Small Dog Breeds

Small dog breeds are generally classified based on average adult height and weight ranges.

Small breed dogs weigh between 1–24 lbs at adulthood. They have a short, intense growth phase and reach maturity around 10 months. Due to their shorter legs and higher metabolism, they often need more energy per pound than larger dogs.

Havamalt
Havamalt

The Havamalt is a delightful blend resulting from the crossbreeding of two small dog breeds: the Havanese and the toy Maltese. This endearing combination produces a fantastic companion, celebrated for its loving temperament, keen alertness, and joyful personality. Both parent breeds are part of the Bichon lineage and share a common heritage, although they began to evolve separately before the 15th century. The Havamalt is officially recognized by various organizations, including the American Canine Hybrid Club, the Designer Dogs Kennel Club, the Designer Breed Registry, the Dog Registry of America, and the International Designer Canine Registry.

Read more
Yorkillon
Yorkillon

The Yorkillon is a captivating mix of beauty, charm, and irresistible cuteness, making it a companion you'll treasure for years. This little dog radiates style and confidence, and her playful nature is simply enchanting, especially with that sweet face. Known for being a true people pleaser, the Yorkillon will consistently be by your side, offering companionship and happiness. Often called the “dwarf spaniel,” this small yet vibrant bundle of energy will fill your home with laughter, joy, and love for many years to come!

Read more
Welsh Terrier
Welsh Terrier

The Welsh Terrier embodies the classic characteristics of a Terrier: courageous, energetic, playful, and spirited. Hailing from Wales in the 1700s, these bearded dogs were initially bred for hunting, adeptly navigating small burrows and caves to flush out game for hunters. While they continue to be employed for hunting and tracking, Welsh Terriers are now more commonly treasured as family pets. They make fantastic companions for children, are excellent running partners, and are always ready to partake in any fun activity you can think of. Historically known as the Black and Tan Wire Haired Terrier due to their striking black and tan coats, these dogs are easily identifiable by their curly beards. The breed was first showcased in England in 1884 and has been a staple in dog shows ever since. When Prescott Lawrence brought them to America that same year, they quickly captured attention at the Westminster Kennel Club, thanks to their distinctive appearance and charming personalities. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1884, which led to the establishment of the Terrier Club of America shortly after. If you’re looking for a dog that will keep you entertained, bring joy to your life, and help manage pesky critters, the Welsh Terrier might be the perfect fit for you. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that they require ample exercise and can become destructive if they’re not adequately stimulated. By ensuring they remain active and engaged, you can enjoy the delightful companionship of a Terrier that will undoubtedly enhance your life.

Read more
Jaland
Jaland

The Jaland is a charming mix of the Japanese Chin and the West Highland White Terrier, both recognized as toy breeds. Typically, these small dogs reach a height of no more than a foot and weigh around 13 pounds on average. Their coats are soft and plush, varying from medium to long lengths, and come in a range of colors including black, white, gray, fawn, sable, pied, and brindle. Although they possess intelligence, their stubbornness can pose challenges during training. Jalands are loving companions for children, but it's essential to supervise their interactions with very young ones. They generally coexist well with other pets. This breed is also noted for its robust health, often living up to approximately 15 years.

Read more
Toy Foodle
Toy Foodle

The Toy Foodle, commonly known as the Foxipoo, is an endearing designer breed that results from the cross between a Toy Fox Terrier and a Poodle. This breed not only captivates with its appearance but also possesses a delightful temperament, making it well-suited for various living situations—especially since it is regarded as hypoallergenic. Both parent breeds are celebrated for their friendly demeanor, and as a result, Foodles often inherit a mix of these characteristics, leading to a dog that is generally friendly towards other dogs, children, and even other pets, provided they receive appropriate training and socialization. Although they may show some wariness around strangers, this is typically expressed through a warning bark or by keeping their distance. Foodles are known for their affectionate and playful nature, thriving on quality time with their families. Their ability to learn quickly makes them an excellent option for first-time dog owners, and their small size allows them to adapt well to compact living spaces like apartments, as they require less exercise compared to larger breeds. However, without sufficient training or physical activity, they might become somewhat vocal, though their barks are usually less intrusive than those of bigger dogs. Despite their petite size, they do have notable exercise requirements, so individuals who are less active or lack access to appropriate exercise areas may find them less suitable. In summary, with their friendly nature, manageable size, and eagerness to learn, Toy Foodles can make wonderful companions for a diverse array of families.

