Small Dog Breeds Ranked by Breed Popularity
↓ Skip directly to Small BreedsWe've ranked these small breeds by popularity to help you see which may be easier to find and which might be a challenge. If a breed is listed as 'Rare' or has a higher AKC Popularity number, be prepared for a potentially longer search.
Small breed dogs offer the wonderful advantage of a longer expected lifespan, gifting you with many extra years of their big-dog personality, fierce loyalty, and adaptable nature that makes them perfect for both apartments and active homes.
These compact companions, typically standing between 10 to 16 inches tall, deliver a remarkable amount of character and energy in their perfectly portable frames. They are known for their spirited and affectionate natures, often forming intensely devoted bonds with their families while requiring less living space than their larger counterparts.
When selecting a breed, it is essential to confirm that its exercise needs align with your own and, for apartment dwellers, to choose a less vocal breed as a courtesy to those nearby.
Browse Small Breeds By Popularity Ranking (#1 - #105):
Size Range: The lower end of each height/weight range represents typical female measurements, while the higher end reflects male averages.
French Bulldog
Origin: France
Purpose: Companion
Height: 11-13"
Weight: 16-28 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #1
Learn More
Miniature Poodle
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Companion
Height: 10-15"
Weight: 10-15 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #5
Learn More
Dachshund (Standard)
Smooth | Wire-haired | Long-haired
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Hunt Badgers
Height: 8-9"
Weight: 16-32 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #6
Learn More
Beagle
Two Sizes
Purpose: Hunt small game
Origin: England
Height: under 13" & 13-17"
Weight: under 20 & 20-30 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #7
Learn More
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Origin: England
Purpose: Companion
Height: 12-13"
Weight: 13-18 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #13
Learn More
Miniature Schnauzer
Origin: Germany
Purpose: Ratting, guarding
Height: 12-14"
Weight: 11-20 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #18
Learn More
Boston Terrier
Origin: United States
Purpose: Companion
Height: 10-12"
Weight: 12-25 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #23
Learn More
Shetland Sheepdog
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Sheep herding
Height: 13-16"
Weight: 15-25 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #29
Learn More
Pug
Origin: China
Purpose: Companion
Height: 10-13"
Weight: 14-18 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #38
Learn More
West Highland White Terrier
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Vermin hunter
Height: 10-11"
Weight: 15-20 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #41
Learn More
Shiba Inu
Origin: Japan
Purpose: Hunting
Height: 13.5-16.5"
Weight: 17-23 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #42
Learn More
Bichon Frise
Origin: Mediterranean
Purpose: Companion
Height: 9.5-11.5"
Weight: 12-18 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #46
Learn More
Scottish Terrier
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Vermin hunter
Height: 10"
Weight: 18-22 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #54
Learn More
Italian Greyhound
Origin: Italy
Purpose: Companion
Height: 13-15"
Weight: 7-14 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #56
Learn More
Russell Terrier
Origin: England
Purpose: Fox bolting
Height: 10-12"
Weight: 9-15 lbs
Energy: 5/5
AKC Popularity: #66
Learn More
Cairn Terrier
Origin: Scotland
Purpose: Vermin hunter
Height: 9.5-10"
Weight: 13-14 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #71
Learn More
Rat Terrier (Standard)
Origin: United States
Purpose: Farm dog, hunter
Height: 13-18"
Weight: 10-25 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #81
Learn More
Lhasa Apso
Origin: Tibet
Purpose: Companion, watchdog
Height: 10-11"
Weight: 12-18 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #94
Learn More
Border Terrier
Origin: UK/Scotland border
Purpose: Fox bolting
Height: 12-15"
Weight: 11.5-15.5 lbs
Energy: 3/5
AKC Popularity: #98
Learn More
Miniature Bull Terrier
Origin: England
Purpose: Companion
Height: 10-14"
Weight: 18-28 lbs
Energy: 4/5
AKC Popularity: #105
Learn More