Big love can come in small packages, and dogs under 22 pounds prove it. These petite pups are the perfect blend of charm, affection, and manageability, making them ideal companions for families, seniors, or anyone living in smaller spaces.
Their size makes them easy to carry, groom, and integrate into daily routines, yet they often carry personalities much larger than their weight suggests. Small breeds under 22 pounds are surprisingly versatile. Some are playful and energetic, ready to join you on walks, hikes, or playtime adventures.
Others are calm lap dogs, content with cuddles and quiet companionship. Many are intelligent, social, and deeply bonded to their families, making them ideal for loving homes that value closeness and connection.
Whether you live in an apartment, a cozy house, or simply prefer a dog that’s easy to handle, these breeds offer affection, loyalty, and joy without the challenges of a larger dog.
We’ll explore the best small dog breeds under 22 pounds, helping you find the perfect small companion who brings warmth, love, and personality to your home.
Quick fact: Small dogs are often ideal companions for families and apartments because they balance manageable size with energy and personality.
Best Dog Breeds Under 22 Pounds for a Loving Home
1. Affenpinscher
Don’t let their tiny size fool you—Affenpinschers are small dogs with giant personalities. Often described as “monkey-faced” (in the most adorable way possible), these pint-sized pups are full of charm, spunk, and just a hint of mischief.
Think of them as the James Bond of the dog world: small, clever, and ready to steal your heart—and maybe your socks.
Affenpinschers thrive in apartments, making them perfect for city dwellers who want a loyal companion without taking up half the living room.
Bonus points: they’re hypoallergenic! That means fewer sneezes for you, and more time for cuddles and walks. They’re social little guys, usually getting along with other dogs, but if you have tiny furry roommates—like hamsters or guinea pigs—proceed with caution.
Affenpinschers’ curious nature may turn your hamster into a very fast snack. Despite their small stature, they’re brave, loyal, and always up for adventure—or at least an afternoon of zoomies across the living room.
If you want a dog who’s equal parts adorable and audacious, the Affenpinscher is a top contender.
Fun Fact: Affenpinschers were originally bred in Germany to be rat-catchers—so if you see your tiny pup stalking the couch cushions, they’re just honoring centuries of noble ancestry… or plotting their next snack heist.
2. Bichon Frise
If fluffiness were a superpower, the Bichon Frise would be a superhero. With a plush, velvety beautiful white coat and big, soulful eyes, these little charmers look like living cotton balls—but don’t be fooled, they come with brains, personality, and just the right amount of sass.
Bichons are the ultimate city companions. Apartment dog? Check. Strolls in the park? Absolutely. Hypoallergenic dog? You bet—so sneeze less and cuddle more.
Their cheerful, friendly nature makes them fantastic with children, other dogs, and basically anyone willing to offer a belly rub.
These curious little pups moonlight as alert (yet non-threatening) watchdogs. They’ll let you know someone’s at the door, then happily wag their way into a new friendship. Their motto seems to be: “There are no strangers, just friends I haven’t met yet.”
Adaptable, confident, and overflowing with personality, Bichons fit perfectly into city life while bringing a little extra sparkle (and fluff) to every day, according to the AKC.
Fun Fact: Bichons were once the pets of French royalty—so when your little Bichon prances around with that dramatic hair flip, just remember: they’re basically channeling their inner aristocrat.
3. Bolognese
Meet the Bolognese—sometimes affectionately called the “Bolo”—a small dog with a big heart and a soft, wavy coat that begs for endless cuddles.
This breed has been charming humans for centuries, originally hailing from the Mediterranean alongside relatives like the Maltese and Havanese. Think of them as the elegant, understated cousins of the fluffier show-offs.
Bolognese dogs are easygoing, adaptable, and surprisingly low-maintenance for their royal appearance. They make fantastic travel buddies and errand partners, happily tagging along wherever you go—though they might demand a cozy lap break after a little adventure.
Unlike some small breeds that are constantly buzzing with energy, Bolognese pups are perfectly content with a balanced mix of playtime and serious cuddle sessions.
Regular grooming does require some love and attention to keep that velvety coat tangle-free, but the effort is worth it for a dog that radiates warmth, loyalty, and calm charm.
Bolognese dogs thrive on human companionship and form deep bonds with their family members, making them excellent companions for children, seniors, or anyone in need of a gentle, loving friend.
Fun Fact: PetMD noted unlike many small breeds notorious for being yappy, the Bolognese is a surprisingly quiet little companion—perfect for keeping the peace while still giving you all the love.
4. Border Terrier
Don’t let their compact size fool you—Border Terriers are tiny bundles of energy, courage, and curiosity. Originally bred in the border regions of England and Scotland to hunt foxes (yes, really!), these little Terriers have a heart full of adventure and a nose that never stops working.
