45 Best Small Dog Breeds for Families

By Top Dog Site Editorial Team · Published 2026-08-24

Choosing a dog by a single trait can be misleading. Breed tendencies can help narrow a search, but individual temperament, health, age, training and the owner's routine often matter just as much. This guide uses the historical search intent behind this URL while updating the framing for responsible modern ownership.

The dogs below are strong candidates for the theme, but none should be treated as a guarantee. Meet the individual dog where possible, research health testing, and make sure the breed's real daily needs match the home you can provide.

1. Chihuahua

One of the smallest dog breeds, but often bold and alert. Socialization, dental care, weight control and protection from rough handling are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Chihuahua should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

2. Yorkshire Terrier

A tiny terrier companion with confidence and a continuously growing coat. Dental care, grooming and careful handling around larger dogs matter.

For the specific theme of this article, Yorkshire Terrier should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

3. Papillon

A small, athletic companion breed known for trainability and distinctive butterfly-like ears. It can excel at dog sports despite its toy size.

For the specific theme of this article, Papillon should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

4. Maltese

A small companion breed with a long silky coat and close people orientation. Grooming, dental care and avoiding excessive fragility are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Maltese should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

5. Bichon Frise

A cheerful small companion with a curly coat that requires regular grooming. Many adapt well to apartment life if companionship and exercise needs are met.

For the specific theme of this article, Bichon Frise should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

6. Pomeranian

A tiny spitz with a large personality and dense double coat. Barking, dental care, grooming and safe handling are regular considerations.

For the specific theme of this article, Pomeranian should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

7. Miniature Schnauzer

A sturdy small terrier-type companion with alert behavior and a wiry coat. Grooming, barking management and regular exercise are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Miniature Schnauzer should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

8. Shih Tzu

A small companion breed with a long coat and brachycephalic features. Grooming, eye care, heat management and responsible selection for open nostrils and functional breathing matter.

For the specific theme of this article, Shih Tzu should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

9. Dachshund

A scent-hound breed with a long back and short legs. Weight control, stair/jump management and thoughtful handling are important for spinal health.

For the specific theme of this article, Dachshund should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

10. Boston Terrier

A compact companion dog with moderate exercise needs and a sociable reputation. Because of brachycephalic anatomy, breathing function and heat tolerance should be prioritized.

For the specific theme of this article, Boston Terrier should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

11. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

A small companion spaniel typically valued for affectionate, people-oriented behavior. Prospective owners should place particular emphasis on responsible health testing.

For the specific theme of this article, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

12. Beagle

A sturdy scent hound with strong food and scent motivation. Secure fencing, patient recall training, weight control and acceptance of independent behavior are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Beagle should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

13. Shetland Sheepdog

A small herding breed known for responsiveness and intelligence. Coat maintenance, barking management and meaningful mental work are regular ownership needs.

For the specific theme of this article, Shetland Sheepdog should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

14. Jack Russell Terrier

A small terrier with outsized drive, prey instinct and problem-solving ability. It needs much more activity and structure than many toy-sized companions.

For the specific theme of this article, Jack Russell Terrier should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

15. Border Terrier

A small working terrier with a weather-resistant coat and lively temperament. Prey drive, digging and consistent training should be expected.

For the specific theme of this article, Border Terrier should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

16. Greyhound

A tall sighthound known for explosive speed and, in many adults, a surprisingly relaxed indoor temperament. Daily walks and safe opportunities to run matter, while prey drive and cold sensitivity deserve planning.

For the specific theme of this article, Greyhound should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

17. Great Dane

A giant companion and working breed whose calm adult demeanor can fit quieter homes if space and costs are realistic. Early training is essential because even friendly poor manners become difficult at giant size.

For the specific theme of this article, Great Dane should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

18. Standard Poodle

An athletic, highly trainable dog that needs both exercise and mental work. The continuously growing coat requires regular clipping, so low shedding should not be confused with low maintenance.

For the specific theme of this article, Standard Poodle should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

19. Miniature Poodle

A compact, quick-learning companion with enough athletic ability for active homes. Regular grooming and training games are important parts of ownership.

For the specific theme of this article, Miniature Poodle should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

20. Bernese Mountain Dog

A large Swiss working breed typically valued for a steady, affectionate style. Heavy coat, heat sensitivity, shedding and breed-specific health research are major ownership considerations.

For the specific theme of this article, Bernese Mountain Dog should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

21. Newfoundland

A giant water-working dog often known for a gentle family reputation. Size, drool, coat care, heat management and future mobility are practical issues every owner should consider.

For the specific theme of this article, Newfoundland should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

22. Basset Hound

A low-slung scent hound with a powerful nose, moderate exercise needs and an independent streak. Owners should manage weight, ears, stairs and the breed's tendency to vocalize.

For the specific theme of this article, Basset Hound should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

23. Bullmastiff

A very powerful mastiff developed for guarding work. Many adults are comparatively calm indoors, but strength, visitor management, training and responsible socialization make experienced ownership important.

For the specific theme of this article, Bullmastiff should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

24. Rottweiler

A strong, versatile working breed that can be calm and confident with sound breeding and structured training. Early leash manners, socialization and breed-appropriate health screening are essential.

For the specific theme of this article, Rottweiler should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

25. Doberman Pinscher

A fast, athletic guardian breed that tends to work closely with its handler. It benefits from daily training, exercise and careful attention to breed-specific health screening.

