Wagging tails and eager eyes are so comforting to see whenever you arrive home. There is a heartbeat there waiting just for you. In a world that is busy and sometimes has too much stress in it, that moment of connecting with your dog may be the most relaxing part of your day.
When living in small apartments or homes that have a compact space, these tiny dogs are the perfect choice. However, not every dog wants to travel through the countryside or hike every day. Small dogs are the ones that make every moment memorable.
Tiny dogs are not only adaptable to small spaces, but they also flourish in them. Weighing less than 15 pounds, these dogs are always around, even when you are sipping coffee, watching a movie, or even folding laundry, willing to share the moment.
Let’s find the perfect companion for your small space and lifestyle!
Indoor-Only Dog Breeds
1. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are the ultimate pet for indoor living, which were bred to be lapdogs by the Chinese royalty. These cuddly companions are perfect to snuggle with; their long, flowing coat makes them more adorable.
These dogs, weighing 9-16 pounds, are satisfied with short walks and prefer to curl up on a couch to take long naps.
Why it works for indoor living:
Regular short walks
Loves long naps and belly rubs
Originally bred to be a palace companion
Always happy to meet new people, as Shih Tzu are extremely friendly and do great with kids. They are perfect for families or elderly people residing in apartments. They require a small living space to stay happy.
Their luxurious coat requires regular brushing. Shih Tzus are considered lucky dogs that bring good fortune in Chinese culture.
2. Boston Terrier
Very sweet and gentle; hence, they are ideal for people living in an apartment. This American Gentleman is compact and boasts a fine short coat. These small-city dwellers have a calm demeanor that makes them affectionate among the people.
Pointed ears and an alert look, Boston Terriers have a happy temperament. They like to spend time tossing a toy or relaxing near your feet. These small packs of energy are easy to train with, plus an adapting nature.
The American Kennel Club states they are well-balanced dog breeds that are compact and grow up to 16 inches. Boston Terriers are a very amusing breed that are suited to every environment, stay healthy inside the house, and do not require intense training.
The Curious Cuddler Only Needs
To spend time playing indoors
They are polite and bark less frequently.
Well-mannered and easy-going dog breeds
Easy to groom, and they are highly trainable, Boston Terriers are very good companions for kids.
3. Dachshund
With elongated bodies and short legs, Dachshunds carry a unique look that is instantly recognized. These affectionate pets are very playful and clever, and are happy to spend time with their owners. These canine companions are apartment dwellers; they need moderate daily walks but are happy living in small spaces.
Originally bred for hunting, they are perfect for chasing and have a strong sense of smell. They are indoor dogs that like to spend time on your laps. Dachshunds have a curious nature; they are smart and independent dogs, need training, and enjoy regular walks, according to PetMD.
Ideal for the indoors, their comical faces and smart personalities make your small places happier.
Why does it work indoors
Uses nose power around the house
Make a strong bond with one person
They are playful companions
Tiny steps and a long body only need small spaces for living
The owners are required to limit their jumping activities, as their elongated bodies are delicate.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These fearless and gentle personalities are always up for a snuggle. Cavaliers are small-sized dogs that weigh 13-18 pounds, making them perfect for indoors. The toy breed of Britain, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, lives up to 15 years and thrives on companionship.
Cavaliers are royal dogs that carry their heritage with them; nowadays, they like to rest on a couch or adore sitting along with you when their owner is busy with their chores. Britannica states them as the solid-built dogs that are polite and gentle with the family.
They spend less time on physical activities as compared to larger breeds, enjoy short walks, and need a warm corner in the home.
Royal is Made For Indoor living
Bred as a lapdog for the royalty
Adaptable for a slower-paced lifestyle
Affectionate and sweet nature
They sense human emotions; hence, Cavaliers are used as therapy dogs.
5. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is another indoor dog, suited for compact living. These curious and playful puppies are the ones that bring life into your house. Weighing not more than 6 pounds makes them adoptable for active families or individuals.
