Small Dog Breeds:- People have so many different opinions when it comes to the area of small dogs. Some people think that they are just toys, however, there are actually breeds that are known as toy dog breeds.
Other people though think that they are great for living in an apartment or around kids. There is a third group of people that have negative connotations about them or that they represent a class status of being rich. Small dogs have a place in the lives of every person that is in love with dogs.
Small dog breeds are probably one of the most popular types of breed in an urban surrounding. If you are living in a small space for living, if you get a medium or large dog, they may not be able to get the exercise that they need and it could cause mental stress.
I would go as far as to say that small dogs are probably good with older people as well as children. In this article, I have queued some of the best small breeds. All have tried to cover most of the dog Breeds.
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Small Dog Breeds | Toy Dog Breeds
Small Dog Breeds (From A to C)
Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is one of the most ancient of Toy dogs. They were developed in Germany, probably during the 1600s. The Affenpinscher is recognized by its monkeyish expression.
In France, the Affenpinscher is known as the “mustached little devil” and in German, their name means “monkey-like terrier.” They are fearless against an aggressor, however, the Affenpinscher has a personality of quiet, genuine loyalty to its owner.
American Eskimo Dogs
The American Eskimo Dog is a fond companion dog, and it represents reliability, flexibility, brilliance, and beauty. It is a miniature to the medium-size dog of Nordic origin, and it’s universally white, or white with a hue of biscuit-colored cream.
This breed is compact, level, and substantive in spirit and stature. It has a lively, comfortable gait. It has alert, perky, triangular ears and marked black points on its lips, nose, and around its eyes.
It has a pure white double coat with a short undercoat. It has a thick, straight, smooth outer coat too. It has a lion’s ruff around its neck and chest that is seen on females and males together.
American Hairless Terriers
The American Hairless Terrier originated by chance from the Rat Terrier, in 1972. A completely hairless female was born in a litter of Rat Terriers.
The owners then bred her and she produced one hairless female. And after several more attempts, “Josephine” produced hairless male and female. These two hairless terriers were the foundation for the American Hairless Terrier.
Australian Terrier
The Australian Terrier is a small sturdy dog, full of spirit and courage stemming from its background as a versatile working dog from the outback of Australia.
This breed was the first Australian breed to be recognized and shown in its native land. Originally, they were used for rodent and snake control, watch-dogging, shepherding, and as companions.
Beagle
The Beagle breed originates from England. This small dog breed has a shoulder height of around 13 – 16 inches. The Beagle is generally brown and white in color with a short weather-proof coat.
The Beagle is an independent dog breed which is also cheerful and sociable. Beagles tend to get along with other household pets, strangers, and children, but socialization from an early age is highly recommended.
The Beagle is an indepent hunting dog which loves the great outdoors. Try to give it as much time as possible outside, take it for regular walks, give it frequent playtimes, and as much exercise as possible.
Bedlington Terrier
Like most terrier breeds, the Bedlington Terrier’s roots are in England. It was developed in the late 1800s by coal miners who wanted a versatile dog that could course a rabbit, dig out a badger, swim down an otter, retrieve a duck, or rid the house of rats.
A lively but scruffy dog, the Bedlington caught the eye of fanciers who were more interested in their exotic look than the utility.
Bichon Frises
You can’t go wrong with a dog whose name literally means, “curly lap dog”. The Bichon Frise is a non-shedding, pure white, curly dog that’s small enough to rest in your lap.
Despite the short coat, the dog requires regular brushing and bathing as part of its grooming regimen. People with dog allergies will be relieved that the dog’s coat is hypoallergenic.
Bathe once per month and brush throughout the week to allay tangles and matted hair. Hints of Apricot and Cream are sometimes seen in the otherwise white-coated breed. In general, it’s a small, happy dog with a lot of cheer and fellowship in nature.
Biewer Yorkie
The Biewer Yorkie is a little dog having origins tied to the Yorkshire Terrier in England in 1886. The Biewers of Germany later selectively bred it in 1984. They were bred for the striking white markings that were found in Yorkshire terriers.
