Top 5 Small Dog Breeds – Are you looking for a furry friend that will not outgrow your cozy apartment or small home? Small dog breeds are not just adorable – they are also ideal for people living in compact spaces. Whether yo are in a studio apartment, a city flat, or a house with minimal yard space, these tiny pups are the perfect companions.
Five cutest small dog breeds that stay small forever, making them a great match for apartments and small living environments. These breeds are low-maintenance, affectionate, and easy to train—just what you need for a happy, stress-free pet experience.
Why Choose Top 5 Small Dog Breeds for Your Apartment?
Before diving into the breeds, here are a few reasons why small dogs are perfect for apartments and small homes:
- Low space requirements: They do not need large backyards.
- Easy to travel with: Great for urban dwellers or people who travel frequently.
- Lower food and grooming costs: Smaller size means smaller expenses.
- Less intimidating: Ideal for families, kids, and even elderly people.
Can be litter trained or pad trained: Great for indoor living.
1. Pomeranian – The Fluffy Ball of Energy
Size: 3–7 lbs
Temperament: Playful, alert, and loving
Pomeranians are one of the most popular small dog breeds in the world. With their teddy bear faces, fluffy coats, and energetic personality, Poms bring a lot of joy in a tiny package.
- ✅ Perfect for indoor play and short walks
- ✅ Highly intelligent and easy to train
- ✅ A great watchdog despite its size
Care Tip: Regular grooming is essential due to their thick double coat.
2. Chihuahua – The World’s Tiniest Dog
Size: 2–6 lbs
Temperament: Bold, loyal, and spirited
Chihuahuas are small but mighty. Don’t be fooled by their size—they are full of personality and fiercely loyal to their owners. Perfect for small homes, they love curling up on laps or snuggling in blankets.
- Requires minimal exercise
- Excellent for solo dwellers or couples
- Low grooming needs
Care Tip: Early socialization is key to avoid defensive behavior.
3. Shih Tzu – The Royal Lap Dog
Size: 9–16 lbs
Temperament: Sweet, friendly, and calm
Shih Tzus are ancient lap dogs that thrive in indoor environments. Their affectionate and easy-going nature makes them one of the best dogs for families living in apartments.
- Gets along well with kids and other pets
- Not overly active—perfect for laid-back households
- Hypoallergenic coat
Care Tip: Daily brushing keeps their luxurious coat free of tangles.
4. Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie) – The Fashionable Toy Dog
Size: 4–7 lbs
Temperament: Brave, intelligent, and affectionate
Yorkies are the divas of the dog world—but in a good way. Their small size and long silky coat make them a favorite among pet lovers who live in cities. Yorkies love to be pampered and carried around.
- Adapt well to apartment living
- Great for allergy sufferers
- Long lifespan (12–16 years)
Care Tip: Regular grooming and trimming are needed to maintain their iconic look.
5. Toy Poodle – The Smartest Small Dog
Size: 6–9 lbs
Temperament: Intelligent, obedient, and playful
If you want a small dog that’s smart and easy to train, look no further than the Toy Poodle. They’re highly intelligent, sociable, and hypoallergenic—an ideal choice for those living in tight spaces.
- Quick learners, easy to train
- Minimal shedding (great for clean homes)
- Great with families and children
Care Tip: Needs mental stimulation—puzzle toys work wonders.
Bonus Tips: Living With a Small Dog in a Small Space
- Make space for play: Use foldable dog ramps, toys, and playpens.
- Go on regular walks: Small dogs still need daily exercise.
- Keep them clean: Small spaces can trap odor quickly.
Create a cozy dog corner: Use soft beds or blankets to keep them happy.
Final Thoughts
Top 5 Small Dog Breeds are not only adorable – they are also practical for people living in apartments and smaller homes. The breeds mentioned above—Pomeranian, Chihuahua, Shih Tzu, Yorkie, and Toy Poodle—are ideal for those looking for companionship without the space demands of a larger pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Chihuahua is one of the easiest to maintain due to its short coat and small appetite.
Some breeds like Shih Tzus and Toy Poodles tolerate being alone better than others, but all dogs need interaction and training.
Breeds like the Shih Tzu and Yorkie are great with children, provided proper socialization.