For the specific theme of this article, Doberman Pinscher should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

26. German Shepherd Dog

A versatile herding and service breed known for trainability and athleticism. Breeding quality, socialization, orthopedic health and sufficient mental work strongly influence household success.

For the specific theme of this article, German Shepherd Dog should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

27. Cane Corso

A large Italian mastiff with guardian heritage and substantial physical power. Calm training, early socialization, secure management and experienced ownership are more important than creating an intimidating image.

For the specific theme of this article, Cane Corso should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

28. Boerboel

A heavy South African farm guardian with confidence and strength. Secure containment, deliberate socialization and owners comfortable managing territorial behavior are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Boerboel should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

29. Giant Schnauzer

A large, energetic working dog with strong trainability and a protective background. It needs structured exercise, mental work and regular coat maintenance.

For the specific theme of this article, Giant Schnauzer should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

30. Belgian Malinois

An exceptionally athletic, fast-learning working dog with high drive and a strong need for structured engagement. The breed is usually a poor choice for casual owners who mainly want a relaxed pet.

For the specific theme of this article, Belgian Malinois should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

31. Akita

A powerful Japanese breed often noted for independence and reserve. Early socialization, thoughtful dog-to-dog management and owners who understand less biddable temperaments are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Akita should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

32. Dogo Argentino

An athletic Argentine breed developed for large-game hunting. Physical power, prey drive, socialization and local legal or insurance restrictions require careful consideration.

For the specific theme of this article, Dogo Argentino should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

33. Cocker Spaniel

A cheerful sporting companion that combines manageable size with real activity needs. Ear care, grooming and stable temperament selection are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Cocker Spaniel should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

34. Whippet

A medium sighthound that often balances impressive sprint speed with a quiet home life. Prey drive, secure exercise and cold-weather protection deserve attention.

For the specific theme of this article, Whippet should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

35. Australian Cattle Dog

A compact but intense herding breed with stamina, intelligence and strong working instincts. It usually needs more activity and training than its size suggests.

For the specific theme of this article, Australian Cattle Dog should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

36. Bluetick Coonhound

A large American scent hound known for endurance, tracking ability and a distinctive ticked coat. Vocalization, prey drive and secure containment are major practical considerations.

For the specific theme of this article, Bluetick Coonhound should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

37. Neapolitan Mastiff

A giant guardian with massive build and characteristic loose skin. Heat, drool, orthopedic health, socialization and experienced handling deserve careful planning.

For the specific theme of this article, Neapolitan Mastiff should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

38. American Staffordshire Terrier

A muscular, people-oriented terrier-type breed. Responsible breeding, training, dog-to-dog management and awareness of housing restrictions may be relevant.

For the specific theme of this article, American Staffordshire Terrier should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

39. Staffordshire Bull Terrier

A compact, muscular terrier with a lively, people-focused reputation. Exercise, impulse control and responsible introductions to other dogs are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Staffordshire Bull Terrier should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

40. French Bulldog

A compact companion breed whose popularity has amplified concern about breathing, spinal and heat-related problems. Functional anatomy and responsible health selection should come before color or fashion.

For the specific theme of this article, French Bulldog should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

41. Shar-Pei

A distinctive Chinese breed with an independent temperament. Skin, eye and other breed-specific health issues warrant careful breeder and veterinary research.

For the specific theme of this article, Shar-Pei should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

42. Chow Chow

An independent spitz-type breed that is often reserved with strangers. Early socialization, coat care and owners comfortable with a less demonstrative temperament are important.

For the specific theme of this article, Chow Chow should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

43. Border Collie

An exceptionally trainable herding breed with intense mental and physical needs. It thrives when given purposeful work rather than exercise alone.

For the specific theme of this article, Border Collie should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

44. Australian Shepherd

An energetic, intelligent herding breed that benefits from training, socialization and regular activity. Merle breeding requires informed genetic practices.

For the specific theme of this article, Australian Shepherd should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

45. Cardigan Welsh Corgi

A sturdy low-set herding breed with surprising athleticism. Weight management, back health and sufficient activity are important despite short legs.

For the specific theme of this article, Cardigan Welsh Corgi should be judged on more than appearance or reputation. Consider daily exercise, ability to settle, social behavior, grooming, likely adult size and any breed-specific health screening recommended by recognized breed organizations. The best fit depends on the individual dog's age, health, training history and the owner's routine.

Small does not mean effortless

Small dogs still need training, enrichment, dental care and appropriate exercise. Their size can make them easier to transport, but also easier to injure through falls, rough handling or unsafe interactions with much larger dogs.

How to choose among them

Before deciding, compare the following:

• Energy: how much purposeful exercise and play can you provide every day?
• Training: do you want a highly handler-focused dog or can you manage a more independent temperament?
• Noise: barking and vocal behavior matter in apartments and close neighborhoods.
• Grooming: coat length alone does not predict maintenance; some low-shedding coats require frequent clipping.
• Health: request documentation for breed-appropriate health screening rather than relying on appearance.
• Size and strength: consider elevators, stairs, cars, veterinary transport and future old-age mobility.
• Other animals: prey drive and dog-to-dog sociability vary widely, including within a breed.

Bottom line

There is no universal “best” breed in this category. The strongest match is the dog whose temperament, exercise needs, health profile and management requirements fit the owner's real life. Use breed tendencies as a filter, then evaluate the individual dog and breeder or rescue information before making a decision.

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