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27 Calm Small Dog Breeds (Lovely Companions)

  • Other Dog Breeds
  • Posted 5 months ago

Not everyone is a fan of those big dogs that bark every time they see someone.

Fortunately, there are breeds of dogs that are small in size which means they can settle even in small spaces, and don’t bark unnecessarily.

In this post, I’ll be presenting, 27 dog breeds that are small and calm, so stay with me till the very end.

Let’s get this started!

1: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Insta – pennycav

If you’re seeking a little breed that is amiable and peaceful, we recommend the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.

According to some experts, this dog was initially developed to warm laps in drafty castles and on frigid carriage rides.

They are excellent with kids and enjoy a reasonably long life of 12 to 15 years.

However, there are several challenges you should be aware of before purchasing this breed; they are prone to separation anxiety as well as some diseases, including cardiac problems.

Pros:

  • Gentle and affectionate temperament
  • Good with children and other pets
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Moderate exercise needs
  • Beautiful, silky coat that requires regular but manageable grooming

Cons:

  • Prone to certain health issues, including heart problems
  • Moderate shedding, requiring regular grooming
  • May be prone to separation anxiety

2: Shih Tzu

Insta – ralphie_the_sith_tzu

I adore Shih Tzus; they are not as quiet as Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, but their playful and friendly attitude makes them really endearing.

They are one of the shortest and lightest breeds, weighing between 9 and 16 pounds and standing between 9 and 10.5 inches tall at the shoulder.

But don’t be fooled by their size; they are fearless canines who make excellent watchdogs. Furthermore, despite having a thick coat, they barely shed, making them an ideal pet for persons who are sensitive to dog hair.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and friendly demeanor
  • Good with families and other pets
  • Low to moderate exercise requirements
  • Hypoallergenic coat (minimal shedding)
  • Adaptable to apartment living

Cons:

  • Grooming needs are high, including regular brushing and professional grooming
  • Prone to certain health issues, such as respiratory problems
  • May be stubborn and challenging to train

3: French Bulldog

Insta – frenchie_rogue

French Bulldogs can be pricey in some locations due to their outstanding temperament and calm and composed character.

Apart from wrinkled skin around their face and shoulders, they have a small, compact frame that is well-proportioned and rather strong. They appear to be both unique and adorable.

They have a cheerful and easygoing nature that is ideal for apartment living.

Overall, a nice breed to have if you want a small, peaceful breed.

Pros:

  • Friendly and easygoing temperament
  • Well-suited for apartment living due to their size
  • Low exercise needs
  • Low grooming requirements
  • Good with families, including children

Cons:

  • Prone to certain health issues, including respiratory problems
  • Can be stubborn, making training a bit challenging
  • May not tolerate extreme temperatures well due to their brachycephalic (short-nosed) structure

4: Bichon Frise

Insta – minipet.philippines

These white little dogs are loving and happy; experts believe this breed is a fantastic all-around pet that is playful yet gentle.

The nicest thing about these little dogs is that they get along well with other pets, so if you already have dogs in your home, don’t worry; Bichon Frise will get along with them quickly.

They, like Shih Tzus, have a low shedding coat, making them an excellent choice for persons who are allergic to dog hair.

Pros:

  • Cheerful and affectionate nature
  • Good with families, including children
  • Hypoallergenic coat with minimal shedding
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Adaptable to different living environments

Cons:

  • Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their coat
  • Can be prone to certain health issues, including dental problems
  • May suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods

5: Pug

Insta – thepuglifeofbentley

Pugs are peaceful dogs who prefer to spend much of their time reclining on the sofa, napping, or eating. They require very little activity to keep fit and are adaptable to different living spaces such as apartments.

Aside from that, they are loving and appealing dogs who require little upkeep. They are, however, prone to specific health difficulties such as respiratory disorders and obesity. They also shed moderately at specific times of the year.

