Most Popular Small Dog Breeds
Small dog breeds have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide, offering companionship, charm, and adaptability to various lifestyles. In 2023, certain breeds have garnered exceptional popularity on a global scale. From India to Canada, these pint-sized companions have become beloved family members in households around the world. In this article, we’ll explore the 20 most popular small dog breeds of 2023, highlighting their unique traits, suitability for different regions, and why they’ve won the hearts of so many.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a small dog breed that originated in Tibet. They are known for their distinctive appearance, with a long, flowing coat, and a keen, intelligent expression. Lhasa Apsos have a small, sturdy frame with a double coat. They can be reserved around strangers but are generally loyal and affectionate with their families. Lhasa Apsos live between 12 to 15 years, though some can live even longer with proper care.
Bedlington Terriers
Bedlington Terriers are a unique and charming breed known for their distinctive appearance and lively personalities. They have a distinctive pear-shaped head, arched back, and a thick, curly coat that is typically blue, liver, or sandy in color. They are known for being affectionate, intelligent, and energetic. Bedlington Terriers live between 12 to 16 years, though some can live even longer with proper care.
Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated in Japan. They are known for their spirited and independent nature, as well as their fox-like appearance. They have a fox-like face with triangular eyes, small ears, and a curled tail. Adult Shiba Inus typically stand about 13.5 to 16.5 inches (35 to 42 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 17 to 23 pounds (7.5 to 10.5 kg). Shiba Inus live between 12 to 15 years, though some can live even longer with proper care.
Silky Terrier
The Silky Terrier, also known as the Australian Silky Terrier or simply the Silky, is a small, elegant breed known for its beautiful, silky coat and lively personality. Adult Silky Terriers typically stand about 9 to 10 inches (23 to 25 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 8 to 11 pounds (3.5 to 5 kg). They tend to be good with families and get along well with children and other pets. Silky Terriers live between 12 to 15 years, though some can live even longer with proper care.
Russian Toy
The Russian Toy, also known as the Russkiy Toy or Russian Toy Terrier, is a small toy breed known for its delicate appearance, intelligence, and lively personality. They have a fine-boned, elegant frame with a refined head, large expressive eyes, and large ears that can be either erect or semi-erect. They are known for being lively, intelligent, and affectionate. Russian Toys are often described as spirited and loyal.
Pekingese
The Pekingese is a small toy breed known for its distinctive lion-like mane, regal appearance, and affectionate nature. Pekingese have a compact, low-slung body with a broad, flat face and a flowing double coat that comes in various colors. They are intelligent dogs, but they can also be quite stubborn and have an independent streak. They are generally clean dogs and tend to groom themselves like cats.
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a small-sized terrier breed known for its distinctive beard and eyebrows, as well as its lively and intelligent personality. They are known for their bushy eyebrows and beard. They are known for being intelligent, alert, and spirited. Many owners choose to have their Miniature Schnauzers professionally groomed. They also require routine tasks like nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care.
Basenji
The Basenji is a unique and ancient dog breed known for its elegant appearance, distinctive “barkless” nature, and independent personality. Basenjis are intelligent but also have an independent streak, which can make them a bit more challenging to train compared to some other breeds. They are known for their speed and agility, and they excel in activities like lure coursing.
Bolognese
The Bolognese is a small toy dog breed known for its charming appearance, affectionate nature, and gentle temperament. Bolognese dogs have a compact and square-shaped body with a distinctive white, fluffy coat that is soft and cotton-like. They are known for being affectionate, playful, and intelligent. Bolognese are often described as cheerful and charming, and they form strong bonds with their families.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, often referred to as the “Scottie,” is a small, dignified terrier breed known for its distinctive appearance and spirited personality. They are also loyal and affectionate with their families, but they can be reserved around strangers. Scottish Terriers live between 11 to 13 years, though some can live even longer with proper care.
Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher, often referred to as the “Min Pin,” is a small but energetic breed known for its bold personality and resemblance to the larger Doberman Pinscher. They have a high energy level and enjoy playtime, walks, and activities that challenge their minds. Their short coat requires minimal grooming.
Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a graceful and elegant breed known for its slender build, affectionate nature, and love for companionship. They have a short, fine coat that comes in various colors, including blue, fawn, red, and black. Italian Greyhounds live between 12 to 15 years, though some can live even longer with proper care. They can adapt well to various living situations, including families, singles, seniors, and apartment dwellers.
Havanese
The Havanese is a small, affectionate dog breed known for its lively personality, silky coat, and friendly disposition. They come in various colors including white, cream, black, chocolate, and more. Adult Havanese typically stand about 8.5 to 11.5 inches (22 to 29 cm) tall at the shoulder and weigh between 7 to 13 pounds (3 to 6 kg). They are known for being friendly, social, and intelligent
Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons have a compact, square-shaped body with a distinctive pushed-in face. They form strong bonds with their families and can be quite playful. They are also generally good with children and other pets. Brussels Griffons live between 12 to 15 years, though some can live even longer with proper care. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are important to keep them happy and healthy.
