Dogs are always considered the best companions for every pet parent. There are many dog lovers in India and all around the world. Dogs are the favorite of all! Their character and temperament which is unmatchable with any other variety of pets. They are loyal, loving, protective, caring, active, and playful and can guard their human family against the suspected elements.
Here, in this blog, we will talk about the 17 Best Small dog breeds in India. Small dogs are popular in modern households as they are easy to keep and maintain compared to adult dog breeds, and they have fewer demands and needs than medium to large dogs. Small dogs can easily adjust to the flat or apartment type lifestyle.
17 Popular SMALL DOG BREEDS IN INDIA
1) PUG
The pug is so popular in India that it is first on our list. This dog has earned its popularity after being featured in a telecom industry advertisement. After seeing that advertisement on television the people want to get this cute little dog in their home like crazy. This sudden increase in their demand has shot up their price at that point of time.
TEMPERAMENT
Pugs are extremely jolly and social dogs. They like the attention and time of their pet parent. Being social they easily get along with all the family members especially kids. Pugs like to play with kids so they are best fit for the families with children.
They are friendly dogs who happily welcome visitors at home. They are fun-loving and playful with average activity levels. They are decently mannered dogs with some snoring occasionally.
HEALTH
Pugs are healthy but they might have some health issues to be taken care of, if they show any symptoms. The health concerns in pugs are namely –
- Eye Issues
- Skin Issues
- Ear Infections
- Allergies
- Hip Dysplasia
- Pug Dog Encephalitis
- Patellar Luxation
FOOD
When it comes to their diet you need to take care to feed them a well balanced nutritious diet. Diet needs of toy/ small breed dogs are different from other dogs. Pugs may always be hungry and want to have a king size meal.
Do take care not to overfeed them as it might increase their weight and can be problematic. You can offer your little pup to chew on edible sticks and bones to get them busy and satisfied.
2) SHIH TZU
‘Shih Tzu‘ is a super cute and adorable small dog breed. They have their origin in China. They are very affectionate and social with people.
TEMPERAMENT
The little Shih Tzu comes with a big attitude. They can be stubborn at times. Proper training and socializing should be taught to them from an early stage. They are loyal and affectionate to their human family.
They have double coats with long hair on their body that needs to be maintained well by daily grooming and occasional trimming. You have to get used to their snoring habit.
HEALTH
Although it is a healthy dog breed, there are some health conditions that your dog may suffer. These are namely –
- Eye problems
- Ear infections
- Snuffles
- Reverse sneezing
- Umbilical hernia
- Patellar luxation
- Canine hip dysplasia
- portosystemic liver shunt
- tooth and gum problems
- Juvenile renal dysplasia
- Bladder stones and bladder infections
FOOD
Shih Tzu can eat a good portion of food wholeheartedly, or sometimes they can be fussy eaters. They are quite moody when it comes to food. It is important to give them a nutritious diet that will help them to maintain good health for longer years.
You should feed your little baby according to his body weight. Initially, puppies should be fed 3 to 4 times a day, and after six months of age, two meals a day will be sufficient. They require a protein-rich diet with all other nutrients. If you want to feed them with home-cooked food, you can add these to their meal – eggs, fish, chicken, rice, barley, veggies.
Also Read: 10 Dog Breeds with Beautiful Eyes – Pets Expert
3) INDIA SPITZ –
The Indian Spitz looks familiar to a pomeranian dog, and many people mistakenly think they are the same, but it’s completely different. These gorgeous canines have long and fluffy hair with thick coats. You can get them in white, dusky brown, and black color options.
TEMPERAMENT
Indian Spitz is a healthy breed with a moderate activity level. They like to sleep most of the time. They are social and friendly to kids, seniors, and other pets. They are easy to train and best suitable for apartment living.
HEALTH
In general, Indian Spitz is a healthy breed. They are easy to maintain and groom. In some cases, the common problems might be –
- Eye infections
- Hip dysplasia
- Kidney issues
- Bad teeth
FOOD
Indian Spitz also requires a well-balanced diet to meet all its nutritional requirements. Upto three months of age, you can feed your dog four times a day. After that, two meals per day will be sufficient. They need meat, eggs, and chicken to be included in their diet for adequate growth.
Make sure not to be completely dependent on home-cooked food for your dog as it will not be sufficient, do include the professional dog food in their diet.
4) CHIHUAHUA –
You might have seen this cute, tiny, innocent-looking small breed dog that resembles a toy. It comes in two coats one is with long hair and the other is short hair. Shedding is common like other dogs, and grooming needs to be done on a daily basis.
TEMPERAMENT
Despite their small size, he manages to have a dynamic personality. They need to be trained from an early stage with a lot of patience and consistency. A Chihuahua is best suited for a purse puppy category. It is not a good option for children’s play.
This dog is loyal and can be a good watch guard for its owner, but it is not very friendly with the other people around. They are very intelligent and can be trained with patience in a positive manner of praise and rewards.
