Cute and compact, there’s a lot to love about small dog breeds. But there are also lots of different types of small dogs, and no two are exactly alike. Here are some of the best toy and small dog breeds that can fit into your family.
Chihuahuas are charming little dogs who make adorable companions thanks to their sassy personalities and spunky nature. One of the longest-living dog breeds, Chis are full of energy and liven up any room they’re in—which is usually whatever room their beloved pet parents are in.
With their cute strut and beautiful coat, Pomeranians are a popular lap dog. But they weren’t always the little dog breed we know today—Pomeranians are actually descended from sled dogs, and their predecessors weighed around 30 pounds. But once they captivated Queen Victoria and became more popular, Poms were selectively bred to be the tiny, cute dogs we know today.
The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, is a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog. Like other small dog breeds, Yorkies don’t handle the cold well and may be prone to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Small but mighty, the Shih Tzu was bred by Buddhist monks in Tibet to look like a little lion. These tiny, cute dogs are very attached to their pet parents and their long and luxurious coats need lots of attention to stay tangle-free. This breed does best with an attentive family who will brush them a few times throughout the week.
Elegant and stylish, Papillons are named after their wispy ears that resemble butterfly wings (papillon means “butterfly” in French). This small dog is also highly intelligent and needs ample activity and mental stimulation to ward off boredom. Some of the Papillon’s favorite pastimes are taking long walks, running an agility course, and playing with their favorite people.
Toy Poodles are the smallest of the Poodle breeds (the other two being the Standard and the Miniature). Like their larger cousins, Toy Poodles are smart and playful, and they probably don’t mind bath night (which should be every two to four weeks).
German for “monkey terrier,” it’s easy to see how the Affenpinscher got their name: Their distinctive flat, bearded face makes this small dog breed look more like a monkey than a pup. Like other little dogs, Affenpinschers have a long lifespan that can reach 15 years or more.
The Maltese is a small white dog known for their straight, sweeping curtain of fur. Despite their long coat, this toy breed isn’t a heavy shedder and is often labeled as “hypoallergenic” (although there’s no truly hypoallergenic dog). Still, Maltese can be a good choice for people with allergies.
Another small white dog is the Bichon Frise. But what these dogs lack in size, they make up for in heart. Bichons are known for being curious, friendly, and eager-to-please, which makes them easy to train in both basic commands and fun tricks.
Pronounced “beaver,” Biewer Terriers are cute dogs that are small and love their family, making them ideal lap dogs. Originating from Germany, they are descendants of Yorkies, but with a unique genetic twist: they carry the rare piebald gene, resulting in white fur with patches of color.
Brussels Griffons are adorable and sociable companions. Their wide-set eyes give them a childlike, expressive face that adds to their endearing “Velcro dog” personality. These small dogs are equally happy to exercise and be a little couch tater tot. Here’s a fun fact: Griffons were the inspiration for Ewoks in Star Wars.
Are you looking for a smaller furry friend that won’t take up your whole couch or knock over your furniture? Dogs under 30 pounds offer the perfect balance – they’re substantial enough to be durable companions but small enough to fit comfortably in apartments or homes with limited space.
As someone who’s lived with small dogs for years, I can tell you they pack just as much personality and love as their larger counterparts, just in a more compact package! Let’s explore the wonderful world of dogs that weigh less than 30 pounds and help you find your perfect match
Why Choose a Dog Under 30 Pounds?
Small dogs under 30 pounds have lots of advantages:
- Lower food costs – they simply eat less!
- Easier to transport – can fit in carriers for travel
- More apartment-friendly – many buildings have weight restrictions
- Easier to handle – great for children, seniors, or people with mobility issues
- Often live longer – many small breeds have longer lifespans than large dogs
Popular Dog Breeds Under 30 Pounds
Let’s dive into some of the most beloved small dog breeds that typically weigh under 30 pounds:
1. Beagles (20-30 pounds)
Beagles are cheerful, funny dogs with a happy-go-lucky attitude that makes them wonderful family pets. Their thick double coat doesn’t tangle easily but does shed year-round.
