Choosing your first dog is equal parts thrilling and nerve-wracking. One minute you’re imagining cozy cuddles, the next you’re wondering if you’re ready for muddy paws, training challenges, and long-term commitment.
This is where size matters. Dogs under 60 pounds often strike the perfect balance between being easy to manage and deeply companionable, making them especially appealing to first-time owners.
But the best choice isn’t about looks alone. Temperament, grooming needs, energy levels, and adaptability play a far bigger role in how smoothly a dog fits into your daily life.
In this guide, you’ll explore small dog breeds that are known for being approachable, adaptable, and rewarding for beginners. Each profile highlights what living with that dog is really like, beyond first impressions.
As you read, remember that no dog is truly “low effort.” Some breeds, however, are far more forgiving for newcomers, especially when lifestyle fit matters more than following popular trends.
Best Dog Breeds Under 60 Pounds for New Dog Owners: Top Choices
1. Shih Tzu
Life with a Shih Tzu feels like sharing your home with a tiny, affectionate roommate who takes companionship seriously. This breed thrives on human connection, happily following you from room to room and settling in wherever attention is available.
Calm, alert, and charmingly expressive, Shih Tzus are well-suited for first-time dog owners seeking a gentle, people-focused companion under 60 pounds.
Health-wise, new owners should be aware of the Shih Tzu’s flat facial structure, which can make them sensitive to heat and humidity.
Regular veterinary checkups, eye care, and weight management go a long way in keeping this breed comfortable and thriving. With attentive care, many Shih Tzus enjoy long, healthy lives as devoted companions.
Grooming & Maintenance: What Ongoing Care Looks Like
Daily brushing helps prevent tangles and matting
Routine eye and facial cleaning keeps irritation away
Professional grooming every few weeks is common
Exercise & Activity Needs: Couch Companion or Adventure Buddy?
Short walks and indoor play usually meet their needs
Prefers relaxed routines over high-energy outings
Enjoys interactive play without intense physical demands
Training a Shih Tzu is a lesson in patience and positivity. They are intelligent and eager to please, though a touch of independence means consistency and gentle reinforcement work best.
AKC explains that in terms of home compatibility, Shih Tzus adapt beautifully to apartments and smaller spaces. Their quiet nature and moderate activity level make them an excellent fit for urban living and first-time dog owners seeking simplicity.
2. Dachshund
Living with a Dachshund means welcoming a bold personality wrapped in a compact frame. Curious, loyal, and famously confident, this breed brings a surprising amount of character into everyday life.
For new dog owners, Dachshunds offer a lively companion that stays manageable in size while forming deep bonds with their people.
Britannica claims that, from a health perspective, Dachshunds require special attention to their long backs. Maintaining a healthy weight and limiting excessive jumping can help reduce strain on the spine. With proper care and preventive habits, this breed can remain active and comfortable well into adulthood.
Grooming & Maintenance: What Ongoing Care Looks Like
Smooth coats need minimal brushing
Long-haired varieties benefit from weekly grooming
Nail trimming and ear checks are essential
Exercise & Activity Needs: Couch Companion or Adventure Buddy?
Daily walks keep muscles strong and joints supported
Enjoys sniff-heavy outings more than intense running
Mental stimulation is just as important as movement
Training a Dachshund is both entertaining and educational. They are intelligent problem-solvers with a stubborn streak, making positive reinforcement and short training sessions especially effective for beginners.
When it comes to living arrangements, Dachshunds adapt well to apartments or houses with some supervision. Their alert nature makes them attentive watchdogs, while their size keeps daily care manageable for first-time owners.
3. Havanese
A Havanese brings warmth, charm, and an upbeat attitude into any home. Known for their cheerful temperament, these dogs thrive on interaction and enjoy being involved in daily routines.
Their friendly disposition makes them a welcoming choice for new dog owners seeking a smaller companion with a big heart.
Health awareness for the Havanese centers on routine care and early screenings. Issues such as dental health and joint wellness benefit from proactive attention. Consistent vet visits and a balanced lifestyle support their reputation as a generally healthy breed.
Grooming & Maintenance: What Ongoing Care Looks Like
Regular brushing prevents knots in the silky coat
Hair can be kept long or trimmed short for convenience
Routine dental care is strongly recommended
Exercise & Activity Needs: Couch Companion or Adventure Buddy?
Moderate daily play keeps them content
Enjoys games, short walks, and social time
Adapts easily to relaxed or slightly active lifestyles
PetMD notes that training a Havanese often feels rewarding for first-time owners. They are eager learners who respond well to praise and consistency, making early obedience work both smooth and enjoyable.
At home, this breed adjusts comfortably to apartments and houses alike. Their adaptable nature and people-oriented mindset make them an excellent match for owners prioritizing companionship over complexity.