The Biewer, a piebald patterned Yorkie, was officially acknowledged as a separate breed in 2003, although unofficially recognized years before. This wonderful companion dog is at the top of the US popularity list.
Bologneses
It is believed that the Bolognese was bred as early as the 11th and 12th centuries and they descended from the Bichons of southern Italy and Malta.
In the 1500s, the Bolognese was popular with the royal families. They were used as companions as they are today. It was only about 200 years ago that this breed reached Britain. Today, this breed is rare but is making a comeback because of breeders in Europe.
Border Terrier
One of the oldest kinds of terriers in Great Britain, the Border Terrier was originally bred along the English-Scottish border to follow horses on day-long fox hunts.
Their job was to drive the foxes from their dens and kill them. The bold little Border Terrier has also been used to hunt marten, otter, and the fierce badger. The Border Terrier is a tireless, hard worker for its size, and is full of courage.
Brazilian Terrier
The Brazilian Terrier is one of only two breeds native to Brazil. Valued as a hunter, ratter, watchdog, guard dog, herder, and companion, it embodies the best characteristics of the terrier group.
This breed is basically unknown outside of Brazil. It is not uncommon in some regions of Brazil to hunt with small packs of these small terriers. When working in packs, they surround their prey from all directions until the animal is exhausted.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon has three varieties that share everything, barring slight coat and color differences. They are named the Griffon Bruxellois, Griffon Belge, and the Petit Brabancon.
The Brussels Griffon is a small breed with a height of 7 to 8 inches and a weight of between 6 and 12 pounds. People should note that human newborns sometimes weigh about 6 pounds.
This toy dog has effulgent, radiant eyes, a very short, flat nose, and much hair streaking profusely from the cheeks and chin. In fact, it resembles a very big beard emerging from the lower semi-circle of its face. This dog hails from the beautiful city of Brussels, Belgium.
Bull Terrier
The Bull Terrier breed originates from England. This small dog breed has a shoulder height of around 20 – 22 inches. The Bull Terrier’s coat is generally white, but can also be black and tan, red, broken black, and fawn. Bull Terriers are independent minded and are extremely lively.
As long as it is socialized from a very young age, this breed will get along well with other pets, and children. Bull Terrier’s may try to dominate other dog’s so would not make an ideal second dog in the household.
Bull Terrier’s ears need to be kept clean at all times, and a rubber brush should be used to remove old dead hairs. Bull terriers absolutely love to play. Try to give this dog as much regular playtimes as possible. They only require a moderate amount of exercise, so long walks are not necessary.
Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier hails from the Scottish Highlands where it was used to hunt for hidden prey amongst the cairns. Cairns are just heaps of stones that are artificial set-ups used to designate burial sites, summits, path indicators, or astronomical observatories.
The West Highland White Terrier is closely related. It has links to the Scottish and Skye Terriers as well. Yes, it’s true. The dog that originated in the 1500s played the part of Toto in the movie, the Wizard of Oz.
Dorothy’s companion was ever-present as a faithful, loyal, lovable, affectionate friend. Nowadays, its use within and amongst the cairns is sparse and sporadic. However, it remains a true companion dog. It also has some utility in tracking and watching.
Carlin Pinschers
The Carlin Pinscher is a new breed that is a cross between a Miniature Pinscher and the Pug. Most people think it looks like a miniature Rottweiler.
These dogs are about the size of an average house cat. They are described as wonderfully sturdy, active, patient, and cheerful companions dogs.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is also called the Ruby Spaniel and Blenheim Spaniel. It’s a toy dog with coat colors like mahogany, tan, chestnut, pearl or cream white, black, or tricolor.
The coat is silky, satiny, and wavy with a smooth, almost feathery, texture. The King Charles Spaniel of its centuries past is its ancestor. It was often depicted in paintings from centuries ago. The painter, Van Dyck, was known to have painted them alongside Charles II.
Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is a newer breed and is still rather rare all over the world. Frantisek Horak developed this breed using a combination of the Scottish Terrier and the Sealyham Terrier.
