Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with nearly two decades of editorial experience. She’s written for a variety of outlets including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, People, Parade, BET.com. WebMD and more. Her coverage includes entertainment, beauty, lifestyle, parenting and fashion content. If she's not exploring New York City with her two young children, you can find her curled up on the couch watching a documentary and eating gummy bears. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/rover/profile_photos/322f3f77-e0d5-4be1-8e55-4785b62d8e21_1657125406.file","sameAs":["www.twitter.com/@BrownGirlGumbo","www.instagram.com/BrownGirlGumbo"]},{"name":"Janece Maze","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/author/244999/janece-maze/","@type":"Person","description":"
Janece Maze is Associate Editor at Country Living, where she covers DIY projects, gardening, and travel. When she’s not in the kitchen creating a new recipe with farm fresh ingredients, you can find her on the road heading to a music festival or browsing a local consignment shop. "}],"@context":"http://schema.org","about":{"@type":"ItemList","numberOfItems":40,"itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Japanese Chin","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-1","description":"These loving pups are perfect for anyone looking for a cute and friendly four-legged friend. Weighing between seven and 11 pounds and measuring between eight and 11 inches tall, they're easy to transport. Plus, they play well with other dogs.RELATED: Expert Tips on Introducing a New Dog into a Household With Pets","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/high-angle-portrait-of-japanese-chin-standing-on-royalty-free-image-1682306764.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Maltese","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-2","description":"Their gorgeous, snowy white coats and big, dark eyes will earn them countless compliments. Measuring between seven to nine inches tall and weighing under seven pounds, these loving pets will do almost anything to make you smile.RELATED: 10 Best Dog Harnesses, Tested by the Pet Lab","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/maltese-dog-portrait-royalty-free-image-1682307121.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Pomeranian","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-3","description":"These pooches are always on the lookout, and their protective nature makes them great watchdogs. While they're only between six and seven inches tall and weigh between three and seven pounds, they're active—and they make great friends.RELATED: Dog-o'-Lanterns Ideas for Fall!","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pomeranian-dog-royalty-free-image-1682307519.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":4,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Chihuahua","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-4","description":"Tiny, but feisty, chihuahuas are super energetic. Known as \"purse dogs,\" they're between five and eight inches tall and weigh no more than six pounds. While they're playful, they're surprisingly not known to be the most kid-friendly.RELATED: The Best Indestructible Dog Toys","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/portrait-of-chihuahua-sitting-royalty-free-image-1682306184.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":5,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Yorkshire Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-5","description":"Their long, glossy coats make Yorkshire terriers as pretty as they are playful, but don't mistake their striking looks for aloof behavior—they're very protective. They're between seven and eight inches in height and weigh around seven pounds.RELATED: Most Loyal Guard Dog Breeds to Consider Adding to Your Family ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/yorkshire-terrier-dog-sitting-close-up-on-nature-royalty-free-image-1682308117.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":6,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Pug","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-6","description":"Popular and cute, pugs are a dog fan favorite—and for good reason. Their unique wrinkled brows and expressive faces make them adorable...even when they're being mischievous. These pups stand between 10 and 13 inches tall and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds.RELATED: Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe at Seasonal Parties","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/dog-running-on-grass-royalty-free-image-1682308799.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":7,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Shih Tzu","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-7","description":"Dubbed \"Lion Dog,\" these homebody pooches are perfect for anyone living in apartments or lacking outdoor space—because while they're playful, they're fine with staying inside. Weighing between nine and 16 pounds and standing between eight and 11 inches tall, these dogs are happy sitting on your lap. Plus, with virtually no shedding, you won't have to worry about constant vacuuming.RELATED: How Often Should I Wash My Dog?","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/walking-shih-tzu-royalty-free-image-1682309398.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":8,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Toy Fox Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-8","description":"Toy fox terriers might be tiny—measuring only between 8.5 and 11.5 inches and weighing between four and nine pounds—but they're big on personality. Plus, they're easy to train.RELATED: Best Dog Quotes that Express Their Loyalty","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/toy-fox-terrier-royalty-free-image-1682309970.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":9,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Wire Fox Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-9","description":"Handsome, intelligent, and confident, wire fox terriers make outstanding show dogs. Standing tall at 15.5 inches and weighing between 16 to 18 pounds, their rough and wiry coats make them distinctively adorable. Plus, they live long, full lives.RELATED: Hiking With Dogs: Everything You Need to Know ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/wire-fox-terrier-on-a-hilltop-pedestal-royalty-free-image-1682310078.