These smallest dog breeds live an average life of 16 years, which is much more than other pets. Quick to react, Chihuahuas are loyal companions that are tiny in size but have huge personalities packed with energy.
They are the ones that are suited to perform multiple roles; their alertness makes them guardians, playtime includes small walks, and at the same time, they are lap dogs that provide warmth and comfort.
Pocket-Size Protector For Small Space
Grows only 5-8 inches, considered the smallest dog
Like indoor living and playtime.
These lap dogs provide warmth; they are the best furry friends and heating pads.
6. Maltese
Sturdy, agile, and affectionate Maltese are considered the best choice for compact spaces. Elegance and affection are hidden under the fluffy coat; they are one of the ancient breeds, very popular even today.
Soulful eyes and white coats enhance their purity. Maltese prefer chasing toys and doing playful activities inside the home. They love to spend time with their owners.
Luxurious, silky, long coats make Maltese high-maintenance dog breeds; they also require constant grooming. The benefit of keeping these little souls is that they are hypoallergenic and suited to allergy sufferers.
Maltese grow up to 7-9 inches with a weight of under 7 pounds on average. These lap dogs stay contented around their human.
Why They are Suited for Indoor
Low-energy dogs that fit a small space
Cozy cuddlers are happy inside the home
Their coats are hypoallergenic
These bright dogs are the showstopper; they like to relax on the couch.
7. Papillon
These lively, active small dogs are easily identified by their unique ears, which resemble butterflies. They weigh under 10 pounds but possess the energy of medium to larger breeds. Papillons are found running in the home; at one time, they are near you, and then they suddenly vanish.
The tiny creatures create the image of lazy breeds; do not let their size fool you. Papillons are surprisingly agile and lively, which brings charm into your house. Being smart and wise, they require mental stimulation; fetching, indoor play, and regular walks can satisfy their needs.
Quick learners with an adaptable nature are perfect for apartment living; these confident canines are affectionate to strangers as well.
Indoor Dogs with Brain
Very smart and highly trainable
Small in size, big in personality.
It enjoys smart games, loves to learn tricks, and does not require many commands.
8. Havanese
Havanese are an active breed that is very smart, loyal, and gentle companions. These cute pups are the ones that relieve your anxiety with their happy appearance. Their fine coats require regular brushing, and they need daily exercise that could be indoor or outdoor.
Havanese are extremely social, but they are prone to separation anxiety. These deeply affectionate dogs have their origin in Cuba and belong to the Bichon family.
They like to stick closely to their human and are considered one of the most well-mannered dog breeds. Havanese need to get the proper training from puppyhood. They are sweet dogs that follow door to door and want to do the activity to make their owners happy.
Little Pup for Indoor
Cuddly and affectionate
Hypoallergenic coat adaptable to apartment living
They are adaptable in nature and ideal city dogs.
9. Poodle
Toy or Miniature, both are smart dogs that are the best city dwellers. Elegant and adorable dogs are also the smartest breed, ranking number 2 in intelligence. Easy to train, Poodles thrive in active homes, as they need mental activities to keep them fit.
With a refined look, this quiet companion likes to sit quietly by your side. But at the same time, they are playful, agile, and social. Their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats are suited for people who are prone to allergies. These high-class dogs are not more than 6 pounds, ideal to sit on your lap.
The Clever Cuddler
Toy breeds are made for cuddling
Smartest small dogs
Also need outdoor activities
They need mental stimulation to keep fit and sound.
Conclusion
The small dogs are compact but hold huge personalities just as the large dogs do. It does not mean you are undermining affection, loyalty, and charm. Indoor dogs take up less space in your home but make a larger place in your heart.
Whether it is the elegance of a Poodle, the uniqueness of a Maltese, or the class of a Cavalier, they are cozy, furry friends that only want affection. These small indoor dogs behave well with other pets as well and offer great company to people, especially ones living alone.
