50 Best Small Dog Breeds to Take Home to Your Family

Fun fact: The basenji is known as Africa’s “barkless dog.” Instead of a typical bark, they express their feelings with a high-pitched, yodel-like sound. They require at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, along with plenty of mental stimulation. Because of this, they’re best suited for experienced pet owners who can offer patience and consistent training. But you’ll be rewarded with plenty of loyalty!

Weight: up to 24 pounds

The pumi is a herding dog from Hungary that’s actually pretty rare in the United States. Easily recognizable thanks to their corkscrew curls, these dogs are loved for their intelligence and agility. They were bred to be compact sheepdogs, so they’ve got boundless energy for work and play. They’re also plenty cuddly and charming, too.

Weight: 22-29 pounds

These little guys are among the smallest working terriers. Yep, they were bred to hunt rats and foxes. So, they’ll be up for running around the yard and playing fetch all day. But they’re also tender enough to enjoy lap time, too. They get along with everyone from kids to other dogs and are extremely clever, too.

Weight: Up to 12 pounds

Known as Belgium’s “little captain,” the shipperke might be small, but they’re built for tough work. This means they can be pretty independent and need plenty of opportunity for physical activity. But there will never be a dull moment! A dark coat and foxy face only add to their uniqueness.

Weight: 10-16 pounds

Looking for a lifelong companion? The Brussels griffon, with their short, pushed-in face and expressive eyes, thrives on affection and will form a strong bond with their owner. They’re also really intelligent and enjoy mental stimulation, though they can be stubborn at times.

Weight: 8-10 pounds

Though the whippet is actually related to the greyhound, they’re much smaller in size. They possess many similar qualities, such as intelligence and speed—and can reach up to 35 mph! Along with their athleticism, they also have an affectionate nature and are known to bark very little.

Weight: 20-35 pounds

Described as “hard as nails” when working, the border terrier has a good-tempered and affectionate personality when in the house. Though they’re bred to be country dogs, they’ll adapt well to city living if given plenty of exercise time.

Weight: 11-15 pounds

One of the smallest dogs in the canine kingdom definitely gets a spot on our list. Chihuahuas are known for their charming and sassy personalities, and since they’re so tiny, they make great purse dogs!

Weight: Up to 6 pounds

These smush-faced dogs are the descendants of royalty: Pugs were once the chosen companions of Chinese emperors! They’re also great house dogs for apartments or homes with limited outdoor space.

Weight: 14 to 18 pounds

There are two different breeds of these dogs to choose from: the Pembroke Welsh corgis (pictured) and Cardigan Welsh corgis, both which were bred as cattle herding dogs. The biggest difference is their tails: Cardis have tails, while Pembroke corgis do not. But both breeds are smart, affectionate, and athletic, despite their short statures. They’re also one of the top ten most popular dog breeds.

Weight: Up to 30 pounds

You probably know Yorkies by the glamorous floor-length coats they sport at dog shows, but the breed was actually once used for a less fancy job, as ratters in mines and mills. Today, they are one of the most popular American dog breeds, and their owners love them for their feisty personalities.

Weight: 7 pounds

French bulldogs are also one of the world’s most popular dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. They’re loved for their adorable, bat-like ears and affectionate personalities. Frenchies are also known not to bark much, so they’re great for apartments and other communal living situations!

Weight: Up to 28 pounds

These smart watchdogs, commonly known as wiener dogs because of their elongated bodies, were bred more than 600 years ago in Germany as badger hunters. They’re loved for their big personalities and distinctive look. They come with various hair lengths, too!

Weight: 16 to 32 pounds (standard), under 11 pounds (miniature)

Scotties are known for their dignified, humanlike manner and determination. (They’re not nicknamed “the Diehard” for nothing!) They have a strong hunting instinct and may not play well with other dogs or cats, but they are loyal companions to humans.

Weight: 18 to 22 pounds

These adorable American dogs are known for their dapper tuxedo pattern, which earned them the nickname “The American Gentleman.” Boston terriers are a super-friendly breed that are great for city dwellers, just like their name suggests.

Weight: 12 to 25 pounds

Lovable poms are distinguished by their fluffy double coat, which comes in almost two dozen colors but is usually seen in orange or red. Poms are super smart and playful, and they can master tricks easily.

Weight: 3 to 7 pounds

These pups are covered from head to foot with a mantle of silky white hair, which is frequently cut short in pets for convenience (like this cutie here), but is grown long on show dogs. Maltese dogs are affectionate and loyal, making them a great option for families.

Weight: Up to 7 pounds