He felt this would make an ideal hunting dog. It was not until the 1980s that the Cesky Terrier started making its way into the United States. This breed makes a great family pet and gets along well with people of all ages.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua dog took its name from the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. It was first observed there in 1850. Presumably a wild dog, it is the smallest confirmed pedigree dog, but its name is borrowed from the largest Mexican state.
It’s the most ancient breed endemic to America, the continent. Statues and paintings of something similar to the Chihuahua appear in Old World artifacts from ancient South American civilizations.
Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese Crested Dog is sometimes called the Hairless or Powder Puff. Each refers to a variety present in most litters.
This toy dog loves to entertain, and its look is remarkable. In the former version, the Hairless, the dog reveals all its skin except for the hairy head, tail, and feet.
The Powder Puff has a lot of flowing hair. It always puzzles breeders that both come in the same litter. You can forget unpleasant odors, ticks, and fleas, and say goodbye to this breed because they’re not prone to them.
The dog originally came from Africa. The Aztec tribal group used them to warm the bed and make tasty meals.
Cockapoo
The Cockapoo is a cross between the American Cocker Spaniel and the Miniature Poodle. They originated in the United States during the 1960s.
The original dogs were from unplanned mating, but more recently as their popularity has continued to grow, the matings have become planned. Like the Poodle, the Cockapoo is an intent observer, not going to the hyperactive excesses of many American Cocker Spaniels.
Small Dog Breeds | (From D to J)
Dachshund
You might have seen a Dachshund walking around, or maybe you thought it was a living hot dog. That’s right.
This charming pooch has many names like Weiner Dog, Hot Dog, Sausage Dog, Standard Dachshund, Miniature Dachshund, Toy Dachshund, Doxie, Dackel, and Tackle.
The dog is confident, brazen, bold, and sometimes reckless. It’s brave despite its odd, smallish appearance.
They’re ingenious and clever dogs that attempt to train their masters. Their curiosity makes them funny to observe over the years.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
This Terrier was named after a funny book character named Dandie Dinmont. Sir Walter Scott wrote this book in 1814. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier makes an excellent guard and is fond of children.
Owners must be aware of their dog’s hunting instincts and keep their dog safe on a leash or in a fenced yard. This breed can have a will of its own and requires a firm owner.
Fox Terrier
The Fox Terrier has many varieties including the Wirehaired, Smooth, Toy, and Miniature prefixes. The Wirehaired and Smooth versions are similar except for coat differences, and the Toy and Miniature share many traits as well.
They originated out of necessity. Many foxhunts would be sabotaged if the fox reached its hole. It would be out of sight and impossible to hunt.
The dog had to have the stamina to keep up the pace of Foxhounds, be ruthless to combat the cornered fox, and be diminutive enough to get into the fox’s lair.
Havanese dog
The Havanese dog originated in the western Mediterranean region and then was transported on merchant ships to Cuba. This breed quickly became a popular dog among the wealthy Cubans.
This strain of the breed from Cuba is believed to be extinct. However, some of the descendants were smuggled into the United States where they have become quite popular.
Italian Greyhounds
The Piccolo Levriero Italiano and acronym, IG, are two common names for the Italian Greyhound, a sighthound toy breed.
The fossilized remains of what appears to be an Italian Greyhound were unearthed in the vast complex of an Egyptian tomb that was over 6,000 years old.
Royalties from Russia, Denmark, England, Greece, Turkey, Italy, Rome, Egypt, Phoenicia, and Africa were taken by the breeds’ elegance, look, and temperament. Its popularity in Italy exclusively gave it the current name.
Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier is a landrace breed, and that means it is particular suited to the cultural or natural environment that it originated from. A reverend named John Russell who wanted a dog that would get foxes out of their holes but not harm them developed this breed.
If the fox was killed or hurt, the sport of the hunt would be ruined completely. A wide lot of body types are acceptable for this breed. Its main purpose was to extract foxes from their dens.
