Imagine walking into a world of wagging tails, soulful eyes, and boundless energy—only these pups are small enough to fit right into your lap!
Small dog breeds have a way of stealing hearts with their pint-sized charm, and if you’re on the hunt for a four-legged friend under 22 pounds, you’re in for a treat. Whether you live in a cozy apartment, love to travel, or simply want a companion who’s easy to manage yet full of personality, these small breeds deliver.
From tiny bundles of joy that love snuggles to energetic pups who’ll keep up with your daily adventures, there’s a breed for every lifestyle. But picking the right dog isn’t just about size; it’s about temperament, exercise needs, and that special spark that makes a pup the perfect addition to your family.
Here, we’ll explore the top 10 toy dog breeds under 22 pounds, highlighting their unique traits, personalities, and why they might just be your perfect match. Get ready to meet your new best friend—small in stature, huge in love!
TIP: Just because they’re compact doesn’t mean they lack personality! Breeds like the Pug and Shih Tzu—can be playful, loyal, making them perfect for apartments or small homes.
Top 10 Dog Breeds Under 22 Pounds
1. Shih Tzu
Small but mighty, the Shih Tzu may look like a fragile ball of fluff, but don’t be fooled — this toy breed has the heart of a royal and the attitude of a tiny celebrity.
Originally bred centuries ago by Buddhist monks in Tibet, the Shih Tzu was designed to resemble a miniature lion, a sacred symbol. And honestly? Mission accomplished. With that flowing coat and confident prance, they definitely know they’re majestic.
These lap dogs shine brightest in one role: professional companion. Their favorite hobbies include snuggling, following you from room to room, and acting offended whenever you stop petting them. Their affection runs deep — think of them as furry shadows with a talent for warming laps and melting hearts.
But beauty comes with responsibility. Their long, silky hair needs regular brushing to stay tangle-free, unless you want them to look like they just rolled out of bed after fighting a leaf blower. Luckily, grooming can feel like bonding time… or negotiation, depending on your Shih Tzu’s mood.
Playful, charming, and lovable in every possible way, these lion dogs are perfect for families who want a loyal little dog breed that thinks every day is a spa day, every lap is theirs, and every human they meet is simply another admirer.
2. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is what happens when a tiny cloud grows legs, learns to wag, and decides its life mission is to make everyone smile. These little white fluffballs are bursting with personality — curious, cheerful, and always ready to charm the socks off anyone within a 10-foot radius.
These best small dog breeds are famously friendly and eager-to-please, which makes training a breeze. Teach them tricks, basic commands, or even how to politely ask for snacks (a skill they will use far too often). They love learning almost as much as they love being the center of attention.
But here’s the catch: Bichons don’t do well with loneliness. Petplan noted that separation anxiety can be an issue, and they’ll make sure you know that being left alone is absolutely unacceptable behavior.
These fluffy dogs thrive in homes where someone is around most of the day — retired owners, work-from-home humans, or families who love having a fluffy shadow.
With their bright eyes, springy step, and “life is a party, and I’m invited!” attitude, Bichons are joyful little companions who bring sunshine wherever they go… even on days they accidentally resemble a powder puff with legs.
3. Affenpinscher
With a name that literally translates to “monkey terrier,” the Affenpinscher doesn’t disappoint — one look at that flat, bearded little face and you’ll swear you just adopted a tiny, furry primate with attitude. These pint-sized charmers are bold, mischievous, and absolutely convinced they are 10 times bigger than they really are.
Affenpinschers are natural comedians. They bounce around with a quirky confidence, make goofy expressions, and often behave as cartoon characters brought to life.
But don’t let their silly side fool you — they’re also brave, alert, and surprisingly good watchdogs, even if the biggest thing they can physically stop is maybe a wind-blown leaf.
Known for their long lifespans, often reaching 15 years or more, these little pups tend to stick around long enough to become seasoned household storytellers. Their wiry coats are relatively low-maintenance, and their personalities? Delightfully high-maintenance in the best possible way.