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":10,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Volpino Italiano","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-10","description":"Not a fan of strangers, these dogs stand between 10.5 and 12 inches tall and weigh eight to 16 pounds (depending on gender). Because they barely bark, they're not the best watchdogs. BUT they make awesome companions for anyone who loves to snuggle.RELATED: The Best Lap Dog Breeds to Netflix and Chill With","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/portrait-of-white-dog-on-field-royalty-free-image-1682310209.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":11,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Affenpinscher","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-11","description":"With moderate shedding, you might want to invest in a good vacuum for this breed. Hairy issues aside, they're so darn cute! They've even been likened to beloved \"Ewoks,\" the adorable furry creatures rom Star Wars. If you're in the market for one of your own, they're typically between nine and 11.5 inches and weigh between seven and 10 pounds.RELATED: This Dog Onesie Keeps Your Pup from Shedding","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/close-up-of-black-purebred-dog-standing-on-field-royalty-free-image-1682311565.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":12,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"American Hairless Terrier ","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-12","description":"Standing tall between 12 and 16 inches, American hairless terriers are on the larger side when it comes to small breeds. Weighing between 12 and 16 pounds, they're hefty pups that live long lives. Thanks to their hairless nature, sweeping up fur will be a non-issue.RELATED: This Heated Bed Will Keep Your Dog Warm — Because Your Pup Gets Cold, Too","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/american-hairless-terrier-royalty-free-image-1682312404.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":13,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Bichon Frise","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-13","description":"Cute and willing to play, bichon frisé dogs are great pets for families. Their glorious hypoallergenic white coats make them the perfect choice for allergy sufferers. Measuring under a foot in height and weighing between 12 to 18 pounds, that signature round haircut really makes this breed stand out.RELATED: This Tiktok-Favorite Dog Brush Is Only $6 on Amazon","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/portrait-of-a-bichon-frise-dog-royalty-free-image-1682312789.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":14,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Australian Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-14","description":"These balls of energy are sure to keep you on your toes—and because they're extremely vocal and playful in nature, kids will enjoy their company. Their height averages between 10 and 11 inches and they weigh anywhere between 15 and 20 pounds.RELATED: Dogs Breeds that Make the Best Family Pets ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/portrait-of-dog-royalty-free-image-1682344149.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":15,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"English Toy Spaniel","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-15","description":"These snub-nosed cuties are affectionate and gentle creatures. Standing nine to 10 inches tall and rounding out at around 14 pounds, they're wonderful additions to fun-loving families.RELATED: Create a Custom Playlist for Your Pet to Keep Them Company While You're at Work ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/portrait-of-cavalier-king-charles-spaniel-sticking-royalty-free-image-1682344618.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":16,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Brussels Griffon","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-16","description":"Looking for a small pup with a big personality? If so, Brussels griffon dogs are the pets for you. Weighing between eight and 10 pounds, these pooches are not ideal for young kids who tend to roughhouse.RELATED: A Brussels Griffon Named Newton Won The National Dog Show","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/brussels-griffon-stands-outdoors-in-summer-looks-at-royalty-free-image-1682344320.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":17,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Cairn Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-17","description":"Affectionate towards their owners, cairn terriers are delightful pups to have around. Not topping more than 13 or 14 pounds and standing between 9.5 and 10 inches tall, these dogs are protective and playful.RELATED: 113 Cute and Funny Dog Instagram Captions","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/cairn-terrier-dog-in-garden-royalty-free-image-1682344388.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":18,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Pumi","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-18","description":"Energetic and incredibly affectionate, these dogs are nimble-footed with origins from Hungary. Their black corkscrew hair sets them apart from the pack. Because they're known for their need to assess situations, getting them acquainted and comfortable with their surroundings is key. They stand between 15 and 18.5 inches—and while males can weigh up to 30 pounds, female pups land between 22 and 24 pounds.RELATED: Best Black Dog Names to Suit Your Puppy","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pumi-hungarian-shepherd-dog-sheepdog-in-garden-news-photo-1682345508.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":19,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Havanese","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-19","description":"Native to Cuba, these lively pooches are bursting with energy. They get high marks across the board when it comes to friendliness, are super social, and play well with others—including other pups. Their silky coats make stroking hard to resist.RELATED: 4 Easy Ways to Banish Pet Hair","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/walking-dog-royalty-free-image-1682344713.