Small dogs are absolutely beloved for their compact size, easy portability, and big personalities. From the lovable Frenchie to the feisty Yorkie, certain small breed dogs stand out as particularly popular due to their friendly nature and fun-loving attitudes. This makes them widely desirable as pets and companions even in smaller homes.
But what are the most popular small dog breeds? And what makes them so well-suited for life as tiny canine celebrities?
Here we’ll walk through our top 5 favorite pint-sized pups and what unique traits make them shine above the rest.
Defining “Small Dogs” and Their Unique Traits
First, how exactly do we define a “small dog”? The American Kennel Club generally categorizes small dogs as falling into a weight class of 0-25 pounds. They also stand anywhere from 9 inches to only slightly over a foot tall at their shoulder.
While small in stature, these diminutive breeds are jam-packed with personality that typically far exceeds their smaller frames. Some classic hallmarks of highly popular small dogs include:
- Portable size: The tiny size makes them easy to tote along wherever you go. From apartments to airplanes, they can comfortably tag along on your lap or in a bag.
- Tendency for low shedding: Many of the most common small dog breeds have hair as opposed to fur which is less apt for heavy shedding. This makes clean-up generally lighter and more manageable even in smaller living spaces.
- Big personalities: Though little, this isn’t an issue of the “Napoleon complex.” Most miniature breeds are bred specifically by design for their outsized, friendly, and bold personalities. Small dogs have a knack for showmanship and will keep you constantly entertained and engaged with their antics.
- Great for apartments: Thanks to their dainty stature and typically lower tendency to bark or be vocal, many small breeds do exceptionally well in apartments, condos, or other tighter living spaces.
With that context of what generally defines the attributes of a popular “small breed dog,” which specific types rise to the top? Based on AKC registrations, vet insurance data, and a rising wave of pop culture popularity, these are currently the 5 most popular small dog breeds of 2022:
The Current Top 5 Most Popular Small Dogs
1. French Bulldog
This bat-eared brisk buddy took the #1 spot from longtime favorite the Labrador Retriever in 2020 and continues a meteoric rise up the small dog popularity charts. Some quick facts:
- Origin: Developed as miniature bulldog-type dogs in England then refined in France
- Size: Under 28 pounds and 11-12 inches tall
- Coat: Short, smooth, and easy to groom
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
Personality-wise these compact clowns are playful, perky, adaptable and absolutely love being around people. They form exceptionally strong bonds and attach fiercely to their chosen humans making them ideal companions.
While their squished faces are cute, they can contribute to potential respiratory issues to monitor. Still, it’s hard to beat that sweet silly smushy mug!
2. Dachshund
“Sausage dogs” have charmed their way into the #2 spot, redeeming themselves from being absent from 2020’s top 10 list altogether. Quick facts on this funky wiener pup:
- Origin: First bred to flush out burrow-dwelling animals like rabbits and badgers
- Size: 8-9 inches tall and under 11 lbs for a standard
- Coat: Three types – Smooth, Longhaired, or Wirehaired
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
This feisty hotdog’s long low-riding build earned them high marks as tenacious hunters and endearing lap companions.
Personality-wise Dachshunds rank high on the clever and clownish scale. Their proud stubborn streak makes training challenging but rewarding. Due to their long spine, obesity and certain high-impact exercises require caution.
3. Pug
The squishy silly Pug holds strong its third place position from 2020. Some vital stats include:
- Origin: China, popularized in England then Europe
- Size: 10-14 inches tall, 14-18 pounds
- Coat: Short double coat, constant light shedding
- Lifespan: 13-15 years
If you’re seeking a dog who lives to love and be loved, the Pug takes the cake. These clowns crave constant companionship.
Personality-wise Pugs are mischievous, expressive, and highly intuitive. They also excel as human emotion radars and comfort dogs. Brachycephalic challenges require monitoring for best health.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
In 2020, this fiery silk-coated terrier ranked at #6 yet continues climbing back toward previous #2 positions. Quick Yorkshire stats:
- Origin: 19th century workers in Yorkshire county of England
- Size: 7 pounds and 8-9 inches tall standard
- Coat: Straight, long, silky steel blue and tan hair
- Lifespan 12-15 years
Despite weighing under 10 pounds, these ‘Yorkies’ flaunt giant personalities.
Personality-wise, their confidence and courage far outweigh their tiny frames. Yorkies form intense bonds with their favorite people. Independent thinkers and snippy barkers require patient training.