This function is one specific marker of a Jack Russell Terrier. They’re very spry because they can keep up with the larger hounds on long hunts that require loads of endurance, stamina, and strength.
Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin, sometimes referred to, as the Chin or Japanese Spaniel, is a fluffy toy breed. It’s really a small spaniel that is designated as a lap dog and companion. Lapdogs can be held in the arms or rest in the lap.
The dogs’ ancestors came from Korea, through Japan, to China. It was in the Sechuan Province that the breed originated. Its main purpose is as a companion. Commodore Perry gave an American Naval officer it to Queen Victoria in 1853.
The same man also gave it to Millard Fillmore, the U.S. President. Commodore Perry was the commander of the United States naval forces in China. These showy gifts really spearheaded the breeds’ popularity.
Japanese Spitz
The Japanese Spitz originated in Japan from the Siberian Samoyed. This breed should not be confused with the American Eskimo that is believed to be a descendant of the German Spitz. The Siberian Samoyed was bred for smallness.
Beginning in the late 1800s the Japanese Spitz seemed to be a small version of the Siberian Samoyed. They became very popular in the 1950s in Japan and more recently in Europe and North America.
Small Dog Breeds | (From K to M)
Kyi-Leo
The Kyi-Leo’s breed history began with an accidental mating between the Maltese and the Lhasa Apso in the 1950s in San Francisco, California.
Breeding continued for about 20 years and then Harriet Linn named the dog and established a standard. Leo means lion in Latin and Kyi means dog in Tibetan. Known for its cat-like speed, this dog is said to use its front paws to clutch things.
Lakeland Terrier
The Lakeland Terrier originated in Cumberland County in Northern England. These dogs were bred to hunt vermin in the rough mountains.
They look like a miniature version of an Airedale Terrier. This breed’s job in the past was to protect flocks from predators, predominantly the fox. The Lakeland Terrier is known for its gentle disposition and makes an excellent family pet.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is from Tibet where Monk priests to guard sacred monasteries against burglars and conniving people used it.
It barks its head off until the master is awakened to pursue the intruder’s cabal of villains. The dog is always suspicious of strangers because it’s a watchdog.
It doesn’t get along well with children. It needs 30 minutes of brisk exercise per day, and it requires a dominant, consistent, and fair trainer. Lhasa is a holy city in Tibet.
Lowchen
The Lowchen is believed to have been established as far back as the 1500s, making them an exceptionally old breed. They were developed in France, Germany, and Spain.
They originated as companion dogs and were popular with ladies of the court. Women enjoyed grooming them to look like miniature lions. In fact, Lowchen means Little Lion Dog.
Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier is an English Toy Terrier. John Hulme developed it to kill rats so it has the familiar moniker, a rat terrier. He lived in Manchester, England.
It’s a hybrid cross of the Black & Tan Terrier and Whippet. It’s not even remotely related to the Doberman Pinscher, although it looks quite similar. It was purported to be the best rat-hunting dog in Great Britain, taking home awards from several contests.
Mi-Ki
The Mi-Ki is thought to be from Asia and shares common ancestors with the Maltese, Japanese Chin, and Papillon. This breed arrived in the United States during the 1980s.
The Mi-Ki makes an excellent companion because of its even-temper and friendly attitude. These dogs enjoy people and can be used as therapy dogs and companions for the elderly.
Miniature Dachshund
Dachshund means “badger dog” in German. They were developed in Germany to hunt badgers over 300 years ago.
Selective breeding and introduction of Pinscher, Papillion, and Schnauzer blood produced the Miniature Dachshund. On average, this breed weighs 9 pounds. The Miniature Dachshund makes an excellent companion regardless of where you live.
Maltese
The Maltese are enormous, stupendous, all-white toy dogs. Its silky, radiant, pure white hair beckons visitors to its side.
Its seductive look was particularly interesting to women that often carried them around and even took them to bed. Of course, men like philosophers and nobles also favored the Maltese. One Roman governor had portraits and poetry commissioned for his Maltese.
