Which Small Dog Breed is Best to Keep?

Alright, let’s just cut to the chase because honestly, anyone who tells you there’s one single, definitive “best” small dog breed? They’re selling you something. Or maybe they just haven’t lived enough. Because “best” is… well, it’s a feeling, isn’t it? It’s about the fit. Like finding your favorite worn-out t-shirt or that one coffee mug that just feels right in your hands. What’s best for me curled up on the sofa might be an absolute nightmare for you who wants a pint-sized hiking buddy. So, the real answer, the honest-to-dog answer, is: it depends entirely on you. Your life. Your couch. Your patience level with questionable housebreaking decisions. Your willingness to embrace being followed into the bathroom by a creature the size of a loaf of bread.

But okay, you want names. You want ideas. You want someone to spill the tea on these little furry enigmas. Fine. Let’s talk about a few contenders, shall we? And let’s talk about them from the trenches, not from some glossy breed book.

Take the Chihuahua. Oh, the Chihuahua. Mention this breed and you get reactions, right? They’re the Marmite of the dog world. People picture a trembling, yappy little thing constantly shivering in a sparkly sweater. And okay, some might fit that stereotype, especially if they’re not properly socialized (which, sadly, is too often the case). But I’ve known Chihuahuas. I’ve lived with a Chihuahua, briefly. And let me tell you, beneath that tiny, fragile-looking exterior beats the heart of a lion. Or at least, a highly opinionated badger. My Aunt Carol’s little Peanut – yeah, full name was Peanutbutter, don’t ask – wasn’t yappy, she was a guard dog. A tiny, four-pound bundle of pure, unadulterated attitude. She’d bark at the wind, bark at the mailman (classic), bark at her own shadow if it moved too fast. But dear god, was she devoted. Fiercely, utterly loyal to Aunt Carol. Sat on her lap like she was protecting the Queen jewels. Portable? Absolutely. You could tuck her into a tote bag (responsibly, of course!). Apartment living? Perfect, if you can manage the noise level when they decide something outside is Offensive. Low-shedding? Not really. Tiny hairs everywhere. Trainability? Depends on the specific dog’s stubbornness quotient. Peanutbutter trained Aunt Carol, not the other way around. So, if you want a fierce, portable shadow who thinks you hung the moon and will defend you from rogue dust bunnies? A well-adjusted Chihuahua might be your soulmate. Just don’t expect them to be a pushover.

Then there are the Yorkshire Terriers. The Yorkie. These guys look like they should be living in a Beverly Hills mansion, carried around in a diamond-studded purse. And yes, they have that cascade of glorious, high-maintenance hair. Grooming? Get ready to invest in brushes, tiny hair ties, and potentially a very patient groomer. This isn’t a wash-and-go kind of breed, unless you shave them down, which some people do. But strip away the丝绸 (silk, sorry, brain went there) coat, and what do you have? A terrier. A real, actual terrier. Bred to hunt rats! My neighbor’s Yorkie, Buster, was a whirlwind of energy. He’d chase squirrels up trees with the intensity of a much larger dog. He had that typical terrier spunk, that independent streak. Smart? Yes. Curious? Incessantly. High energy for their size? Oh yeah. They need walks, playtime, mental stimulation, or they invent their own fun (often involving chewing or digging, see: terrier). Companion dog? Definitely, they bond closely with their families. Low-shedding? Sort of, their hair is more like human hair, so it falls out differently and can be better for some allergy sufferers (hypoallergenic is a complex term, remember, it’s dander, not hair, that’s the main culprit, and no dog is truly 100% hypoallergenic for everyone). But if you’re looking for a small dog with sass, courage, and don’t mind dedicating time to coat care, a Yorkie could be fantastic. They are not fragile lap warmers only. Don’t be fooled by the bows.

What about the Poodle? The Toy or Miniature Poodle, specifically, to keep it small. Ah, the Poodle. Brains for days. Seriously. Sometimes I think they’re smarter than me. They pick things up so fast it’s almost unsettling. This trainability makes them incredibly versatile. Agility, obedience, therapy work – Poodles can do it all. And they are, genuinely, one of the most low-shedding breeds out there. This is a massive plus for many people, especially those with allergies. But again, that coat. It grows continuously, like wool. Grooming is not optional. It’s frequent, and it can be expensive if you use a professional groomer. Neglect it, and you get mats that turn into felt, which is painful for the dog and requires shaving. Poodles also need mental stimulation; that big brain needs a job! A bored Poodle can become a mischievous Poodle. Energy level can vary – Toy Poodles might be a bit more laid-back than Minis, but they all need exercise and playtime. They are also known for being sensitive and bonding deeply with their people. If you want a highly intelligent, highly trainable, low-shedding companion and are prepared for the significant grooming commitment, a Poodle is hard to beat. They are not just frou-frou show dogs; they are incredibly capable and loving pets.

