Some people want big dogs. Guard dogs. Dogs that need massive yards and endless energy.
But some, well… they want something they can literally carry in their arms. Snuggle on the couch with. And, take almost anywhere without breaking a sweat.
These are the small dog breeds under 12 pounds to consider.
These tiny dogs look delicate. BUT… they have got huge personalities. Endless loyalty. Enough attitude to fill a room three times their size. No matter if you live in a cozy apartment, travel a lot, or just want a furry friend who doesn’t take up half the bed, these little dogs are seriously worth considering.
Today, we are talking about the small dog breeds under 12 pounds.
The dogs that pack charm, love, and a WHOLE lot of character into one very small package.
Fun Fact!
The Yorkshire Terrier was bred to catch rats in clothing mills during the Victorian era.
Yep!
These tiny dogs were working-class before they became the glamorous lap dogs we know today.
Small Dog Breeds Under 12 Pounds to Consider
1. Chihuahua
Tiny body. Massive ego.
The Chihuahua is probably the most famous small dog breed out there. Weighing in at just 2 to 6 pounds, these little dogs are portable, loyal, and will literally fight anyone they think is a threat to their person.
Even if that threat is… like, the mailman. Again!
All types of Chihuahua are bold, confident, and brave for their size. They make excellent companion dogs for people who want a Velcro dog that sticks close. Like, really close.
They are one of the best small dog breeds for apartment living since they don’t need much space. Just a cozy bed, some toys, and you. That’s it.
But, these can be stubborn dogs, as well. Consistent training helps, but a lot of Chihuahua owners just… accept that their dogs run the house. And, that’s quite fine.
They come in smooth coat and long coat varieties, so you can pick your VIBE! Regular grooming keeps them looking good. And with proper socialization, they can get along with other pets… though they usually prefer being the star.
Chihuahuas are a tiny dog breed with a HUGE personality. No question!
2. Pomeranian
Fluffy fur. Adorable dog.
The Pomeranian is a little cloud with legs… except this cloud barks at literally everything. Weighing between 3 and 7 pounds, as noted by the American Kennel Club, Poms are one of the most popular toy breeds in the USA. They are cute with a playful nature and ridiculously photogenic.
Seriously, these dogs were made for Instagram!
Pomeranians are super smart, curious, and love being the center of attention. They were originally bred from larger sled-pulling dogs, so there’s actually some serious working dog energy hidden under all that fur.
They are alert, vocal, and good watchdogs.
Their luxurious coats do need regular brushing to avoid tangles and mats. Daily brushing is ideal, but a few times a week works too. And yes, they shed. A lot. But most Pom parents say it’s worth it.
Poms are great for the first time dog owners who want a small dog with a playful nature and tons of personality. They adapt well to small spaces, love their humans fiercely, and are always ready for adventure… or a nap on the couch. Whichever.
Just be ready for barking.
They have got opinions, and they are not shy about sharing them! At all.
3. Affenpinscher
Scruffy. Scrappy. Full of mischief.
The Affenpinscher is one of those dog breeds people don’t know about… until they meet one!
And then, they are hooked.
Weighing around 7 to 10 pounds, these little dogs have a wiry coat, expressive eyes, and a face that honestly looks like they are always up to something.
Because they usually are.
Affenpinschers are confident, curious, and fearless small dogs. They were originally bred in Germany to catch rats in kitchens and stables. So, they have got that Terrier-like boldness. They are loyal companion dogs who bond deeply with their pet parents.
Their playful personalities make them fun to be around. But, they can also be a little… well, a lot stubborn dogs. Obedience training helps. And mental stimulation is key. Puzzle toys, short training sessions, and interactive play all work great.
Grooming-wise, they need regular brushing to keep their coat looking decent. Minimal maintenance. They are not super high-maintenance dogs. And, they tend to do well with other dogs if socialized early.
4. Papillon
Elegant. Athletic. Smart dogs.
The Papillon gets its name from the French word for “butterfly” thanks to those gorgeous wing-shaped ears. Weighing between 5 and 10 pounds, these little dogs are graceful, intelligent, and way more athletic than you’d think by just looking at them.
