Top 10 Dogs That Stay Small: Perfect Breeds for Compact Living

Living in a smaller home or apartment doesn’t mean you have to miss out on having a dog. Many breeds are naturally small, making them a great fit for compact spaces where larger dogs might feel cramped.

Choosing a dog that stays small allows you to enjoy all the benefits of owning a pet without worrying about needing extra room. These tiny companions can offer affection, energy, and companionship on a scale that suits tighter living quarters.

1. Chihuahua

• If you want a dog that always stays small, the Chihuahua might be a good choice. Most Chihuahuas weigh between 2 and 6 pounds when fully grown. They usually stand about 6 to 9 inches tall at the shoulder.
• Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities, even though they are tiny. Their bold attitude means they may try to act like a much bigger dog. This can be entertaining but also means you need to teach them good behavior early.
• Because of their small size, Chihuahuas are easy to carry and do not need much space. They are suited for apartments and small homes. Their compact bodies also mean you need to handle them gently to avoid injuries.
• Chihuahuas can live a long time, often reaching 14 to 17 years. They enjoy being with their owners but may be shy with strangers.

2. Pomeranian

• If you want a small dog, the Pomeranian is a popular choice. This breed usually weighs between 3 and 7 pounds. Its fluffy coat makes it look a bit larger than it really is.
• Pomeranians are known for their lively and friendly personalities. They tend to be curious about their surroundings and enjoy being with people. These dogs can fit well in apartments or small homes because of their size.
• While they are tiny, Pomeranians have a history linked to sled dogs from colder regions. They are a miniaturized descendant of the powerful spitz-type dogs from the Arctic, named after the Pomerania region in Europe.
• You should be ready to care for their thick double coat. Regular brushing helps keep their fur healthy and reduces shedding. Despite their small size, Pomeranians are usually alert and can be vocal when they notice something new.

3. Yorkshire Terrier

• The Yorkshire Terrier is a popular choice for people who want a small, smart dog. This breed stays very compact, usually weighing no more than seven pounds. Yorkies are known for their long, silky coats and small size.
• You will find that Yorkshire Terriers do well in small homes and apartments. Their tiny build and friendly personalities make them great for compact living spaces. If you live in a small apartment, a Yorkie can fit right in without any trouble.
• Yorkies are easy to handle and do not need a large yard to stay happy. They enjoy spending time indoors with their owners. You can also bring them along when you travel, thanks to their small size.
• If you have allergies, you may appreciate that Yorkshire Terriers are one of the best small dog breeds for apartment living because they are considered hypoallergenic.
• Their confident and playful nature makes them good companions. With a little training, a Yorkie can adapt to your routine and become a loyal friend. If you are looking for a tiny dog that stays small, the Yorkshire Terrier is a strong option.

4. Shih Tzu

• The Shih Tzu is well known as a small companion dog that fits well in apartments and small homes. Weighing between 9 and 16 pounds, they are easy to carry and do not take up much space. Their small size and friendly nature make them suitable for families, singles, and seniors.
• Shih Tzus have a long, silky coat, but they shed very little. This makes them a good option if you are looking for a low-shedding dog. Grooming is important, so you will need to brush their hair often to keep it smooth and tangle-free.
• These dogs are calm and often enjoy sitting on your lap or just relaxing next to you. Shih Tzus are also known to be friendly toward children and other pets. If you want a dog that is quiet and easy to live with, the Shih Tzu could be a good fit.
• Because of their size and gentle personalities, Shih Tzus are among the best tiny breeds for apartment living. They adapt well to indoor life and do not need much space to be happy. Regular walks and some playtime will help keep them healthy and content.

5. Papillon

• If you want a small dog that is easy to spot, the Papillon is hard to miss. This breed stands about 8 to 11 inches tall at the shoulder. Its most noticeable feature is its large, butterfly-shaped ears, which is how the Papillon got its name.
• Papillons are known for being smart and easy to train. They pick up new commands quickly, so you may find them easier to work with than some other small breeds. Their friendly personality makes them good with families, singles, and seniors.
• This breed is active and likes to play. Even though Papillons are tiny, they enjoy walks and games, so you will need to give them some daily exercise. Their size also makes them a good choice for apartments or homes with limited space, as long as they get enough playtime.
• Papillons have a long, silky coat that looks fancy but is easier to care for than you might think. Regular brushing helps keep shedding under control.