4. Papillon
Sharing life with a Papillon feels like having a tiny athlete with a curious mind. Alert, confident, and surprisingly energetic, this breed brings enthusiasm into daily routines without overwhelming new owners.
Their compact size and sharp intelligence fit perfectly within the under-60-pound category, ideal for beginners.
Health considerations for Papillons are relatively straightforward. Monitoring dental health and joint stability is important, especially as people age. With attentive care and responsible breeding, Papillons are known for longevity and resilience.
Grooming & Maintenance: What Ongoing Care Looks Like
Weekly brushing keeps the coat light and flowing
Minimal shedding makes upkeep manageable
Regular ear checks are important due to feathering
Exercise & Activity Needs: Couch Companion or Adventure Buddy?
Thrives on short bursts of activity
Enjoys learning games and agility-style play
Indoor exercise can meet most needs
Training a Papillon is often a highlight for first-time dog owners. Their intelligence and eagerness make them quick learners, especially when training feels like a game rather than a task.
In the home, Papillons adapt well to smaller spaces when mentally stimulated. They appreciate engagement and structure, making them a great choice for owners who enjoy interactive companionship without large-scale demands.
5. Pug
Life with a Pug is full of humor, affection, and expressive moments. This breed thrives on closeness, often preferring to be near their people at all times. Their charming personality and manageable size appeal strongly to first-time dog owners seeking a relaxed companion.
Health awareness is especially important for Pugs due to their short muzzle. Breathing sensitivity, temperature regulation, and weight control should be top priorities. With informed care and moderation, many Pugs live happy, comfortable lives.
Grooming & Maintenance: What Ongoing Care Looks Like
Regular brushing helps manage shedding
Facial folds require frequent cleaning
Nail and ear care support overall comfort
Exercise & Activity Needs: Couch Companion or Adventure Buddy?
Prefers gentle walks over intense exercise
Indoor play suits their energy level
Overexertion should be avoided
Training a Pug is usually lighthearted and positive. They respond best to encouragement and treats, making basic obedience approachable for beginners.
At home, Pugs fit seamlessly into apartments or houses. Their low activity needs and affectionate nature make them especially appealing to owners who value companionship and simplicity.
6. Boston Terrier
A Boston Terrier brings a balance of friendliness and intelligence into everyday life. Known for their upbeat attitude, this Terrier enjoys interaction and adapts quickly to routines. Their moderate size and social temperament suit new dog owners looking for an engaging yet manageable dog.
Health considerations include monitoring breathing and eye health. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular veterinary care supports long-term well-being. Awareness early on helps new owners feel confident and prepared.
Grooming & Maintenance: What Ongoing Care Looks Like
A short coat requires minimal brushing
Seasonal shedding is easy to manage
Routine eye care is recommended
Exercise & Activity Needs: Couch Companion or Adventure Buddy?
Enjoys daily walks and play sessions
Balances energy with downtime well
Adaptable to varied activity levels
Training a Boston Terrier tends to be straightforward. They enjoy learning and respond well to structured routines paired with positive reinforcement.
In terms of living space, this breed thrives in apartments and houses alike. Their adaptable personality and manageable care needs make them a strong candidate for first-time dog ownership.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Living with a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel feels like sharing your space with a gentle shadow. This breed is affectionate, emotionally intuitive, and happiest when close to its people. Their calm demeanor and manageable size make them a favorite among new dog owners.
Health awareness is essential, particularly regarding heart and joint health. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary checkups are key components of long-term care. Informed owners are better equipped to support this breed’s well-being.
Grooming & Maintenance: What Ongoing Care Looks Like
Brushing several times a week keeps coats smooth
Ears require consistent cleaning
Moderate shedding is manageable
Exercise & Activity Needs: Couch Companion or Adventure Buddy?
Enjoys leisurely walks and gentle play
Content with moderate daily activity
Values companionship over intensity
Training a Cavalier is typically rewarding and calm. They respond well to kindness, structure, and praise, making them approachable for beginners.
At home, Cavaliers adapt easily to apartments or larger houses. Their quiet nature and affectionate personality suit owners seeking a loving, low-stress companion under 60 pounds.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect fit for pet parents means looking beyond size and finding a small dog that matches your lifestyle, from playful pups to even-tempered companions ideal for families, kids, cats, and other pets.
These small dog breeds offer a whole lot of personality, making them excellent companions for apartment dwellers, couch potato homes, and those who enjoy spending time with their pet.
If you’re exploring other dogs, breeds like Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodles, Italian Greyhounds, and even Golden Retrievers may suit different needs, from hypoallergenic dogs to high-spirited or easygoing companions.
With consistent training, moderate exercise, and thoughtful care, your puppy can grow into the perfect match—start your journey today.