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":20,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Cocker Spaniel","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-20","description":"Their big, welcoming eyes and soft, floppy ears make cocker spaniels one of America's most popular and beloved breeds. Plus, their lush coats come in a variety of colors. Standing about 14 to 15 inches tall and weighing between 20 and 30 pounds (depending on gender), they're short, but sturdy and solid. While you're drooling over how adorable these precious pups are, don't forget to keep a towel handy because they're prone to a little dribble too.RELATED: The Most Popular Dog Breeds in America","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/american-cocker-spaniel-running-outdoors-royalty-free-image-1682344525.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":21,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Chinese Crested","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-21","description":"With virtually no shedding, hair cleanup won't be a problem with Chinese crested dogs. They move gracefully and love to frolic with family. Measuring between 11 and 13 inches in height and weighing between eight and 12 pounds, these ultra-affectionate, furry-tailed friends make great companions.RELATED: These Dog Breeds Make Perfect Pets for Seniors","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/chinese-crested-dog-having-fun-at-the-dog-park-royalty-free-image-1682344468.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":22,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Miniature Bull Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-22","description":"A bit on the heftier side, miniature bull terriers stand between 10 and 14 inches and weigh about 28 pounds. They can be a bit on the mischievous side, but they're super spirited, fun-loving, and affectionate.RELATED: This Couple Rescued 7 Animals and Now They're One Big Happy Family","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/portrait-of-a-bullterrier-dog-royalty-free-image-1682345254.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":23,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Miniature Pinscher","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-23","description":"Measuring between 10 and 12 inches and weighing between eight and 10 pounds, miniature pinschers are often referred to as the \"King of Toys.\" These pups have shiny coats, with colors ranging from black and rust, black and tan, chocolate and tan, and chocolate and rust to red and stag red. They also have a distinguished stride akin to a horse's trot.RELATED: 55 Adorable Baby Animals That Will Instantly Make You Smile","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/pinscher-mini-royalty-free-image-1682368153.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":24,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Papillon","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-24","description":"Thanks to their medium-size coats, be prepared for a bit of shedding—but luckily, grooming will only be required every few weeks. Always alert, papillon dogs stand between eight and 11 inches tall and weigh around five to 10 pounds. They are friendly and make great pets for those who enjoy happy and energetic pups.RELATED: Is It Safe to Travel With Pets?","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/close-up-of-running-papillon-dog-royalty-free-image-1682344231.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":25,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Italian Greyhound","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-25","description":"Italian greyhounds live an average of 14 to 15 years, so you can expect to have one of these dogs in your family for a very long time. Standing tall between 13 and 15 inches and weighing between seven and 14 pounds, these high-stepping hounds are friendly with everyone, even strangers.RELATED: Tips for Camping with Dogs","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/close-up-of-purebred-italian-greyhound-standing-on-royalty-free-image-1682344889.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":26,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Bolognese","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-26","description":"Not a fan of super hyper pups? A Bolognese might be for you, because they're calm and don't tend to be high-energy. Measuring 10 to 12 inches tall, their square bodies, covered in pure-white coats, weigh between six and 10 pounds.RELATED: The Most Popular Dog Breed for Your Zodiac Sign ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/little-dog-runs-on-the-beach-royalty-free-image-1682348450.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":27,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Scottish Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-27","description":"Independent and protective, Scottish terriers make good watchdogs. They measure 10 inches in height and weigh between 18 and 22 pounds (depending on gender). Their distinctive beards and piercing eyes give them a friendly appearance, but they're not always on their best behavior around other dogs.RELATED: A Dog's-Eye View ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/scottish-terrier-royalty-free-image-1682348188.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":28,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Dachshund","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-28","description":"All dacshunds are small in size. The standard ones stand between eight and nine inches, while the miniature ones are a mere five or six inches tall. The former can weigh up to 32 pounds and the latter typically weigh less than 11 pounds. If barking bothers you, you might want to admire this breed from afar.RELATED: The Best Dog Collars, Pet Lab Tested","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/dachshund-in-the-forest-royalty-free-image-1682348559.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":29,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Toy Poodle","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-29","description":"We dare you to name a pup as cute at a toy poodle. They stand no more than 10 inches and weigh between four and six pounds. Not only are they adorable, but they're known to be affectionate with family and good with young children.RELATED: This Doodle Squad Is Our Dream Friend Group","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/portrait-of-toy-poodle-sitting-on-floor-at-home-royalty-free-image-1682345097.