Some people think bigger is better.
But, when we talk about dogs… honestly, the little ones pack just as much personality, love, and charm into their tiny bodies as any large dog ever could.
And if you are on the lookout for the best dog breeds under 18 pounds, you are in for a treat.
These pint-sized puppies are perfect for apartment living, amazing travel companions, and absolute masters at stealing your heart (and probably your spot on the couch).
No matter if you are a first-time pet parent or someone who’s always loved small dog breeds, this complete guide will walk you through the best small dog breeds that weigh under 18 pounds.
These little dogs come in all shapes, personality traits, and coat types… but they all share one thing: they are incredible companion dogs.
Top Dog Breeds Under 18 Pounds: A Complete Guide
1. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a royalty in the fur coat, and they know it.
Weighing between 3 and 7 pounds, as noted by the American Kennel Club, these fluffy dogs are descendants of larger sled-pulling dogs. And, this explains why they act like they run the world. Honestly, in their minds, they think they do.
Pomeranians have that classic double coat that makes them look like “little adorable clouds”. And, many people mistake that fluffy coat for softness. But these dogs are super alert, intelligent, and protective.
They were favorites of Chinese royalty and European nobles. So, yeah! They have got that “I am fancy” energy.
These small dogs are perfect for pet parents who want a lap dog with a personality. Poms are playful, love being the center of attention, and make excellent family dogs as long as kids know how to handle small breeds gently.
These dogs shed, yes. So, regular grooming is a MUST!! But their fun-loving spirit and loyalty are totally worth it.
Plus, they are one of those cute dogs that turn heads everywhere you go. Apartment living or solo owner, these little companions adapt well to almost any lifestyle.
2. Biewer Terrier
Many people have never even heard of the Biewer Terrier (pronounced ‘Beaver’).
This toy breed is relatively new to the scene, but it is becoming a favorite among small dog lovers.
Biewer Terriers have a silky coat that flows like they left the salon a minute ago. As per PetMD, these are affectionate companions, love human companionship, and are adaptable.
They do great in apartments, love daily walks, and are gentle enough for families with other pets.
One of the best things about this Terrier breed is that they are generally healthy dogs, easygoing, and do not have the “yappy” reputation some other toy dog breeds get.
They bark when needed, but they are not always going off like a car alarm.
Their playful nature makes them fun for active pet parents. But they are also totally fine curling up on your lap for hours. They are delightful companions who fit into the “toy breeds” category without much attitude.
3. Toy Fox Terrier
“Toy”. Is that a toy?
Just in the name! The Toy Fox Terrier is a legit athlete packed into a 4 to 9-pound body. These dogs were originally bred in the U.S. for hunting small game and performing in circuses, so they have energy, intelligence, and a serious love for dog sports.
Toy Fox Terriers are one of those small dog breeds that can actually keep up with large dogs during playtime.
As noted by Orvis, they love physical exercise and need at least an hour of activity daily, and thrive when given tasks to do. Agility training they are all over it. Fetch, bring it on.
But they are also incredibly loyal and loving. They bond deeply with their pet parents and make excellent companions for active households. They are friendly with other dogs and other pets as long as they get proper socialization early on.
Their short coat needs minimal grooming, which is a win for busy owners. And, they have that animated companion personality, which means you will never be bored.
4. Papillon
Named after the French word for ‘Butterfly’ (because of those floppy ears), the Papillon is one of the most elegant toy dog breeds you will ever meet. Weighing between 5 and 10 pounds, these dogs love to take part in dog sports and agility activities, because they are super intelligent dogs. In that small body. Yes!!
They are famous for excelling in intellectual activities like agility and obedience competitions. They are fast learners, love consistent training, and have a playful nature, which makes them fun to work with.
They are one of the best small dogs for families because they are gentle, social, and get along well with other animals. Their long and silky fur needs regular grooming, but they don’t shed as much as some other small dog breeds.
And yes, they are small, they are not fragile, these pups are sturdy, confident, and ready for adventure.
Apartment living works great for them, but they do need regular exercise and mental stimulation. Daily walks, playtime, and puzzle toys keep them happy.
Beautiful and brainy.
5. Maltese
Maltese dogs are so beautiful, they look like a living stuffed animal.
Weighing typically under 7 pounds, these fluffy dogs have been companion dogs for thousands of years.
Seriously… ancient Romans adored them. And, they have been lap dogs for royalty ever since. As per the AKC, they are the world’s first “fad dog”.
Maltese dogs have a silky and hypoallergenic coat that does not shed much, which makes them great dogs for people with allergies.
But that gorgeous, silky fur does need regular grooming to avoid tangles. Some pet parents keep their Maltese in a shorter “puppy cut” to make grooming easy.
These small white dogs are affectionate, calm, and love being close to their humans. They are the pure definition of a “velcro dog” as they want to be with you all the time. They are excellent family dogs for homes with older kids, and they adapt to apartment living.