Pros:

  • Charming and affectionate personality
  • Good with families and children
  • Low exercise requirements
  • Adaptable to various living spaces, including apartments
  • Minimal grooming needs

Cons:

  • Prone to health issues, including respiratory problems and obesity
  • Can be stubborn, making training challenging
  • Moderate shedding, especially during certain seasons

6: Maltese

Insta – maltese.juzz

Maltese are renowned for having kind temperaments and attractive looks.

Bred only as “comforters” and friends, they were particularly beloved by women, who frequently carried them in their sleeves or cradled them on their laps when “taking air” in their carriages.

They are the ideal dog for apartment living because of their petite stature and hypoallergenic white coat.

Their intelligence and degree of trainability set them apart from other breeds. They are excellent watchdogs since they are highly intelligent and trainable.

Your wife or girlfriend will undoubtedly appreciate this breed if you present it to her as a gift!

Pros:

  • Gentle and affectionate temperament
  • Hypoallergenic coat with minimal shedding
  • Suitable for apartment living due to their small size
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Good with families and other pets

Cons:

  • Regular grooming is essential to maintain their long coat
  • Prone to certain health issues, including dental problems
  • May become anxious if left alone for long periods

7: Coton de Tulear

Insta – bigapple_cotsong

The Madagascar-bred Coton de Tulear is a little, cuddly, peaceful, and loving dog breed.

Although they don’t have the same level of calm as some of the other breeds on my list, I couldn’t leave them off because of their striking looks and outgoing personalities.

They are smart and easy to teach, and they get along well with kids and other animals. However, they have certain health problems, like as hip dysplasia, and their coat needs to be regularly groomed.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and sociable temperament
  • Hypoallergenic coat with minimal shedding
  • Good with children and other pets
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Adaptable to various living environments

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia
  • Can be sensitive, and harsh training methods may not be effective

8: Havanese

Insta – havaneseoftheworld

An excellent option for those seeking a tiny, peaceful breed is the Havanese. This breed is renowned for having a calm and kind disposition; in fact, they adore their owners and the companion animals they live with. But when it comes to strangers, they could be cautious.

Owing to their little stature, measuring between 8 and 11 inches in height and weighing between 7 and 13 pounds, they may adapt to a variety of living arrangements, including apartments.

Nevertheless, it would not be a good idea to leave this dog breed alone for extended periods of time because, like the majority of the breeds included here, they are prone to separation anxiety.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and friendly temperament
  • Good with families, children, and other pets
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Hypoallergenic coat with minimal shedding
  • Adaptable to different living environments, including apartments

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat
  • May suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods
  • Can be prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia

9: Italian Greyhound

Insta – daisy._and_.gatsby

Italian greyhounds have a somewhat distinctive appearance; in fact, they are very different from the other breeds on this list in terms of appearance.

They require less maintenance because they have less hair, and their compact stature makes them ideal for living in tiny spaces.

Other than this, they are quite loving and devoted to their owners; yet, because they are delicate canines, they are prone to injuries and dislike the cold because they lack a thick coat to withstand it.

Pros:

  • Elegant and graceful appearance
  • Affectionate and loyal to their owners
  • Low grooming needs
  • Well-suited for apartment living due to their small size
  • Moderate exercise requirements

Cons:

  • Fragile build, making them prone to injuries
  • Can be reserved or shy around strangers
  • May not tolerate cold temperatures well due to their short coat

10: Japanese Chin

Insta – sato.the.japanese.chin

The Japanese chin is an extremely petite, low-energy, calm, and composed breed that is an excellent option for anyone seeking a peaceful small breed.

Throughout the breed’s history, the Chin’s sole purpose has been to enchant, entertain, and soothe their humans. As their name implies, they are native to Japan and were developed exclusively as pets for royalty.

They don’t require much exercise because they are laid back by nature; mild to moderate exercise will do.

They can be hesitant around strangers, despite the fact that they are kind and affectionate with their owners.


Pros:

  • Elegant and charming appearance
  • Affectionate and gentle temperament
  • Low to moderate exercise requirements
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Good with families and other pets

Cons:

  • Prone to certain health issues, including respiratory problems
  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat
  • Can be reserved or shy around strangers

11: Bolognese

Insta – meekolittlelion

The Bolognese is an Italian dog breed that is quiet, tiny, clever, and highly trainable. In the 11th century, they were bred as companion dogs.