If you want a small dog that keeps you laughing, keeps you company, and occasionally keeps you guessing what they’re plotting… the Affenpinscher might be your perfect little gremlin-turned-best-friend.
4. Havanese
The Havanese is basically the social butterfly of the toy dog world — cheerful, charming, and ready to make friends with anything that breathes (and possibly a few things that don’t). While some small breeds can be a bit territorial, the Havanese skips all the drama.
This little extrovert is happy, outgoing, and loves humans and animals with equal enthusiasm. Smart, easy to train, and always eager to please, the Havanese picks up tricks and manners quickly.
Whether you want a polite walking buddy or a tiny performer who shows off for treats, this pup is up for the challenge. They’re also great family dogs. Gentle with kids, affectionate nature with adults, and always ready for playtime or cuddle time, they fit beautifully into almost any household.
Purina says, although they’re far from aggressive, don’t underestimate their awareness — a Havanese spots everything. They may be small, but they make surprisingly alert watchdogs, sounding the alarm when something seems off (or when the delivery guy brings their favorite box).
With their sweet eyes, silky coat, and endlessly sunny personality, the Havanese is an excellent companion for anyone who wants a friendly, funny, and intelligent little partner-in-crime.
5. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is proof that good things really do come in tiny, fluffy packages. With a glorious puffball coat and a confidence level that could rival a full-size lion, Poms strut through life as if every sidewalk is their personal runway. And honestly? They’re not wrong.
Despite their petite size, these little dynamos have BIG personalities. Curious, bold, and endlessly spirited, a Pomeranian will happily take charge of your home, your routine, and maybe even your social calendar.
They adore being the center of attention — it’s practically their love language — and their expressive faces make them natural comedians.
Poms are bright and eager to learn, especially when training involves praise, treats, and an audience. They excel at tricks and enjoy mental challenges, though they may occasionally pause training sessions to admire themselves (or demand applause).
Though small, they’re alert watchdogs with surprisingly loud voices. If a leaf rustles, a squirrel blinks, or a delivery driver dares to exist, your Pom will make sure you know all about it.
Playful, loyal, and absolutely packed with charm, the Pomeranian is a fantastic companion for families and individuals who want a tiny dog with a huge heart — and a delightful dash of diva energy.
6. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier — affectionately known as the Yorkie — is a tiny dog with the swagger of a rockstar and the heart of a devoted best friend. These pint-sized pups are playful, energetic, and absolutely convinced they can take on the world… or at least the neighborhood squirrel.
Yorkies may be small, but their personalities are huge. They’re affectionate, fun-loving companions who adore being near their humans, whether that means curling up in your lap or trotting proudly beside you like they own the sidewalk.
Training them is usually enjoyable thanks to their intelligence — though their sass can occasionally stage a takeover. Because of their tiny frames, Yorkies aren’t built for cold weather. A chilly breeze and they’ll look at you like, “You expect me to go outside in this?” Cozy sweaters and warm snuggles are pretty much non-negotiable.
They can also be prone to hypoglycemia, so keeping an eye on their meal schedule is important — think of them as adorable, long-haired divas who simply must eat on time.
With their silky coats, bright eyes, and bold little spirits, Yorkies are charming companions who bring energy, love, and a sprinkling of attitude to any home.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
With their gentle eyes, soft expressions, and those famously floppy ears, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels basically look like they were designed in a “Make the Cutest Dog Ever” contest. These sweet, serene little companions radiate charm from the moment they trot into a room — and they know exactly how to use it to get extra cuddles.
Known for their gentle and friendly disposition, they make a fantastic option for first-time dog owners and currently rank as one of the most popular dog breeds.
Cavaliers are true affection experts. They love people of all ages and fit seamlessly into just about any lifestyle, whether you’re a busy family, a senior looking for companionship, or someone who just wants a loyal buddy for cozy evenings.
Their favorite place in the world? Right next to you. (Or directly on your lap. They’re flexible like that.) Their calm, intuitive nature makes them wonderful therapy dogs. Cavaliers have a special talent for sensing emotions and offering comfort, turning even the hardest day into something a little softer.