Maltese don’t need tons of physical exercise, but they do enjoy daily walks and playtime. They are also trainable and can learn tricks and commands. One of the calmest small dogs, truly.
6. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a miniature version of the much larger and taller Greyhound, but they are just as elegant. Weighing between 7 and 14 pounds, these dogs are made for speed. But don’t worry… they are also couch potatoes who love snuggling under blankets.
Italian Greyhounds have short and smooth coats that require minimal grooming.
They don’t shed much, and they are one of the cleanest small dog breeds you will find.
But they do get cold easily. Sweaters and cozy beds are a must in colder weather.
These dogs are gentle, affectionate, and bond deeply with their pet parents. They are great with other toy breeds and other pets, if introduced early. They are also fast and love a good sprint in a safely fenced yard. But after that, they are ready to curl up on your lap.
Italian Greyhounds do best in calm houses without super young kids, as they can be a bit fragile. But for the right family, they are delightful companions who bring grace, love, and a whole lot of snuggles to everyday life.
7. Yorkshire Terrier
This is the #1 dog breed that screams “small dog with BIG personality”. Weighing under 7 pounds, Yorkies are confident, curious, and absolutely fearless.
They were bred primarily to hunt vermin in factories and mines, so, YEAH! They have got guts.
Yorkshire Terriers have gorgeous and silky hair that can grow long and luxurious. Some pet parents keep it long and styled, while others go for a shorter trim.
Either way, regular grooming is needed. But the good news is, they are hypoallergenic dogs since they don’t shed much.
These little dogs are loyal, protective, and really good watchdogs. They bark when something’s up, and they are always aware of their surroundings.
They make excellent companions for singles, couples, and families with older kids. Yorkies adapt well to small houses and spaces. They are social dogs and generally do well with other small dogs.
If you want a lap dog with attitude and charm, Yorkshire Terriers are basically the perfect pet.
8. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are small in size and massive in energy.
They weigh around 9 to 15 pounds, and these are athlete dogs, adventurers, and problem-solvers all rolled into one. They were originally bred for fox hunting, so they have got stamina, smarts, and serious drive.
Jack Russells are not for lazy pet parents. They need at least an hour of exercise daily, love dog sports, and thrive when given tasks.
They are one of the best small dog breeds for active families who enjoy hiking, running, or playing fetch until everyone is exhausted.
Their short and wiry coat or smooth coat (depending on the dog variety) needs minimal grooming. They do shed a bit, but nothing extreme.
What they do need is consistent training and proper socialization. Without it, they can become stubborn and develop health concerns related to boredom.
But if you can keep up with Jack Russell Terriers, they are incredibly loyal, fun-loving, and full of personality in small packages.
9. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu was bred to be a companion for the Chinese royalty, and they still act like they deserve the royal treatment. Weighing around 9 to 16 pounds, these fluffy dogs are gentle, and in fact, their gentle nature makes them loving and perfectly happy being lap dogs all day long.
Shih Tzus are long-haired dogs. They have a long and flowing double coat that is absolutely gorgeous. But they do need grooming to stay tangle-free.
Many pet parents opt for a short ‘puppy cut’ to make maintenance easier. This Asian dog breed does not shed much, which makes them perfect for people who don’t want dog hair everywhere.
These dogs are calm, easygoing, and make excellent family dogs. They are great with kids, other pets, and even strangers. Shih Tzus are affectionate companions who love humans and just want to be near their people.
If you are looking for a low-key and loving lap dog, this breed is a solid choice.
10. Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier might be one of the lesser-known Terrier breeds, but it is absolutely worth knowing about.
They weigh hardly 12 pounds (a healthy weight for their size), and these little dogs are sturdy, confident, and chill for a Terrier.
Norwich Terriers have a wire-haired coat that is weather-resistant and needs regular grooming to keep it looking sharp. They were also bred to hunt vermin on farms, so they have got that classic Terrier attitude.
They are friendly with other dogs, great with kids, and generally get along with other pets. They make excellent companions for families, singles, and anyone who wants a small dog with a big heart.
As per Purina, they need regular exercise and enjoy daily walks, but they are not hyperactive dogs. They are happy to play, explore, and then chill out at home.
If you want one of the best small dog breeds that is loyal, low-drama, and full of personality, the Norwich Terrier is a top contender.
Conclusion
Small dogs… they really do come in small packages.
No matter if you are drawn to fluffy coats, sleek athletes, or confident little Terriers, the dog breeds under 18 pounds offer something for everyone.
Be it the Miniature Poodle, Miniature Schnauzer, Bichon Frise, Boston Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cairn Terrier, French Bulldogs, or the classic Miniature Dachshunds, these small breeds show that size has nothing to do with heart, loyalty, and personality.
If you are looking for companion dogs, excellent family dogs, or just a cute dog to share your life with, these toy dog breeds deliver 100%.
So, go ahead… find your match and get ready for a whole lot of love in a wonderfully small body.
