If you’re a dog lover who dreams of a cozy home with lots of pawsitive energy, this guide is for you. Bringing home a new pet can be overwhelming, as there are so many options to choose from. When adopting a dog, you must consider various factors like your living situation, affordability, and how much time you can give them.
We have gathered 7 of the best small dog breeds that are the perfect addition to your homes and make your lives tranquil and full of comfort. These pups have high adaptability as they do well in large or small homes and are also well-suited for apartment living. These pups have low exercise needs and prefer indoor play over outdoor dog sports.
Read on to learn more about these toy breeds with playful personalities, what they bring to the table, and how you can cater to their needs.
Lovable Toy Dog Breeds For A Cozy Home Life
1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Small size and a people-pleasing temperament, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a small breed that were originally bred as a companion dog, which is why they love staying in the company of their favorite humans and getting in all the cuddles.
According to PDSA, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their loyalty, sweet nature, and gentle demeanor, which makes them excellent family pets. These pups need human interaction to survive and do not do well if left alone for a long time. They may develop separation anxiety and show unwanted behaviors.
Their size makes them an ideal dog breed to adapt to any kind of living situation. They stay happy and calm as long as they are getting enough physical exercise and mental stimulation every day. These small pups have a long life span, but you must ensure regular vet checkups so they stay in optimal health and are your long-lived furry companions.
2. Shih Tzu
A Tibetan toy dog breed, bred to be a paw-some companion, Shih Tzu’s are associated with Buddhism and are bred to look like lions, thus the nickname “Lion dogs”. These pups were bred to alert their imperial owners if someone was approaching in their territory. These tiny-sized dogs later became lovable family pets rather than guardians.
Shih Tzus are a friendly breed, which makes them pleasant and energetic companion dogs. They love to socialize with new people and get along harmoniously with other pets in the house, which makes them ideal little dogs for small living spaces.
Shih Tzus do not like spending time alone and thrive in human interaction. Leaving them alone for long hours won’t be wise, as they may develop separation anxiety and show unwanted behaviors. Early socialization and training help to prevent this behavior and maintain a relaxing environment at home.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
British toy canine and the smallest from the terrier breed, Yorkshire terriers are spunky and entertaining companion dogs. Before their role as lap dogs, these pups were used to chase rodents and rats from textile mills. They may be a small package, but are an energetic dog with a feisty personality.
According to PetMD, Yorkshire terriers have an affectionate nature, have good playful energy, and are highly active, which is why they need regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive.
Because of their friendly temperament, these small dogs love spending time with family and are great with children as well. This allows them to form strong bonds, and they prove to be excellent family pets.
Yorkies are brave and bossy. They may be a little dog, but have the personality of a large breed. Early socialization and consistent training will bring the best out of these little dogs and ensure they mature into well-behaved and lifelong companions.
4. Chihuahua
A Mexican compact-sized toy breed, the Chihuahua is one of the smallest dogs from the canine world. Chihuahua’s are alert pups with high intelligence. They have an eager to please temperament and are highly trainable but respond well to positive reinforcement methods. They are loving and affectionate towards those who they trust and bond closely with their family.
Chihuaha’s made great family pets because of their loving nature and playful energy. They always want to stay close to their pet parents and because of their size, they not only adjust to apartment life well but you can also take them along to run errands.
Though Chihuaha’s are a small breed, they have a lot of energy to expel which is why they need a lot of play sessions, daily walks, and exercise to stay happy and satisfied. These small dogs bark when they are faced with unfamiliar people. Early socialization and training is important prevent aggressive behaviors.
5. Pugs
An ancient small dog breed from China, Pugs were a favorite and popular pet for the royalty. Pugs are a very friendly small dog breed that love getting attention from their pet parents. They are big time people pleasers and like to be involved in whatever is happening at home.
Pugs require a family who is patient, calm, and fully involved in them. They are great for first time dog owners and do not require a lot of exercise either. A 15-20 minute short walk around the block is enough exercise for these dogs. They are ideal for a big house as well as small apartments.
According to Britannica, Pugs are brachycephalic because of their short muzzle face which make it difficult for them to breathe. Unlike other dogs these pups prefer remaining indoors as they find it difficult to breathe in warm temperatures.
6. Toy Poodles
One of the smartest and entertaining dog breed from the canine world, Toy poodles have big personality and have playful energy that can make everyone in the room happy. These small dogs are incredibly intelligent and have an eager to please attitude which makes them excellent family pets. They get along well with everyone at home especially children who know how to behave around small dogs.
They have an hypoallergenic coat which makes them an ideal companion dog for those who have allergies. However, it is recommended that you spend time with them before bringing them home to avoid any problems. These dogs bond closely with their owners which is why leaving them alone for long hours is not ideal.
Because toy poodles are so smart they need regular exercise and mental stimulation to feel happy and satisfied. These dogs thrive in active families and are easy to train. These small dogs respond well to positive reinforcement training and tasty treats.
7. Maltese
Highly valued small dogs in the society, Maltese is a gentle, affectionate, and a trusting breed from the canine world. They are playful and have high energy which is why they like to be involved in all family adventures. They have a fearless presence and may bark to alert their owners if something seems off.
Maltese are a suitable indoor dog who are ideal for apartment living and confined spaces. They are light shedders and are acceptable for those with certain allergies. Maltese do not require a lot of exercise, a short walk or a play session with their favorite people is more than enough to keep them happy and satisfied.
These small dogs are prone to many health issues which is why regular checkups from the vet are recommended for screening to ensure no problems are missed and they stay in optimal health. Otherwise these make the perfect companions dogs for a cozy living.
Conclusion
These small dog breeds were originally bred to be cuddle buddies. Their addition to your family brings a lot of love, pawsitivity, and fun into your everyday life. They may be low maintenance, but they still need a lot of attention from you and may follow you around from room to room.
They want nothing more than staying beside their pet parents and being included. So, what are you waiting for? Bring home your cuddly buddy today!