Miniature English Bulldogs
Miniature English Bulldogs were bred in the 1980s with the purpose of improving the health and steadiness of the breed.
These dogs retain all outer features of common English Bulldogs, and they possess a loving and kind-hearted temperament.
They are obedient and protective, and once you have gained the trust of this tiny mastiff-type creature, you are lifelong friends. These dogs are fairly active, and a good yard exercise will be good for your pet and yourself.
Miniature Poodle
The Miniature Poodle, or Caniche, is easily trained, follows instructions, and learns at a fast rate. For this reason, the circus ring is its domain of choice.
It performs several amazing tricks with agility, grace, charm, and energy. It seems to understand human speech. Don’t exclude it from activities or else it will feel snubbed and looked over.
They’re super smart, clever little pets. Even though it barks a lot, it makes a great watchdog for the family. It lacks aggressiveness although neurotic traits can be present.
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is sometimes called the Zwergschnauzer or Mini Schnauzer. The Standard Schnauzer, Affenpinscher, and Poodle make up its origin.
It hails from Germany where it was developed in the middle part of the 19th century. It is a favorite dog in the United States.
Always useful and smart, the dog was created to guard households, farms, livestock, and even hunt down the varmints that threatened food supplies and farm animals.
Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is also known as the Zwergpinscher and Min Pin. This breed actually predates the Doberman Pinscher, and it is in no way related.
It was created in Germany to flush out rats from horse stables, and the German Pinscher is an ancestor of it. Pinscher means Terrier to some and biter to others. It depends on the translation.
Since they were bred to hunt, hunt, and kill vermin, it does well with toys that stimulate its imagination or have moving or interlocking parts.
Moscow Toy Terrier
The Moscow Toy Terrier originated in what then was called the USSR. It is believed that English Toys and Chihuahuas were used to create this breed.
This toy dog almost became extinct during World War II, but has recovered and is a very popular companion in Russia today. The Moscow Toy Terrier requires little maintenance and is easy to train.
Small Dog Breeds | (From N to R)
Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier and Norwich Terriers started out as the same breed but were separated in 1964 in England. The Norfolk Terrier was developed as a small ratting dog in England.
These dogs were bred to hunt in packs and they have also been used to run foxes that have gone to the ground. A social dog, the Norfolk Terrier is primarily utilized as a companion today.
Norwich Terriers
This breed was developed in England as a small ratting dog. Later, they were also used to sniff out foxes that had gone into the hole.
This small terrier could get in and out of a burrow quite easily. As they were bred to hunt in packs, Norwich Terriers tend to be more sociable than many other terriers. Today, they serve primarily as companion dogs but are still considered ratting dogs.
Papillon
The Papillon is sometimes called the Continental Toy Spaniel, Epagneul nain Continental, Butterfly Dog, or Pap. It’s not unreasonable.
In fact, Papillon translates to Butterfly in native French. It goes back several hundred centuries, 7 to be exact, in Europe.
Italians depicted them quite a lot in the Renaissance. Italian frescoes are rife with them. Much of the breeding history about them is known through frescoes.
The royal court ladies were the only group that could afford these expensive lap dogs. French breeders later bred more amenable, charming characteristics into them. Today, they’re used for competitions of obedience, agility, and cool tricks. They’re also great watchdogs.
Patterdale Terrier
The Patterdale Terrier originated in Yorkshire and the lake districts of England. This area is filled with foxes and is steep and rocky.
The Patterdale Terrier was bred to go underground and bolt out foxes and other vermin. This dog was needed to help control the number of foxes that preyed on the farmer’s sheep. Rarely kept exclusively as a pet, this breed is still used primarily as a working dog.
Pekepoo
The Pekepoo is a newer breed that is a cross between the Pekingese and the Miniature Poodle. This breed is sweet and affectionate towards family, but quite distrustful of strangers.
These dogs enjoy children if they have been socialized at a young age. The Pekepoo also gets along well with other dogs and animals.
