8 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy to Medium
Norfolk Terrier
Origin: UK
Height: 9-10in (22-25 cm)
Weight: 11-13 lb ( 5-6 kg)
Ease of Training: Average
Norwich Terrier
Origin: UK
Height: 10 in (25-26 cm)
Weight: 10-12lb (5-6kg)
Ease of Training: Average
Papillon (aka Continental Toy Spaniel)
The Papillon is one of the Toy breeds, well known for its known for its affectionate and energetic personality. These small dogs are always looking for something to do, so they make for playful company, an ideal companion dog. They are very social and are excited when they get to meet new faces.
This energetic tiny dog makes for a lively and fun pet. You can recognize a Papillon in an instant, from its large erect ears, like butterfly wings, and plumed tail. The name Papillon is French for Butterfly. They can also be called Continental Toy Spaniels.
Origin: France
Height: 8-11 in (20-28 cm)
Weight: 9-10 lb (4-6 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Parson Russell Terrier
Origin: UK
Height: 13-14 in (33-36 cm)
Weight: 13-18 lb (6-8 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a small, unique breed of intelligent and sturdy dogs. Owners find qualities similar to a proud lion, for which the breed is named. These dogs are confident and independent, but once they have a good, authoritative owner, they become loyal and protective companions.
Origin: China
Height: 6-9 in (15-23 cm)
Weight: 7-12 lb. (3-5.5kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Phalène
The Phaléne is very similar to the Papillon, except for its distinctive ears.
Origin: France/Belgium
Height: 8-11.5 in (20-29 cm)
Weight: 8.8-10 lb (4-4.5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a member of the Toy group. They are very popular as companion dogs, with their small size and weight, and lively personality. This is the smallest of the Spitz breed, and is also called the Zwergspitz in German, which means ‘Dwarf Spitz’.
Origin: Germany
Height: 9-11 in (22-28 cm)
Weight: 4-6 lb ( 2-2.5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Portuguese Podengo
Origin: Portugal
Height: 8-12 in (20-31 cm)
Weight: 9-13 lb (4-6 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Prague Ratter, or Pražský Krysařík
Origin: Czech Republic
Height: 6-9 in (16-22 cm)
Weight: 2-6 lb (1-3 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Pug
Although the Pug dog will adapt well to many different lifestyles and living situations, they are not so versatile when it comes to temperature. Due to their smushed-in face (brachycephalic face) and stocky body, they can overheat very easily. It is important to always supervise your pup when they are outside in general, but especially in warmer climates.
Origin: China
Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm)
Weight: 14-18lb (6.3-8 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier breed is a small terrier developed in the USA to keep the rat population under control on farms and country homes. They are loyal, friendly and affectionate with their family, and they come in 2 sizes – Miniature and Standard.
Origin: USA
Height: 8-14 in (20-36 cm) Miniature
14-22 in (36-56 cm) Standard
Weight: 7-9 lb (3-4 kg) Miniature
11-35 lb (5-16 kg) Standard
Ease of Training: Easy to Medium
Russian Toy, or Russkiy Toy
The Russkiy Toy dog came originally from Russia, where it was bred to be a small companion dog, descended from imported English Toy terriers. The modern version that we know today appeared in the late 1950s.
Origin: Russia
Height: 8-11 in (20-28 cm)
Weight: Up to 7 lb (Up to 3 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Schipperke
Origin: Belgium
Height: 9-13 in (22-33 cm
Weight: 7-18 lb (3-8 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Scottish Terrier
The “Scottie”, as they are also known, was bred to hunt small rodents, foxes and badgers in its home country of Scotland. It is believed to be the oldest British dog breed. It is one of 5 terrier breeds from Scotland, the others being the Cairn Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Skye Terrier, and the West Highland White Terrier.
Origin: UK (Scotland)
Height: 10-11 in (25-28 cm)
Weight: 20-24 lb (9-11 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Sealyham Terrier
The Sealyham Terrier is a unique and rare dog breed that originated in Wales, UK. It gets its name from the home of the original breeder (John Edwardes), who lived at Sealyham House in the Welsh county of Pembrokeshire.
Origin: UK
Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm)
Weight: 20-25 lb (9-12 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog breed looks like a small version of the Rough Collie, and originated on the Shetland Islands, north of Scotland, the most northerly point of the United Kingdom. These dogs are bright, playful and have lots of energy. Shetland Sheepdogs are affectionately known as the ‘Sheltie’ for short.
