Maltese, Miniature Poodle & Co.: Which small dog breed suits your lifestyle?

Top 10 small dog breeds compared: Which one suits you best?

Are you thinking about adopting a small dog but aren't sure which breed is right for your daily life? Small dog breeds are particularly popular because they're often easy to care for, adaptable, and ideal for apartments or city life. In this article, we compare 10 popular small dog breeds based on personality, grooming needs, activity level, and family friendliness. Find the perfect companion for your life.

Comparison of small dog breeds

1. Dachshund

The dachshund is a classic among small dog breeds. With its long body and short legs, it has a distinctive look. It is very lively, intelligent, and needs regular exercise. It is ideal for people who enjoy being active and have plenty of time for their dog. Dachshunds are also considered stubborn and headstrong. They therefore require a lot of training, patience, and, above all, consistent owners who give them clear rules.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family-friendly : yes, for active families

• Active : yes, needs daily exercise

• Other characteristics : alert, prone to separation anxiety, intelligent but stubborn

2. Maltese

The Maltese is a small dog with silky, white fur. He is particularly friendly and affectionate, loves to cuddle, and is rather quiet. Perfect for people looking for a gentle family dog.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family-friendly : yes, good for families with older children

• Active : moderately active, loves walks

• Other characteristics : hardly sheds (suitable for allergy sufferers), high grooming requirements, tends to suffer from separation anxiety

3. Miniature Poodle

The Miniature Poodle is one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They're very eager to learn, playful, and well-suited to allergy sufferers because they hardly shed. If you want an active, easy-care, and smart dog, this is the right choice.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family friendly : yes

• Active : yes, loves activity and training

• Other features : allergy-friendly, very trainable, needs mental stimulation

4. Bolonka

The Bolonka is a small Russian dog breed with a charming appearance. They are very sociable, friendly, and adapts well to various life situations. They are ideal for families and seniors.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family friendly : yes

• Active : moderate

• Other characteristics : very people-oriented, little hunting instinct, well adaptable

5. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog in the world, but has a big personality. They are brave, alert, and need lots of affection. They are perfect for people seeking a lively and loyal companion.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family-friendly : limited, cautious with small children

• Active : yes, but with short units

• Other characteristics : strongly fixated on a caregiver, alert, sensitive to cold

6. French Bulldog

The French Bulldog may be small but robust. They are very friendly and easy to care for, but their short snout means they requires special attention in hot weather. They are ideal for people living in the city.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family friendly : yes

• Active : moderate, short walks are enough

• Other characteristics : sensitive to heat, tends to be overweight, very affectionate

7. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a small dog with a big personality. They are brave, lively, and affectionate. Regular grooming is essential. Perfect for people who want a spirited companion.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family-friendly : yes, but more for older children

• Active : yes, playful and alert

• Other features : high maintenance, intelligent, good for small apartments

8. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

This dog impresses with their friendly nature and silky coat. They are affectionate, child-friendly, and well-suited to families.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family friendly : yes, very good

• Active : moderate

• Other characteristics : very cuddly, sensitive, needs close family contact

9. Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is a small, long-haired companion dog. They are  calm, friendly, and loves to be pampered. An ideal choice for people who can devote a lot of time to grooming.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family friendly : yes

• Active : little, loves quiet walks

• Other characteristics : high maintenance, hardly sheds, uncomplicated nature

10. Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier is small, but very lively and intelligent. They need plenty of exercise and activity. They are for active dog owners who enjoy challenges.

Important facts at a glance:

• Family-friendly : yes, but not suitable for small children

• Active : very high

• Other characteristics : hunting instinct, needs training, loves dog sports

FAQ – frequently asked questions

Which small dog breed is best suited for an apartment?

Breeds like the Maltese , Miniature Poodle , and Bolonka are ideal for apartment living. While they need exercise, they have a moderate need for movement and are highly adaptable.

Which small dogs are suitable for allergy sufferers?

The miniature poodle is particularly allergy-friendly because they hardly shed and are therefore low in allergens. Whether on a short walk or on the couch, with hypoallergenic breeds and a clean dog bed, you can ensure a comfortable home for allergy sufferers.

How much exercise do small dog breeds need?

Even small dogs need sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay balanced and healthy. While breeds like Maltese or Bolonka tend to be quiet companions, Jack Russell Terriers and Dachshunds are significantly more active and require regular physical and mental stimulation.

The Adventure Leash , made of non-slip Biothane material and 5 meters long, is ideal for controlled outdoor training. It offers your dog more freedom of movement than a standard leash while you retain control – perfect for recall training, targeted exercise, and safe explorations in the park or open terrain.

For intensive play sessions and to promote endurance, a durable throwing toy is the ideal choice. Sturdy rings or flexible rubber balls are easy to throw, durable, and encourage your dog to stay active—whether playing fetch, running, or playful training.

Are small dog breeds family-friendly?

Many dogs, such as the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel or the Bolonka Spaniel, are very child-friendly. However, small dogs are sensitive, so interaction with children should always be handled with care. A stable home with a place to retreat, such as a dog carrier for travel and home, helps prevent stress for both children and dogs.