Pekingese
What Chinese toy dog is also called the Lion Dog? Those that said Pekingese are correct. This dog also referred to as the Peke and Peking Palasthund, was highly regarded and revered in ancient China.
Those in China also call it the Dog of Foo. You were forced to bow to them in public or private settings. If you stole one, for any reason at all, death was the fixed punishment.
Emperors and nobles had their Pekingese set up a process that made sure their Pekingese were sacrificed if they, themselves, died.
They were thought to guard against troublesome evil spirits in the afterlife. They are similar in appearance to Chinese Lions so they are purported immortal guardians.
They were ubiquitous in Chinese art for centuries on end. During the Second Opium War in which the British, French, and Chinese fought, the Imperial Guard were told to kill all Pekingese so that foreign troops couldn’t seize them.
Pomeranians
Pomeranians are tiny toy dogs that fill a room with gusto, energy, and surprises. This dog has many names; among them are Zwergspitz, Dwarf Spitz, Toy German Spitz, Loulou, and Pom.
The Pomeranian measures 7 to 12 inches, weighs 3 to 7 pounds, and it has a lifespan teetering on 15 years at the top and approximately 9 years at the bottom of the range.
Of course, their small size, energetic buoyancy, and distinct appearance are factors that make a pet owner extremely sorrowful when they pass away.
The Pomeranian has an indelible look that all people register even if they don’t quite know the name of the breed. Most people are familiar with the dogs’ common showing of bright orange, gold, cream, or red in their coats.
These warm, flash colors combined with the dog’s profuse, prominent, abounding double coat are hard to forget. Combine bright colors, a fluffy coat, and pure vibrancy and intelligence for a fun mix. The dog’s temperament is well suited to a dog of its stature.
Prazsky Krysavik
Prazsky Krysavik is described as tiny lean delicate and having thin skin. Its broad chest and tapered body with a black and tan coloration resemble a Miniature Pinscher with bigger ears.
Its size, quickness, alertness, and keen smelling sense predisposed it for ratting for which it was used; thus, it was aptly named “Krysarik.”
This friendly and obedient dog is good with children and appropriate for apartment living with regular walks but requires warmth.
Pugs
Pugs have a stocky, small, cobby body and have a lot of personality in a small frame. This lovable toy dog often vies with other toys dogs for the most precious award.
This metric is not purely subjective. In fact, many features of its personality and appearance are outright alien-like and extraordinary. Happy, active, animated, alert, chipper, cute, and curious the Pug can even act wild, boisterous, or somewhat disorderly.
They have such big personalities in their small bodies a key to their charm. They’re often described as Multum in Varo. Multum in Varo is Latin for much in little.
Their compact bodies have a height of between 12 to 14 inches and a weight of between 13 and 20 pounds. The Pug is of ancient Chinese origin.
Rat Terrier
The Rat Terrier originated by crossing numerous breeds including the old Fox Terrier, European Terriers, and the Old English White Terrier. Teddy Roosevelt named this dog.
This breed is hardworking and known for its excellent ratting skills. One story says that a single Rat Terrier killed more than 2,501 rats in only seven hours in a barn overrun with rats.
Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is part of the Bichon family. A more modern type of the Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka appeared in parts of Russia in the 1950s.
These dogs were crosses between the Bichon Frise and the Shih Tzu. Smaller bearded poodles and longhaired terriers were also added into some of the lines. “Tsvetnaya Bolonka” means colored bichon. This breed comes in many different colors.
Small Dog Breeds | (From S to Y)
Schipperke
No one knows what type of dog the Schipperke is, and you couldn’t tell by looking at it. It’s all black by the way. Some call it a Spitz, others a Terrier, others a Sheepdog, and some call it unknowable.
It lacks a tail, and the American Kennel Club only accepts black as the purebred color. However, tan, fawn, yellow, and brown often show up on this dog.
Watchful, wary, alert, and territorial define this breed. A lot of people believe the dog is born tailless because docking has become so common and ubiquitous.
Schnoodles
Schnoodles are very intelligent and easy to train. They like to be with people and are happy and loving. The smaller varieties make good lapdogs.