HEALTH
The health issues of this breed are namely –
- KCS
- Pulmonic stenosis
- Hydrocephalus
- Patellar luxation
- Hypoglycemia
- Molera
FOOD
The nutritional requirement of the Chihuahua (small breed dog) is comparatively high because of the reason that these dogs have a faster metabolism than adult dogs.
They need to be fed frequently at short intervals. Also, make sure to give all the nutrients required for your little friend. If given fewer calories, it can suffer from low blood sugar levels.
5) DACHSHUND –
Dachshunds are also known as the Sausage dogs, Wiener dogs, doxie, and many more. This breed originated for hunting rabbits and other tunneling animals. Their characteristics and temperament make them a good choice for family dogs.
TEMPERAMENT
Being a hunting dog, a dachshund can be a little aggressive at times. Otherwise, they are quite friendly, playful, and like to be around people. They are energetic and need a good amount of exercise. By nature, Dachshunds are diggers and burrowers, so you might find them doing this around your home where they find the suitable place and opportunity to be mischievous.
HEALTH
A Dachshund needs proper care and a well-balanced diet when it comes to health. Due to their long body structure, they are prone to some health issues like obesity and slipped disc issues. Don’t allow them to jump from a heighted place like from furniture or from a car. Also, do regular veterinary visits to make sure your dog is safe from infections and is maintaining good health.
FOOD
Dachshund food requirements depend on their age as a puppy, adult, and senior needs different nutrients. A puppy requires 0.71% of isoleucine, while an adult only requires 0.38% of the same.
At the same time, the senior dachshunds need a more protein-rich diet than others. If you are feeding them home-cooked food, then make sure to add everything in a well-balanced form.
6) BEAGLE –
Beagles are gentle, social, and fun-loving dogs. They like to be in the company of their canine or human family. They are active and can happily adjust with other pets in the family. They are available in bi or tricolors yellow, gold, brown, chocolate, white, red, black, and tan.
TEMPERAMENT
The beagles are friendly, playful, and energetic pets. They are great companions with all members of the family and like to play with kids. They need a good amount of physical exercise to burn out on energy. Train and socialize your beagle pup from an early age so that they can be well-mannered and get mixed up with their surroundings easily.
HEALTH
To maintain your Beagle’s good health, feed it with an adequate nutritional diet and engage it in physical activity. Regular vet visits are always better to know your dog’s health condition. Some common problems they can face are –
- Obesity
- Epilepsy
- Cherry Eye
- Allergies
- Hypothyroidism
FOOD
Beagle comes in two categories one is under 20 pounds, and the other is above 20 to 35 pounds weight. Choose a nutritional food that is good for all dog breeds as there is no specific formula for this breed separately.
7) POODLE –
Poodle comes in four different variants. Out of them, the ‘Toy Poodle’ is the smallest one. It is also known as Miniature Poodle. This breed is popular for its fancy and stylish looks. They are available in white, apricot, black, cream, brown, gray, and silver color options. They are available in three categories Standard, Miniature, and Toy.
TEMPERAMENT
Poodles are intelligent dogs with active energy levels. They are easy to train, and early training will be the best to introduce. They are loyal and loving towards their owner. They are also known as hunting dogs, which are water retrievers.
HEALTH
Some of the common health problems that a poodle can face are namely –
- Hip dysplasia
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Epilepsy
- Addison’s disease
- Thyroid issues
- Hypoglycemia
- Bloat
- Collapsed trachea
FOOD
Poodles need a good quality diet to maintain a healthy build. Make sure to add a good amount of protein to your dog food. A nutritious diet for poodles includes eggs, meat, chicken, fish, vegetables, fruits, and cheese. YOu can also add dry or chewy snacks for rewarding purposes.
8) MALTESE –
Maltese may look similar to a spitz dog breed. Due to their small size and super cute looks, they are considered the favorite toy dog breed. They have long hair that needs frequent grooming to maintain their coat.
TEMPERAMENT
Maltese are elegant companions for their pet parents. They easily adjust to apartment living and are easygoing. When it comes to training, they can be trained from an early age by using reward methods. They are quite sensitive and do not like to be alone, so make sure you have enough time for them when you bring one home. Maltese are friendly by nature and love to rest on their human parent’s lap.
HEALTH
The common health problems a Maltese can suffer are prone to weight gain and cause other overweight issues like arthritis. They might get a genetic disorder like hip dysplasia or other common infections. They can do aggressive barking if they suffer from separation anxiety.
FOOD
Like any other dog breed, Maltese also requires a nutritional diet, including proteins. Make sure to maintain a good balance between professional food and home-cooked options for them. You just need to check that your pet is having a generous amount of food as per its physical exercise and doesn’t develop overweight problems.
9) MI-KI DOG –
These dogs are highly intelligent and can be easily trained. You can train them with consistency and patience from an early age.