5. Shih Tzu
Closing out the top 5 is the “little lion” Shih Tzu. Fun facts:
- Origin: Ancient Chinese lineage as prized companion dogs
- Size: 9-10 inches tall, 9-16 pounds
- Coat: Long, lush, double coat requiring grooming
- Lifespan: 10-18 years
Beneath those floor-length locks lies an upbeat tiny tyrant, eager to be doted upon.
Personality-wise Shih Tzus are gentle yet confident as befitting their noble heritage. Sweet-natured and snuggly yet content with short bursts of activity. Respiratory challenges can occur.
While numbers 6-10 tend to shuffle annually, these 5 pint-sized pups have held strong according to registration data. But what specifically drives their popularity?
An In-Depth Look at Each of the Top 5 Small Dog Breeds
Now that we’ve highlighted a brief overview of vital stats and traits for each of the leading tiny titans, let’s go deeper into what makes these exact diminutive breeds so widely adored beyond the rest.
Starting with our #1 top dog…
French Bulldogs
The French Bulldog (or “Frenchie”) topped the list in 2020 thanks to its meteoric rise over the past decade stemming from celebrity and social media buzz. But its compact caring clownish nature gives this breed staying power.
Some origin history: Bulldogs were miniaturized with terrier blood in Nottingham then refined in France, giving rise to the bat-eared bubbly Frenchie we love today.
Physical traits: Stocky compact build with trademark erect bat ears. Smooth, brilliantly pigmented coat favours fanciful markings like brindle, cream, or black masks. No shedding but needs wiping of facial wrinkles. Sturdy builds but prone to spinal issues.
Personality profile: Friendly, fun-loving, and adaptable. Thrives on social bonding and close proximity making them clingy yet portable. Responsive with moderate activity needs. Brachy snorts part of their charm.
Who should get this breed? If you crave constant company and a lively loyal buddy, the Frenchie fits. Condos to small homes work providing you can deal with their heat sensitivity and be present often. Singles to seniors delight in their doting doggy devotion.
Dachshunds
With its elongated wiener-esque torso plunked onto hilariously short legs, it’s no wonder the Dachshund (or “wiener dog”) has hustled into runners-up position. But this low rider offers more than laughs.
Physical traits: Distinctively long, low bodies perched atop absurdly short little legs. Three coat types: Smooth, Long Haired (silky or slightly wavy fringe), or Wire Haired. Vibrant range of colors and patterns. Sturdy builds yet prone to back issues.
Personality profile: Clever, curious and courageous. Excellent but vocal watchdog abilities. Can be independent thinkers yet intensely attached and loyal. Moderate exercise needs with access to soft places to lounge.
Who should get this breed? The Dachshund’s dapper dimensions make them suitable even for smaller dwellings. Terrific for multi-pet households to drain their energy. Best for at least moderately active owners who can keep their weight down. Their loud warning bark also functions well for alerting hearing impaired owners.
Pugs
How can such a goofy mug not melt your heart? The Pug’s popularity persists thanks to their playful personality and people-pleasing ways.
Physical traits: Square, chunky compact bodies. Large round heads with iconic wrinkly mugs. Glossy fawn to black coats with slight shedding. Sensitive to heat and exercise.
Personality profile: Even-tempered, playful, intuitive affection-lovers. Adore being center stage and closely coddled by their people. Surprisingly athletic in short bursts. Responsive learners but can be stubborn.
Who should get this breed? If you crave canine camaraderie, the Pug flourishes. Families, couples, seniors and singles delight in their animated amusing antics and warmth. Barks minimally but snores abound! Ideal couch cuddle bugs.
Yorkshire Terriers
Originally ratters in mills, the Yorkshire Terrier (or “Yorkie”) is anything but mousey. Their confidence and plucky persona made them darlings amongst Victorian gentry and still popular today.
Physical traits: Flaunt floor-length steel blue and rich tan silky straight locks. Compact builds around 7 pounds with slightly longer bodies. Tended towards dental issues. Non-shedding but high maintenance coats.
Personality profile: Spirited, spunky, energetic. Curious and highly intelligent. Excels at watchdog tasks with big bark. Can be strong-willed and demanding of attention. Devoted and protective once bonded.
Who should get this breed? Yorkies acclimate readily to apartment living. Suit well for singles, couples or retirees able to invest in their grooming habits. Their strong attachment makes them ideal therapy dogs too. Do watch kids under 5 with their delicate builds.
