Are you hoping to get a dog but don't want anything large? If you'd prefer a smaller dog or live in a smaller space that can't accommodate a big dog, here are 15 small dog breeds that our Tucson vets often recommend.
15 Dog Breeds That Stay Small Forever
Perhaps you have a heart for small dogs or you live in a smaller apartment. Either way, our vets at Pet Doctor in Tucson would love to help you find the perfect dog for you and your family. Below is our list of the top 15 cutest dog breeds that will stay small forever.
1. Dachshund (Mini)
Miniature dachshunds are known for their playful and affectionate temperaments. They measure up to 6 inches at the shoulder and have good watchdog traits. This breed is also child-friendly.
You'll find mini dachshunds have three different coat types: smooth or short, long-hair and wire.
2. Affenpinscher
Often called the 'little black devil' dog, the Affenpinscher was bred to hunt rodents.
These small, terrier-like dogs with wire-haired coats often seem to act like much larger dogs than they actually are. The Affenpinscher is well-liked for its curious temperament and mischievous character.
3. Boston Terrier
Though they were originally bred to be fighting dogs, today's Boston Terriers are often gentle and affectionate companions to their owners.
Weighing in at less than 25 pounds, the Boston Terrier's unique tuxedo coat means it walks around in style, often charming everyone in its path.
At our two veterinary clinic locations in Tucson, we provide a wide range of services your Boston Terrier will need to live a happy, healthy life from puppyhood to mature adult dog, including wellness exams to keep their health in check.
4. Chihuahua
Make no mistake - this pup's diminutive frame belies its powerful personality.
The smallest dog breed in the world is known for its loyalty, enthusiasm and confidence. Watch out - they often consider themselves heads of their respective households!
5. Alaskan Klee Kai
A relatively new breed of dog, the Alaskan Klee Kai's name is an Inuit term that translates as "small dog".
This Spitz-type intelligent and energetic breed closely resembles a smaller version of the Siberian Husky and an adult only weighs in at 15 pounds.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
A gentle and affectionate toy dog breed, the King Charles thrives in a family atmosphere.
These dogs can easily adapt to any living situation thanks to their versatility, and this miniaturization of sporting spaniels are both easy to housetrain and friendly to all.
Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel will need vaccinations and parasite prevention to keep them as healthy as possible. Don't forget to book your four-legged friend's vaccination appointments at one of our two Tucson veterinary hospitals.
7. Pomeranian
These dogs' delightfully dainty appearance and outgoing character is helped by the fact that royal patronage (such as Queen Victoria) played a role in popularizing Pomeranians.
A diminutive breed, the Pomeranian can be exceptionally loyal to its owners, making it a great combination of cuddly companion and watchdog who enjoys both playing indoors and venturing outside for shorter excursions.
Fun fact: Pomeranians weren't always this small. Earlier records of the breed reveal an average weight of 30 pounds - ten times greater than what the breed usually weighs today. Years of breeding has seen Pomeranians evolve from a medium-sized breed to a small companion dog.
At our Tucson animal hospital, we offer the services you'll need to help your Pomeranian get off to a good start, from regularly scheduled exams to diagnostics and more.
8 - Pug
Originally bred to be lap dogs by the Shang Dynasty, Pugs have taken the responsibility of being companion dogs for over two thousand years. Like Pomeranians, they weren’t always this small, though. After Pugs were imported to the Netherlands from China, the breeder intentionally bred Pugs to make them smaller.
9 - Havanese
The Havanese is a member of the Bichon family and officially the national dog of Cuba.
This compact canine is not only a loving addition to any family, this energetic breed also useful for playing the role of a watchdog.
10 - Papillon
Sometimes referred to as the butterfly dog because of their ears, the Papillon is a highly trainable companion dog.
They are easy to train and become comfortable with completing virtually any task their owners give them. With high energy and a friendly character, Papillons get along well with other pets and strangers.
11 - Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is a hypoallergenic breed and one of the smallest terrier-type dogs. The breed standard is set for a maximum weight of 7 lbs. Even though Yorkies are a very small breed, they keep many of the Terrier characteristics. Being brave, feisty and bossy is in their nature.
There is also the Teacup Yorkie – this is just a Yorkshire Terrier specifically bred to be small. Teacup Yorkies weigh only two to four pounds and stand between five and seven inches tall.
12 - Pekingese
This breed was a favorite in Peking's Imperial palace and these small-scale dogs still retain a regal dignity.
Weighing no more than 12 pounds, their small size makes them a good choice for apartment life, although Pekingese do enjoy regular walks.
13 - Miniature Pinscher
While originally used for pest control, the "King of Toys" now enjoys life at the center of families.
These sturdy, compact dogs are well-known for their distinctly high-stepping gait, and vocal abilities, making Miniature Pinschers wonderful watchdogs.
14 - Schipperke
This Flemish barge dog, whose name means 'Little Skipper', was originally bred to be a watchdog and rat catcher on the river barges.
Small, foxlike and enthusiastic Schipperkes are known for their willful attitudes and distinctive matt-black coats.
15 - Shiba Inu
A National Monument of Japan, where their name translates as "small dog", these dogs were originally bred to hunt small game.
With their alert and attentive characters, and their meme-friendly handsome faces, these are increasingly popular companion dog around the world.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.