7 Best Small Dog Breeds 2023

Hey there dog lovers! If you live in the city and are considering getting a furry companion, you might want to consider a small breed dog. These pint-sized pooches are becoming more and more popular for good reason.

First of all, small breed dogs are perfect for city living. They are low maintenance, low energy, and often have a friendly and sociable personalities, making them ideal for apartment dwellers.

These compact companions are also incredibly easy to care for, and their small size means they are a breeze to pick up, carry, and transport. Plus, they are often more adaptable and flexible than larger breeds, making them great for those with busy lifestyles.

Training small breed dogs is usually a breeze, too. They tend to have fewer exercise requirements and are less demanding than larger breeds. Plus, their smaller size means they take up less space in the home, which translates to less cleaning and maintenance. And, since they have a lower caloric intake, it’s easier to keep their weight under control.

You are looking for a new furry companion? Here we bring you our opinion of the best small dog breeds for this year.

Chihuahua

First on the list of the best small dog breeds is a Chihuahua, a small, energetic dog that comes from Mexico.

They have fun and confident personalities and love to have attention from their owners. Even though they are small, they still need to have plenty of exercise to stay healthy.

Grooming them is also easy, making them a good choice for families and individuals who want a lively and interactive pet.

However, it’s important to remember that Chihuahuas need regular exercise and attention, so make sure you can provide that for them. Chihuahuas are also very loyal and make great companions for people who want a close bond with their furry friend.

Personality: Chihuahuas are known for their bold and playful personalities. They are generally very affectionate with their owners and love to snuggle up for some one-on-one time.

However, they can also be independent and sometimes stubborn when it comes to training. Chihuahuas have a strong protective instinct and may bark at strangers or other dogs.

But, they are also smart and curious dogs that love to play and learn new things.

Exercise Needs: Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are full of energy! They don’t require a lot of physical exercise, but they do need mental stimulation and a chance to burn off their energy.

A quick walk or a play session in the park should do the trick. However, it’s important to make sure they have plenty of opportunities to stretch their legs and play every day, or they may become destructive.

Grooming Requirements: Chihuahuas have a smooth, short coat that is easy to care for. They don’t shed much, but regular brushing will help keep their coat healthy and shiny.

Chihuahuas are also prone to dental problems, so it’s important to brush their teeth regularly. And, although they don’t need frequent baths, a bath every few months will help keep their skin and coat in great condition.

Pros of  Chihuahua:

• Small size, suitable for apartment living
• Low maintenance, and minimal grooming required
• Affectionate and loyal nature, great companion pet
• Playful and energetic, great for active families
• Low shedding, suitable for people with allergies

Cons of  Chihuahua:

• Can be prone to certain health issues, such as dental problems, patellar luxation, and shivering
• Can be nervous and high-strung, which can make them difficult to train
• Can be prone to separation anxiety if they are left alone for long periods of time
• Can be aggressive towards other dogs and people if not properly socialized
• Require a lot of attention and affection from their owners, which can be challenging for people with busy lifestyles.

Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a tiny yet feisty breed that originates from the Pomerania region in northern Europe. With their playful spirit, affectionate nature, and love for attention, these dogs make great pets.

Despite their size, they are full of energy and require regular exercise to stay fit. Pomeranians also have a thick and fluffy coat that needs consistent grooming to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Before adding a Pomeranian to your family, it’s essential to understand their exercise, grooming, and attention needs.

These little dogs make wonderful companions for families and individuals seeking fun-loving pet and that is why they deserve a spot on our list of the best small dog breeds.

Personality: Pomeranians are known for their affectionate and playful natures. They love to cuddle up with their owners and play, and are generally very intelligent, making them easy to train.

However, they can also be bossy at times and may bark at strangers or other dogs. They have plenty of energy, which makes them great playmates for families with kids.

Exercise Needs: These lively pups have a lot of energy to spare, so it’s essential to provide them with plenty of opportunities to burn it off.

While Pomeranians don’t require extensive physical exercise, they do need mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Taking them for a short walk or playing with them in the park is sufficient to meet their exercise needs.

However, if they don’t have a way to expend their energy, they may become destructive. It’s important to find the right balance of physical and mental stimulation to keep your Pomeranian happy and healthy.

Grooming Requirements: It is important to understand the importance of proper grooming for your furry friend.

Regular brushing will not only reduce shedding but also promote the overall health of their coat.

Scheduling regular haircuts can also help maintain the appearance and condition of their fur. In addition to coat care, it is important to practice good dental hygiene for your Pomeranian by brushing their teeth regularly.

Lastly, while occasional baths are sufficient, they can aid in maintaining the health of their skin and coat. By incorporating these grooming practices into your routine, you can ensure that your Pomeranian’s coat remains in top condition.