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":30,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Basenji","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-30","description":"If you want a pup that doesn't make a peep, basenjis are a sure bet. They don't bark, but they know how to communicate in subtle ways that are reminiscent of humans. Standing 16 or 17 inches tall and weighing up to 24 pounds, these canines have cat-like qualities, thanks to their personal grooming habits.RELATED: A Forever Sidekick: Mo, the Steadfast Shelter Dog","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/basenji-dog-walking-in-the-park-royalty-free-image-1682348864.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":31,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Miniature Schnauzer","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-31","description":"The smallest of the schnauzer breed, these incredibly obedient dogs make great companions. Their outgoing personality and friendly demeanor make them ideal options for families. Measuring between 12 and 14 inches in height and weighing between 11 and 20 pounds, they can thrive in small apartments or patrol sprawling spaces. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/close-up-of-a-dog-royalty-free-image-1682345191.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":32,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Pekingese","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-32","description":"Crown the pekingese the most regal pooch of the pack. After all, they do have the word \"king\" in their name and they're one of the several breeds created for the ruling classes of ancient China. Famous for their lioness mane, they stand between six and nine inches tall and weigh up to 14 pounds. While they're cute, kids should give them their space. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/ein-pekinese-mit-dreifarbigem-fell-an-der-brust-wei-c3-9f-das-news-photo-1682345442.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":33,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Russian Toy","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-33","description":"Weighing up to six-and-a-half pounds and standing between eight and 11 inches, these sweet and charming pups are perfect for those who love to snuggle. Plus, they love to be on the move, so be ready for a lot of playtime. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/season-20-pictured-russian-toy-smooth-coat-variety-news-photo-1682345596.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":34,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Toy Fox Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-34","description":"Lithe and sturdy, toy fox terriers measure between eight-and-a-half and 11.5 inches and weigh between four and nine pounds. They're very trainable and want everyone to be their BFFs. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/toy-fox-terrier-royalty-free-image-1682345796.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":35,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Swedish Vallhund","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-35","description":"Owners can count on protective Swedish vallhunds to keep an eye out. They stand between 12.5 and 13.75 inches tall and weigh up to 35 pounds. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/swedish-vallhund-on-field-royalty-free-image-1682345861.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":36,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Silky Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-36","description":"Weighing around 10 pounds, silky terriers are small, but mighty—and very alert. Their famous blue-and-tan coat rarely sheds. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/silky-terrier-royalty-free-image-1682348020.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":37,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Shiba Inu","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-37","description":"Shibu inu dogs are protective, but they're not the easiest pups to train. Measuring between 14.5 and 16.5 inches and weighing up to 23 pounds, this ancient Japanese breed is strong. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/shiba-inu-red-dog-sitting-outdoors-during-sunset-royalty-free-image-1682348104.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":38,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Glen of Imaal Terrier","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-38","description":"These easy-to-please terriers are fun to be around and will brighten any owner's day. While they're considered to be one of the smaller breeds, they can still reach 40 pounds.","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/an-irish-glen-of-imaal-terrier-on-2-legs-royalty-free-image-1682349217.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":39,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Bedlington Terriers","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-39","description":"Standing between 15 and 17.5 inches tall and weighing between 17 and 23 pounds, Bedlington terriers look sophisticated and regal—and they can live up to 16 years. Their hair and coat has a wool-like texture, giving them a distinctive look that will turn heads. ","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/ein-bedlington-terrier-mit-wei-c3-9fem-getrimmten-fell-an-kopf-news-photo-1682350130.jpg"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":40,"item":{"@type":"Thing","name":"Lhasa Apso","url":"https://www.countryliving.com/life/kids-pets/g43679662/small-dog-breeds/#slide-40","description":"These affectionate, long-haired canines measure between 10 and 11 inches and weigh up to 18 pounds. And we can't forget to mention that their tails curl in an incredibly adorable way.","image":"https://hips.hearstapps.com/hmg-prod/images/dog-lhasa-apso-sitting-arnsberg-north-rhine-royalty-free-image-1682349753.jpg"}}]}}
Country Living editors select each product featured. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Why Trust Us?
