The Best Small Dog Breeds For Families of Four or Less

Dogs have been our best friends since the stone age. They have hunted with us, slept by our side, provided company wherever we go, and showered us with their admirable loyalty. No wonder the phrase ‘Small dog breeds’ is one of the highly searched terms online by families looking for a new furry companion. 

But why consider small dog breeds? As civilizations advanced, we moved from sleeping in large tracts of land in the wild to cuddling up in a cozy and compact apartment in the city. Space became a problem for families that wanted to own large dogs like the Doberman or German Shepherds (although some people in tiny homes still own these dogs).

Also, the choice between small dog breeds and large ones has to do with the ability to care for the animal. Toy breeds are a lot easier to manage and economical for a small house in the city. They are perfect for small families of two to a maximum of four people. 

How to choose toy breeds

The first thing to look at is the pedigree of the dog. When it comes to small dog breeds, purebred are the best because they have few physical and behavioral problems to worry about. When buying a toy breed dog, get it from a dog breeder who knows what they are doing. Also, understanding the bloodline of the dog goes a long way in assuring you that you are getting a good dog. 

Choose a small dog that is easy to maintain. Some dogs have long coats that are exquisite but can shed heavily or be hard to maintain. Short-haired dogs are usually easier to maintain. 

Another thing to look at is how great the dog is around kids. A pup with a high prey drive can treat anything smaller than it, including an infant, as potential prey. So watch how the dog interacts around everyone before leaving it along with kids. 

Think about the size of the dog as well. Some small dog breeds are so tiny and fragile. They have delicate needs and great care to prevent injuries. Also, toy breeds are likely to get exhausted faster when they play. Furthermore, you have to ensure their comfort in extreme weather conditions. 

The lifespan of the dog is important too. Most toy breeds live up to 12 to 15 years when properly cared for. The puppy’s pedigree should tell you of any health issues to anticipate when they grow up. Also, ensure you are feeding your dog the right diet to grow stronger and live longer. Here is a crash course on how to prepare healthy meals for your dog.

Finally, weigh in on the price. Small dog breeds are not cheap, but you can always land a great deal if you shop around. Expect to spend at least $900 on a toy breed puppy. 

With that said, here is a list of the best small dog breeds that are suited for tiny homes with small numbers of pet lovers.

1.    Alaskan Klee Kai

They look exactly like huskies, or the Malamute, but have smaller bodies measuring 13 to 17 inches and weigh 10 to 15 pounds. Also nicknamed the Husky Lite, the Klee Kai is considered a smart and intelligent dog. They are bred for companionship, which makes them great for families of two or up to five. This dog’s high energy levels also means you are going to have lots of fun indoors and out in the world 

Pros

• Adapts to apartment lifestyle
• Tolerates any weather
• Kid-friendly and family-friendly 
• Warm towards new people
• Very intelligent
• Easy to train

Cons

• Incessant barking or howling
• A bit of shedding
• Gains weight fast

2.    Chihuahua

Do not let their tiny bodies fool you, Chihuahuas love to puff themselves up and can be quite strong-willed. Yet, they are one of the most loving and loyal small dog breeds. A full-grown Chihuahua measures 5 to 8 inches from the shoulder and weighs at most 6 pounds. They have a lifespan of 14 to 16 years which they dedicate to loving their owner wholeheartedly. Chihuahuas are so tiny they can fit in a medium-sized tote bag but have the energy of a Huskie. They thrive well in active environments but be careful not to overwork them. 

Pros

• Highly intelligent
• Chic and stylish
• Very affectionate
• Adaptable

Cons

• Strongwilled
• Can suffer separation anxiety

3.    Pomeranian

Pomeranians are tiny fluffy fellows with a lot of crazy ideas up their sleeves…errm…paws. Despite their small bodies, Pomeranians are very intelligent and agile, and often compete and win in dog shows for their impeccable obedience. Also, Pomeranians are very active dogs and require at least an hour of playtime every day. Their compact bodies make them ideal for small families or individuals living in apartments in the city. Pomeranians grow to 12 inches, weigh 7 pounds and live for up to 16 years.

Pros

• Very intelligent 
• Active and agile
• Loving and obedient
• Ideal for first-time owners
• Very affectionate

Cons

• Can be very territorial
• Sheds a lot
• Must be supersized around children
• Overheats fast

4.    Pocket Pitbulls

Also called a Miniature pitbull, a pocket pittie is the compact version of the American Pitbull Terrier. A standard pitbull terrier weighs 60lbs while the Miniature pitbull weighs up to 22 lbs. Their compact bodies make them ideal for city living and their affectionate nature puts the myth to rest that Pitbulls are dangerous animals. They thrive in an active environment and show a lot of love and loyalty to their owners. Pocket pitties live for 11 to 13 years. 

