Imagine walking through your home and being greeted by a lively little ball of fur that fits perfectly on your lap, yet brings enough personality to fill the room.
Small dog breeds under 20 pounds are the ultimate companions for city apartments, cozy homes, or anyone who loves a dog that’s easy to manage but impossible to ignore.
These tiny pups may be small in size, but they’re massive in charm, energy, and devotion. From playful and adventurous to calm and snuggly, small breeds offer a wide range of temperaments to match every lifestyle.
Some may surprise you with their athleticism, while others are perfect lapdogs who prefer quiet cuddles over long walks. Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or looking to downsize without sacrificing companionship, small dogs under 20 pounds bring joy, laughter, and endless affection.
We’ll explore the cutest, smartest, and best small dog breeds, helping you find a tiny friend who fills your home and heart alike.
Did you know? Small dogs often mature faster and require less space and lower food intake, making them ideal for apartments or smaller homes. Despite their size, many maintain the personality, energy, and intelligence of larger breeds.
Small Dog Breeds Under 20 Pounds
1. Toy Poodle
If brains and charm were measured in pounds, the Toy Poodle would be a heavyweight champion… in a very small package. These little dogs are active, smart, and endlessly proud, strutting through life as they own it (and let’s be honest, they probably think they do).
Tiny but mighty, Toy Poodles weigh in at just 4 to 6 pounds and stand under 10 inches tall. Miniature Poodles are a slightly bigger sibling, tipping the scales at 10–15 pounds and staying under 15 inches. In short, they’re perfect for anyone who wants a pint-sized pup with a big personality.
Great for: Families, city dwellers, suburbanites, or anyone who wants a clever, active companion who doesn’t shed all over the couch. Toy Poodles may be small, but their love for playtime, mental stimulation, and attention means they aren’t just lap-warmers — though they will happily snuggle when it suits them.
WebMD says Poodles shed very little and are often considered a hypoallergenic breed, making them a great choice for people who are sensitive to dog hair or allergies. If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic, highly trainable, and utterly charming canine, the Toy Poodle is a top contender.
Bonus: They come with built-in comedic timing — try teaching one a trick, and you’ll likely get a look that says, “I’ll do it… but only if you deserve it.”
2. Affenpinscher
Meet the Affenpinscher: small in size but big in personality. These curious, loyal, and mischievously fun pups are basically tiny comedians in fur coats. They’re always on the lookout for adventure — or at least for a lap to sit on… preferably one that isn’t moving.
Don’t let their pint-sized frame fool you. Affenpinschers usually weigh under 10 pounds, making them the perfect pocket-sized companion with a surprisingly bold attitude.
With their expressive faces and scruffy little beards, these dogs have earned the affectionate nickname “monkey dogs.” Star Wars fans might also notice a resemblance to Ewoks — yes, the tiny but feisty forest creatures that steal the show.
Great for: Apartment living, families looking for a hypoallergenic pup, or anyone who wants a dog with a personality that could fill a room — even if the dog itself could fit in a shoebox.
Just a heads-up: While Affenpinschers can be friendly with other dogs, they might not be the best roommates for smaller pets like hamsters or ferrets.
Bonus: Their playful antics and expressive faces make Affenpinschers perfect for those who love a dog that’s part entertainer, part cuddle companion — and all heart.
3. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is basically happiness in a fluffy, four-legged package. Playful, cheerful, and endlessly adaptable, these little charmers can brighten any room — or any bad day.
While they’re famously affectionate companions, don’t be fooled: they’ve also got a keen eye for intruders, making them surprisingly effective (and adorable) little watchdogs.
Tipping the scales under 20 pounds, Bichons are perfect for anyone seeking a cuddly, toy-sized dog with just the right amount of energy to keep life interesting.
This breed has rubbed paws with royalty across Europe — from the courts of France to the palaces of Spain and Italy. Talk about a royal resume! So, yes, your Bichon is basically a tiny aristocrat who happens to love belly rubs.
Great for: City dwellers, apartment owners, families, or anyone looking for a hypoallergenic companion with versatility to spare.
Bichons are excellent with children, get along well with other dogs, and generally thrive wherever they’re loved — which is basically anywhere, as long as they get plenty of attention and playtime.
Petplan noted they can be prone to separation anxiety and don’t do well when left alone for long stretches. They thrive best in homes where someone is around for most of the day.
Bonus: With their boundless energy and irresistible fluff, Bichons have a way of making life feel lighter… and occasionally messier, but always more fun.
4. Biewer Terrier
Meet the Biewer Terrier — small in size but big in spunk. Full of energy, curiosity, and playful charm, these little pups can turn any room into their personal playground. Smart and eager to please, they make excellent companions for families who can keep up with their spirited personality.