Maltese
Most Popular Small Dog Breeds in the World
The right small dog for you depends on what you are looking for in personality, grooming commitment, and activity level. If you’re on the hunt for a small dog, you’re in luck. We’ve compiled a robust list of some of the smallest dog breeds. Some of the dogs on this list would surprise you with their feisty attitudes and fearless nature. Canines may come in all shapes and sizes, but the fashion for small dog breeds has reportedly ballooned in recent years. Here are ten of the best small dog breeds to consider.
- Papillion
- Pekingese
- Pomeranian
- Pug
- Schnoodle
- Scottish Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Toy Poodle
- Welsh Corgi
- Yorkshire terrier
- West Highland white terrier
- Chihuahua
- Dachshund
- French Bulldog
- Havanese
- Italian Greyhound
- Jack Russell
- Lhasa Apso
- Maltese
- Australian Terrier
Most Popular Small Dog Breeds in India
Whether you’re looking for a first-time companion or another furry friend to add to your family, a small dog might be the right choice. Some breeds tend to boast outgoing and bold personalities whereas others are laidback and enjoy independence. There are pros and cons with each toy dog breed, and it’s best to do your research into the dog you’re considering bringing into the family. Here’s a look at the most popular small dog breeds, and what makes each one so special.
- Lhasa Apso
- Maltese
- Shih Tzu
- Pomeranian
- French Bulldog
- Chihuahua
- Dachshund
- Pug
- Beagle
- Miniature Poodle
- Papillon
- Havanese
- Shiba Inu
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Cocker Spaniel
Most Popular Small Dog Breeds UK
The most popular small dog breed in the UK In 2021 was the French Bulldog. According to the American Kennel Club, the adorable French Bulldog had more registrations than all of the other small-breed dogs. Explanations for this fashion include petite pets’ lower cost of living and these breeds being better adapted to urban environments. Some of these breeds still need a lot of care, exercise, and attention. Here, we will go over the list of the most popular small-breed dogs UK.
Most Popular Small Dog Breeds Australia
Small in stature but not in personality, there is a reason toy dog breeds are popular among dog owners. Small & toy dog breeds arrived in the United States in the 19th century, and in 1885, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the first small dog breed, the fox terrier, and the love for small dogs. Many dog owners find it easier to handle a smaller dog, as they tend to need less exercise and can be easily managed inside a small living space.
- Australian Silky Terrier
- Australian Terrier
- Basenji
- Jack Russell
- Lhasa Apso
- Maltese
- Shih Tzu
- Miniature Bull Terrier
- Miniature Dachshund
- Miniature Pinscher
- Mini Schnauzer
- Papillion
- Pekingese
- Pomeranian
- Scottish Terrier
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Most Popular Small Dog Breeds Canada
In Canada, a diverse range of small dog breeds has captured the hearts of dog lovers across the country. Perhaps a smaller dog is what you need, but keep in mind that a smaller stature does not mean a smaller attitude. These pint-sized companions are cherished for their adaptability to various living situations, friendly dispositions, and suitability for Canadian lifestyles. All pint-sized pups are the same—and a smaller dog isn’t necessarily easier to care for from a temperament perspective. Here are some of the most popular small dog breeds in Canada:
- Bichon Frise
- Pomeranian
- French Bulldog
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Shih Tzu
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Dachshund
- Chihuahua
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Italian Greyhound
- Maltese
- Pug
- Basenji
- Bichon Frise
- Boston Terrier
20 Most Popular Small Dog Breeds 2023
Small breeds are beloved by many for their small, convenient size and their affectionate, devoted temperaments. As of 2023, various small dog breeds have captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. From pups with short legs to teacup doggies, one of these popular small dog breeds might just be the newest member of your family. These pint-sized companions offer a perfect blend of charm, adaptability, and companionship. Here are the 20 most popular small dog breeds of 2023:
- French Bulldog
- Chihuahua
- Pomeranian
- Dachshund
- Shih Tzu
- Pug
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Bichon Frise
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Maltese
- Cocker Spaniel
- Jack Russell Terrier
- Miniature Poodle
- Papillon
- Havanese
- Boston Terrier
- Cairn Terrier
- Coton de Tulear
- Pekingese
Conclusion:
In 2023, small dog breeds continue to capture the hearts of dog enthusiasts around the world. Whether it’s the playful French Bulldog or the regal Shih Tzu, these pint-sized companions offer boundless love and companionship. These small dogs are some of the most enjoyable dogs to own because they are as easygoing as they are easy to get around. By understanding the unique traits and regional preferences, we can appreciate why these 20 small dog breeds have earned their status as the most popular of the year.