Pros of a Pomeranian:

• Small size suitable for apartment living
• Low shedding, good for those with allergies
• Affectionate and loyal, great companion
• Intelligent, trainable, and social, loves spending time with owners
• Playful and energetic, perfect for active families

Cons of a Pomeranian:

• Prone to health issues such as dental problems, luxating patella, and skin allergies
• Can be loud and bark excessively, which may be a problem in apartment or close-neighborhood living
• Independent nature may make training difficult
• Regular grooming is necessary for thick double coat, time-consuming and costly
• Prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terrier, or “Yorkie” which is a small, energetic breed of dog that originated in Yorkshire, England and definitely deserves a spot on the best small dog breeds. They have playful and affectionate personalities and they love to get attention from their owners.

Yorkies are lively pets that need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They have long, silky hair that needs regular grooming to keep it looking and feeling its best.

Before getting a Yorkie, it’s important to understand their exercise, grooming, and attention needs and you need to make sure you’re prepared to provide them with the care they need.

Despite the extra work involved, Yorkies are wonderful companions and are sure to bring joy to your home.

Personality: Yorkshire Terriers are confident, independent, and playful dogs. They were originally bred to catch rats in textile mills, and their terrier instincts can sometimes make them feisty and mischievous.

However, they are also known for their loyalty and affection toward their owners. They are great for families and individuals who are looking for a lively, interactive pet.

Exercise Needs: Despite their small size, Yorkshire Terriers have a lot of energy and need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.

They love going for walks, playing fetch, and exploring new environments. However, their exercise needs can be met with daily walks and indoor playtime, so they’re a great fit for apartment living.

Grooming Requirements: Yorkshire Terriers have long, silky hair that requires regular grooming to maintain its appearance and health.

You’ll need to brush your Yorkie regularly to avoid tangles and mats, and you may want to consider professional grooming services to keep your coat in tip-top shape.

They also shed very little, making them a great option for people with allergies.

Pros of  Yorkshire Terrier:

• Small size, suitable for apartment living
• Low shedding, suitable for people with allergies
• Affectionate and loyal nature, great companion pet
• Intelligent, trainable, and social, enjoy spending time with owners
• Long lifespan and generally healthy, long-term companion

Cons of Yorkshire Terrier:

• Prone to health issues like liver shunts, hypoglycemia, and dental problems
• High energy, requires regular exercise
• Tendency to bark excessively
• Being stubborn and independent 
• Regular grooming is required due to long

French Bulldog

French bulldogs, also known as “Frenchie,” have become one of the most popular and best small dog breeds in recent years.

These adorable dogs are known for their wrinkled faces, playful personalities, and affectionate nature.

Whether you’re considering getting a French bulldog or just curious about the breed, it’s important to know what to expect.

This breed is known for being friendly, easy-going, and low-maintenance in terms of grooming and exercise.

However, it’s also important to be aware of their potential health problems, such as breathing difficulties and skin infections and to be prepared for the costs of ownership.

Personality: French bulldogs are generally known for being friendly, affectionate, and playful.

They make great family pets and are particularly good with children. They are also known for being easy-going and adaptable, making them a good choice for first-time dog owners.

They are generally not aggressive and are happy to spend time lounging around the house with their owners.

Exercise needs: Despite their playful and energetic nature, French bulldogs do not require a lot of exercise.

A daily walk around the block is usually enough to keep them happy and healthy. They are also happy to spend time playing in the house or lounging on the couch.

Because of their short faces and flat noses, it’s important to keep them from getting overheated and make sure they have plenty of water during exercise.

Grooming Requirements: French bulldogs have short, smooth coats that require very little grooming.

A weekly brush is usually enough to keep their coat shiny and healthy. However, because of their wrinkled faces, it’s important to clean their wrinkles regularly to prevent skin infections.

French bulldogs are also prone to drooling, so it’s a good idea to have a cloth on hand to wipe their faces after eating or drinking.

Pros of French Bulldog:

• They are affectionate and make great family pets
• They are low-maintenance in terms of grooming and exercise
• They are easy-going and adaptable, making them a good choice for first-time dog owners
• They are not aggressive, making them a good choice for families with children

Cons of French Bulldog:

• They are prone to breathing problems because of their short faces and flat noses
• They are prone to skin infections because of their wrinkled faces
• They can be expensive to purchase and maintain, especially if they have health problems
• They may not be suitable for people who are looking for a highly active and energetic dog.

Dachshund

Next on the list of the best small dog breeds are Dachshunds. They are a popular breed known for their long, sausage-like bodies and short legs.

They come in three coat types: smooth, wire-haired, and long-haired, and are available in a range of colors and patterns. They are affectionate and loyal to their owners, but can also be stubborn and independent, which can make training a challenge.

They are great for families or individuals with a lot of time to devote to them, as they require regular exercise and attention.

Despite their small size, they are fearless and have a strong prey drive, making them excellent watchdogs.