If you're planning to adopt a canine family member, get ready for plenty of new responsibilities and lots of fun with your sweet companion. The first step you'll have to take includes meeting prospective adoptees at a rescue center and pet shop. You can also opt to browse local classifieds or online at sites like Pet Finder to find an available pet in your community. If you're on the hunting for a small dog, you're in luck. We've compiled a long list of some of the smallest dog breeds.
We're including all the details about 40 of the smallest dog breeds! Find details about these cute and cuddly pooches' physical characteristics and unique behavioral traits. Get ready for an intense crash course in small canine education. Whether you've been considering a spunky chihuahua or contemplating a playful Yorkie, these small dogs are sure to pull at your heartstrings and bring you lots of joyful moments, cozy snuggles, and endless licks of affection. Once you're ready to welcome your new four-legged friend, check out Country Living's adoption tips from experts. And as once you've found the perfect pooch to make your heart skip a beat, browse fun guides to the best girl dog names and best boy dog names to find the rights one for your fur baby. Check out our round-up of 40 of the smallest dog breeds to figure out which forever pint-size pup is right for you.
Their gorgeous, snowy white coats and big, dark eyes will earn them countless compliments. Measuring between seven to nine inches tall and weighing under seven pounds, these loving pets will do almost anything to make you smile. RELATED: 10 Best Dog Harnesses, Tested by the Pet Lab
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
3
Pomeranian
GK Hart/Vikki Hart//Getty Images
These pooches are always on the lookout, and their protective nature makes them great watchdogs. While they're only between six and seven inches tall and weigh between three and seven pounds, they're active—and they make great friends. RELATED: Dog-o'-Lanterns Ideas for Fall!
Their long, glossy coats make Yorkshire terriers as pretty as they are playful, but don't mistake their striking looks for aloof behavior—they're very protective. They're between seven and eight inches in height and weigh around seven pounds. RELATED: Most Loyal Guard Dog Breeds to Consider Adding to Your Family
6
Pug
Alfredas Pliadis / EyeEm//Getty Images
Popular and cute, pugs are a dog fan favorite—and for good reason. Their unique wrinkled brows and expressive faces make them adorable...even when they're being mischievous. These pups stand between 10 and 13 inches tall and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. RELATED: Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe at Seasonal Parties
Dubbed "Lion Dog," these homebody pooches are perfect for anyone living in apartments or lacking outdoor space—because while they're playful, they're fine with staying inside. Weighing between nine and 16 pounds and standing between eight and 11 inches tall, these dogs are happy sitting on your lap. Plus, with virtually no shedding, you won't have to worry about constant vacuuming. RELATED: How Often Should I Wash My Dog?
