Owning a dog is one of life’s greatest joys, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Many small dog breeds offer the perfect blend of affection, personality, and affordability. In fact, smaller dogs often come with lower upfront costs and reduced long-term expenses, making them an excellent choice for budget-conscious pet parents. From food and grooming to medical care, tiny pups tend to require less of everything, without sacrificing companionship.
The yearly cost of owning a dog can range from $1,400 to $4,300. However, savvy owners can trim that figure significantly by choosing breeds that are inexpensive to feed, generally healthy, and low-maintenance when it comes to grooming and exercise. Factors like minimal health issues, short coats, and modest energy levels all contribute to keeping care costs down.
In this article, we’ll highlight some of the cheapest small dog breeds that are as easy on your wallet as they are on your heart. Whether you’re looking for a playful pal or a cozy lap dog, there’s an affordable furry friend waiting to join your home.
Cheap Small Dog Breeds
1. Chihuahua
For pet lovers looking for a budget-friendly breed with an outsized personality, the Chihuahua fits the bill perfectly. Weighing in at just 3 to 6 pounds, this tiny companion is bold, alert, and fiercely loyal, making it a surprisingly vigilant watchdog in a petite package.
According to the AKC, Chihuahuas are delightful, elegant, and have a spunky attitude. One of the cheapest small dogs to own, Chihuahuas require very little pet food and have relatively low veterinary costs thanks to their general good health and impressive lifespan of 14 to 16 years.
They also tend to bond closely with other Chihuahuas, which is a charming trait for multi-dog households. They are one of the best options for budget-conscious pet lovers.
Grooming
Grooming needs are minimal, especially for the smooth-coat variety, which only requires occasional brushing and regular baths. Longhaired Chihuahuas need more frequent brushing, about once a week, to prevent matting.
Both types benefit from regular nail trims, ear checks, and consistent dental care, including brushing and dental treats to help avoid periodontal issues. These small grooming routines are simple, affordable, and go a long way in keeping your Chihuahua healthy and happy.
Fact: Despite their small stature, Chihuahuas are among the oldest dog breeds in the Americas, tracing their ancestry back to ancient pre-Columbian civilizations.
2. Pug
With their expressive eyes, curled tails, and famously wrinkled faces, Pugs are full of charm and surprisingly affordable to own. Compact and easygoing, these dogs thrive in apartments or small homes and are content with moderate regular exercise, like short walks or indoor play.
Though they can be a bit stubborn, Pugs are affectionate and eager to please, which makes them a delight for families or first-time dog owners. Their smaller size and overall healthy constitution help keep routine care costs low, especially when properly managed.
PetMD notes that Pugs are typically sociable and enthusiastic. They have a cheerful nature, are eager to make their owners happy, and thrive on close human companionship.
Grooming
Despite their short coat, this toy breed sheds quite a bit and benefits from weekly brushing to manage loose hair. Their signature facial wrinkles require special attention: clean them gently with a damp cloth or dog-safe wipe, then dry thoroughly to prevent bacterial buildup and infections.
Bathing is only needed occasionally unless your vet recommends medicated shampoos for sensitive or allergy-prone skin. Pugs may also need wrinkle-specific care if they suffer from dryness, irritation, or skin conditions.
Fact: The Pug’s official breed motto, “multum in parvo,” translates to “a lot in a little”, a fitting description for a dog packed with personality and love in a compact frame.
3. Dachshund
With their long bodies, short legs, and curious personalities, Dachshunds are as iconic as they are endearing. According to Britannica, the Dachshund is a dog breed with hound and terrier roots, originally developed in Germany to chase badgers into their underground dens.
Available in both miniature (under 11 pounds) and standard (up to 32 pounds) sizes, they are a playful and bold breed that offers big personality in a small, budget-friendly package.
Their modest size keeps feeding and basic care costs low, and their adaptable nature makes them well-suited for apartments, provided they get regular walks and space to sniff and explore. Just be mindful that their backs, stairs, and high jumps can be risky due to their elongated spine.
Grooming
Dachshunds come in three coat types: smooth, longhaired, and wirehaired. Smooth coats are the lowest maintenance, needing just occasional brushing. Longhaired Dachshunds benefit from a gentle combing once or twice weekly to prevent tangles, while wirehaired varieties require weekly grooming and occasional hand-stripping to remove dead hair. Across all coat types, they’re relatively low-cost to maintain, especially with regular at-home care.
Fact: The name “Dachshund” means “badger dog” in German. These dogs were originally bred to hunt burrowing animals, and their shape was specifically designed for the job.
4. Rat terrier
Smart, scrappy, and full of energy, the Rat Terrier is an affordable small breed with a storied history and a big heart. Known for their quick wit and adaptability, these dogs once earned their reputation by helping eliminate a rodent infestation at the White House during Theodore Roosevelt’s presidency.
Today, they’re beloved for their low-cost care and family-friendly temperament. With a lifespan of 12 to 18 years, they make loyal and lively companions without putting strain on your budget. Their intelligence and eagerness to please also make them easy to train at home, no pricey obedience school required.
