What is the prettiest dog breed?
14 of the Most Adorable Small Dog Breeds
Not every cute dog is a tiny dog. But a strong argument can be made that every tiny dog is a cute one!
By Chad Taylor Updated April 26, 2022
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Purse dogs! Pocket dogs! Dogs you can carry in a BabyBjörn and outfit with sunglasses! People love small dogs for a variety of reasons. For some, it’s their functionality as ratters or hunters of small game. For others, it’s their energetic nature and love of play and discovery. But no matter why you find yourself loving tiny puppers, everyone agrees on one thing: They’re adorable!
asian woman holding two small Yorkshire Terriers
Credit: Zero Creatives / Getty
But more than just purveyors of good looks, little dogs are also practical. «As we become a more and more urban-based society, little dogs become more and more popular for apartment dwellers,» Dennis Riordan, DVM, of the Riordan Pet Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa, says. «They tend to be longer lived than larger breeds, they are generally lower maintenance in regards to grooming and feeding, and they have lower exercise requirements, which are easier to meet in places with less access to green space.»
Whether you want a lap dog, running companion, or fierce little hunter, there’s a lovable tiny dog out there just for you. And while everyone can probably chime in with their own personal favorite, here are a few that have caught our eye.
Brussels Griffon
tan brussels griffon standing in the grass
Brussels griffon puppies need early training and socialization to grow into well-mannered dogs. But these dogs live to please their people and can pick up new cues and tricks quickly.
| Credit: Okssi68 / Getty
Look at that adorable pout. These affable, curious little fellows always look like they’re slightly disgruntled at the world, but I assure you: These dogs are perfectly gruntled. Easily trained and deeply connected to their family members, Brussels griffons don’t tolerate being alone very well, so be prepared to take this little guy with you whenever possible. Or, even better, get two and they can be friends!
Chihuahua
Latin girl with her lovely dog, a white chihuahua, outdoors, in a park, on a green meadow.
Credit: javitrapero / Getty
A Chihuahua is the first dog just about anyone thinks of when you tell them to picture a tiny dog. Because they’re the tiniest! Clocking in at 5 pounds and below, Chihuahuas sometimes have a reputation for being … less than friendly. More often than not, any aggression issues are the result of a lack of training; a properly trained and socialized Chihuahua will be a loving, affable member of the family. They’re also undeniably cute. With their apple-shaped heads, round, expressive eyes and tiny stature, it’s hard not to see one and say «aww.»
Dachshund
woman walking her two dachshunds
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Easily recognized by its long body on stubby legs, the small and spunky dachshund has long been a family favorite. Though it might be hard to believe today, these wiener dogs were originally bred as hunters who crawled into badger and rabbit holes to flush out their prey. Some dachshunds are still used in hunting today, but mostly these little guys make a great, small family pet beloved by their humans.
Havanese
havanese on bridge
A brisk 30-minute walk each day is enough exercise to keep your Havanese happy. He’ll even be content—and tuckered out—with playtime at home.
| Credit: Alex / Adobe Stock
The only dog native to Cuba, the Havanese is a beautiful pup with a gorgeous silken coat that can be left shaggy, brushed smooth, or even corded. A natural born people-pleaser, the Havanese is intelligent and loves performing tricks and being the center of attention.
Japanese Chin
black-and-white japanese chin
The ancient Japanese chin has been traced back to travelers on the Silk Road, where they kept traders company.
| Credit: Brooke Jacobs / Getty
A well-socialized Japanese Chin is a sweet, fastidious dog who has been described as decidedly feline in his manner and personality. Bred as a lapdog for Eastern nobility, these little fellows are most at home on a soft couch or in your lap, so be ready for plenty of cuddle time.
American Eskimo
two american eskimo dogs wearing black jackets walking together on leash
With their fluffy white coats and black facial features, American Eskimo dogs look like mini Samoyeds.
| Credit: mauinow1 / Getty
Hold on to your britches, because this dog just keeps getting cuter. Right off the bat, the American Eskimo is a gorgeous dog with his shock of white fluffy fur, round, expressive eyes, and friendly face. These dogs are practically the dictionary definition of «people pleasers,» with a sweet, reserved personality and a deep loyalty for their family. If a standard American Eskimo (at 19 inches, 25 pounds) is too big for you, they come in a miniature version as well: 15 inches, 15 pounds. But if you wish they came in an even smaller package, just wait! Because there’s also a toy version that meets the criteria for the cutest and smallest dogs, weighing in at just 10 inches and less than 10 pounds!