A cross between a Schnauzer and a Poodle, the best way to determine the temperament of a Schnoodle is to look up both parent breeds and understand that it can have a mix of any of the characteristics or traits.
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog is also called the Shetland Collie, Dwarf Scotch Shepherd, Toonie Dog, Apartment Collie, Miniature Collie, and most of all, Sheltie dog.
Many of the names are obsolete except for the first and last. It’s a very small sheepdog specifically bred for the Shetland Isles region off the coast of Scotland.
Delightful, graceful, fluid, nimble, and obedient are elements this dog is prized for. Their intelligence is akin to the Border Collie. Some handlers profess that they have an intelligence that’s unbecoming of a dog and more fitting of a human.
Its caveats to companion coolness include persistent, sometimes incessant barking, and love and zeal for chasing things, especially cars. Sometimes this results in the dog’s death.
It shows wariness toward strangers, but it has a sweet, deep attachment to its owners. The Shetland Sheepdog was used in Great Britain for herding sheep.
Shichon
The Shichon is a cross between the Bichon Frise, Shih-Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Lhasa Apso, and the Miniature Schnauzer.
Dawn Littlefield developed the Shichon to be utilized in her pet therapy program for her non-profit organization called Heaven in the Heartland.
The program combines mentally handicapped and terminally ill children with rescue dogs. Naturally, this breed is wonderful with children and easy to train.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu also called the Lion Dog or Chrysanthemum Dog is anything but Lion-like. In fact, it’s one of the smallest, cutest dogs there is. The Chinese Mandarin pronunciation of Shih Tzu is different than the American that sounds of “sheet-sue”.
It is pronounced like “sure-ds”. The “ds” is like the “ds” in the word, birds. The “ds” translates to the word, Lion, in Mandarin. The Chinese kept the dog from foreigners for many years.
Its origin dates back to the 7th century where it was found in documents, artworks, and royal art objects. By order of the Imperial Court, it could not be exported.
It wasn’t until 1930 that England saw the first traces of the Shih Tzu come in. It wasn’t until the late year of 1969 when the American Kennel Club recognized it as a breed.
Tibetan Spaniel
The Tibetan Spaniel is thought to have originated from crossing the Pekingese, the Pug, and the Japanese Chin.
Depictions of dogs similar to the Tibetan Spaniel have been found in Chinese bronzes from as early as 1100 BC.
These dogs were prized possessions in ancient Tibet and the practice of giving this breed as a gift to royal families spread throughout Asia. Today, this breed is a popular choice for a companion or show dog.
Toy American Eskimo
The American Eskimo ancestry is apparent as far back as 4000 B.C. The actual name, “American Eskimo” was not assigned until about 1910.
Although a popular belief, the American Eskimo dog is not descended from the working sled dog. In the early 20th century, the American Eskimo Dog was a favorite among circus performers.
The Toy American Eskimo dog is nine inches to twelve inches at the withers. This dog is loving and intelligent.
Toy Chinese Shar-Pei
The Chinese Shar-Pei is a very brave, loyal, and independent dog. They bond closely with their family and make good watchdogs.
These dogs generally have an easy-going temperament, make great companions, and wonderful family pets.
The Toy Chinese Shar-Pei is a smaller version of the AKC recognized Chinese Shar-Pei. The toy version is not recognized, but it makes wonderful indoor companions.
Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier is a truly American breed. These dogs originated by crossing small Smooth Fox Terriers with several toy breeds including the Chihuahua and Manchester Terrier.
This dog has great strength and stamina for its size and is also known for its athletic appearance, as well as ability. Toy Fox Terriers crave the attention of their owner and will make a valuable companions.
Toy Manchester Terrier
The Manchester Terrier originated in Manchester, England during the 1500s. It is believed that the British Empire quickly recognized this dog’s sharp sense of smell and hearing.
The Manchester Terrier was used to kill vermin and course small game. The Toy Manchester Terrier is simply a smaller version of the standard Manchester Terrier.