Bolognese is an excellent choice for first-time owners due to their caring and dedicated attitude. Because they form close bonds with their owners, they are prone to separation anxiety.

Unfortunately, this breed is prone to dental problems, therefore you must maintain its dental hygiene.

Furthermore, they are members of the Bichon breed (Maltese, Havanese, Bichon Frise, and Coton de Tulear).

Pros:

  • Affectionate and devoted temperament
  • Hypoallergenic coat with minimal shedding
  • Good with families, including children
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Adaptable to apartment living

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including dental problems
  • Can be sensitive and may not respond well to harsh training methods

12: Pomeranian

Insta – petland___

The Pomeranian breed is very well-liked, particularly in Southern Asia. Although they are a fairly peaceful dog breed that is energetic and playful, they do become noisy when they detect a threat, so you may need to socialize them from a young age.

All things considered, they’re a fantastic option for apartment dwellers looking for a tiny breed that can serve as a good watchdog.

They can be a wonderful option if you are allergic to dog shedding because of their lovely double coat’s little shedding.

Moreover, they require appropriate training because they can be recalcitrant at times.

Pros:

  • Lively and playful temperament
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Alert and makes a good watchdog
  • Beautiful double coat with minimal shedding

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including dental problems
  • Can be stubborn, making training challenging

13: Chihuahua

Insta – chihuahuastagrams

Although it’s true that Chichuhuas may be quite aggressive, there is another side to the breed that some people choose not to display online. You may have seen numerous videos of these dogs biting, barking, and acting aggressively.

They typically don’t howl or growl for no apparent reason, and in fact, they like spending time with the people they have bonded with.

Although this breed is generally peaceful, when they notice strangers or feel that someone is trying to enter their personal space when they are trying to be left alone, they might get hostile or start barking.

They also require appropriate socialization from a young age because they are tiny dogs who are prone to mishaps.

Pros:

  • Compact size, making them suitable for apartment living
  • Loyal and affectionate with their owners
  • Low grooming needs
  • Adapt well to different living environments
  • Alert and can serve as effective watchdogs

Cons:

  • Fragile build, making them prone to injuries
  • May be reserved or aloof with strangers
  • Requires socialization to prevent overprotective behavior

14: Brussels Griffon

Insta – griffy.girl

The Brussels Griffon is a high-energy, low-shedding, and clever breed. They are originally from Belgium and were intended to catch rats (an odd reason), but they quickly became companion dogs due to their outstanding appearance and disposition.

They may still be pursuing rats and other small animals in your garden.

They can be stubborn at times, and they are hesitant around strangers, so you must ensure that this breed is socialized and trained from an early age.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and loyal temperament
  • Adaptable to apartment living due to their small size
  • Low exercise requirements
  • Low shedding
  • Intelligent and trainable

Cons:

  • May be reserved or shy around strangers
  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat
  • Can be stubborn, making training challenging

15: Dachshund (Miniature)

Insta – river_the_mini_dachshund

Dachshund (Miniature), often known as Mini Dachshund, is a small-sized German breed.

They are a tiny variation of the dachshund dog breed. Weighing just around 11 pounds and growing only about 6 inches tall, making them one of the shortest kinds.

Mini Dachshunds do bark, but with training and socialization, they begin to settle down as they grow older.

According to sources, they begin to exhibit slightly calming behavior when they are 6 months old.

Pros:

  • Loyal and affectionate with their owners
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Moderate exercise needs
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Comes in various coat types for different preferences

Cons:

  • Can be stubborn, making training challenging
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including back problems
  • Moderate shedding, requiring regular grooming

16: Lhasa Apso

Insta – madhuvanti_rudraveena

Beautiful tiny Lhasa apsos are independent, strong-willed, and excellent watchdogs.

They are not as quiet as Japanese Chins, Pugs, or King Charles Cavilers, but they normally start to exhibit a relaxing demeanor after the age of three.