Maltese
white maltese puppy taking a walk
Most owners choose to keep their Maltese’s coat cut short. Not only is it adorable, but it’s much easier to groom!
| Credit: kimrawicz / Getty
So silky. So soft. So fancy! The Maltese is the kind of dog who just looks like she should be rich. She’s blessed with a long, silky coat that you can have in any color you want, as long as that color is white. Outgoing and friendly, Maltese are long-lived companions who excel in agility competitions and make excellent show dogs, thanks to their naturally regal bearing. A breed that has benefitted from centuries of close companionship with humans, these intelligent little dogs take instruction exceptionally well, especially when paired with a treat.
The Most Beautiful Dogs on Earth
Are some dog breeds prettier than others? This question may rub some pet owners the wrong way. Just as no baby is more beautiful to a mother than her own child, the most beautiful dog is the one you have. After all, they give you company and unconditional love. Some dog lovers have a favorite dog breed, while others believe that adopting a dog is more about personality and less about looks.
The 9 most beautiful dogs in the world
Valid or not, at least for external looks, physical characteristics, and personality, there are some dog breeds that stand a cut above the rest.
Golden Retriever
In addition to undeniable physical beauty, Golden Retrievers stand out for their friendly, playful personalities. Originally bred in Scotland in the mid-nineteenth century, the breed is skilled at hunting. They are adorable puppies, and their bond with their owners’ only strengthens as the Golden Retriever becomes an adult.
In addition to being one of the most beautiful dogs, they are also popular with families. Golden Retrievers are the third most popular dog breed in the United States, fifth in Australia and eighth in the United Kingdom.
Siberian Husky
Regarding the Siberian Husky’s physical appearance, two aspects stand out: their striking resemblance to wild wolves, and their heterochromia (different colored eyes). The Siberian Husky is a noble, calm dog. The breed originated in the frigid Russian territories to hunt deer, pull sleds, and keep children warm.
Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is special because of its incredible resemblance to stuffed animals. Its bluish black tongue is another hallmark. Originating in North China, the Chow Chow is one of the few ancient breeds that still populate the planet.
Chow Chows have calm, well-balanced personalities, as long as they’re properly socialized as puppies. A feature that has made them popular with pet owners in cities is that they adapt without difficulty to life in small apartments.
Spanish Bulldog
Very popular during the time of the Spanish conquest, the Spanish Bulldog is considered a faithful, hardworking animal, useful as a war dog and a cattle guardian.
But if there is anything that makes Spanish Bulldogs unique, it is their bravery. There are many stories and legends of conflicts between the breed and large animals, such as wild boars, which they fought fearlessly, risking their own lives to protect their masters.
In the twentieth century, Spanish Bulldogs became less common and were at risk of extinction.
Their strong, serious bearing may not make them the most physically graceful breed, but Spanish Bulldogs’ loyalty, bravery and fidelity elevate them to levels worthy of recognition.
Beagle
This breed, originally from the United Kingdom, became popular due to its incredible sense of smell. Beagles are very useful in tracking rabbits and other animals on hunting missions. Today, Beagles continue to work around the world, mainly as detection dogs. But the Beagle is also cheerful, very sociable and physically graceful.
For centuries, beagles have been featured in art.
Rough Collie
While the Beagle might be an extra in movies and television, the Rough Collie is the star, thanks to the famous character Lassie.
For many people, The Rough Collie is one of the most beautiful dogs in the world. Collies are also very intelligent, which means they learn at a speed that puts other dog breeds to shame.
Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is a spectacular breed. They commonly have thick, black fur, although there are also brown and white varieties that have black spots.
Native to Canada, Newfoundlands are the best dogs at taking care of young children. Throughout history, they have been used as work dogs in many ways. Newfoundland dogs are excellent swimmers, often used in search and rescue missions. They have helped save thousands of people around the world.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian owes their name to the Pomerania region of East Germany and Poland, from which they originated. Despite their small size, Pomeranians are protective of their owners, no matter the dangers or their physical disadvantages.
Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is a very popular breed thanks to movies and television. The breed’s unmistakable black and white spots have earned them a place among the most beautiful dogs in the world. In the nineteenth century, the English aristocracy deemed Dalmatians noble, elegant dogs.
The contents of My Animals are written for informational purposes. They can’t replace the diagnosis, advice, or treatment from a professional. In the case of any doubt, it’s best to consult a trusted specialist.