The Toy is classified as twelve pounds and under. A devoted dog, this breed makes a good watchdog and companion.
Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is just a variation of the Standard Poodle and Miniature Poodle; they’re recognized as composing the same breed. Their differentiation is marked with the adult’s shoulder height.
The Poodle’s origin was somewhere in Europe. Considerable disagreement exists between France, Germany, and Denmark over the origin.
The French, however, have claimed the right, and most people agree. It was probably descended from a French water dog, possibly the Barbet.
Some Barbets are still around today. Contrary to popular use as a dainty dog for fanciful women, the poodle was and is a vicious gun dog that was bred to retrieve waterfowl.
Welsh Terrier
The Welsh Terrier is a fierce opponent for varmints and rodents. Some might mistake it for a small Airedale Terrier.
This dog loves to tumble about, play a little rough, and is well known for its curiosity and vigorous, energetic nature. The breed goes back more than 200 years to Wales.
Its forebear is the Old English Black and Tan Terrier, and it goes back to the Middle Ages. For a while, the Welsh terrier itself was called the Old English Terrier and the Black and Tan Rough Haired Terrier.
It had official inception in the latter 1800s. It was bred to be a harrowing hunter with a stoic, patient, pursuing nature.
West Highland White Terrier
The West Highland White Terrier, or Westie for short, is a descendant of the Scottish Terrier and Cairn Terrier. This small dog is well known for its white coat and spirit.
They brim with confidence despite their small stature. Its been described as cocky, self-assured, and playful. It likes to chase things, dig, and bark.
A daily walk outdoors is a requirement of the breed, and abound yard will help it exercise too. In Scotland, the country of origin, it was bred to attack foxes, badgers, otters, rats, mice, and other unseemly rodent types.
They sleep more than half of the 24-hour cycle to get the needed recuperation that’s a requisite of their physiology.
Their faces are featured on certain brands of Scotch whiskey, and that has helped solidify their image to millions of people.
Whippet
The Whippet is a cross between the Greyhound, the Italian Greyhound, and Terriers. Its name came from the term “whip it” which means to move quickly.
This dog was bred to chase and capture small game. The Whippet can reach speeds of up to 37 miles per hour (60km per hour) in mere seconds.
This breed is adaptable to living indoors with children and other pets, provided they are given plenty of exercise opportunities.
Wirehaired Fox Terrier
The Wirehaired Fox Terrier was bred for use in rougher terrain than the Smooth Fox Terrier. The Wirehaired Fox Terrier’s coat is less susceptible to damage and is more protective to the dog.
In developing the Terriers, breeders crossed ancient Dachshunds, the English Hound, and later the Fox Hound and Beagle.
The Fox Terrier can be a very aggressive breed for its size and has been known to initiate fights with other dogs and animals.
Yorkshire Terrier
The silky, small, luxuriant-looking Yorkshire Terrier is a bundle of joy, energy, and companionship. It’s not standoffish at all.
In fact, it’s one to tumble about and enjoys playtime and petting. It is eager to please and loves its human attention.
It can sometimes snap if provoked or annoyed, but it’s very sweet as a rule. It can even be taught not to bark, but it can also be used as a stalwart watchdog. The Yorkie, for short, is well suited to a small apartment.
Pros and Cons of small dog breeds
No matter if you love them or hate them, here are some advantages as well as disadvantages to small dogs.
- Very easy to bring around to different places because of their size and small dogs are great for apartments.
- If dogs are small, places such as malls may like them better.
- If you have a smaller budget, smaller dogs require less food and thus less money!
- A small dog has a lot better change of socializing with your other pets such as a cat.
- They tend to be a lot closer to their owners and form strong bonds between them.
- A small dog may be best if you are outgoing because small dogs do not threaten other people you are around.
- Small dogs can get injured very easy because of the small size. Make sure to be careful so you do not hurt your own dog.
- Small dogs are some of the best guard dogs you can get because of how much noise they can make!
- Some small dogs do not know how small they are so they may pick fights with much bigger animals if they are bothered.