Origin: Scotland
Height: 12-15 in (35-37 cm)
Weight: 13-15 lb (6-7 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a compact breed of loyal, determined, and alert dogs. These dogs are well known for their intelligence and are considered one of the most popular breeds in Japan. These companions have energetic personalities but do not come across as being overly hyper or boisterous and can be exceptionally quiet and calm indoors.
Origin: Japan
Height: 14-16 in (35-40 cm)
Weight: 18-22 lb (8-10 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu dog breed may be just the perfect breed for you, if spunky, affectionate and playful is what you are looking for in a companion. A little larger than the typical toy dogs, and slightly thicker boned, the standard sized Shih Tzu weighs in between 9 and 16 pounds. Smaller Shih Tzu dogs can be found, though, and you might see them advertised as Imperial, Miniature, or Teacup, but those are not official names in any breed registry.
Origin: China
Height: 10-11 in (25-27 cm)
Weight: 9-16 lb (4-7.5 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Silky Terrier, or Australian Silky Terrier
The Silky Terrier comes from Australia, and at first glance you may mistake it for a Yorkshire terrier. While the ‘Yorkie’ certainly played a role in the development of the Silky, they are quite distinct breeds, with the Silky terrier being larger. Although this breed is known as the ‘Silky Terrier’ in the USA, it is known as the ‘Australian Silky Terrier’ in every other country of the World.
Origin: Australia
Height: Up to 9 in (Up to 23 cm)
Weight: Up to 9 lb (Up to 4 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Skye Terrier
The Skye was bred as a hunting dog, and they still retain an inquisitive and curious nature, ready to explore any interesting smells nearby. They enjoy getting out with their owner for a walk to explore the neighborhood, to satisfy their curiosity.
Origin: UK (Great Britain)
Height: 9-10 in (23-25 cm)
Weight: 19-23 lb (8.5-10.5 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Swedish Vallhund, or Västgötaspets
The Swedish Vallhund, or Svensk Vallhund, is known in Sweden as Västgötaspets. It suits owners who have at least some dog owner experience. The breed was historically used as a herder, herding cows in the steep and challenging Swedish landscape.
Origin: Sweden
Height: 12-14 in (31-35 cm)
Weight: 25-35 lb (12-16 cm)
Ease of Training: Medium
Tibetan Spaniel
Origin: Tibet
Height: 10 in (25 cm)
Weight: 9-13 lb (4-7 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Tibetan Terrier
Origin: Tibet
Height: 14-16 in (35-41 cm)
Weight: 17-31 lb (8-14 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Toy Fox Terrier
Origins: USA
Height: 9-12 in (23-30 cm)
Weight: 3.5-7 lb (2-3 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Toy Mexican Hairless
Origin: Mexico
Height: 11-12 in (28-30 cm)
Weight: 9-18 lb (4-8 kg)
Ease of Training: Challenging
Toy Poodle
Origin: France
Height: 10-11 in (25-28 cm)
Weight: 6-9 lb (2.5-4 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Tsvetnaya Bolonka
Origin: Russia
Height: 7-10 in (17-25 cm)
Weight: 8-12 lb (4-6 kg)
Ease of Training: Average
Volpino, or Cane de Quirinale
Origin: Italy
Height: 11-12 in (27-30 cm)
Weight: 9-11 lb (4-5 kg)
Ease of Training: Easy
Welsh Terrier
Although the Welsh Terrier may look similar to the Airedale Terrier in physical appearance, do not let that fool you into thinking that they have similar personalities. In fact, “Welshies”, as they are fondly called, have their own personality, which is unique to their breed.
Origin: UK (Wales)
Height: Up to 15 in (Up to 39 cm)
Weight: 20-22 lb (9-10 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
West Highland White Terrier
Best described as alert, active, independent and friendly, the West Highland White Terrier is instantly recognizable. They are quick to win your heart with their energetic persona and their bright white coat that just accents their button eyes, making them an initial hit among anyone who loves a people oriented canine.
Origin: UK
Height: 10-11 in (25-28 cm)
Weight: 15-22 lb (7-10 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
Yorkshire Terrier
Bold, affectionate, bright and fearless are words often used to describe the Yorkshire Terrier’s personality. They enjoy adventures as well as snuggles, but they still maintain the terrier part of their temperament, which means they can be feisty and vocal. Possessing a very dominant character, they will not hesitate to stand up for their rights, even if it means attacking a dog twice their size.
Origin: UK
Height: 8-9 in (20-23 cm)
Weight: 7 lb (Up to 3 kg)
Ease of Training: Medium
We hope you enjoyed this exhaustive list of small dog breeds!