6. Toy Poodle

• The Toy Poodle is the smallest type of Poodle. They are well-known for their intelligence and easy trainability. You can teach them many tricks and commands.
• Toy Poodles usually weigh 4 to 6 pounds and stand about 10 inches tall at the shoulder. Their small size makes them a good fit for apartments, condos, or small homes.
• These dogs have curly coats that come in many colors. Their fur does not shed much, which can help people with allergies. For their health and comfort, you should brush and groom them often.
• Toy Poodles tend to live long, healthy lives. With proper care, it is common for a Toy Poodle to live well into its teens.
• This breed is also friendly and enjoys spending time with people. If you are looking for a smart, playful, and loving small dog, the Toy Poodle is worth considering.

7. Maltese

• If you want a truly small dog, the Maltese is a breed to keep in mind. These dogs usually weigh less than seven pounds and have an elegant, all-white coat. Their fur is long, straight, and silky, which gives them a classic look.
• The Maltese is known as a toy breed. This means they are small enough to fit comfortably in most apartments or small homes. Their compact bodies make them easy to carry and handle.
• Maltese dogs are affectionate and enjoy spending time with people. Many owners find them to be friendly companions that like to curl up in your lap or follow you around the house.
• Their long coat does require regular grooming to keep it clean and free of tangles. If you or someone in your family has allergies, you may like that the Maltese is also considered hypoallergenic.
• Maltese dogs tend to have a gentle nature. They get along well with adults, older children, and other pets if they are introduced early. You can expect your Maltese to quickly become part of your daily routine.

8. Biewer Terrier

• The Biewer Terrier is a small, tri-colored toy breed known for its long, silky coat. This dog usually weighs just 4 to 8 pounds and stands about 7 to 11 inches tall. Its size makes it a suitable choice for people living in small spaces.
• You may notice the Biewer Terrier looks similar to the Yorkshire Terrier, but it has its own unique coloring and coat pattern. The breed is friendly and affectionate, often wanting to be close to its family.
• Even though it is small, the Biewer Terrier is active and enjoys playtime. You can expect this breed to be playful and alert, though it is not usually aggressive. The Biewer Terrier is also known for being adventurous and having good stamina for a toy dog.
• Regular grooming is needed to keep its coat looking clean and tangle-free. With its loving nature and manageable size, the Biewer Terrier fits well in apartments and other compact homes.

9. Norwegian Lundehund

• The Norwegian Lundehund is a rare breed from Norway. This small dog usually weighs under 20 pounds and stands around 12 to 15 inches tall. Its compact size makes it easy to handle in small living spaces.
• This breed was originally used for hunting puffins on rocky cliffs. The Norwegian Lundehund is known for its extra toes and unique flexibility, making it different from most other breeds.
• You may find the Norwegian Lundehund to be very agile and alert. It has an energetic personality and needs regular playtime and exercise to stay healthy. This breed can do well in apartments if you give it enough daily activity.
• If you are looking for a rare, small dog with some unusual traits, the Norwegian Lundehund could be a good fit. They’re not common, but they can make interesting companions for the right owner.

10. Alaskan Klee Kai

• The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small breed that looks a lot like a miniature Husky. Most adults weigh between 10 and 20 pounds. Their compact size makes them a good fit for smaller homes and apartments.
• These dogs are smart, alert, and full of energy. They want to learn and stay busy, so you should plan for daily walks and playtime. Because of their high activity level, they need more exercise than some other small breeds.
• The Alaskan Klee Kai can be reserved around new people, but they bond closely with their families. They are known for being very curious and watching what goes on around them. If you want a tiny dog with a big personality and some independence, this breed might be for you.
• You should know that while they do not need a lot of space, the Alaskan Klee Kai can be high-maintenance when it comes to attention and exercise. Regular grooming also helps keep their coat tidy and healthy.

Benefits of Small Dog Breeds

Small dog breeds offer easy care and fit well into many lifestyles. If you have limited space or travel often, these breeds can be a practical match for your needs.

Space-Saving Advantages

• Small dogs take up less room in your home. They fit comfortably in apartments, condos, and other tight spaces.
• Their beds, crates, and toys are much smaller and often cost less than those for large dogs. You can arrange their sleeping and play areas in a corner or next to the sofa without crowding your living space.
• Small breeds, like Chihuahuas and Yorkies, can comfortably rest on your lap while you work or relax. You won’t have to worry about them knocking over furniture or bumping into things because of their compact size.
• Because small dogs need less room to move around, short indoor play sessions or quick outdoor walks usually keep them happy. Many owners appreciate how these breeds blend into everyday home life with little hassle.

Travel and Portability

• Traveling with a small dog is often less stressful than with a large breed. These pets fit easily in small carriers that can be tucked under airplane seats or carried on your lap during car rides.
• You can bring your small dog on public transportation, into stores, and sometimes even to work or outdoor cafes. Their size makes it easier to follow travel rules like pet weight limits for transit.
• When staying at hotels or with friends, small breeds are more likely to be accepted. Their lower food needs and smaller bags of supplies also make packing simpler.