Like… these dogs can actually do agility courses. Real ones.
Papillons are highly trainable, eager to please, and excel in dog sports like agility and obedience. Seriously, these dogs love to learn, as they are one of the smartest dog breeds.
Plus, this toy dog thrives on human companionship and mental challenges.
Their long and silky coat is beautiful but needs regular grooming to stay healthy and tangle-free. They don’t shed as much as some other toy breeds, and their coats are easier to manage than it looks.
Papillons make great family dogs and do well with active families who enjoy daily walks and playtime. They are friendly, social, and generally get along well with other pets. Just keep an eye on them around large dogs, since they are so small.
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Fancy. Feisty. Fun-loving. Full of SASS!
The Yorkshire Terrier, AKA “Yorkie,” is one of the most popular small dog breeds. Weighing almost 7 pounds only, this tiny dog breed has long, silky hair, a confident strut, and a personality way bigger than their size.
They walk around like they own the place. Because in their mind, they do. And they are so attached to you; if you leave them alone for long hours, they feel separation anxiety.
The Yorkie dog breed is bold, affectionate, and incredibly loyal to their pet parents and homes with small children. They are also super smart and easy to train with consistent training and positive reinforcement.
Their long-haired coat needs regular grooming and daily brushing to keep it looking sleek and tangle-free. Some pet parents opt for a shorter “puppy cut” to make maintenance easier. Either way, grooming is part of the deal with Yorkies.
As per Purina, they are great for small spaces and flats, but they need a small garden or countryside to feel their best. They love being lap dogs but also enjoy short daily walks and playtime.
If you want one of the best small dogs with style and substance, the Yorkie is your ideal dog.
6. Biewer Terrier
Rare. Elegant. Real chill dog.
The Biewer Terrier is like the Yorkie’s fancy cousin. They weigh between 4 and 8 pounds only. This breed was developed in Germany in the 1980s and has a gorgeous tri-colored coat that turns heads everywhere.
And a lot of people have not even heard of them yet, which is kind of wild.
Biewer Terriers are playful, affectionate, and have an even-tempered personality that makes them great companion dogs.
They are less high-strung than some other toy breeds, which is a nice bonus for pet parents who want a small dog that’s both fun and calm.
Their long, silky coat is stunning and needs regular grooming to stay healthy. The upside is that they are a hypoallergenic dog breed, so they are a good option for people with allergies.
They love being around humans, adapt well to small spaces, and don’t need much exercise. Just some playtime and LOVE!!!
7. Maltese
Pure. Gentle. Totally devoted.
The Maltese is a definition of a classic lap dog. They usually weigh under seven pounds.
This small white dog has a long and flowing coat, a gentle personality, and a deep love for human companionship. They have been beloved companion dogs for LITERALLY thousands of years.
Like… truly an ancient breed. Ancient civilizations loved these small white dogs. That’s how far it goes.
Maltese dogs are affectionate, calm, and very loyal. They are one of these toy dog breeds that just want to be near their humans 24/7.
They are great for people who work from home, retirees, and anyone who wants a furry friend that’s always by their side.
These dogs are also one of the best small dogs for first-time dog owners since they are easy to train, eager to please, and generally low-maintenance dogs in terms of exercise.
If you want a dog that’s sweet, gentle, and completely devoted, the Maltese is a beautiful choice.
Conclusion
Small dogs under 12 pounds might be tiny. But they are definitely not boring.
These little dogs come with huge personalities, endless loyalty, and love. These furry friends adapt to small spaces, travel well, and make incredible companion dogs for pet parents of all ages. But small dogs have some health issues, so take care of those. Mostly, their heart health.
Other toy breeds like the Toy Poodle, Miniature Poodle, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Shih Tzu, Dachshunds (wiener dogs), Chinese Crested, Cairn Terrier, Bichon Frise, and Miniature Pinscher (AKA the Min Pin) are also worth considering.
Regular grooming, consistent training, and plenty of love help make these small dog breeds fill your life with joy and laughter. And maybe a little bit of SASS.
And, high energy.
And really…
Isn’t that what having a dog is all about?
