Have you ever dreamed of owning a lovable little dog who brings warmth, laughter, and joy into your home—without stretching your budget?
Imagine coming home after a long day to a pair of bright eyes and wagging tails, your small dog waiting eagerly to curl up beside you. These tiny companions don’t just take up less space; they fill your heart.
According to the American Kennel Club, the cost of owning a dog actually decreases with smaller breeds—annual expenses for small dog breeds average around $1,831, compared to $3,321 for giant dogs.
Their tiny size, low grooming costs, and low-maintenance diet make them perfect for city living and for pet owners seeking wonderful companion dogs that are easy to care for and endlessly affectionate.
So, if you’ve been dreaming of a loyal friend who fits both your heart and your wallet, these are the most affordable dog breeds that stay small—each one ready to bring big love into your life at a cheap price.
Most Affordable Dog Breeds That Stay Small
1. Chihuahua
Who needs a big guard dog when a six-pound Chihuahua can protect you with a bark that sounds three times its size?
Small in stature but mighty in spirit, the Chihuahua is one of the most affordable dog breeds and one of the most charming. The Chihuahua price is also budget-friendly. With their tiny size, expressive eyes, and confident personalities, these pups bring a lot of energy into even the smallest homes.
They’re among the oldest dog breeds, loved for their loyalty and bravery. Because of their low-maintenance diet and low grooming costs, they’re perfect for pet owners who want a loving companion without worrying about expensive upkeep.
Their calm disposition makes them adaptable to multi-pet households, though they often bond closely with one person. Many people appreciate that Chihuahuas have fewer health issues than larger breeds, which helps keep vet bills lower over time.
This breed is also known for its strong heart and long lifespan—some live up to 18 years with a nutritious and balanced diet and proper care. Whether you live in a small apartment or a busy household, this little dog fits perfectly into your life and your lap.
Their small size saves space while still filling your home with energy and love.
Fun Fact
Despite their size, Chihuahuas often think they’re the biggest dogs in the room! Their fearless attitude comes from their ancient roots as companions to Aztec royalty.
2. Pekingese
Did you know a dog bred for Chinese royalty can now fit comfortably on your lap—and in your budget?
The Pekingese is a small dog breed with a dense coat and a personality as grand as its royal history. According to PetMD, known for their gentle and friendly dispositions, these pups make excellent companion dogs for family members of all ages.
The Pekingese price is reasonable, making them a smart choice among inexpensive dog breeds. These short-legged dogs are perfect for navigating city apartments or cozy homes.
These independent small dogs love occasional cuddles and quiet companionship. These ancient Chinese breeds carry centuries of royal companionship into your home today. Despite their noble air, they are playful and, with proper socialisation, they adapt well to other pets in the household.
With regular walks and proper care, they maintain a stable temperament that endears them to both new and experienced owners. Their coats require careful grooming, but many owners find this a small price for their exceptional companion.
Fun Fact
The Pekingese was once a sacred companion in Chinese palaces—stealing one was considered a serious crime!
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Can a dog with a crown of silky hair steal your heart faster than a puppy eyes selfie?
The Yorkshire Terrier, often called a Yorkie, is a small, tiny dog breed full of personality and charm. Known for their attractive appearance and lively energy, Yorkies make excellent companion dogs for owners who want a playful yet loyal friend.
The Yorkshire terrier price is affordable compared to other designer breeds, making it one of the most affordable small breeds. Their coats require careful grooming, but their soft texture and minimal shedding make them a favorite for families wanting a clean, cuddly companion.
Despite their small stature, Yorkies are exceptionally intelligent and curious, thriving in multi-pet households and city apartments alike.
With a balanced diet and regular exercise, they maintain a calm disposition and bring endless joy to loved ones. Their tiny size saves space while their bold personality fills any home with laughter and love.
Fun Fact
Yorkshire Terriers were originally bred to catch rats in clothing mills!
4. Poodle
Did you know a dog famous for elegance can also be your most affordable companion?
The Poodle is an intelligent small dog loved for its curly coat and playful personality. Among the least expensive small breeds, Toy Poodles rarely shed, making them ideal for allergy-sensitive households.
The Toy Poodle price is reasonable, and their moderate exercise needs fit well with city or apartment living. With proper care, a healthy diet, and daily walks, Poodles thrive as wonderful dogs for families and individuals alike.
Their brilliant nature helps prevent destructive behavior, and their affectionate temperament makes them perfect for creating cherished childhood memories.
With reasonable pet insurance, owning a Poodle becomes even more affordable for families. Using food rewards during training helps reinforce their intelligent small dog behavior.
Fun Fact
Poodles were originally bred in Germany as water retrievers, not in France, as many think!
5. Shih Tzu
Ever wondered which tiny dog can make you feel like royalty in your own living room?
The Shih Tzu is a small, tiny dog breed with a gentle temperament and charming short legs that make it perfect for city living, as noted by Britannica. Known for their long, flowing coats that require careful grooming, but the coat quality makes it worthwhile.
The Shih Tzu price is very reasonable for a breed that brings so much personality and joy into a household. Their minimal dietary needs and fewer health issues also make them among the most affordable small breeds.
These independent dogs are playful yet calm, making them excellent for shared pet homes or families with children.
With regular walks, low exercise, and a nutritious diet, they maintain a calm disposition that is both loving and entertaining. Their gentle and friendly dispositions make them easy to train and a delight for family members of all ages.