Personality Traits:
- Family Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Friendly and great with kids)
- Ease of Care: ⭐⭐ (Moderate grooming needs and requires regular exercise)
- Trainability: ⭐⭐⭐ (Intelligent but can be stubborn)
- Health: ⭐⭐⭐ (Watch for obesity and ear infections)
Beagles were originally bred as hunting dogs, which explains their powerful noses and occasional stubborn streak. They’re one of the most popular hound breeds among American pet owners!
2. Pembroke Welsh Corgis (Up to 30 pounds)
These adorable, long-bodied dogs with short legs and distinctive upright ears make excellent family companions. The Pembroke Welsh Corgi just barely misses the top ten most popular breeds, coming in at #11 according to the AKC.
Personality Traits:
- Family Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent with families and children)
- Ease of Care: ⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate grooming and exercise requirements)
- Trainability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Top 5 in intelligence and highly trainable)
- Health: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Generally healthy but watch for specific issues)
The late Queen Elizabeth II was famously fond of Pembroke Welsh Corgis, getting her first one in the 1930s and helping spread love for the breed worldwide.
3. Dachshunds (16-32 pounds)
Dachshunds come in two sizes miniature and standard. The standard size typically weighs 16-32 pounds and stands just 8-9 inches at the shoulder, making them the shortest breed on our list!
Personality Traits:
- Family Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐ (Good with families but may be snappy with young children)
- Ease of Care: ⭐⭐⭐ (Requires regular grooming and moderate exercise)
- Trainability: ⭐⭐ (Stubborn but can be trained with patience)
- Health: ⭐⭐ (Prone to spinal problems due to their long backs)
Despite their short legs, these dogs have unwavering courage and protectiveness. They were originally bred to hunt badgers, which explains their bravery and occasional stubbornness.
4. Whippets (25-40 pounds)
Affectionately known as the “Poor Man’s Racehorse,” Whippets bear a close resemblance to the larger greyhound but stand no more than 22 inches tall at the shoulder.
Personality Traits:
- Family Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Affectionate and gentle with family members)
- Ease of Care: ⭐⭐⭐ (Low grooming needs but needs regular exercise)
- Trainability: ⭐⭐⭐ (Responsive to training but can be independent)
- Health: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Generally healthy with a long lifespan)
These lightning-quick dogs can run up to 35 miles per hour! Despite their athletic abilities, they’re also big fans of couch naps and rarely bark, making them excellent apartment dogs.
5. Boston Terrier (15-25 pounds)
Boston Terriers are compact, friendly dogs known for their tuxedo-like markings and gentle, affectionate nature.
Personality Traits:
- Family Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Great with families and children)
- Ease of Care: ⭐⭐⭐ (Minimal grooming, moderate exercise needs)
- Trainability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Smart and eager to please)
- Health: ⭐⭐⭐ (Watch for breathing and eye issues)
With their distinctive appearance and friendly temperament, Boston Terriers make excellent companions for city dwellers and families alike.
6. Miniature Poodle (26-31 pounds)
Miniature Poodles are incredibly intelligent, versatile dogs with curly, low-shedding coats that make them popular choices for people with allergies.
Personality Traits:
- Family Friendliness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Loyal and good with children)
- Ease of Care: ⭐⭐⭐ (Requires regular grooming but minimal shedding)
- Trainability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Extremely intelligent and eager to learn)
- Health: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Generally healthy with good longevity)
According to many dog experts, the Poodle might be the best all-round family dog on this list – they’re superb with kids and other pets, make good watchdogs, and are very easy to train!
More Small Dog Breeds Under 30 Pounds
These less common but equally wonderful small breeds also weigh under 30 pounds:
7. Miniature American Shepherd (20-40 pounds)
A smaller version of the Australian Shepherd, these intelligent workers have an uncanny talent for herding despite their smaller size.
8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (11-18 pounds)
These gentle, affectionate companions are known for their silky coats and sweet expressions. They’re excellent with children and other pets.
9. French Bulldog (24-27.5 pounds)
With their bat-like ears and smushed faces, Frenchies have become extremely popular as apartment dogs due to their low exercise needs and affectionate nature.
10. Bichon Frise (6.5-13 pounds)
These fluffy white dogs are known for their cheerful temperaments and hypoallergenic coats.