However, they are prone to certain health issues such as intervertebral disk disease, so it’s important to choose a reputable breeder and provide proper care throughout their life.

Personality: Dachshunds are generally known for being energetic, playful, and affectionate. They make great family pets and are particularly good with children.

They are also known for their strong hunting instincts and can be quite stubborn at times. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be well-behaved and obedient.

Exercise needs: Despite their small size, dachshunds are an active breed and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy.

They enjoy walks, runs, and playing games, and they also love to dig and explore. Because of their long backs, it’s important to keep them from jumping and overexerting themselves, as this can lead to spinal problems.

Grooming Requirements:  Dachshunds have a variety of coat types, including smooth, wirehaired, and longhaired, each with their grooming requirements.

Smooth dachshunds require very little grooming, while wirehaired and longhaired dachshunds need to be brushed regularly to keep their coats in good condition.

It’s also important to regularly check their ears for signs of infection and to keep their nails trimmed.

Pros of Dachshund:

• They are energetic and playful, making them a great choice for active families
• They are affectionate and make great family pets
• They are available in a variety of coat types, making it easy to find one that suits your lifestyle and preferences

Cons of Dachshund:

• They can be stubborn and difficult to train
• They tend to gain weight easily, so it’s important to monitor their diet and exercise
• They are prone to back problems, so it’s important to keep them from jumping and overexerting themselves
• They may not be suitable for people who are looking for a low-maintenance dog in terms of grooming and exercise.

Shih Tzu

Personality: Shih Tzus are known for being affectionate, playful, and loyal. They make great family pets and are particularly good with children.

They are also known for their strong personalities and can be quite independent at times. However, with proper training and socialization, they can be well-behaved and obedient.

Exercise needs: Shih Tzus are a relatively low-energy breed and don’t require a lot of exercise.

They enjoy short walks, playtime, and cuddling with their owners. Because of their small size, they are well-suited to apartment living, but they still need to be kept active and mentally stimulated.

Grooming Requirements: Shih Tzus have long, silky coats that require regular grooming to keep them in good condition.

They need to be brushed daily to prevent matting and tangling, and they may need to be trimmed every few months.

They are also prone to tear stains, so it’s important to clean their faces regularly to keep their coats looking clean and healthy.

Pros of Shih Tzu:

• They are affectionate and make great family pets
• They are low-energy and well-suited to apartment living
• They have long, silky coats that are easy to groom

Cons of Shih Tzu:

• They can be independent and difficult to train
• They require regular grooming to keep their coats in good condition
• They may be prone to health problems, such as eye issues, respiratory problems, and skin allergies

Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise is one of the best small dog breeds, known for its charming personality and cuddly appearance.

They are affectionate, playful, and great with children, making them wonderful family pets. Their distinctive, soft, curly coat requires regular grooming to maintain their appearance.

Bichon Frises are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them a popular choice for first-time dog owners.

However, they can be a handful and require patience and consistency during training.

Potential health issues to be aware of include skin allergies and ear infections.

Overall, Bichon Frises are a great option for those seeking a loyal and loving companion in a small package.

Personality: Bichon Frises are known for being affectionate, playful, and outgoing. They are great with children and other pets and make wonderful family dogs.

They are also known for their intelligence and are quick learners, making them easy to train.

However, they can be a little bit of a handful and may require some patience and consistency during training.

Exercise needs: Bichon Frises are energetic dogs and need regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.

They enjoy going for walks, playing fetch, and spending time with their owners. They also need mental stimulation, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained.

Grooming Requirements: Bichon Frises have a soft, curly coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition.

They need to be brushed regularly to prevent matting and tangling, and they may need to be trimmed every few months.

They are also prone to tear stains, so it’s important to clean their faces regularly to keep their coats looking clean and healthy.

Pros of  Bichon Frise:

• A great addition to any family as they are affectionate and make great pets
• Eager to please therefore they are easily trainable
• Maintaining their soft, curly coat is simple with regular grooming

Cons of Bichon Frise:

• Training may require patience and consistency as they can be a handful
• Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat in good condition
• They may be prone to health issues such as skin allergies and ear infections.

Conclusion

In conclusion, small breed dogs are a popular choice for apartment living due to their size and adaptability.

It is important to consider your lifestyle and home before choosing a dog breed to ensure that you can provide them with the necessary exercise and training they require.

Among the 7 best small breed dogs we have discussed, each breed has unique physical characteristics, personality traits, exercise and training needs, and health concerns.

The Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, French Bulldog, Bichon Frise, Yorkshire Terrier, and Dachshund are all great choices for those looking for a small companion.

From the affectionate and easy-going Bichon Frise to the intelligent and adaptable Yorkshire Terrier, there is a breed out there for everyone.

By understanding the pros and cons of each breed, you can make an informed decision and provide your furry friend with a happy and healthy life.

So, choose wisely and enjoy the companionship of these best small dog breeds!