Small dog breeds are loved by all, be it a family, singles, or couples. They take up little space, look cute, and eat way less than a large breed.

According to your lifestyle and apartment space, there is a wide range of small dog breeds you can choose from.

Below are the benefits of having a small dog breed:

• Low Maintenance : Many small dog breeds are low maintenance. You won't have to spend a fortune on their grooming, or their health. You just have to groom and bathe them weekly and have a monthly checkup at the vet.

• Eat Lesser : Small dog breeds eat less because of their tiny cute tummies. Their calorie intake is lower than large dog breeds. This saves you more money in the long run.

• Easier to Transport : Small dog breeds are portable. They’re easier to carry wherever you’re going, and they’re easier to transport too. So you can take them whether you’re going for a walk or a vacation.

• Less Space Required : Small dog breeds require less space. They can even curl up on your lap, or your favourite couch. If you have a small apartment, then a small dog breed can suit it well.

• Comfortable to Have Around Kids : Kids love smaller pets. So, when you thinking of buying a pet, you can never go wrong by buying a small dog breed as kids are more comfortable around small dogs.

Given below are the best small dog breeds in India:

Pugs are easy pets. They are the most loved small dog breeds in India. Due to their flat muzzles and curly tails, it is way easier to recognise them.

They enjoy daily walks, and like to run around. Also, they’re happy being indoors if you’re wondering how often you have to take them out.

They’re also calm and intelligent breeds that can easily fit in with the kids.

• Food : Pugs like to eat high-quality, dry/wet food, but you must avoid making them stop from overeating.

• Exercise : They like short daily walks or even like to play indoors.

• Grooming : Pugs require weekly baths and weekly brushing.

• Health and Wellness : These cute small dog breeds are prone to obesity and respiratory issues. So, it is advisable to get them checked at the vet regularly.

• Training & Behaviour : Pugs are usually stubborn, and need patience.

• Aggressiveness : On the aggressiveness scale they’re low, but can chew when they get irritated.

This small dog breed has dark eyes and a sweet expression. They’re loving, affectionate, and very playful. Shih Tzus are great lap dogs and they’re well suited for smaller families. If you have children and other pets, then Shih Tzus can fit in easily.

• Food : Shih Tzus loves eating protein-rich food with a small kibble.

• Exercise : They like light to play and go on short daily walks.

• Grooming : Shih Tzus requires daily brushing and regular trimming.

• Health and Wellness : Shih Tzus are prone to skin infections, and eye and dental issues.

• Training & Behaviour : Shih Tzus are very friendly and these tiny breeds enjoy positive reinforcement.

• Aggressiveness : On the aggressiveness scale they’re low.

These small dog breeds are the most loved in India. They were bred for hunting and have an excellent nose. Beagles are curious, intelligent, and even-tempered.

• Food : It is advised to give beagles a balanced diet for active dogs and avoid overeating.

• Exercise : Beagles are high-energy small dog breeds. They enjoy long walks and playful activities.

• Grooming : Beagles require weekly brushing and regular grooming.

• Health and Wellness : They’re prone to ear infections and obesity.

• Training & Behaviour : You may have heard curiosity killed a cat. But you might not heard curiosity made a Beagle wander. Beagles are highly curious and have a strong sense of smell that makes them wander due to scent instincts.

• Aggressiveness : On the aggressiveness scale they’re low.

Chihuahuas are the most popular and the world's smallest dog breeds. They’re highly intelligent and loyal with a funny personality. They usually have a smooth long coat and require gentle brushing and must be wiped with a damp cloth.

• Food : Chihuahuas love eating small portions of high-quality food. No, not Michelin star high quality, but food of good quality.

• Exercise : Chihuahua require minimal exercise and short walks.

• Grooming : Chihuahuas require weekly gentle brushing.

• Health and Wellness : They’re prone to dental problems and cold sensitivity.

• Training & Behaviour : Chihuahuas are loyal but can be territorial. Like Joey in F.RI.E.N.D.S loves food. Chihuahuas love their territory.

Aggressiveness : On the aggressiveness scale they’re moderate with strangers.