Tiny Dogs Under 15 Pounds
If you’re looking for even smaller companions, these dogs typically weigh under 15 pounds:
11. Shih Tzu (10-16.5 pounds)
These ancient Chinese companion dogs have beautiful flowing coats and sweet personalities.
12. Pug (14-18 pounds)
Known for their wrinkly faces and playful personalities, Pugs are charming companions with moderate exercise needs.
13. Yorkshire Terrier (5.5-8 pounds)
These tiny terriers have silky coats and big personalities. They’re brave, loyal, and surprisingly good watchdogs despite their small size.
14. Maltese (4.5-6.5 pounds)
With their long, flowing white coats, Maltese are elegant little dogs that form strong bonds with their families.
15. Chihuahua (2-6.5 pounds)
The smallest breed on our list, Chihuahuas pack a lot of personality into a tiny package. They’re loyal, sassy, and often very attached to their people.
Choosing the Right Small Dog for Your Lifestyle
When selecting a dog under 30 pounds, consider these factors:
Activity Level
Some small dogs are surprisingly energetic! Breeds like Jack Russell Terriers and Miniature American Shepherds need lots of exercise, while others like Pugs and Shih Tzus are more laid-back.
Grooming Needs
Long-haired breeds like Shih Tzus and Yorkshire Terriers require regular grooming, while short-coated dogs like Whippets and Boston Terriers are lower maintenance.
Living Situation
If you live in an apartment, consider dogs that aren’t prone to excessive barking and don’t require huge amounts of exercise. French Bulldogs and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are often good apartment dogs.
Family Compatibility
Some small dogs are better with children than others. Beagles, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Bichon Frises tend to be patient with kids, while some terriers might be too nippy for very young children.
Health Considerations for Small Dogs
Small dogs often live longer than large breeds, but they can have specific health concerns:
- Dental issues – Smaller mouths can lead to overcrowding and dental disease
- Tracheal collapse – Common in some small breeds like Yorkshire Terriers
- Patellar luxation – Kneecap issues are more common in small dogs
- Hypoglycemia – Very small dogs can have blood sugar drops
Regular veterinary care is essential for any dog, but paying special attention to dental health is particularly important for smaller breeds.
Training Small Dogs Under 30 Pounds
Don’t make the mistake of thinking small dogs don’t need training! Small dogs benefit from consistent training just as much as larger breeds.
Training Tips:
- Use positive reinforcement methods
- Be consistent with rules and boundaries
- Socialize early and often with people and other dogs
- Don’t carry them everywhere – let them walk and explore
- Avoid “small dog syndrome” by treating them like dogs, not babies
My Personal Experience with Small Dogs
I’ve had the pleasure of sharing my life with several dogs under 30 pounds, and each has been uniquely wonderful. My Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was the sweetest, most gentle soul who never met a stranger he didn’t love. My Miniature Poodle was wicked smart and learned tricks faster than I could teach them!
What I love most about small dogs is how they can go almost anywhere with you. My current pup, a 15-pound mix, joins me for coffee shop visits, hiking trips, and even some dog-friendly stores. Having a portable companion has enhanced my life immeasurably.
With so many wonderful dog breeds under 30 pounds, there’s sure to be one that fits perfectly with your lifestyle and preferences. Whether you want an energetic little athlete like a Jack Russell Terrier or a cuddly lapdog like a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, small dogs offer big love in compact packages.
Remember that each dog is an individual, regardless of breed. Meeting potential pets before adoption and considering adult rescue dogs (whose personalities are already developed) can help ensure a good match.
What’s your favorite dog breed under 30 pounds? Are you considering adding one of these wonderful small companions to your family? The perfect pint-sized pup might be waiting for you right now!
1 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Weight: 13–18 pounds
Height: 12–13 inches
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a toy dog bred to keep laps warm. These sweet puppies were especially beloved by King Charles I and his son, Charles II, and were eventually named after them. Clever, friendly, and eager to please, CKC spaniels are the perfect choice for first-time pet parents.
Weight: 7–14 pounds
Height: 13–15 inches
Don’t be fooled by their name—unlike Greyhounds that can reach 70 pounds, Italian Greyhounds are a little dog breed. Standing just over 1 foot tall at the shoulders, Italian Greyhounds are sociable and sensitive. They are best suited for families with older children who know how to safely play with these small, slender dogs.