Fun Fact
Shih Tzus were bred to be lap dogs for Chinese emperors, earning them the nickname “Lion Dog” because of their majestic mane!
6. Miniature Schnauzer
Who says small dogs can’t have big personalities and detective-like instincts?
The Miniature Schnauzer is an independent, small dog with a dense coat and a lively personality, making them an excellent companion for owners of all ages. This breed was a pet star on farms in Germany, keeping rats at bay.
Known for their intelligence, these pups are alert, friendly, and surprisingly adaptable.
The Schnauzer price is very reasonable, making them one of the most affordable small breeds. Their curly coats need careful grooming, but their fewer health issues and low-maintenance diet make them low-maintenance in the long run.
Miniature Schnauzers are agile small dogs that enjoy daily walks and moderate exercise, which helps keep them happy and well-behaved.
They thrive in shared pet homes and are known for their calm disposition and playful interactions with loved ones. With proper care, these charming little dogs offer a mix of loyalty, intelligence, and entertainment that fits perfectly into any home.
Fun Fact
Miniature Schnauzers were originally bred in Germany to be ratters on farms, giving them a keen hunting instinct despite their small size!
7. Papillon
Ever seen a dog whose ears look like butterfly wings—and steals hearts just as quickly?
The Papillon is a small breed with exceptional companion qualities. Known for their excellent sensory abilities and alertness, they are one of the most inexpensive dog breeds that stay small.
The Papillon price is reasonable, and their agile, small dog nature makes them perfect for shared pet homes or apartments with city living. Papillons love to enjoy occasional freedom during supervised playtime, which keeps them happy and active.
Papillons are playful, intelligent, and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with family members. They have light body odor and minimal grooming needs, making them suitable for owners seeking an excellent companion dog without heavy maintenance.
Their cheerful personality and tiny size make them perfect for creating cherished childhood memories and bringing joy to any home.
Fun Fact
Papillons are named after the French word for “butterfly” because of their uniquely shaped ears!
8. Pug
Can a dog with a squished face and snorty bark really melt hearts faster than ice cream on a hot day?
The Pug is a small breed known for its calm, sociable, and playful nature. They are among the most affordable small breeds, making them perfect for owners seeking a loving, low-maintenance companion.
The Pug’s price is very reasonable, and its minimal dietary requirements and low exercise needs help keep long-term ownership costs low. Their charming short legs and affectionate personality make them excellent companion dogs for family members of all ages.
Some Pugs have a black and white coat, adding to their charming look.
Pugs are known for their sociable and playful character, often thriving in shared pet homes. With daily walks and a nutritious and healthy diet, they remain healthy and happy while bringing joy and laughter into the home.
Their cute faces captured on social media only hint at the warm and loyal friend that awaits in your living room.
Fun Fact
Pugs were popular companions of Chinese emperors and were considered symbols of luck and protection!
9. Pomeranian
Who knew a fluffy puffball could rule your heart and your lap at the same time?
The Pomeranian is a small breed with a lively personality and an attractive appearance, making it a favourite among owners. Known for their charming short legs and playful energy, they are among the most affordable small breeds.
The Pomeranian price is reasonable, and their minimal dietary demands and low exercise needs make them perfect for city apartments. Their fluffy coat is easy to maintain with regular grooming, and their stable temperament makes them an excellent companion.
Pomeranians are intelligent, alert, and affectionate, often forming strong bonds with family members. Their light body odor and low brushing costs help keep them budget-friendly, while their playful antics bring joy and laughter to every home.
With daily walks and a healthy diet, they thrive as loving companions for adults and children alike, creating moments of fun and love.
Fun Fact
Despite their tiny size, Pomeranians descend from large sled-pulling dogs in the Arctic!
10. Bichon Frise
Want a dog that feels like a cloud you can hug—and won’t break the bank?
The Bichon Frise is a small breed known for its curly coat, cheerful personality, and gentle temperament. They are among the most affordable breeds, making them perfect for owners looking for a loving, low-maintenance companion.
Bichon Frise prices are very reasonable, and their minimal dietary requirements make them an excellent choice for families of all ages. Their outstanding companion dog qualities and stable temperament make them highly adaptable to both apartments and homes with yards.
Bichon Frises are playful, affectionate, and exceptionally intelligent, and they thrive in shared pet homes. Their tiny size saves space, while their cheerful demeanor fills any home with laughter and joy.
With daily walks, proper exercise, and a nutritious diet, these dogs remain healthy, happy, and perfect for creating cherished childhood memories. Their light body odour and occasional freedom during supervised play make them a delight to own.
Using food rewards during training strengthens their affectionate and obedient behavior.
Fun Fact
Bichon Frises were originally bred as companion dogs for sailors in the Mediterranean, which helped spread their popularity across Europe!
Conclusion
Choosing a small dog breed doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune.
From the fearless Chihuahua to the playful Pomeranian, these most affordable dog breeds that stay small offer love, loyalty, and personality in tiny packages.
Their minimal dietary demands, low grooming costs, and tiny size make them perfect for city living, shared pet homes, and families looking to create cherished childhood memories.
With daily walks, a healthy diet, and a little care, these wonderful dogs can bring years of happiness without breaking the bank.
Whether you want a gentle and friendly lap companion, there’s a tiny friend for every lifestyle.