Shih Tzus
Beneath its glamorous floor-length fur, the Shih Tzu retains its noble Chinese lineage as a prized furry companion fit for royalty.
Physical traits: Long, lush double coats cascade to the floor requiring diligent grooming. Compact sturdy builds yet only 7-16 pounds. Sweet smashed “chrysanthemum” shaped muzzles. Heat and respiratory issues require monitoring.
Personality profile: Affectionate, outgoing, and upbeat. Content as lap warmers and thrive on human bonds. Surprisingly sturdy for agility activities. Adapt readily making them superb travel and therapy dogs.
Who should get this breed? The Shih Tzu’s coat makes them ideal companions for those less keen on shedding but willing to invest in professional grooming. Their cheery loyalty also endears them to a broad audience as family fur pals.
All these top contenders rank high on cleverness, companionship, and kooky canine charm that simply makes them hard to resist. Whether longing for a Netflix napping buddy or a lively adventure pal, you’ll find your match in these petite pups!
Choosing the Right Small Dog For Your Lifestyle
Beyond broad popularity though, it’s vital to select a small breed truly suited for your unique situation and lifestyle.
Prioritize which factors matter most: barking levels? Kid/multi-pet friendliness? Grooming needs? Then match to the best-fit breed.
Key Considerations When Selecting a Small Dog:
Your dwelling’s space limitations: if in an apartment or condo, focus on less vocal breeds without high exercise demands. French Bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels tend to thrive best in compact city spaces.
Your activity level: Higher energy breeds like Yorkshire Terriers and Miniature Schnauzers require over 30 minutes of daily brisk walking. Compare lower key options like Havanese or Maltese for couches of potatoes.
Kid-friendly qualities: Sturdy and gentle breeds like Boston, Frenchton, or Cockapoo breeds tend to excel with children under 7 years old. Supervise very young kids with more delicate or skittish pint-sized pups.
Grooming requirements: Long-haired Sheepadoodle or Shih Tzu need daily brushing and regular trimming. Select short crops like Boston or French Bulldogs if you wish to avoid professional grooming. Many fall between a few weekly brushings.
Barking tendencies: Terriers notoriously tend to be more vocal as alert watchdogs. Retirees or shift workers should aim for less “yappy” companions like Havanese or Maltese instead.
Remember there’s high variability even within breeds for traits like shedding, energy, and sociability. So be sure to assess your prospective puppy carefully when adopting.
Bringing Home Your New Small Dog
Whether one of the top 5 or another pint-sized pup, preparing properly for a small dog’s arrival remains the same. Here are key considerations for setup:
Puppy-proof dangers especially low electric cords, toxic houseplants, and choking hazards. Secure settlement areas and potty zones. Stock cleaning supplies!
Prep sleeping quarters, food/water stations, and safe chew toys. Use pens and gates to confine when unattended. Crate train right away for both travel and their cozy cave.
Plan initial vet exams, vaccine schedules plus preventatives like flea/tick/heartworm medication. Have an emergency vet clinic listed.
Research trainers & group classes for socialization foundations like exposure to sounds and handling. Practice basic cues at home between classes.
Kit yourself with cleanup tools – paper towels, stain/odor removers, brush, and shampoo for accidents. Refill baggy dispensers for walks.
Puppy-proof outdoor zones with good fencing or tie-downs when supervising potty breaks. Always leash walks until recall skills are mastered.
Locate professional groomers, especially for long-coated breeds like Havanese or Tibetan Terrier. Book handling appointments to acclimate them early.
Exchange numbers with walkers, sitters, and nearby boarding facilities for when you’re away. Do test drives first to ascertain they’ll suit your small pup.
Preparing properly means onboarding your small pup smoothly while averting common hurdles like potty mishaps, behavioral issues, or illness down the line. Do invest that initial effort into their setup for success.
Enjoying Life with One of the Most Popular Small Dog Breeds
Whichever top contender you choose, life with a small dog promises to remain anything but small. Their mighty mini personalities encapsulated within conveniently compact frames unleash huge amounts of upbeat energy into your every day.
From amusing antics making you laugh to contented cuddles soothing your stress away, small breeds represent the whole spectrum of “man’s best friend” within adorably travel-sized packages.
Just be sure to choose an appropriate pint-sized companion to suit your own lifestyle and needs for an incredible match-up stretching many merry years ahead together. Soon you’ll discover firsthand why these tiny tail-waggers consistently rank amongst the most popular breeds year over year.
So what are you waiting for? Join the small dog fan club today!
