Small Dog Breeds

Lively, intelligent and affectionate; Poodles are a versatile breed that make great companions. The poodle has long been a favorite with people of all ages. Although there are three sizes of Poodles, only the Toy and Miniature weigh in at under 25 pounds. I do not recommend Toy Poodles as a dog breed suitable for families with younger children.

A small, sturdy and compact dog with a long, flowing double coat, the Shih Tzu is the epitome of a lap dog. With a coat of any color, the Shih Tzu lacks the fragility of other toy breeds, making him the perfect companion for almost every household member. He is a tolerant, happy and affectionate little dog, and easily mixing with other animals in a home.
Shih Tzu Gallery

Boston Terriers are distinguished little gentlemen, dressed to impress in a short coat of contrasting colors. A small dog that should not weigh more than twenty-five pounds, the Boston Terrier is not fragile by any means. Generally well-adjusted and even-tempered, this intelligent dog makes a highly desirable companion, and is a clear favorite among dog people.

The movie "As Good As It Gets" brought this little dog into the limelight, but he's much more than just distinguished and photogenic good looks. The Brussels Griffon is a compact and sturdy toy dog, with a strikingly human-like expression on its face. He comes with two types of coats, rough and smooth, and a jaunty personality that tends to win over most, even non-dog people.

A small dog of even temperament and rough coat, the Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie, for short) is a dog that fits well in a family unit. That said, the Shetland Sheepdog is also, first and foremost, sheepdog with important needs regarding exercise. In order to be a well-behaved pet, plenty of interaction and exercise is a must. Lack of interaction will bring out the mischief in these dogs, and they can become annoying barkers without stimulation. An intelligent and gentle-natured dog, Shetland Sheepdogs deal with children and other animals.

Shetland Sheepdog Pictures

A tiny dog whose personality outweighs him, the Yorkie is a delight to dog lovers everywhere. Happy and outgoing, Yorkies tend to easily get along with everybody, be the company adults, childen, or other dogs. Their playful personality sand small size enchant children, but these little dogs can be easily injured by larger playmates, so supervision is necessary. It's also important to remember that even though they only weigh six pounds, Yorkies are still true terriers and need the activity and interaction that that all terrier breeds require.
Yorkshire Terrier Gallery

A large and vivacious personality is packed into this compact frame. The West Highland White Terrier (Westie to his friends) is a big dog in a portable body.