Strengths

• Compact bodies
• Intelligent and affectionate
• Does not shed a lot

Weaknesses

• Prone to brachycephalic airway syndrome
• Can be stubborn if not well-trained

5.    Rat Terrier

Well not the nicest name in small dog breeds, but a rat terrier is still a pup you would love to own and cherish. They get their name from President Theodore Roosevelt, who named his terrier rat because of his efficiency in flushing out rodents from the White House. Today, rat terriers still maintain the same energy levels and have added onto themselves the ability to be feisty and clownish. Rat terriers thrive better in a farm setting although they do not mind living in the city as well.

Pros

• Energetic and fun-loving
• Intelligent 
• Easy to train
• Loves adventure

Cons

• Strong prey drive
• Can bark a lot

6.    Japanese Chin

If you have been looking for the perfect lap dog, then get you a Japanese Chin. She is one of the few Asian small dog breeds that have been around for thousands of years. Japanese Chins were popular among the royal families in Asia before they morphed into prized family dogs. They are sweet-natured, compact enough to fit the apartment lifestyle, and are very playful. Japanese Chins are only 11inches tall and weigh at most 9 pounds. They are classified as companion dogs and can live up to 14 years. 

Pros

• Easy to train
• Adapts to apartment living
• Friendly to strangers 
• Can get along with kids

Cons

• Separation anxiety 
• Cannot tolerate hot weather

7.    Old English Bulldog

One of the most docile small dog breeds is the Old English bulldog. It grows to 20 inches and weighs at most 80 pounds (although they can put on quite some weight). Old English bulldogs are intelligent, friendly, and willing to please you. They are very courageous and protective of their owners too. This mini bulldog is perfect for singles, small people, and seniors. They live up to 11 years or more if well taken care of. Old English bulldog puppies for sale.

Pros

• Gentle and docile 
• Strong and attractive
• Wonderful family pet
• Easily trainable
• Fits the apartment lifestyle

Cons

• Can be territorial 
• Increase prey drive if not trained

8.    Yorkipoo

A Yorkipoo is a lovely designer dog built for fun and companionship. A crossbreed between the Miniature Poodle and Yorkshire Terrier, Yorkipoos are gentle, affectionate, and great to have around. They are 15 inches tall, making them perfect for apartment life. They weigh about 14 pounds and live for 15 years when well cared for. 

Pros

• Adaptable 
• Great for first-time owners
• Good with kids 
• Loves their family
• Low shedding 
• Easy to groom
• Easy to train

Cons

• Can bark a lot 
• Prone to separation anxiety 

9.   Yorkshire Terrier

A Yorkshire Terrier is very tiny but has a big personality. It is voted as the most popular small dog breed in the USA and has won in several toy-breed competitions. A Yorkshire Terrier’s compact body, measuring 9 inches from the shoulder, makes the pooch ideal for apartment life. They also weigh at most 6 pounds which makes it easy to carry them around. A Yorkie has a silky coat with a signature perky knot on top of the head. Be careful about exposing them in hot weather. 

Pros 

• Very affectionate
• Ideal for apartment life
• Great for first-time owners
• Minimal shedding 

Cons

• Expensive to groom
• Feisty towards strangers
• Not for kids

10.                  English Cocker spaniel

A mid-sized chap with very long ears and a confident gait. The English Cocker Spaniel was originally a hunter before he became a companion dog for apartment dwellers. He is very affectionate and adapts to any lifestyle as long as he is close to his owner. An English Cocker Spaniel is ideal for people searching for low-maintenance small dog breeds. It grows to up to 5 inches tall and weighs 34 pounds. English Cocker spaniel dogs live for 14 years or more. 

Pros

• Very affectionate
• Great with kids and adults
• Friendly to strangers
• Adapts to apartment lifestyle
• Intelligent and trainable 

Cons

• Strong prey drive
• Can bark a lot

11.                  Maltese

One thing you would appreciate about a Maltese is its great confidence. They are also gentle and always eager to meet new people. Their white coat gives them an air of importance, especially when they grow and wear it in long silky strands. Being only 10 inches tall, Maltese dogs are great for apartment living. Weighing at most 7 pounds, Maltese pups can live for 15 years when well cared for. 

Pros

• Exquisite to look at
• Warm and welcoming to family
• Very intelligent and trainable
• Low shedding

Cons

• High prey drive
• Can bark a lot
• Can be hostile to strangers

Conclusion

It is true that dogs are a man’s best friend. Small dog breeds are great for company when living in a small apartment in the city. Apart from not taking up much space, most are low maintenance and are less demanding in terms of diet, exercise, training, and grooming.

Comment below and let us know your favorite small dog breed.