Read more
Schnau-Tzu
Schnau-Tzu

The Schnau-Tzu is a charming hybrid breed that results from crossing a Miniature Schnauzer with a Shih Tzu. This petite dog features a fluffy coat and droopy ears, contributing to its adorable look. Renowned for their cleverness, Schnau-Tzus are usually friendly and enjoy interacting with both humans and other dogs. They make excellent companions for children and thrive on engaging play and exercise with their families and furry pals. Although they are generally lively, they require regular physical activity to ensure their health and happiness. Grooming needs are moderate, necessitating routine brushing to keep their coat in check. Be ready for some shedding; having a reliable vacuum cleaner will simplify maintenance.

Read more
Crested Malt
Crested Malt

The Crested Malt is an enchanting hybrid toy breed that can inherit a mix of traits from its parent breeds, the loving Maltese and the lively Chinese Crested. Typically, Crested Malts are sociable and playful lapdogs, renowned for their unwavering loyalty to their families. They usually exhibit the slender physique of the Maltese, combined with the unique facial features characteristic of the Chinese Crested. Their coats are long and silky, requiring regular grooming to maintain their beauty. Additionally, Crested Malts thrive on light daily exercise and flourish with the affection they receive from their owners. As this breed is still being developed, it has not yet gained recognition as a purebred by the American Kennel Club.

Read more
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terrier

The Scottish Terrier is a small yet spirited breed, celebrated for its lively character. In the 1700s, breeders started developing what we now know as the Scottish Terrier, originally calling it the Aberdeen Terrier after a town in Scotland. The breed was affectionately dubbed the “little diehard” by the fourth Earl of Dumbarton, a nickname that still resonates today. Though they are petite, these dogs are brimming with bravery and vitality. Initially bred to hunt rabbits, otters, foxes, and badgers, Scottish Terriers continue to excel as vigilant watchdogs and devoted companions.

Read more
French Bull Rat Terrier
French Bull Rat Terrier

The French Bull Rat Terrier is a delightful and devoted companion. This energetic mix arises from the union of the affectionate French Bulldog and the spirited American Rat Terrier. The fusion of these two breeds results in a dependable friend who spreads happiness to all in his presence. Although he can be somewhat headstrong at times, his eagerness to please is sincere. Many owners of a French Bull Rat Terrier often share that the investment in training and direction pays off significantly.

Read more
Lhasa Apso
Lhasa Apso

These small but impressive dogs were initially bred to act as guardians in the temples and monasteries located in the Tibetan mountains thousands of years ago. Their popularity in the United States, however, only began in 1933 when the Dalai Lama presented several of these dogs to Mr. and Mrs. Suydam Cutting from New Jersey. Renowned for their joyful nature, these dogs are often playful and even a bit goofy at home, although they tend to be more reserved with unfamiliar faces and may display protective behaviors over their food and toys. Their beautiful, flowing coats require considerable maintenance, necessitating daily brushing and combing, even if kept relatively short.

Read more
Ski-Border
Ski-Border

The Ski-Border is a distinctive hybrid dog breed, created by crossing an American Eskimo with a Border Collie. This friendly and energetic mix inherits the delightful characteristics of both parent breeds. Adult Ski-Borders typically stand about 20 inches tall at the shoulder, with females being a bit smaller than males. They usually weigh between 20 to 25 pounds and feature a soft, medium-length double coat that comes in various colors and patterns. Reflecting his heritage, the Ski-Border is highly intelligent and eager to please his owners. With his playful nature and endless energy, he makes a perfect companion for families with an active lifestyle.

Read more
Cherokee Monarch
Cherokee Monarch

The Cherokee Monarch is a mixed breed that emerges from the combination of a Papillon and a Russian Toy Terrier. This small breed, which has only recently entered the canine scene, usually weighs around 7 to 8 pounds. Renowned for their playful and loving demeanor, Cherokee Monarchs make excellent companions for children and typically coexist harmoniously with other animals. They are low-shedding, requiring little grooming, and are generally calm in the presence of strangers. Many pet owners find the Cherokee Monarch to be a charming addition to their households.

Read more