Every dog has a charm of its own, but there is something about small black dogs that makes them stand out. Warm eyes, glossy black coats, and wagging tails, the whole package is a whole lot of warm and cosy feeling in a small body.
A black dog can be intimidating for some people, especially if they are on the larger side, but these dogs are cute, playful, and affectionate members of their families. Their black coats make their eyes pop and make them seem more striking somehow.
On a practical note, their dark coats mean that they have lower grooming needs. The darkness of their coats means that they will require less bathing and cleaning, as they will stain less. For people with limited time, this is also a factor.
Small black dog breeds
1. Pug
These toy dogs have a signature, unique look that is adored by millions of fans globally. They are not an exclusively black breed, as tan is also a breed color. Bred to be a companion dog, these small dogs love being cuddled and spoiled.
They tend to shed a lot and will require frequent brushing to remove loose hair. They don’t cope well with hot weather and could experience breathing problems, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
They have signature big round eyes, and a wrinkled face that gives them a quizzical look that adds to their charm. A low-energy breed, Pugs are content to curl up with you and tend to be couch potatoes. The adaptable little breed is happy anywhere where its family members are.
The Pugs are loyal pets and are not prone to barking, and will only do so to alert. They are good around other pets and young children.
2. Miniature Pinscher
Popularly called the Min Pin, these small dogs usually have big personalities and are high-energy, lively dogs. They are prone to barking and will enjoy regular exercise.
They are an intelligent breed and will enjoy mental stimulation as well as play sessions with their family.
Purina mentions that the Miniature Pinscher is bold, fearless, and always curious. Loyal to their owners, they’re definitely not your typical easy-going lapdog. These little dynamos will alert you to anything they think deserves your attention—and they’ll expect you to do something about it!
These dogs have a smooth coat and will require only weekly brushing to keep it healthy.
3. Affenpinscher
These toy dogs are famously known as the monkey dog, because of the apish look of their faces. With a body that is similar to the terrier family. They have a dense double coat that can look shaggy.
The Affenpinscher has a bold personality and an independent nature, which can be funny, keeping their toy dog stature in mind. They get along well with both children and other pets, but might not do too well with other dogs.
The shaggy coat type of the breed requires at least bi-weekly grooming to prevent mats and needs to be trimmed every few months to maintain its coat. The breed requires moderate exercise, and a short daily walk should be enough, as well as some indoor play.
4. Scottish Terrier
Originally bred as working dogs, the Scottish Terrier tends to bark and still has a strong hunting instinct that makes them unsuited to be around other pets, unless properly trained and socialized. They tend to chase after smaller prey and should not be off-leash when outdoors.
These sturdy dogs have a signature medium-length, wiry coat that requires regular grooming and brushing to prevent tangling. Their coats also need professional grooming every couple of months to maintain their looks. They are moderately energetic and will enjoy frequent play sessions.
As intelligent dogs with a very affectionate personality, Purina states that these dogs may be a challenge for first-time dog owners.
5. Schipperke
These are sea dogs, bred to hunt rats on barges and around the seafront in Belgium. Their name means “little captain” in Flemish. These are highly intelligent and active dogs that will enjoy regular exercise. They have a medium length, double coat that is both thick and solid. They usually require weekly brushing to remove loose hair and tangles.
These are lively, social dogs, that enjoy company and will need their owners to spend time with them. They are known to be aggressive towards other dogs and will require training. While they have the guard dog mentality, they are too small to be effective ones.
They have a strong personality and can be difficult to manage for first-time dog owners.
6. Toy Poodle
Known for their curly-haired coats, the Toy Poodle is one of the most highly intelligent breeds on this list. Specifically developed as companion dogs for small living spaces, these dogs are highly trainable and make for smart companions.
Known to be great communicators, the breed can be taught multiple tricks. They stay happy around their owners and require a firm hand to control them.
These dogs are unique for not having fur, but hair, which required regular grooming to maintain it as well as trimming as it continues growing like hair.
They have a lot of energy and should be supervised around children and other dogs as they can get carried away by their enthusiasm and get injured.
7. Chihuahua
Although not an exclusively black dog breed, they are smallest recognized dog breed according to Britannica, the Chihuahua is a spunky dog with a double dose of personality! These toy dogs are very affectionate and form very close bonds with their owners, making them some of the most loyal dog breeds around. Their small stature helps them live in small spaces.
They have a reputation as lap dogs, but are energetic dogs that need regular exercise and activity to keep them happy. They also tend to to bark when they are nervous. They also bark at strangers, and other dogs.
The breed has a double coat and will require weekly grooming to maintain coat health. They are not heavy shedders. They require teeth cleaning regularly as they are prone to peridontal disease due to overcrowded teeth in their small mouths.
Conclusion
The dogs on this list are some of the most adorable dog breeds with a healthy dose of personality thrown in. If you are still confused about which black dog breed you want, you should explore your lifestyle for guidance.
As a first-time owner, a few breeds would be too much of a challenge, unless you have the time and energy to face one. Similarly, if you don’t have the time to spare on exercising, playing, and grooming your dog to maintain its coat health, then some of the high-maintenance dogs on this list will not do for you.
If you have young children and have a busy lifestyle, having to monitor interactions between your dog and kids will be too much of a challenge.
In short, you need to figure out what your life and living conditions permit. Many small dogs are more needy and need more supervision, as they can get hurt due to their small size.
