Small dogs make fabulous companions, they can fit in your lap, some even in your handbags, and can easily be accommodated in small houses or apartments. Although their size has more or less branded them as show dogs, but they are actually quite observant and watchful.

Best Child Friendly Small Dog Breeds List

Pug: Pugs are indoor dogs, reaching up to 11 inches in height, and they weigh no more than eight kg. Their faces are squished-up, with a smooth, short coat and a cute little curly tail. They often come in colors like black, silver or fawn, with black snouts. They are sociable and playful in nature, and can be left alone with children without worrying about barks and bites. Pugs need plenty of attention and show their displeasure at being ignored. They are intelligent and loyal dogs, and can be trained quite easily.

Chihuahuas: Chihuahuas are native to Mexico, and are bold and feisty dogs. They like to presume that they are big dogs, and even act like one, never mind their size. They are one of the smallest breed of dog in the world, not more than 10 inches in height. They have bright eager looking eyes and erect ears, and are available in shades of brown, fawn or crme and black. They are not very sociable, but can stay around unfamiliar people, as long as people don't make an effort to be friendly with them.

Dachshunds: Dachshunds are curious and full of life. They are short-legged with elongated bodies. They have been named after the German terrier (badger) group of dogs. Dachshunds are categorized as per their mature weight; miniature weigh less than 11 pounds, and standard ones weigh between 16 to 32 pounds. Dachshunds are available in three varieties; the short-haired, the wired-haired, and the long-haired. Like the terrier they are spirited and independent in nature, and have all the makings of a joyful pet.

Shih Tzu: Shih Tzus are gentle, loyal, sporty and courageous dogs with long billowing coat, that requires regular shampooing and grooming.

Best Sporty and Fun Small Dog Breeds

Boston Terrier: A Boston terrier is an intelligent dog, built small and compact with a square sort of face. They weigh between 10 to 25 pounds and come in colors of black, brindle, seal, or a combination of all three.

Yorkshire Terrier: Affectionately called Yorkie, the Yorkshire Terrier originally have originated from Yorkshire in northern England. They have a happy disposition, that means they gel well with people, especially children. They normally weigh around 2.5-5 kg and are about nine inches in height. Their coat is soft and shiny and need regular grooming. They come in colors like black or dark brown, with patches of tan on the body.

French Bulldogs: French bulldogs are extremely affectionate and playful in nature. It is a treat to watch them, when they are playing alone or with some toys. They have a flat face, snubbed nose, smooth coat and a small frame. They are intelligent and calm dogs, and are not overtly sensitive when left alone or ignored. As they are bulky dogs, they should not be left alone near pools or large puddles. French bulldogs can reach a maximum height of 12 inches.

Basset Hound: Basset hounds are gentle in nature, and comfortable around people.

Best Fashionable Small Dog Breeds

Beagle Hound: Contrary to the image of a hound, a beagle hound is pint-sized. But they don't let that small piece of fact get in the way of their enthusiasm in guarding you. They are intelligent and friendly, and rarely get irritated or aggressive in company. They weigh up to 30 pounds and reach the height of 15 inches. They have large gentle eyes with long flappy ears. Their coat is smooth in texture. They are usually white or fawn with the black, white or tan patches on them.

Maltese Poodle: intelligent and well-mannered, Maltese is considered to be a traditional lap dog. They weigh around 2-3 kg and reach a maximum height of ten inches.

Toy Poodle: Toy poodles are also commonly known as teacup poodle, and are very small in size, up to ten inches, and weigh no more than 3 kg. They can be well trained, but require extensive and expensive grooming.

Papillon: Papillon is a small dog with a fine bone structure. They have beautiful butterfly shaped ears. They weigh around four to five kilogram, and reach a height of 8 to11 inch.

There are many more breeds of small dogs like Bichon Frise, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Lhasa Apso, Havanese, etc. one can choose from. While choosing a dog make sure you get all the important information regarding to your dogs well-being and good health.