Pair their gentle temperament with their adaptable personalities, and you’ve got a little dog that’s just as happy joining an adventure as they are relaxing on the couch. Basically, Cavaliers are living proof that kindness, fluff, and a wagging tail can go a long way.
8. Biewer Terrier
Pronounced “beaver” (yes, really!), the Biewer Terrier is a pint-sized bundle of charm that’s practically designed for cuddling. These adorable little dogs love nothing more than being close to their humans, making them top-tier lap warmers and expert emotional support fluffs.
Hailing from Germany, the Biewer Terrier may look like a fancy cousin of the Yorkshire Terrier — and that’s because it is!
They’re descendants of Yorkies but with a special genetic twist: the rare piebald gene. This gives them their signature look — gorgeous white fur decorated with whimsical patches of color, like a living, wagging work of art.
Biewer Terriers are cheerful, affectionate, and playful, with a personality that can brighten even the grumpiest morning.
They bond deeply with their families and thrive on attention, cuddles, and being involved in whatever you’re doing — whether that’s watching TV, folding laundry, or simply walking from one room to another. (They take their following-you-around duties very seriously.)
With their unique coloring, sweet disposition, and lively spirit, the Biewer Terrier is a delightful companion for anyone who wants a small dog with personality, beauty, and just the right amount of sass.
9. Pug
Pugs are the undisputed comedians of the small dog world — little clowns with big personalities packed into a squishy, wrinkly package. Those expressive faces, curly tails, and trademark squished noses make them instantly lovable, and they seem to know it, too.
One look at a pug’s soulful eyes and comical grin, and suddenly the world feels a lot brighter. These pups live for companionship. They’re happiest when they’re snuggled up with their humans, following you around the house, or begging — politely, of course — for snacks.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Pugs thrive in just about any environment: city apartments, country cottages, households with kids, seniors, or other pets. Basically, if you have a lap and a kind heart, you’re already on their VIP list.
A love of food is part of their charm (and challenge), so keeping them at a healthy weight takes some attention.
But with a pug around, daily life comes with plenty of laughter, cuddles, and a reminder that sometimes the best things come in small, wrinkly, and slightly snorty packages.
10. Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers may be small, but they’re built for adventure. Originating in Scotland, these shaggy, spirited pups were bred to hunt foxes and other small mammals — which explains their boundless energy, curiosity, and occasional “I must investigate everything!” attitude.
Cairns are tough little explorers wrapped in a fluffy package. They’re fearless, playful, and fiercely loyal, ready to turn any backyard or park into their personal kingdom.
Fun fact: the breed became a household name after 1939, when a Cairn Terrier named Terry charmed the world as Toto in The Wizard of Oz.
These little dogs thrive on activity and mental stimulation, so walks, games, and puzzle toys are a must. Despite their adventurous spirit, Cairns are also good family dogs who love snuggles after a day of “hunting” socks, shadows, or anything that moves.
With their scruffy coats, bright eyes, and mischievous personalities, Cairn Terriers are proof that dynamite really does come in small, four-legged packages.
Conclusion
Other small dog breeds under 22 pounds offer the perfect mix of affectionate and playful companions for pet parents seeking great apartment dogs or small breed dogs. Breeds such as Toy Poodles, Miniature Poodles, Maltese Dogs, Miniature Schnauzers, Italian Greyhounds, Boston Terriers, French Bulldog, Miniature Dachshunds (wiener dogs), and Border Terriers come in small packages but are packed with playful nature and affectionate breed qualities.
These calm small dog breeds and velcro dogs excel as companion dogs for human hair allergy sufferers (hypoallergenic dog) and adapt well as the only dog or alongside other dogs in family life, including with young kids. Their small stature, petite pups, adorable ears, and suitability for daily walks make them ideal for dog lovers seeking responsible breeding, dog native charm, and breeds that truly live in an apartment while bringing joy and companionship to every home.