Border Terriers are perfect for families who love an active, playful pup. They thrive on walks, games, and exploring every nook and cranny of your backyard—or neighborhood.
But don’t worry, their small size makes them great apartment dogs, as long as you give them daily exercise to burn off that boundless energy.
Despite their hunting roots, Border Terriers are affectionate, friendly, and great with children and other dogs. They have that terrier tenacity paired with a surprisingly gentle side, which makes them loyal companions who love to be part of the family action.
Fun Fact: Border Terriers are sometimes called the “otter-faced terrier” because of their adorable, expressive faces. Their look is basically saying, “I might be small, but I can steal your heart—and maybe your shoes—without a second thought.”
5. Chihuahua
Don’t let their pocket-sized stature fool you—Chihuahuas are small dogs with personalities larger than life.
Known for their fierce loyalty and devotion, these little dynamos thrive when they’re an integral part of your family’s daily life. Whether you live in a bustling city apartment or a cozy countryside home, this toy dog breed will happily adapt… as long as they’re getting plenty of attention (and maybe a warm lap to snuggle on).
Chihuahuas can be a bit sensitive to cold weather, so think of them as the canine equivalent of someone who always needs a cozy sweater and hot cocoa. Despite that, they’re brave, curious, and surprisingly bold—sometimes forgetting that their bark is bigger than their bite.
Perfect companions for those who want a dog that’s alert, affectionate personality and endlessly entertaining, Chihuahuas excel at forming tight-knit bonds.
Just don’t be surprised if they treat you like their personal royal court—after all, in the Chihuahua world, size doesn’t determine authority.
Fun Fact: Chihuahuas are thought to be the oldest dog breed in the Americas, so when your tiny pup gives you the side-eye, just remember—they’ve been judging humans for centuries.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If charm had a face, it would look a lot like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Named after King Charles I of Britain—who apparently had excellent taste in dogs—these little royals are the embodiment of sweetness, elegance, and snuggle-worthy personality.
These friendly dogs possess a gentle temperament, making them a great option for first-time dog owners. They are currently the 14th most popular dog breed.
Cavaliers are remarkably versatile. They thrive in apartment life and country homes alike, making them great companions for families, singles, or seniors. Their gentle, affectionate nature means they’re equally happy curling up with one person or joining a bustling household with kids and other pets.
While they do have a playful streak, Cavaliers are generally laid-back, moderate-energy pups who prefer cuddles to chaos.
As per Britannica, they’re friendly to strangers and other animals, so your Cavalier will happily greet everyone with a wagging tail rather than a bark. And speaking of barking—they’re not exactly watchdog material. Think more adorable, loyal confidant than a security guard.
Fun Fact: Cavaliers have royal roots—literally. They were beloved by English royalty, and today, having one in your lap is basically like hosting your own tiny, furry monarch.
7. Havanese
Meet the Havanese, Cuba’s national dog, native to the island. These little charmers were originally bred as lapdogs for Cuban aristocrats, so it’s no surprise that they’ve inherited a love for comfort, cuddles, and human companionship.
If you’ve ever wanted a dog that acts like a tiny, furry best friend with impeccable manners, the Havanese is your match.
Havanese are the ultimate social butterflies. They thrive on attention, love meeting new people, and easily adapt to almost any living situation—from bustling city apartments to quiet country homes.
They get along wonderfully with children, other dogs, and even cats, making them a true family-friendly breed. And while they’re playful and spirited, they also enjoy long snuggle sessions on the couch, proving they’re as much a lapdog as a companion.
These little dogs also have a surprising streak of watchdog skills. While they won’t scare off burglars, their cheerful bark will happily announce visitors at the door, keeping you in the loop while still being absolutely charming.
Havanese are intelligent, eager to please, and easy to train, which makes them ideal for both first-time dog owners and seasoned enthusiasts.
Fun Fact: Havanese are sometimes called “Velcro dogs” because they love to stick close to their humans wherever they go. With their silky coats, expressive eyes, and heart-melting personalities, it’s hard not to spoil them—though you’ll probably want to.
Conclusion
These super smart companion dogs thrive with consistent training, early socialization, mental stimulation, daily walks, regular outdoor exercise, and proper grooming for silky hair, fluffy coats, or hypoallergenic coats.
Even-tempered and calm small dog breeds are ideal for young kids, pet parents, or as an only dog, bringing joy to family life and dog shows alike, while offering great companionship compared to larger dog breeds.
Some other toy breeds like Shih Tzu, French Bulldog, Boston Terrier, Toy Poodles, Maltese dogs, Chinese Crested dog, Miniature Schnauzer, Miniature Pinscher, Yorkshire Terriers, Miniature Poodle, Italian Greyhounds, and Miniature Dachshunds make good family dogs and affectionate companions.
