30 Gentle Small Dog Breeds
Small dog breeds are known for their charm, adaptability, and suitability for apartment living. They often have big personalities packed into petite packages. They’re loyal and protective of their family pack. And they’re smart and usually easy to train. And despite their size, the largest dog breeds in the world can be among the gentlest, calm, and loving pets. The American Kennel Club recently announced purebred puppy registration numbers from the previous year. Here, we’ll explore 30 gentle small dog breeds that make wonderful companions for families, singles, and seniors alike.
10 Gentle Small Dog Breeds in India
The individuals living in an apartment or condominiums need to think of the pet’s size before buying the small dogs in India. India has a rich canine heritage, and many small dog breeds have found their home here. These pocket-sized cuddly dogs would lighten and brighten your day and the best part is, they will remain adorable like puppies all their lives. Here are 10 gentle small dog breeds that are popular in India:
Pomeranian:
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Pomeranians are cheerful and intelligent little furry friends, interested in everything that goes on around them. Plus, they make great watchdogs! When properly trained, they can master an abundance of charming tricks. Known for their fluffy coats and vibrant personalities, Pomeranians are popular companion dogs in India. They are adaptable to both the city and quiet life and enjoy playing and short walks. Regular grooming is important for their double coat, as is regular dental care.
Shih Tzu:
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The Shih Tzu, which translates as “little lion”, is a toy breed, popular with families for their outgoing, affectionate, and particularly playful natures. These affectionate dogs with their distinct pushed-in faces are a favorite among Indian dog lovers. They are loyal and affectionate to their human family. These pint-sized pups love to curl up on their owner’s lap for a cuddle and thrive on the affection and attention of their humans.
Beagle:
Beagles are friendly and curious and make great family pets. They are well-loved in Indian households. Beagles are gentle, social, and fun-loving dogs. They like to be in the company of their canine or human family. They are active and can happily adjust to other pets in the family. Regular vet visits are always better to know your dog’s health condition.
Dachshund:
The Dachshund is an unmistakable breed that comes in miniature and standard sizes and a multitude of colors. They are extremely good-looking and amusing dogs. They love nothing more than curling up under a blanket with their owners and they enjoy the company of other dogs, especially other Dachshunds. Their playful nature and distinctive long bodies make Dachshunds a cherished small breed in India.
French Bulldog:
With their endearing expressions and easy-going temperament, French Bulldogs have gained popularity in India. The French Bulldog has a small to medium stature and a lean and muscular build, with a large head and short legs. They have proven a popular choice for families and people living in apartments. A playful, friendly, and reliable dog with a good reputation for playing nice with kids, it is an energetic and loyal companion. French Bulldogs are also known for their strong bond with their owners and can become quite attached.
Chihuahua:
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Smart, brave, and loving, this breed will earn—and demand—your respect. Chihuahuas are protective (or overprotective) of their pet parents. These tiny dogs with big attitudes are adored for their loyalty and portability in Indian cities. The breed adapts well to apartment living and is very loyal to its owner. With their playful personalities and affectionate nature,
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:
“Most dogs of this breed are quiet, gentle, love people, and get along with other dogs. ”Known for their affectionate nature, these small spaniels are a favorite among Indian dog owners. This small breed thrives on affection – it is suitable as both a companion dog and a lapdog. The breed interacts well with other pets and small children. They are very gentle, kind, and good-natured, love human contact, and need a good deal of it to thrive.
Pug:
Pugs, with their wrinkled faces and charming personalities, are one of the most loved small dog breeds in India. The Pug gained popularity in the 19th century thanks to Queen Victoria. She had several Pugs that she bred herself. The involvement of Queen Victoria with dogs inspired the creation of The Kennel Club in 1873, which is acknowledged as the first kennel club in the world. The life expectancy of the Pug is 12 to 15 years.
Maltese:
Highly trainable and possessed of a strong desire to please, you’ll find the Maltese pick up nearly perfect doggy manners in no time at all! Their elegant appearance and sweet demeanor make Maltese dogs popular among Indian families. The gentle, charming, and glamorous Maltese dog weighs less than seven pounds and is part of the toy group. Both the ancient Romans and Greeks mentioned the Maltese Dog in their literature.
Cocker Spaniel:
These gentle and friendly dogs are cherished companions in many Indian households. They are affectionate dogs that often form strong bonds with their human companions. They have moderate to high energy levels and enjoy regular exercise and playtime. This breed may need professional grooming from time to time. They have a beautiful, silky coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles.
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20 Gentle Small Dog Breeds in the World
Small dog breeds from around the world bring their unique qualities to the table. If you’re looking for a companion to add to your family or an intelligent watchdog, there’s a small dog breed that fits the bill. There are lots of fantastic small dog breeds available, and most of them make wonderful companion animals. Here are 20 small dog breeds known for their gentle disposition:
1. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, lively, and devoted breed with a friendly and outgoing personality. The breed requires daily brushing and occasional baths to keep them looking their best. Shih Tzus require little exercise, so they are fine with short walks and indoor playtime. They are loyal and affectionate and crave attention from their family. They can be playful and energetic but also gentle and calm.
2. Havanese
Adjectives like playful and alert might not seem to fit into the calm dog breeds category, but the Havanese bestows a healthy balance of mellow and playful. It is very social and makes a wonderful city dog. Two of the more famous people who had Havanese are Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway. They are gentle and loving and enjoy spending quality time with their families. They are usually friendly with people and other animals, though they may be wary of strangers.