They have so much energy that they will play in a fenced yard, dash around an apartment to burn it off, or take their owners for brisk walks.

This breed is also well-known for having a lengthy lifespan—12 to 14 years.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and loyal temperament
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Low exercise requirements
  • Hypoallergenic coat with minimal shedding
  • Makes a good watchdog due to their alert nature

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their long coat
  • Can be independent and strong-willed
  • May not be as tolerant of small children

17: Pekingese

Insta – peketales

Pekingese are calm, friendly, loyal, and clever dogs who enjoy running around the home and entertaining themselves. They also make excellent watchdogs.

They expend their energy on their own, so you don’t need to force them to exercise; in other words, they have low to moderate exercise requirements.

In addition, because of their thick coat, they require regular brushing to keep themselves clear of mats and debris.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and loyal with their owners
  • Adaptable to apartment living due to their small size
  • Low to moderate exercise requirements
  • Independent and can entertain themselves
  • Makes a good watchdog

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their long coat
  • May be reserved or aloof with strangers
  • Can be prone to certain health issues, including respiratory problems

18: Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)

Insta – lukathesheltie

Shetland Sheepdogs, sometimes known as Shelties, are calm and gentle creatures with a pleasant disposition.

They get along well with other animals but are wary of strangers. To ensure they do not develop extreme timidity, you might need to start early socialization and training with them.

The nice thing is that they pick up training fast because they are intelligent canines. All things considered, they are the ideal dog for anyone seeking a calm companion.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Loyal and affectionate with their family
  • Good with children and other pets
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Beautiful double coat with moderate shedding

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including eye problems
  • Can be reserved or aloof with strangers

19: Tibetan Spaniel

Insta – tibetanspaniel.biglove

Tibetan Spaniels are an unusual breed that originated in Tibet. They look like Pugs with long hair; they have a short nose and a small size, but unlike Pugs, they have long silky hair.

Despite their diminutive size, they were designed to guard the monasteries and notify the Monks. Tibetan Spaniel’s role was to just keep an eye out and see what was going on.

When an intruder approached, the Tibetan Spaniel would sit on top of the monastery walls and bark.

The Tibetan Mastiff is another breed with Tibetan ancestry, albeit there are several distinctions between Tibetan Mastiff and the Tibetan Spaniel.

In contrast to the Tibetan Spaniel, the Tibetan Mastiff is a significantly larger, more aggressive, and more powerful breed.

Pros:

  • Affectionate and loyal temperament
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Moderate exercise needs
  • Low grooming requirements
  • Good with families and other pets

Cons:

  • May be reserved or aloof with strangers
  • Requires socialization to prevent excessive shyness
  • May have a strong independent streak, making training challenging

20: Cockapoo

Insta – indy.thecockapoo

At their prime, cockapoos are not at all calm; rather, they are incredibly extroverted and like playing, running around, and chewing on toys.

The best thing about this adorable little curly-haired breed is that their amazing coat doesn’t shed. They are also incredibly friendly and gregarious.

When they get older, they do slow down and become more serene.

Pros:

  • Friendly and sociable temperament
  • Hypoallergenic coat with minimal shedding
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Good with families, including children

Cons:

  • Grooming needs can vary depending on coat type
  • May be prone to certain health issues inherited from parent breeds
  • Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation

21: Basset Hound

Insta – confidentsnoopers

Famous for their diminutive size and large, floppy ears are Basset Hounds. They adjust well to apartment living and are composed and low-energy.

Their ability to smell is what sets them apart. Their sense of smell is really good.

They are also low maintenance, laid back, and nice with kids, but they do have some health problems, such ear infections. Thus, be sure to give their stunning ears more attention.

Pros:

  • Gentle and laid-back temperament
  • Good with children and other pets
  • Low grooming requirements
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Excellent sense of smell, making them skilled scent hounds

Cons:

  • Can be stubborn, making training challenging
  • Moderate shedding, requiring regular grooming
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including ear infections due to their floppy ears

22: Cairn Terrier

Insta – cairn_terrier_family

Cairn terriers are renowned for their wit, curiosity, and lively personalities. These small hairy dogs are wonderful companions, but they have an odd hole-digging obsession.