Often mistaken for a Yorkie at first glance, the Biewer Terrier stands out with its unique coat: a mix of white and tan accented with striking blue or black markings. They’re pint-sized perfection — just enough to cuddle, carry, or sneak into a sweater pocket if needed.
Despite their delicate appearance, Biewers are surprisingly resilient — though a gentle reminder is necessary: their tiny frames can be accidentally overwhelmed by rowdy kids or larger dogs. Safety first, snuggles second!
Great for: Families, apartment dwellers, or anyone looking for a smart, hypoallergenic dog with personality to spare. They thrive in environments where they’re given attention, mental stimulation, and plenty of playtime — basically, anywhere they can strut their little stuff.
Bonus: With their distinctive coat and lively personality, Biewer Terriers aren’t just dogs — they’re tiny showstoppers who bring charm, laughter, and a little mischief wherever they go.
5. Miniature Pinscher
Don’t let the small size fool you — the Miniature Pinscher is a pint-sized powerhouse with a personality way bigger than their 8–10 pounds. Fearless, clever, and endlessly entertaining, these little dynamos are often compared to Dachshunds for their bold spirit and curiosity.
If confidence had a mascot, it would be a Min Pin. Although they might look like tiny Dobermans, Miniature Pinschers are their own breed — and thankfully weigh a fraction of a Dobie’s 100-pound frame. At 8–10 pounds, they’re the perfect balance of small stature and high-octane energy.
With their regal swagger and boundless confidence, Min Pins have earned the nickname “King of the Toys.” And honestly, try telling one of them otherwise — you’ll likely get a look that says, “I already knew that.”
Great for: Families, apartment dwellers, or anyone looking for a clever watchdog with attitude. Miniature Pinschers are adaptable and energetic, but they do need daily exercise and mental stimulation — plus consistent training to keep their independent streak in check.
Bonus: These little daredevils are full of surprises. One minute they’re showing off their athleticism, the next they’re curling up for a nap — all while keeping you endlessly entertained.
6. Bolognese
Meet the Bolognese — your future cuddle champion. Although still fairly rare today, the Bolognese — or “Bolo” for short — may look familiar. This charming little breed is related to other small, white Mediterranean dogs such as the Maltese, Havanese, and Bichon Frise.
These little lovebugs thrive on companionship and are happiest when they’re by your side, whether it’s on a stroll, a playful game, or just snuggled up in your lap binge-watching your favorite show.
Loyal, affectionate, and downright charming, Bolos excel at making humans feel extra loved. Like most small breeds, Bolognese dogs are compact and easy to handle — perfect for apartments or any home where snuggles are in high demand.
The Bolognese has a centuries-old history as a companion dog for Italian nobility. In other words, your lap is basically a throne, and you’re royalty in their eyes.
Great for: Anyone craving a devoted, hypoallergenic companion who loves attention as much as belly rubs. Bolos are gentle, friendly, and get along well with children and other pets, making them ideal for families or single-person households alike.
Bonus: If you need a furry alarm clock, cuddle partner, and loyal friend rolled into one, the Bolognese is a small dog with a huge heart.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
This regal pup is named after King Charles I of Britain, who adored the breed. Owning a Cavalier basically gives you a touch of royal pedigree… without the crown.
With those big, soulful eyes, Cavaliers can melt even the coldest of hearts. Sweet, affectionate, and loving, these little popular small dog breeds are the perfect blend of classic Toy breed charm and Spaniel energy.
Cavaliers typically weigh between 15 and 20 pounds, making them a slightly larger small breed — just enough to enjoy a bit of play without losing that adorable, manageable size.
They’re happy to play and explore, but just as content curling up in your lap for some serious snuggle time. PetMD noted these sociable dogs have a calm and gentle temperament, making them a perfect pick for first-time dog owners.
Great for: Families, apartment dwellers, or anyone looking for a versatile and loving companion. While they aren’t hypoallergenic, Cavaliers are highly adaptable, thriving in a wide range of living situations — city streets, suburban homes, or cozy apartments.
Bonus: With their gentle, friendly demeanor and playful streak, Cavaliers can charm almost anyone — and are excellent at turning ordinary days into moments worth smiling about.
Conclusion
Calmest small dog breeds under 20 pounds are perfect for apartment life and city living, offering fun-loving, even-tempered, and affectionate companionship.
Other small dog breeds like Boston Terriers, Italian Greyhounds, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Miniature Schnauzers, Bedlington Terriers, Chinese Crested Dogs, and Border Terriers combine compact size, floppy ears, silky hair, or fluffy coats with minimal maintenance.
These small dogs thrive with at least an hour of physical exercise, enjoy dog sports, and form strong bonds with their pet parents. Known for their bold personality and sometimes little lion spirit, they are easily trainable, great with small mammals, and bring happy dogs and great companions into homes.
Their popularity and excellent reputation make them some of the best small dog breeds, suited for both dog households and families seeking loyal, lovable pets.
