Size is the first thing you notice and should consider when owning a pup, because it will determine how you handle your dog. Not every dog is adaptable, as each dog has distinct traits, needs, and temperament.
Size matters because it affects whether your dog can comfortably adjust to your living space, and if they can’t, it’s unfair to them and can create trouble for you as well.
People often prefer smaller dog breeds because they are portable, can be kept in houses or apartments, and generally don’t bark loudly. Even those that do bark can usually be trained easily.
The training and exercise needs of these dogs are not extensive, and they can adapt well to early training and indoor play.
Dogs weighing under 18 pounds are the perfect choice for those living in small spaces or wanting a portable, lap dog that offers cuddling and full-time companionship, always ready to cheer you up indoors.
Key Takeaways
Most small breeds need daily walks and light play, but don’t require intense exercise.
Small dogs can have silky fur, fluffy undercoats, wiry coats, or dense double coats, each requiring specific grooming routines.
Regular obedience training and interactive play help prevent small dog behavioral issues.
Small Dog Breeds Weighing Under 18 Pounds
1. Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier may be tiny, but don’t let that satin-smooth coat and dainty frame fool you; this little dog carries the bold heart of a true terrier. Originally bred as barnyard ratters, they’ve evolved into lively, affectionate companions who love being at the center of their family’s world.
With bright, expressive eyes and perky ears that never miss a sound, the Toy Fox Terrier is a bundle of energy wrapped in under 18 pounds.
They thrive on playtime, quick walks, or even zooming around the living room, making them perfect for apartment life, according to the American Kennel Club. Their grooming needs are minimal, but their diet and weight require careful attention, as obesity can be an issue.
Regular dental care, nail trimming, and early training help them grow into well-mannered little charmers. Smart, spirited, and endlessly entertaining, the Toy Fox Terrier brings big joy in a small, athletic package.
2. Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier is a small, spirited companion with the heart of a true working dog. Originally bred in England by Frank “Roughrider” Jones to chase foxes and catch rats, this sturdy little terrier now charms families with its playful, curious personality.
The Norfolk Terrier may be tiny, but it’s packed with courage, energy, and intelligence.
With a wiry, weatherproof coat that comes in shades of red, wheaten, black, or grizzle, this breed is low maintenance yet needs regular grooming to stay in top shape.
Norfolk Terriers are affectionate, social, and adaptable, thriving indoors while enjoying outdoor exploration in secure spaces. They love walks, playtime, and mental challenges, making them ideal for active owners.
Alert but friendly, independent yet loyal, the Norfolk Terrier blends a hunter’s instincts with a family-friendly nature, proving that great personality comes in a small, energetic package.
3. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful little cloud of energy, instantly recognizable by its fluffy, white, curly coat and expressive dark eyes. Originating from the Mediterranean and Tenerife, this small breed was cherished by royalty and artists for centuries, inspiring the French verb bichonner, meaning “to pamper.”
The Bichon Frise combines elegance with a playful, affectionate personality that makes it a beloved companion for families.
Despite their small size, these dogs are lively and energetic, enjoying indoor games, outdoor walks, and activities like agility and obedience, as explained by Britannica. Their dense coat requires regular brushing and professional trims to maintain its signature fluffy appearance.
Bichons are generally healthy but should be monitored for knee, eye, and ear issues. Friendly, trainable, and ever ready to cuddle, the Bichon Frise is the perfect mix of spirited playmate and loyal lapdog, bringing joy and charm wherever it goes.
4. Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier, famously known as Toto from The Wizard of Oz, hails from Scotland’s Isle of Skye, not Kansas. This spirited little dog was originally bred to hunt vermin on farms. Despite their working roots, Cairns make lively, affectionate companions, equally happy in apartments, suburban homes, or the countryside.
Intelligent and curious, Cairn Terriers need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, their energy can turn into mischievous behaviors like digging.
Their dense, weather-resistant coat is relatively low-shedding but benefits from weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping to prevent mats.
Cairns are generally healthy, with a lifespan of 13–15 years, though they can be prone to eye, joint, and thyroid issues.
Friendly, confident, and eager to please, they thrive with consistent training and socialization, making them playful family members, loyal cuddle buddies, and spirited little adventurers who bring endless joy in a small, sturdy package.
5. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a tiny powerhouse, exuding elegance, energy, and fearless curiosity in every high-stepping move. Despite their small size, they carry the bold heart of a terrier, always alert and ready to investigate anything unusual.
Weighing under 18 pounds with a sleek, low-maintenance coat, this spirited breed is compact but full of personality. Miniature Pinschers thrive in homes where they receive regular exercise, mental stimulation, and consistent training, as stated by Purina.
A secure garden or daily walks of at least half an hour keep them happy, while interactive toys satisfy their clever, inquisitive minds. Socialization from a young age ensures they get along with other pets, though caution is advised with very young children due to their delicate frames.
Originally bred as working rats in Germany, Min Pins are devoted, intelligent, and playful, making excellent companions for attentive owners. Their big-dog attitude in a small package brings endless energy, charm, and loyalty to the right household.
6. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, often called the “Lion Dog,” is a charming companion with roots in China and Tibet, historically cherished by royalty and closely linked with Buddhism. This small breed is known for its luxurious, long coat and affectionate, playful personality.
Shih Tzus thrive on human companionship, happily curling up on laps, beds, or sofas, yet they carry a confident streak and won’t hesitate to stand their ground.
They are generally friendly with other pets and respectful children, though early socialization and patient training are essential. House training can be slow, and daily grooming is needed for show coats, though a simpler “puppy cut” can ease maintenance.
With low exercise requirements, short walks, and indoor play suffice, they adapt well to small homes and apartments. Shih Tzus may face eye, joint, and spinal issues, so regular vet care is crucial. Loyal, playful, and loving, this little dog brings endless warmth and companionship to any household.
7. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a small dog with a personality larger than life. Often called Griffon or Petit Brabançon, this charming breed exudes confidence, energy, and affection.
With its expressive, almost human-like face, large eyes, and distinctive coat, either rough and wiry or short and glossy, the Griffon captures hearts wherever it goes.
Bred in Belgium from stable-working terriers and later refined with Pugs and King Charles Spaniels, Brussels Griffons were designed to be alert, curious, and devoted companions.
They thrive on human interaction, forming strong bonds with their favorite person, and enjoy indoor play and short walks. Early socialization is key, as their bold, bossy nature can make them wary of rough treatment, according to Orvis.
Griffons do best in homes where they are valued family members, not left alone for long stretches. Regular grooming, a balanced diet, and mental stimulation keep this energetic, affectionate toy breed happy and healthy for 10–15 years.
8. Bolognese
The Bolognese, a charming member of the Bichon family, is a small, fluffy companion dog with a compact, square build and an all-white coat as soft as cotton.
Known for their calm and gentle nature, Bolognese dogs are intelligent, playful, and deeply devoted to their owners. While they may be shy with strangers at first, proper socialization helps them warm up quickly.
This breed thrives on human companionship and doesn’t do well being left alone for long periods, making them ideal for retirees, seniors, or families with flexible schedules.
Their non-shedding coat is low-allergy friendly, though regular grooming and occasional baths are needed to keep them looking their best. Nails, teeth, and ears also require routine care.
Though low energy, Bolognese dogs enjoy moderate exercise through short walks, indoor games, or backyard play. With patience, love, and proper training, these sweet, devoted dogs make delightful, lifelong companions who blend elegance and warmth in one small package.
9. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua may be tiny, but their personality is enormous. Originating in Mexico, these little companions are lively, affectionate, and endlessly curious. Often thought of as lap dogs, Chihuahuas are alert, energetic, and love to explore, whether it’s a short walk around the block or a playful session with toys at home.
They come in smooth or long coats, both low maintenance with regular brushing, and their compact size makes them perfect for apartments or smaller homes.
Despite their small stature, Chihuahuas are clever and independent, so early socialization and consistent, positive training are key to preventing problem behaviors like excessive barking. They thrive on human companionship and can develop separation anxiety if left alone too long.
Health-wise, responsible breeders screen for issues like patella luxation, heart disease, and dental problems, helping ensure a happy, healthy dog, as stated by PDSA. With proper care, love, and attention, Chihuahuas make devoted, spirited companions who are full of charm and personality.
10. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is elegance in miniature. With a slender, muscular frame, this tiny sighthound moves with grace, whether trotting indoors or stretching out in a sunbeam. Their short, glossy coat, velvety to the touch, comes in a range of colors, though blues and grays are most common.
Sweet, gentle, and affectionate, Italian Greyhounds form deep bonds with their family and crave attention. They can be shy around strangers and prefer calm play over rambunctious activity, making them better suited for older children or quiet homes.
Despite their size, they bark to alert rather than yap, and they generally get along with cats and dogs of similar stature.
Italian Greyhounds thrive indoors, especially in cooler weather, and need short daily walks for exercise. With basic grooming, regular dental care, and plenty of love, this regal little companion can bring joy to families for 12-15 years.
Conclusion
Small dog breeds weighing under 18 pounds offer a unique blend of charm, companionship, and personality, making them some of the best small dog breeds for families and pet parents alike.
From the playful nature of Shih Tzus and the velcro dog tendencies of Italian Greyhounds to the luxurious coats of Bichon Frises and toy poodles, these small dogs prove that big personalities can come in small packages.
Many of these toy dog breeds, including Yorkshire Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Brussels Griffons, adapt beautifully to small spaces, thriving with daily walks, mental stimulation, and consistent training.
Whether hypoallergenic dogs like Bichons, silky-haired companions like Japanese Chin, or bold little dogs like Miniature Schnauzers, each breed brings unique personality traits that make them playful companions and great family dogs.
With proper care, grooming, and human interaction, these small-breed dogs offer joy, affection, and endless fun for families, other pets, and children of all ages.
