As a dog enthusiast, it’s only natural to be beyond excited about bringing a new pup home to experience the joy it brings to your life, and you to theirs.
That said, if you live in a home that an estate agent might charitably describe as ‘’cosy’’, then it’s also only natural that the arrival of the latest canine member of the family might bring with it a fair amount of trepidation.
‘’Which beloved ornament is getting knocked over first?’’, ‘’Whose spot on the sofa is getting usurped next?’’ and ‘’Will I really be just as comfortable sitting on the floor’’ are all natural concerns as you welcome home your new pup, anxious about whether you’ve chosen the best breed to fit your lifestyle.
But while bigger canines are undoubtedly fun to play around with and offer loads of affection, if you’re concerned about space at home, then don’t discount the little guys. Smaller dogs make up for their tiny size with a huge dose of personality. They love ferociously and are just as eager to please and be helpful as a Mastiff or Rottie.
So, before you make up your mind, check out our list of ten pint-sized pooches famous for their unique attitudes. Here are 10 small dog breeds with huge personalities.
Mini Dachshund
If you’ve been looking at Mini Dachshund puppies for sale and are considering whether their one-of-a-kind nature fits your home, then you’ll no doubt have already fallen in love with their characteristically elongated bodies, huge eyes, and uniquely wide paws.
These dogs have an astounding history involving their larger counterparts hunting down badgers in underground burrows. Looking at these little sausages on legs, it might be hard to believe, but if you research the standard-size doxie, you’ll see they can weigh upwards of 15 kilograms. A formidable force indeed!
The good news is most of today’s Dachshunds are all about play. They still have a lot of energy to burn, but remember that their short legs aren’t designed for long runs; a simple stroll around the garden may often suit them better
Read: How to ensure that your garden is safe for your new puppy
Bichon Frise
Another pooch well-known for having an adorable personality is the Bichon Frise. This breed is not only intelligent but determined to bond with you, which makes them especially charming and sociable toward strangers, pets, and in public situations. You’ll love their fluffy coats since they are hypoallergenic and don’t shed much compared to other dogs.
Maltese
Sure, you probably already love the long flowing coat of the Maltese that makes it seem to float across floors as it trots, and that’s great, as these little guys thrive on attention. This is one of the friendliest furry friends you could ever own. Whether you have cats, a large family or like to go for public walks, this dog will enjoy every moment. Of course, dogs that get this attached can suffer from separation anxiety, so make sure you are available to give them the attention they need.
Read: 10 of the best dog-friendly hotels in the UK
Pug
If you love Shar Peis but simply don’t have the space, consider a Pug! This short canine has all the cute wrinkles you love and a hilarious sense of grandiosity about them. That’s right, these guys don’t understand how small they are, which can make for hilarious antics when playing. These dogs thrive on companionship and come with their own funny sound effects because of their smooshed snout.
Chihuahua
It’s hard to think of any other breed than the Chihuahua when considering small dogs with huge personalities. These little pups are ridiculously popular because of their size and attitudes. While they love to play, be dressed up, and shown off, they can also be territorial and impatient.
If you decide to get one of these adorable friends, make sure to train and socialise it to reduce the risk of it nipping at strangers and kids.
Toy Poodle
If you worry that small dogs just don’t have a high level of athleticism, think again. The Toy Poodle loves to exercise and perform agility games for fun. Like their larger counterparts, minis are ready to play. Because they have high intelligence, like the standard, training is a rewarding experience for these little guys. So, even though they average about 6 pounds, they have a ton to offer you and your family.
Boston Terrier
If you want a playful, friendly, low-maintenance pup, look no further than the Boston Terrier. Also known as “the American Gentleman,” Bosties are famous for being good-natured and attention-seeking. However, if you scold them, they might pout for a while because their feelings are hurt.
These small companions love to exercise and chew, so if you decide to add one to your home, make sure you have plenty of chewies and toys around for entertainment when you’re busy. Also, be warned; Boston Terriers are infamously picky eaters. Just sayin’
Russell Terrier
Russell Terriers are sharp little pooches with a long history of hunting and sports. Their intelligence is wickedly sharp compared to other breeds making them ideal for a variety of tasks. If you’re an outdoors person, you’ll enjoy having one of these dogs along to play fetch, hunt rodents, and more. Of course, canines with this level of energy need regular exercise and stimulation.
Shih Tzu
If you want a dog with a chillax personality, Shih Tzus have long been the go-to animal companion to act as a friend, lap warmer, and a family favourite. This breed has roots dating back a millennia in Tibet and is happy to hang around the house more than racing through a park. This canine only gets a little heavier than 8 – 16 pounds. So, these are smaller than Chihuahuas but are still small enough to be easily managed in an apartment or condo.
Pomeranian
Rounding out today’s list of personable small dog breeds is the Pomeranian. These dogs have been a favourite of royalty and everyday families for hundreds of years. With their poofy coats and fox-like faces, their energy is palpable in everything they do.
They love to play and will also let you know when someone’s approaching your home, even if you already know your guest has arrived. Fortunately, a quick jaunt around the block is enough to wear them out and help burn off this drive for a few hours.
The Bottom Line
With any dog, always consider the pros and cons of the breed you bring into your home, but with small dogs in particular, it’s essential to bear in mind that they are more fragile. One wrong jump off of a couch or lap could mean a trip to the vet. If you have small children, teaching them proper handling to avoid injury to both them and your dog will be especially important.
But with all that said and done, small dogs can be some of the most adorable additions to the family you could dream of. Now, shall we see you when you’re next out on your walkies together? Oh, go on…