Breeds that weigh less than 30 pounds are ideal companions for owners who want a small dog breed but do not want to lose out on companionship. The small dog breeds are not merely adorable but highly intelligent and affectionate, and have huge personalities.
Most people live in apartments, and some of them are frequent travelers; they want a companion that does not require daily care. When choosing a dog for your apartment, consider your ability to provide regular walks, playtime, and mental enrichment. Toy breeds may require less exercise compared to larger breeds.
In this article, we will find out about 9 small dog breeds that are not only the best companions, but they are also partners that only want to curl up at your side or just want to have a peaceful time at home.
Dog Breeds Under 30 Pounds
1. French Bulldog
Weight: 16 to 28 pounds
French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate nature and playful energy. These are charming little dogs who make adorable companions thanks to their sassy personalities and spunky nature. It is important to consider that these affectionate dog breeds are known for being good with kids.
According to the ASPCA, French Bulldogs are brachycephalic, or “flat-faced,” dogs; their cute, smooshy faces are ideal for kissing. Their skin is loose and soft, forming wrinkles at the head and shoulders.
French Bulldogs are often seen as high-maintenance because of their health risks and special care needs. Their flat faces make them prone to breathing issues and heat sensitivity, so they need close monitoring during exercise and in warm weather.
They also require regular cleaning of their skin folds, ear care, and can sometimes be tricky to house-train.
2. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
One of the dog breeds renowned for being well-mannered and suited to apartment living is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. King Charles I and his son, King Charles II, were particularly fond of these adorable puppies. They are commonly referred to as lap dogs and serve the function of keeping the lap warm during cold weather.
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a devoted and affectionate family member despite being shorter and more compact. They have even gained popularity due to their tender and loving demeanor, especially when interacting with children.
These athletic dogs need about an hour of daily exercise, which can be split into shorter sessions. They love walks, playtime, and staying active in fun, gentle ways.
3. Miniature Schnauzer
Weight: 11 to 20 pounds
The Miniature Schnauzer is among the smallest dog breeds, often regarded as a toy breed. Because they were once farm dogs, these smart and endearing dogs require a lot of exercise.
These bearded puppies will have a great time if you give them a job. Because they don’t shed much, miniature Schnauzers make wonderful pets.
These tiny dogs are just as content to exercise as they are to sit on the couch. They can be well-adapted to apartment living, thanks to their calm indoor demeanor, as long as they receive sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation.
However, they can be a bit stubborn, so they need consistent training and socialization. They also don’t handle being left alone for long periods very well.
4. Boston Terrier
Weight: 12 to 25 pounds
These dog breeds are suitable for your apartment; take into account those that are known to be relatively quiet and less likely to engage in destructive behavior.
In the home, the border terrier is a loving and well-mannered animal. Despite being bred to be country dogs, if given enough exercise, they will adjust to city life quite well.
For pet parents, their mischievous antics are usually a great source of entertainment. Before they come home and start running around your living room, these energetic terriers will benefit from regular outdoor exercise.
Boston Terriers aren’t typically very vocal and won’t bark without a good reason. However, when they do bark, it can be loud, often to alert their owners to something unusual or a potential threat.
5. Pug
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Pugs are the dog breeds that excel in apartments, and get acquainted with their distinctive traits to find your ideal four-legged roommate. They remain calm and easygoing and adapt well to apartment living. This small dog is also highly intelligent and needs ample activity and mental stimulation to ward off boredom.
Pugs are a relatively low-maintenance breed. A daily 30-minute walk or some playtime in the yard is usually enough to keep them healthy and happy.
They will develop a close bond with their owner, thrive on affection, and have a pushed-in face and expressive eyes. Although they can occasionally be stubborn, they are also very intelligent and like mental stimulation.
6. Shih Tzu
Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
Shih Tzus are one of the most intelligent dog breeds, and they are highly trainable. With a loving and affectionate nature, these tiny dogs form strong bonds with family and are excellent with children.
They are small, adaptable dogs with a playful and affectionate personality. Their soft, silky coat is hypoallergenic, making them an excellent choice for families with allergy concerns.
According to Britannica, they are short-legged, sturdy, with a short muzzle, hanging ears, and a heavily haired tail that is carried over their backs.
They are also long-haired, alert, and typically active little dogs that are longer than they are tall. Its thick coat, which can be any color, covers its eyes and adds whiskers and a beard to its face.
7. Italian Greyhound
Weight: 7 to 18 pounds
Italian Greyhounds are wise and gentle in nature, and they are surprisingly well-suited for apartment living due to their low energy levels indoors, provided they receive regular outdoor exercise.
The Italian greyhound, according to Hill Pets, is a true greyhound in miniature, possessing exceptional grace and elegance. They weigh between 7 and 18 pounds and are 13 to 15 inches tall at the withers.
Italian Greyhounds have a gentle, friendly nature that makes them a good fit for most families, including those with kids and other pets. Their moderate energy needs are easily met with a daily walk or some outdoor play.
8. Papillon
Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
Papillons are a highly intelligent and easily trainable breed known for their affectionate nature. They are social and require regular grooming. These little dogs are bursting with energy and will thrive with at least an hour of exercise every day.
According to PetMD, papillons are small and versatile. Papillons thrive in any environment, despite their delicate size and sophisticated coat.
They are happy, friendly dogs and love spending time with their humans. Papillon dogs also excel in the agility ring and sometimes work as therapy and service dogs.
9. Bichon Frise
Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
These friendly and affectionate canines can make great companions as long as you do not mind them chasing after anything that moves. They are highly affectionate and get along well with children and other dogs, making them excellent family pets. These happy dogs are very sociable and love the company of people.
Bichons, the irresistible little comedians of the dog world, have used their charm, beauty, and intelligence to thrive through the ups and downs of history, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The breed’s greatest asset is its white hypoallergenic coat, which is soft and velvety to the touch. Its round head hair contrasts with its big, dark eyes and its black nose and lips. Bichons are versatile friends who get along with kids and other dogs.
Conclusion
All of these dogs are small in weight but big in heart, which can create a big space in your life with their compact personality. All of these dogs are not more than 30 pounds, but they offer something strong on the table.
Be it the Bichon with its unforgettable charm or the Boston with its mellow and approachable attitude. How will your companion suit your lifestyle? The connection you make and the life you live are the most important things.
