Small dog breeds
Six small dog breeds honestly compared
10 min · last updated 20/08/2026
Small dogs are not a single category but six very different characters. This comparison helps with an honest self-assessment.
Time required for grooming
Toy poodle and maltese need daily grooming plus regular salon appointments. Havanese and pomeranian manage with two or three brushing sessions per week.
Smooth-coat chihuahua and smooth-coat miniature dachshund are low maintenance — in return they need particularly consistent dental care and back protection respectively.
Exercise and mental work
The miniature dachshund and the toy poodle have the highest need for occupation: around one hour of movement plus daily thinking tasks.
Maltese and chihuahua are content with 30 to 45 minutes but likewise need genuine walks rather than carrier bags.
Family, children, neighbours
Havanese are considered the most child-friendly breed in this selection. We prefer to place chihuahua and maltese in households with older children.
Pomeranian and chihuahua are the most vocal. In poorly insulated apartment buildings, early training of a stop signal pays off.