We usually associate outgoing and extroverted temperament with large dogs. But there are numerous small dog breeds with big personalities. They come with bold spirits, charming traits, and a commanding presence.
These tiny balls of fur might not weigh more than nine pounds, but their personalities are worth more than millions. Such small breeds are fiercely loyal, hilariously playful, sometimes goofy, and a little bit stubborn. Their enthusiasm and confidence are also noteworthy.
Not all little pooches are satisfied being lapdogs. They are just as active and lively as some larger breeds in the canine kingdom. Their cheerful spirits and hearts filled with love remind us that strength of character is not measured in pounds.
Here are 9 small dog breeds with giant personalities.
Small Dog Breeds With Giant Personalities
1. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzers might be much smaller than their larger cousins, standard and giant Schnauzers, but they have the same powerhouse persona. These bearded mutts are friendly and alert, making them excellent watchdogs.
Mini Schnauzers are clever and robust fellas with an adaptive personality. So, they thrive in any type of environment. All they want is to stay close to their favorite hooman. Due to their playful nature, Mini Schnauzers get on well with kids.
These extroverts need plenty of attention to stay happy. They are fun-loving, boundless energy puffballs who rarely have a dull moment in life.
Mini Schnauzers are highly intelligent, which means they can be trained easily. However, their stubborn streak requires a firm and consistent trainer, explains Petplan.
2. Schipperke
These fiery black pooches, hailing from Belgium, are known for their curious, intense, and confident temperament. Schipperkes’ sheepdog heritage justifies their extremely active demeanor and thirst for having a job.
Schipperke are highly alert watchdogs who love being the center of attention. They want to be a part of any activity that is going on around them. Schipperke is an excellent vermin hunter and needs to be supervised around smaller animals and other dogs.
They can adapt well to any home or even an apartment. You only need to provide them with regular exercise, and they will be happy. This “little captain” is a tiny package with tons of personality. However, it is not well-suited for novice owners due to its independent nature.
3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
These little dogs are known for their liveliness and athleticism. Pembroke Welsh Corgis are little herders that are far more active than many other dogs. They are playful, intelligent, and full of character. Pembrokes are sprightly, driven, and always ready to go.
These social doggos love outdoor adventures with their family members, so you can take them on slow jogs or long walks. Pembrokes are surprisingly quick and agile, explains the American Kennel Club. They even excel at activities like herding, agility, and obedience.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi enjoys playtime with other pups and individuals who match their energy levels. They are companionable without being needy. Pembroke’s strong legs, muscular thighs, and deep chest make them capable enough for a hard day’s work.
4. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are vigilant guardians with a “big dog” bark. They make outstanding performance dogs who excel in agility, obedience, and herding. Cardis are older than the two Corgi breeds.
Cardigan Welsh Corgis are relatively laid back and less outgoing, explains Hill’s Pet. However, they are fun-loving, energetic, and smart canines who do great with children and other pets, especially if raised with them.
They are adaptable to various living environments as long as you are providing them with adequate physical and mental stimulation. Cardis were bred to work with animals much larger than their size, so they can be a little strong-willed and independent.
5. Border Terrier
Don’t get fooled by their small bodies. Border Terriers are incredibly affectionate dogs with speed and stamina. They might be small in appearance, but mighty in spirit. Border Terriers excel in dog sports like agility and obedience.
These tough dogs are immensely loyal and fearless. They have a keen desire to hunt and prey, thanks to their history as hunting dogs. Borders sport an adaptable temperament and are a good fit for novice owners as well as experienced pet parents looking for an energetic partner.
Their high intelligence makes them quick learners. Borders are sociable with people and other dogs. Borders’ alert gaze, typical terrier energy, and a powerful drive are simply unmatchable. These perky fellows are generally healthy with long life spans.
6. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a toy dog breed with a big personality. These alert and intelligent mutts are too active for their size. Known for their human-like expressions and affectionate demeanor, Griffs form strong bonds with their owners.
Griffs are very curious and love exploring their surroundings. They have a quirky charm and lovable personalities. Their expressive faces enable you to read their moods, making interactions with them even more engaging.
They fit well in families where they can take part in all activities. Griffs will snuggle and sleep with you, and follow you anywhere, whenever possible. That is why they are often known as “Velcro dogs.” Due to their sensitive nature, Griffons don’t do well with rough and small kids.
7. Shetland Sheepdog
Shelties are dainty little pooches with a long coat. Looking like show dogs, they are strong and active. They possess a sharp mind and boundless energy. Shelties might take some time to warm up with strangers and are never off duty.
Shelties vocalize to express their excitement or alert their owners. They are energetic, playful, and love spending time outdoors. These lively dogs are so smart that they can pick up on everything from your mood to the tone of your voice when you talk to them.
Shetland Sheepdogs are great around kids and other pets. They are not at all aggressive, but need training and socialization due to their initial uneasiness towards strangers. Shelties enjoy training and need plenty of mental stimulation to stay busy.
8. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frises are small dogs that exude pure cheerfulness and joy. These powder white fluffballs have a playful and energetic personality. They are complete social butterflies who thrive on attention and affection.
Bichon Frise is adaptable and gets along nicely with kids and other pets. These charming fellows are loyal to their humans and bond closely with them. Bichons don’t like being left alone for too long. Their small size and minimal exercise needs make them well-suited for apartment dwellers.
Many small dogs have a reputation for being yappy. Bichon Frise also shows these tendencies when they are bored or need attention. However, this may be controlled through plenty of physical and mental stimulation, early socialization, and positive reinforcement training.
Do you know? Bichon Frise are highly empathetic and can help relieve feelings of isolation and loneliness. These compassionate and comforting pooches make wonderful therapy dogs.
9. Jack Russell Terrier
These gleeful little fellows are packed with huge amounts of energy. Jack Russell Terriers have a classic Terrier temperament. They are adventurous, lively, and spirited. These doggos thrive on physical exercise and mental stimulation and tend to have a mischievous streak.
Jack Russell Terriers’ personality is filled with fun and friendliness. They get along nicely with people and have a great sense of humor. These cheeky and affable canines are adaptable to various living spaces, but require lots of activity.
They are playful, but have a strong prey drive, which can be problematic in households with smaller pets and cats. These canines are incredibly intelligent and love to work on problems. They master tricks and love entertaining people by performing tricks.
Conclusion
Many small dogs are known for their mighty personalities. They are petite, but full of energy and liveliness. These active fellows enjoy playtime and want to be surrounded by their loved ones all the time. They are surprisingly bold, confident, and spirited.
They might be small in size, but their persona speaks volumes. Some small dogs can be a bit barky, but their alert nature makes them vigilant watchdogs. Families who can provide adequate mental and physical stimulation to these pooches should adopt them.
Early socialization, along with lots of training with positive reinforcement, is crucial for both the well-being of the pet and the owner.