Weight: 8–12 pounds
Height: 11–13 inches
The Chinese Cresteds is an ancient breed that comes in two varieties: powderpuff (with silky hair all over their little body) and hairless (with hair only on their head, tail, and ankles). With either type you choose, your Crested will need a lot of care to stay in tip-top shape, with powderpuffs requiring attentive grooming and hairless dogs needing special skincare.
Weight: 7–13 pounds
Height: 8–12 inches
The only dog native to Cuba, Havanese are small, fluffy dogs who bounce through life. They are highly affectionate and get along well with children and other dogs, making them excellent family pets. These happy dogs are very sociable and love the company of people, so pet parents should be ready to give them lots of attention.
Weight: 12–18 pounds
Height: 11 inches or less
Lhasa Apso roughly means “bearded lion dog,” and it’s not hard to see why. With their graceful mane-like coat, these elegant toy dogs resemble small lions. Lhasa Apsos originated in Tibet, where they were bred to be watchdogs and are considered sacred and symbols of good fortune. These dogs are affectionate and loyal to their family but may be wary of strangers due to their breeding history.
Weight: 11–20 pounds
Height: 12–14 inches
Of the three types of Schnauzers, the Miniature Schnauzer is the smallest. These intelligent and charming dogs need lots of exercise due to their history as farm dogs. Give them a job, and these bearded puppies will have the time of their life. Mini Schnauzers also don’t shed much, making them good pets for families with allergies.
Weight: 11–16 pounds
Height: 12–15 inches
The scruffy and scrappy Border Terrier is the smallest of the long-legged terriers. These little dogs are bursting with energy and will thrive with at least an hour of exercise every day. Border Terriers have a distinctive “otter head” that pet parents may find irresistibly cute.
Weight: 8–10 pounds
Height: 10–13 inches
Hailed as the “king of toy breeds,” the Miniature Pinscher doesn’t let their small size slow them down. The Min Pin packs a bold personality despite their stature and needs plenty of action to stay happy. This German toy breed sports a short coat that needs minimal maintenance.
1 Alaskan Klee Kai
Weight: 6–25 pounds
Height: 12–17 inches
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small dog breed that comes in three variations: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. They are a new and rare breed that began with one small Siberian Husky in the 1970s. Like Huskies, Alaskan Klee Kai dogs have an independent, talkative, and determined spirit.
Weight: 13–14 pounds
Height: 9–10 inches
Cairn Terriers are shaggy, athletic dogs bred in Scotland to hunt foxes and other small mammals. The breed saw a boost in popularity after 1939, when a Cairn Terrier named Terry starred as Toto in The Wizard of Oz.
Weight: 7–11 pounds
Height: 8–11 inches
An ancient dog breed with a noble past, Japanese Chin were once popular among Japanese aristocracy. With a long, silky coat and expressive eyes that give them a look of wonder, Chin are regal and elegant while still being tiny, cute dogs.
Weight: 6–10 pounds
Height: 10–12 inches
Hailing from Bologna, Italy, Bolognese are small, fluffy dogs with wild white hair. Another ancient breed, these pups were often given as gifts among European nobility. Today, they’re a good-natured, easygoing lap dog.
dog breeds under 30 pounds
FAQ
What dog breed is 30 lbs?
Dog breeds weighing around 30 lbs or slightly above include the American Cocker Spaniel and Standard Dachshund, while others like the Beagle and some female Airedale Terriers may reach this weight. Many common medium-sized breeds, such as the French Bulldog, Corgi, and Boston Terrier, are often found in this weight range as well.
Is a 30 pound dog small or medium?
What is the #1 small dog breed?
One of the tiniest dog breeds under 10 pounds, the Chihuahua is known for its small size but large personality—not to mention pointy ears and cute round eyes. Temperament: Chihuahuas are extremely loyal, and their pet parents are, too! In fact, people who have a Chihuahua often have more than one in their lifetime.
What dog breed is 25 pounds?
Potential for Destructive Behavior Even for 25 Lb Dogs
Breeds like the Basenji, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and French Bulldog are known for being well-mannered and adaptable to apartment living.