8
Toy Fox Terrier
Sergey Ryumin//Getty Images
Toy fox terriers might be tiny—measuring only between 8.5 and 11.5 inches and weighing between four and nine pounds—but they're big on personality. Plus, they're easy to train. RELATED: Best Dog Quotes that Express Their Loyalty
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
9
Wire Fox Terrier
Image by Colin Millum//Getty Images
Handsome, intelligent, and confident, wire fox terriers make outstanding show dogs. Standing tall at 15.5 inches and weighing between 16 to 18 pounds, their rough and wiry coats make them distinctively adorable. Plus, they live long, full lives.
Not a fan of strangers, these dogs stand between 10.5 and 12 inches tall and weigh eight to 16 pounds (depending on gender). Because they barely bark, they're not the best watchdogs. BUT they make awesome companions for anyone who loves to snuggle.
With moderate shedding, you might want to invest in a good vacuum for this breed. Hairy issues aside, they're so darn cute! They've even been likened to beloved "Ewoks," the adorable furry creatures rom Star Wars. If you're in the market for one of your own, they're typically between nine and 11.5 inches and weigh between seven and 10 pounds.
Cute and willing to play, bichon frisé dogs are great pets for families. Their glorious hypoallergenic white coats make them the perfect choice for allergy sufferers. Measuring under a foot in height and weighing between 12 to 18 pounds, that signature round haircut really makes this breed stand out. RELATED: This Tiktok-Favorite Dog Brush Is Only $6 on Amazon
14
Australian Terrier
Valeriia Chmil / EyeEm//Getty Images
These balls of energy are sure to keep you on your toes—and because they're extremely vocal and playful in nature, kids will enjoy their company. Their height averages between 10 and 11 inches and they weigh anywhere between 15 and 20 pounds.
These snub-nosed cuties are affectionate and gentle creatures. Standing nine to 10 inches tall and rounding out at around 14 pounds, they're wonderful additions to fun-loving families.
Looking for a small pup with a big personality? If so, Brussels griffon dogs are the pets for you. Weighing between eight and 10 pounds, these pooches are not ideal for young kids who tend to roughhouse. RELATED: A Brussels Griffon Named Newton Won The National Dog Show
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
17
Cairn Terrier
Alexandra Robins//Getty Images
Affectionate towards their owners, cairn terriers are delightful pups to have around. Not topping more than 13 or 14 pounds and standing between 9.5 and 10 inches tall, these dogs are protective and playful. RELATED: 113 Cute and Funny Dog Instagram Captions
18
Pumi
Arterra//Getty Images
Energetic and incredibly affectionate, these dogs are nimble-footed with origins from Hungary. Their black corkscrew hair sets them apart from the pack. Because they're known for their need to assess situations, getting them acquainted and comfortable with their surroundings is key. They stand between 15 and 18.5 inches—and while males can weigh up to 30 pounds, female pups land between 22 and 24 pounds. RELATED: Best Black Dog Names to Suit Your Puppy
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
19
Havanese
@Hans Surfer//Getty Images
Native to Cuba, these lively pooches are bursting with energy. They get high marks across the board when it comes to friendliness, are super social, and play well with others—including other pups. Their silky coats make stroking hard to resist. RELATED: 4 Easy Ways to Banish Pet Hair
20
Cocker Spaniel
D Trocio Photography//Getty Images
Their big, welcoming eyes and soft, floppy ears make cocker spaniels one of America's most popular and beloved breeds. Plus, their lush coats come in a variety of colors. Standing about 14 to 15 inches tall and weighing between 20 and 30 pounds (depending on gender), they're short, but sturdy and solid. While you're drooling over how adorable these precious pups are, don't forget to keep a towel handy because they're prone to a little dribble too. RELATED: The Most Popular Dog Breeds in America
Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with nearly two decades of editorial experience. She’s written for a variety of outlets including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, People, Parade, BET.com. WebMD and more. Her coverage includes entertainment, beauty, lifestyle, parenting and fashion content. If she's not exploring New York City with her two young children, you can find her curled up on the couch watching a documentary and eating gummy bears.
Janece Maze is Associate Editor at Country Living, where she covers DIY projects, gardening, and travel. When she’s not in the kitchen creating a new recipe with farm fresh ingredients, you can find her on the road heading to a music festival or browsing a local consignment shop.