3. Papillon
Papillons are very loyal and devoted to their owners and love to be the center of attention. They do best in a home where they will be given plenty of love and attention. It is one of the popular small breed dogs in India that long for a human companion. The dog will be very upset if left alone. It is ideal for tiny apartment rooms as well. Papillons require very little grooming, including occasional combing and baths. They are active, intelligent dogs that enjoy playtime and outdoor activities.
4. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, white, non-shedding, hypoallergenic dog that is popular as a family pet. They are also known for their strong desire for human interaction and companionship. This is a beautiful small dog breed that resembles a children’s soft toy. They look lovely, affectionate, and playful in nature. They are intelligent and easily trained.
5. Bolognese
The Bolognese is a small toy breed known for its charming personality, intelligence, and beautiful white coat. The Bolognese is a friendly companion dog with a compact body and a fluffy white coat. Originally from Italy, they are calm, playful, and loving people. Hailing from Bologna, Italy, Bolognese are small, fluffy dogs with wild white hair. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train.
6. Coton de Tulear
The Coton de Tulear is a small toy breed known for its fluffy, cotton-like coat and cheerful personality. The cuddly and slightly clownish Coton De Tulear dog breed is a member of the non-sporting group, standing at approximately nine to 11 inches tall and weighing between eight and 15 pounds. They are generally good with children and tend to be patient and gentle. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques.
7. Italian Greyhound
They are good with children and other pets, provided they are properly socialized. They are generally laid-back and tolerant but can be energetic and playful when the mood strikes them. Their coat is short and low-maintenance. Regular brushing and occasional baths are usually sufficient to keep them clean and healthy.
8. Cairn Terrier
The Cairn Terrier is a small terrier breed known for its spunky personality, intelligence, and wiry coat. They are intelligent dogs with a keen sense of curiosity. They can be quick learners and benefit from mental challenges and interactive play. Cairn Terriers are often social and may enjoy the company of other dogs. Their coat is coarse and requires regular brushing to prevent matting.
9. Japanese Chin
The Japanese chin is a charming toy companion known for its aristocratic appearance and feline-like characteristics. With a silky coat and graceful demeanor, this lapdog is quiet and particular. Despite their elegant looks, Japanese chins are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. With a long, silky coat and expressive eyes that give them a look of wonder.
10. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent, active, and alert breed. They can be quite territorial and protective of their family, making them excellent watchdogs. They are also very intelligent and love to learn new things. Miniature Schnauzers are typically social dogs that enjoy being around people and other pets. They often form strong bonds with their human companions.
11. Toy Poodle
The toy poodle may be small in size, but it is a true aristocrat of the dog world. This breed is popular for its fancy and stylish looks. They are available in white, apricot, black, cream, brown, gray, and silver color options. Toy poodles are highly intelligent and trainable, thriving in positive and fun routines. They are available in three categories Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Poodles are energetic, athletic, and smart dogs with remarkable versatility.
12. West Highland White Terrier
They are independent and intelligent, making them ideal for those looking for a loyal companion. Westies are also very affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are friendly to both humans and animals and are great with children. They are loyal and loving and make great family pets.
13. Pekingese
The Pekingese is a loyal, dignified, and independent breed of dog. If your family is looking for a small, sweet, fluffy, cuddly breed with a less-than-stellar athletic prowess, then the Pekingese might be the perfect match for you. They do not require a lot of exercise and can adapt to a variety of living spaces. They can be quite vocal and bark at strangers, but they are generally good with other pets and children when properly socialized.
14. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels griffon is a small toy dog with a big personality. They are smart, devoted, and comically self-important. These small dogs are equally happy to exercise and be a little couch tater tot. With their human-like eyes and distinctive beards, they have an air of wisdom. Griffs come in different colors and have two coat types: smooth and rough. The Brussels Griffon is an alert watchdog and will bark to alert their family of any potential danger.
15. Affenpinscher
Originating in Germany, Affenpinschers were developed to be house pets. They are naturally stubborn and independent. Because they don’t have a desire to respond to commands like a working dog. Their medium-length, wiry coat requires regular grooming to maintain its neat but shaggy appearance. They do well with apartment living but enjoy walks and indoor play.
16. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a hypoallergenic dog that also has a hairless variation. The hairless Chinese Crested dogs mostly have concentrated hair on their face and tails. It is also common to hear them called Powderpuff because of their puff coats. Grooming is essential to maintain their skin health and coat condition. They enjoy short walks and playtime with their owners and surprisingly do well in agility and obedience.
17. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is a charming breed known for its distinctive appearance, gentle nature, and excellent sense of smell. They like to be around humans, even if you’re simply sharing the sofa in the evening. Plus, they’re great with children thanks to their sweet nature. They are known for their loose, wrinkled skin and short legs. They can be intelligent dogs, but they also have a bit of an independent streak.
18. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers present a nice blend of humorous charm and sophistication. They are a smart, alert, and high-energy breed but also enjoy hanging around the home with their family. Many Boston Terriers have adorable nose wrinkles, which should be wiped frequently to keep dirt and dust away. Boston Terriers are a breed that is highly trainable, making them easily amenable to learning proper pooch manners.
19. Lhasa Apso
‘Lhasa Apso’ is native to Tibet, where they were often referred to as watchdogs. In modern times they are well adapted to apartment living. They have leadership qualities and can be left alone at home to guard when you are not around. If you are a first-time pet parent, you will have a good experience.
20. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire terrier may be small and elegant, but it has the spirit of a feisty terrier. Originally bred as ratters, these compact toy-size dogs now flaunt long, silky coats. But don’t be fooled by their daintiness—Yorkies are tenacious, brave, and bossy. They make popular companions for city dwellers and are excellent watchdogs.