Then there’s the Dachshund. The Wiener Dog. The little long guys. Just looking at them makes me smile. Those ears! Those eyes! That ridiculous, wonderful shape! Dachshunds were bred to hunt badgers in their dens, which tells you everything you need to know about their personality. They are brave (sometimes foolishly so), independent, and can be incredibly stubborn. Training? Ah, they understand perfectly what you want them to do, they just need to be convinced it’s their idea. Patience, consistency, and a good sense of humor are required. Barking? Yeah, they tend to be barkers. That deep chest makes for a surprisingly booming sound for their size. Energy level? Moderate, they enjoy walks and playtime but are equally happy snuggling on the sofa (they are champion burrowers under blankets). Back issues are a major concern for the breed (Intervertebral Disc Disease – IVDD), so managing their weight and avoiding stairs or jumping is crucial. This isn’t just a potential health problem; it’s a lifestyle consideration. Grooming depends on the coat type (smooth, longhaired, wirehaired), but none are particularly high-maintenance compared to Poodles or Yorkies. Dachshunds are funny, loyal, and full of personality. If you can handle the potential stubbornness and are mindful of their back health, they make fantastic, characterful companions. They are not little passive lapdogs; they have opinions and aren’t afraid to share them.

Let’s not forget the Shih Tzu. Bred purely as companions, lap dogs, for Chinese royalty. And boy, do they lean into that history! They are often sweet, gentle, and relatively low energy. Perfect for apartment living or someone who prefers a less active lifestyle. They just want to be with you, preferably on your lap. Trainability can be a bit hit or miss; housebreaking can sometimes be a challenge (consistency is key, as with all small breeds, but some just seem to take longer). Their long, flowing hair requires significant grooming, similar to Yorkies, unless kept clipped short. Tear stains can also be an issue. Low-shedding? Like Yorkies and Poodles, they shed less in the sense of dropping hair everywhere constantly, making them better for some allergy sufferers, but they still require regular brushing to prevent mats. Shih Tzus are little furry Buddhas of calm (usually). If you want a devoted, cuddly companion who is happy with shorter walks and lots of snuggles, a Shih Tzu could be ideal. They are not high-octane athletes.

And the Bichon Frise. A cloud of pure, effervescent joy. That fluffy white coat and perpetually cheerful demeanor are infectious. Bichons are known for being friendly, adaptable, and great family dogs. They are often listed as one of the best small dogs for families or first-time owners because of their generally amiable temperaments. Hypoallergenic potential is high due to their curly, low-shedding coat. But, you guessed it, that coat means grooming. Regular brushing and professional trims are essential to keep them looking like that iconic puffball and prevent matting. Energy level is moderate; they enjoy playtime and walks but are also content to relax indoors. They can be prone to separation anxiety, so they do best in homes where they aren’t left alone for long periods. Trainability is generally good; they are intelligent and eager to please. Bichons are just happy little souls. If you want a cheerful, fluffy companion who is generally good with everyone and you’re prepared for the grooming routine, a Bichon is a wonderful choice. They are not aloof or independent; they crave companionship.

See? No single “best.” It’s a mosaic of traits and needs. You need to look in the mirror before you look at puppy pictures. Are you neat? A low-shedding breed might save your sanity and your vacuum cleaner. Are you active? A high energy terrier mix or a Poodle might be thrilled, while a Shih Tzu might stage a protest. Are you patient? Because some small breeds, bless their tiny hearts, have opinions the size of a small car and the stubbornness to match. Do you have the budget and time for regular grooming? Be honest. That cute fluffy puppy grows up, and that coat won’t brush itself.

What about temperament? Are you looking for a dog that’s good with kids? Generally, breeds known for being friendly and adaptable like Bichons or Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (though Cavalier health issues are a whole other conversation) might be good fits. But any dog’s temperament is shaped by genetics and environment – socialization, training, and how they are raised are huge factors. Don’t rely only on breed stereotypes. Meet the parents if you can, talk to the breeder or rescue group about the individual dog’s personality.

The charm of small dogs isn’t just their size – though fitting them on your lap while watching TV is a significant perk, I won’t lie. It’s the sheer personality packed into that small frame. They often have no idea how small they are. They take on the world with boundless enthusiasm (or cautious suspicion, depending on the dog). They wiggle with joy when you come home. They curl up against you at night, a warm little weight. They make you laugh with their antics. They frustrate you sometimes, sure, like any family member.

Choosing the best dog breed is less about finding a listicle winner and more about finding your canine reflection. Are you spunky and independent? Maybe a terrier type. Are you calm and introverted? A mellow Shih Tzu might be your speed. Are you active and smart? A Poodle could be your partner in crime. Are you prepared for a lifetime of loyalty, cuddles, and tiny paw prints on your floor?

Ultimately, the “best” small dog is the one that fits your life, your personality, and your expectations. It’s the one whose quirks you find endearing, whose demands you can meet, and whose presence makes your home feel a little brighter, a little warmer, and a lot more loved. Forget “best” in some abstract sense. Find your best. And when you do, hold them close. They’re worth their weight in gold, no matter how little that weight is.