One of the best tiny dog breeds is the Pomeranian. This breed belongs to the Spitz family. They are called after the Central European regions of Pomerania in northeastern Germany and northwest Poland.

• Food : They usually require a balanced diet with small kibble.

• Exercise : Pomeranians love moderate indoor play and short walks.

• Grooming : They need daily brushing to prevent tangles.

• Health and Wellness : These small dog breeds are prone to dental issues and joint problems.

• Training & Behaviour : Pomeranians are energetic and intelligent. They love attention.

• Aggressiveness : On the aggressiveness scale they’re low.

Some small dog breeds can be calm, and serene and bring peace to you.

These are the calmest small dog breeds.

1. Pomeranian : We have spoken enough about these small dog breeds. But the more we say the less it is. Pomeranians are good with children and can be left alone to keep themselves busy. These small dog breeds are the calmest.

2. Maltese : The 2nd most calmest small dog breed we have is Maltese. These dogs are bred to be a companion. They're gentle, easy-going, and highly trainable.

3. Bichon Frise : These small dog breeds are playful and high-spirited. They're bred to be a companion dog.

4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel : Often known as the calmest dog breed. They're calm, affectionate, quiet, and good to other dogs.

5. Pug : These cute breeds aren't big on barking. They can learn to behave well and look for treats. They're full of energy once in a while and would like to be the center of attention sometimes.

Before buying a small dog breed you might need to be prepared with their accessories. Below are the accessories you might require:

• Clothing and Accessories : Your small breed dog needs sweaters , and jackets if they're sensitive to cold. They also need lightweight raincoats for rainy seasons.

• Carriers and Travel Supplies : Even though small dog breeds are easier to carry, you need soft carriers for easy transport.

• Grooming : You might also need different kinds of nail clippers and pet-friendly shampoos .

• Bowls and Feeders : As small dog breeds eat less, you might need to buy a smaller size bowl for portion control. Go for non-slip, stainless steel, or ceramic bowls .

• Collars, Leashes, and Harnesses : You might consider buying lightweight harnesses for better control during walks. Along With the harnesses you also need soft and adjustable collars to prevent discomfort.

Small dog breeds are playful and they might need entertainment. Here are different kinds of dog toys you can consider for them:

• Interactive Toys : These are toys that have a puzzle or treat dispensing toys to keep the minds of small breed dogs engaged.

• Ball and Fetch Toys : These are small-sized balls for active breeds like Pomeranians and Beagles

• Chew Toys : These are toys to prevent destructive chewing. They're durable and keep teeth healthy.

• Soft Toys : Soft toys are more suitable for small breed dogs like Shih Tzus. Ensure you use a safe and durable one.

• Tug Toys : Energetic small breed dogs like Pomeranians love this toy. As it promotes playful interaction between the dog and the toy.

Still confused over what small breed dog to choose? Stop worrying.

Let's figure it out together. Here are a few things to think over:

• Consider Your Lifestyle : Ask yourself these questions, “Are you active or prefer a calm companion?” or this one, “Do you have time for weekly grooming?”

• Space Availability : Small dog breeds adjust to smaller apartments. But the beagles need more play areas.

• Experience : If you've never handled a dog before, that means you're a first-time dog owner. If that's the case you might need low-maintenance breeds like Chihuahuas.

• Family Needs : If you're considering a small dog breed for a family then choose Shih Tzus or Beagles for active households.

• Budget : Consider the monthly cost of grooming, healthcare, maintenance, and food for these small dog breeds. Choose the one that suits your budget.

Also read: 

Dog Breed Explorer: Uncover the Ideal Companion for You

Dangerous Dog Breed Talk: Do They Deserve the Hype or Hate?

 Banned Dog Breeds in India: Must-Know Info for Pet Parents

Most Intelligent Dog Breeds: Find the Smartest Companions 

Many small dog breeds are known to be happy and friendly. Few of them are Pug, Pomeranian, and Bichon Frise.

The best small dog breeds to own are Shih Tzus, Beagles, Pug, and Chihuahuas as they're low maintenance, may fit your budget, and are perfect for first-time dog owners.