21 Best Toy and Miniature Dog Breeds for Families
These small pups have a lot to offer.BY YOLANDA WIKIELUPDATED: FEB 24, 2023SAVE ARTICLE
15 Cutest Dog Breeds
by Good Housekeeping US
Craving a snuggle buddy? More of an indoorsy type? Sucker for a baby face and tiny feet? A toy dog might just be the perfect match for you.
After all, there’s no denying that toy dogs are some of the cutest dog breeds out there — not to mention, the teeniest! Downright adorableness aside, one of the main traits that separates small dogs from medium-sized breeds or large dogs is that toy dogs don’t generally require much space or exercise, so they naturally make for great apartment pets, particularly if they are calm breeds and dogs that rarely bark.
If you have a family, it’s also important to check whether the breed type you’re considering is good with kids (some toy dogs aren’t recommended for families with small children) and if any member of the household is allergic to dog hair (there are so many cute hypoallergenic breeds out there).
When it comes to the best toy dog breeds, you’ll find there’s almost as much variety as the big dogs. So you’ll want to be sure to read up on the different types, and you’re bound to discover the just-right fur-ever friend for you and your family.
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1
Poodle
Poodles come in three sizes: standard, miniature and toy. The smallest of the bunch measure between 4 and 6 pounds, so you can scoop one up with just one hand. Toy poodles may have a reputation for being high maintenance and frou-frou, but the truth is, they’re whip smart and fairly active. So go ahead and train them to do cool tricks or play hide and seek—the kids will go wild for it. Bonus: They’re allergen-free, too!GETTY IMAGES
2
Pug
Sturdy and compact pugs are loving and playful but also notorious couch potatoes—so it’s a good idea to monitor their diets and bust out the vacuum often as they shed a lot. But with a cute, wrinkled mug like that, they can get away with a lot.JARUN011//GETTY IMAGES
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3
Pekingese
Originally bred for the ruling classes in ancient China, there’s no doubt that these magnificent dogs have retained their air of nobility, what with their signature lion’s mane and loyal demeanor. And they expect to be treated as such—so pile up the cushions and make sure you’re stocked up on treats.PEKIC//GETTY IMAGES
4
Toy Fox Terrier
These pint-sized terriers are agile and bounding with energy, but nothing a lively round of fetch won’t cure. Aside from keeping them active and entertained, these handsome, sturdy dogs are mostly low-maintenance.SERGEY RYUMIN//GETTY IMAGES
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5
Bichon Frise
These canine cotton balls may be silly, playful and even a bit mischievous, but they’re always down for a snuggle. No worries, that plush white coat is low shedding, though it will require a good amount of grooming.F8GRAPHER//GETTY IMAGES
6
Affenpinscher
These pups sure are funny-looking yet in an entirely sweet way—and, boy, do they like to monkey around, too. Expect lots of laughs and kisses in equal measure.YVONNE VAN DER HORST//GETTY IMAGES
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7
Japanese Chin
We dare you to look into the soulful eyes of these sensitive little creatures and not be instantly smitten. Expert climbers and light on their feet, they’re often considered catlike.JHORROCKS//GETTY IMAGES
8
Biewer Terrier
Closely related to the Yorkie, the Biewer terrier (FYI, it’s pronounced “beaver”) has an envious tri-colored mane and a full tail that sets it apart. While its coat requires regular brushing, you don’t have to worry about shedding with this loveable breed that gets along with just about everyone, human or animal.VSFP//GETTY IMAGES
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9
Miniature Dachshund
These German “badger dogs” also come in different versions: standard and miniature. To qualify as the latter, pups need to weigh less than 11 pounds, but both possess the same friendly, spunky personality worthy of a best friend.JAMES PLAYER//GETTY IMAGES
10
Maltese
Here’s a pint-sized pooch that makes an excellent family pet. They’re sweet, smart and fun well into old age. And with that cuddle-worthy fluffy white fur, they’re practically a living stuffed animal.GETTY IMAGES
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11
Shih Tzu
If you look up “lapdog” in the dictionary, expect to find a picture of one of these irresistible love bugs. Because these pretty, long-haired pups don’t need much exercise, they’re more than happy to stick by your side all day, making them great for apartment dwellers, seniors and families.GETTY IMAGES
12
Papillon
These fancy-looking pouf balls only weigh five to 10 pounds—but most of that is likely made up of their silky hair and wing-like ears (papillion is French for “butterfly” after all). They’ve got brains to match their beauty too, so they’re naturals at learning tricks.GETTY IMAGES
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13
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are even-tempered, graceful and highly intelligent. (Well, with a name like that, what did you expect?) One of the larger toy breeds, these floppy-eared lap warmers were descended from sporting dogs, so they enjoy a good game of frolic and chase just as much as a snuggle on the couch.GETTY IMAGES
14
Chihuahua
Clocking in at under six pounds, chihuahuas are the classic “purse dog” and do exceptionally well in small apartments, too. Though they are famously known for their feistiness, they do respond well to training (and it’s recommended otherwise they will soon rule the house!).GETTY IMAGES
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15
Yorkshire Terrier
Small but mighty, ever-popular Yorkies don’t get larger than seven pounds. That doesn’t stop them from acting like watchdogs. Their human-like hair is hypoallergenic (and looks darling tied up in a bow if you’re into that sort of thing).GETTY IMAGES
16
Brussels Griffon
Known for their distinctive beards, smooshy faces and human-like eyes, Brussels Griffons are bound to win your heart (and practically everyone they meet). They crave attention and are sure to follow you wherever you go. Since they can be quite sensitive, they do best with grown-ups and older kids.GETTY IMAGES
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17
Havanese
“Happy as a Havanese” should be a saying because the perpetually perky disposition of the national dog of Cuba will light up any room. These outgoing pooches will hit it off with just about anyone (yes, even the family cat).GETTY IMAGES
18
Pekingese
A total couch potato, Pekingese dogs love a laid-back lifestyle with plenty of cuddles. These dogs also have noble origins, getting their name from their home in the Imperial Palace in Peking (later named Beijing).GETTY IMAGES
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19
Chinese Crested
Slim and elegant Chinese crested dogs can either have long, silky hair or be hairless except for their funky hairdos, furry Ugg-boot feet, and feather-duster tails. Either way, they make for exceptionally affectionate lap dogs.GETTY IMAGES
20
Miniature Pinscher
For big dog energy in a little package, look no further than miniature pinschers, which will only reach about 12.5 inches max. These pointy-eared fellas are overzealous ball-chasers with an oversized personality to match.GETTY IMAGES
FREELANCE WRITER AND EDITOR
Yolanda Wikiel is a freelance writer and editor based in New Jersey, where she lives with her husband, overly energetic toddler and supremely lazy calico. She has covered everything from home, food, and life skills to fashion, travel, and consumer goods for over a decade. Her work has appeared in Parents, Real Simple, Good Housekeeping, Oprah, and Woman’s Day.
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