Purina states that the Rat Terrier is an affectionate, inquisitive, and charming breed that typically interacts well with both children and other pets.
Grooming
Grooming a Rat Terrier is refreshingly simple. Their short, dense coat requires only occasional brushing to remove loose hairs and keep it looking neat. A quick wipe-down or bath every few weeks will help maintain cleanliness.
Their ears should be checked regularly for debris, and nails trimmed when needed. This minimal grooming routine makes them one of the most cost-effective breeds to maintain, perfect for owners looking to save time and money.
Fact: Legend has it that Rat Terriers helped eliminate a rat infestation at the White House during President Theodore Roosevelt’s time in office.
5. Schipperke
Small in size but big in personality, the Schipperke is a clever and independent little dog with a long history of mischief and charm. Often called the “Little Captain” due to its origins aboard Belgian canal boats, this breed is alert, curious, and always ready to explore.
Though this affordable dog breed has a mischievous streak, they form strong bonds with their adult humans and thrives in structured environments. Their small stature, just 10 to 16 pounds, combined with their robust health and low upkeep, makes them one of the most cost-effective dog breeds to own.
Grooming
The Schipperke’s thick, black double coat is surprisingly low-maintenance. It naturally repels dirt, requiring only weekly brushing under normal conditions. However, during seasonal shedding periods (typically once or twice a year), more frequent brushing will help manage the excess hair.
Thanks to their self-cleaning coat, professional grooming is rarely necessary. As with all breeds, regular nail trimming is important to prevent discomfort and maintain mobility.
Fact: Schipperkes surged in popularity during the 1800s after Queen Marie Henriette of Belgium was seen with one, making them a fashionable and functional favorite.
6. Miniature Pinscher
Fearless, fast-moving, and full of character, the Miniature Pinscher is a budget-friendly breed that packs a lot of personality into a compact frame. Often mistaken for a tiny Doberman, the Min Pin is actually a distinct breed with its own bold attitude and unique traits, most notably, its signature “Hackney gait”, a high-stepping stride reminiscent of a prancing horse. Weighing just 8 to 10 pounds, these toy-sized dynamos are confident, playful, and always ready for action.
Grooming
Thanks to their sleek, short coats, Miniature Pinschers are refreshingly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They are naturally clean dogs that require minimal brushing; just a quick pass with a soft-bristle brush once a week keeps their coats looking polished.
Occasional baths, regular nail trims, and basic ear cleaning round out their care routine. With little need for professional grooming, Min Pins are ideal for owners seeking a stylish, active pup without the high upkeep costs.
Fact: Despite their resemblance to Dobermans, Miniature Pinschers are a separate and older breed, distinguished by their animated personality and signature high-stepping walk.
7. Bichon Frise
With its cloud-like coat and cheerful personality, the Bichon Frise is a charming companion dog that offers more than just cuddles. Originally from Spain, this small breed weighs between 12 to 18 pounds and has a life expectancy of 14 to 15 years.
Their playful, affectionate nature makes them ideal family pets, especially for those looking for a budget-conscious yet lively dog. Despite their elegant appearance, Bichons are relatively low-maintenance in terms of healthcare and are considered a cost-effective option due to their minimal shedding and generally good health.
Grooming
Though the Bichon’s curly white coat is hypoallergenic and doesn’t shed much, it requires consistent upkeep. Daily brushing is recommended to prevent matting, and monthly baths help maintain the coat’s signature softness and brightness.
To keep them looking their best, professional grooming every 4 to 6 weeks is also necessary. Dental care is equally important, as the breed is prone to oral health issues; regular brushing and vet-recommended dental treats can help prevent costly problems.
Fact: While they look like plush toys, Bichon Frises are full of energy and affection, and they’re a smart choice for allergy-sensitive households due to their low-shedding coat.
Conclusion
Bringing a dog into your life doesn’t have to be expensive, especially if you choose one of the many cheap small dog breeds that are low-maintenance, budget-friendly, and full of personality. From the loyal and long-living Chihuahua to the charming and hypoallergenic coat of the Bichon Frise, these breeds offer lasting companionship without straining your wallet. Many small breeds also benefit from lower food, grooming, and healthcare costs, especially when you account for smart budgeting tips like routine care and pet insurance.
Other budget-conscious favorites include the Boston Terrier, known for its friendly nature and minimal grooming needs, and the energetic Jack Russell, a small yet spirited breed that requires at least an hour or two of daily activity. Breeds like Toy Poodles, Italian Greyhounds, and Shih Tzus, with an average cost, also deliver affordability and unique breed characteristics, from intelligence to elegance. For those drawn to flair and fun, consider the Biewer Terrier or French Bulldogs, both adorable options to explore, just be mindful of grooming and health requirements.
Whether you adopt from a breeder or discover your new best friend at a local shelter, choosing one of these other dogs can give you joy, love, and a silky coat to snuggle, without the high price tag.