They have a maximum height of 13 inches and a maximum weight of 14 pounds. They aren’t very quiet, though, until their energy levels subside and they become calm dogs.

Pros:

  • Energetic and playful temperament
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Low grooming requirements
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Good with families and other pets

Cons:

  • May be prone to digging behavior
  • Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation
  • Can be independent and strong-willed

23: West Highland White Terrier

Insta – westie_emmi

The West Highland White Terrier, sometimes known as the Westie, is a Scottish breed. They have a split personality in that when they are inside, they are quiet, but when they go outside, their inner hyperactive dogs come to life.

They are very intelligent and rapid learners, and they like being trained. I wholeheartedly recommend them!

Pros:

  • Friendly and outgoing temperament
  • Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments
  • Low shedding and minimal grooming needs
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Good with families, including children

Cons:

  • May be prone to certain health issues, including skin conditions
  • Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation
  • Can be independent and strong-willed, requiring consistent training

24: Scottish Terrier

Insta – scottishterrier.kin

Scottish Terriers have a moderate temperament, which means they get along well with people but not with dogs or other animals.

They are a confident, adaptable, and low-shedding breed that, like the other breeds discussed here, gets along well with children and families.

Pros:

  • Confident and dignified temperament
  • Adaptable to apartment living
  • Low shedding and minimal grooming needs
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Good with families, including children

Cons:

  • May be prone to certain health issues, including joint problems
  • Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation
  • Can be reserved or aloof with stranger animals and dogs

25: Papillon

Insta – vumi_rottweilers

The papillon breed is outgoing, content, and enjoys curling up on its owners’ laps. When they are in their prime, they are lively and incredibly energetic, but they also do not bark excessively, which makes them an excellent option for those looking for a tiny breed that is both energetic and peaceful.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Energetic and playful temperament
  • Adaptable to various living environments
  • Low grooming requirements
  • Good with families, including children

Cons:

  • May be reserved or shy with strangers
  • Requires regular exercise and mental stimulation
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including dental problems

26: Yorkshire Terrier

Insta – loulou_pet

Yorkshire Terriers, sometimes known as Yorkies, are another adorable breed that is well-suited to apartment living. They are quite intelligent and trainable, and with the proper instruction, you can teach them to be silent.

However, they are naturally high energetic dogs who bark when they see any threat or stranger canines.

Pros:

  • Small size and adaptable to apartment living
  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Low shedding coat
  • Good with families, including children
  • Loyal and affectionate temperament

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their long coat
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including dental problems
  • Can be feisty and may not tolerate rough handling

27: Miniature Schnauzer

Insta – maverick.the.mini.schnauzer

With their striking appearance, miniature schnauzers are renowned for their intelligent, lovable, friendly, and self-assured personalities.

Each Mini Schnauzer has a different temperament; some are gentle and placid, while others are quite energetic, much like other terrier breeds.

All things considered, if you’re searching for a distinctive-looking, smart, flexible, and sociable breed, this is a great one to have in your home.

Pros:

  • Intelligent and trainable
  • Adaptable to various living environments, including apartments
  • Low shedding coat
  • Good with families, including children
  • Alert and makes a good watchdog

Cons:

  • Requires regular grooming to maintain their coat
  • May be prone to certain health issues, including urinary stones
  • Needs regular exercise and mental stimulation

Can I Teach My Dog To Be Calm?

Dogs differ in their level of calmness; some are hyperactive and naturally bark a lot, while others like to lounge on the couch and remain silent even when called upon.

The good news is that you can train your dog to be composed. To be peaceful, your dog can be trained in a variety of methods.

You can use treats to train or his favorite toy. There are many great tutorials available.

My Pick!

Despite the fact that every breed I’ve listed is excellent, some are simply superior to others. The best breed for us is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel; they are the epitome of the little, peaceful dog.

In addition, they have an incredible temperament, are very attractive adore kids, and enjoy spending time with their owners.

A truly fantastic breed to have!

I hope you liked this post.

Thanks For Reading!

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