TEMPERAMENT
This is a very social and friendly breed that goes well with children and other family members due to their need to be around as a companion puts them in the category of therapy dogs as they will never leave you. Sometimes they show a cat kind of characteristic to lay down in the sun and wash their coat which makes them look adorable and cute doing that. They easily get adjusted to your living environment and also with other pets.
HEALTH
Mi-ki dogs are a healthy breed of dog. You only need to maintain a well-balanced diet and adequate exercise, and your dog is fit and fine in most cases. Some of the common health concerns for this breed are namely –
- Congenital
- Cone retinal dysplasia,
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Von Willebrand’s disease
- Hemophilia
- Patellar luxation
FOOD
These dogs should be given a well-balanced diet like any other dog breed. However, Mi ki dogs are not very demanding when it comes to food. Their nutritional requirements differ according to their age. Professional dog foods are best in nutrients. Make sure you select natural good, quality dog food for your little friend.
10) YORKSHIRE TERRIER –
As per its name, this breed is native to Yorkshire, England. This is the smallest breed of the canine terrier family. They have long silky hair, which needs proper care and grooming. Frequent trimming is needed. The colors available are black, tan, gray, and blonde hair coat.
TEMPERAMENT
They are small social buddies who like the attention of their pet parents. As they are friendly, active, and playful, it makes them great companions for kids and adults. They are also intelligent and smart dogs who can be trained easily.
HEALTH
Yorkie is, in general, a healthy dog breed, but it is sensitive too. There are some common health issues that your dog can face. Such as –
- Hypoglycemia
- Periodontal disease
- Legg-Perthes disease
- Retinal dysplasia
- Luxating patella
- Collapsed trachea
- Liver shunt
- Pancreatitis
FOOD
Canine health depends majorly on the diet they consume. Yorkie also needs a well-balanced nutritious diet that consists of a good amount of protein, fats, and other nutrients. It is recommended 18% of protein for an adult dog and 22% for puppies and females in lactation. You can feed them with professional dog food for small breeds, which is made from natural food sources.
11) COCKER SPANIEL –
This is a friendly and adorable dog breed. They adjust well to your living habits and environment. Thus, they fit well for apartments. Cocker spaniel goes well with children and seniors too. They come in bi-color, tri-color, flecked, speckled, sable patterns. They come in black, brown, chocolate, cream, yellow, blue, red, white, and gold.
TEMPERAMENT
They are friendly and playful dogs who like to play with kids. They are also intelligent and smart dogs. You can easily train them using a rewarding method with consistency with discipline. Cocker loves to walk, and they will follow you wherever you go. They are loyal and make a good companion with their owner.
HEALTH
Cocker Spaniel is considered a healthy breed. You need to groom them well with maintaining a proper hygiene routine to save them from an ear infection. Still, there are some allergies to food items that are seen in this breed. You can consult an experienced veterinarian for guidance.
FOOD
Like any other dog, your Cocker Spaniel also needs a balanced diet that consists of protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals for maintaining good health. You can easily include eggs, fish, meat, vegetables, and fruits in your diet. Make sure to keep a check on their fat intake as they tend to put on weight easily, and that will not be healthy.
12) LHASA APSO –
‘Lhasa Apso’ is native to Tibet, where they were often referred to as watchdogs. In modern times they are well adapted to apartment living. They have leadership qualities and can be left alone at home to guard when you are not around.
TEMPERAMENT
They are loyal and able to guard their human family. They like to play with kids and can become a great companion for your family. They are easy-going and adjustable. If you are a first-time pet parent, you will have a good experience.
HEALTH
Some of the common problems that can happen in some cases and you should be aware of are –
- Dental Diseases
- Obesity
- Infections
- Parasites
- Spay or Neuter
- Bone and Joint Problems
- Eyes and Skin Problems
FOOD
Lhasa Apso also needs a high protein diet. A nutritional diet is good for their overall growth and for a healthy coat with shiny hair. You can give them good quality professional dog food with home-cooked options. Lhasa is prone to weight gain, so that needs to be taken care of.
13) FRENCH BULLDOG –
They are social, friendly, and fun-loving dogs. They are loyal and affectionate to their human family. They can easily adapt to apartment living. They are great as companion dogs and should not be left alone for a long time.
TEMPERAMENT
The French Bulldogs are very social and affectionate. They love to be around people. They are a perfect fit for a family with kids or seniors as they love their human family affectionately. They are also good with other pets too. They are easy to train, but you need patience and consistency with them.
HEALTH
Much exercise is not required in the case of French Bulldogs, but for their good health, you need to maintain their daily walk schedule to ensure they don’t increase their weight. Other common problems that can be seen in the case of French Bulldogs are namely –
- Hip Dysplasia
- Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Hemivertebrae
- Cleft Palate
- Patellar Luxation
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Elongated Soft Palate
FOOD
In general, two meals of good professional quality dry food are recommended for a French Bulldog. But do remember that the diet depends on the age and activity level of your dog. So, if your dog is active and exercising enough daily, you can increase the diet to three times. Just make sure that your dog does not exceed their normal weight by eating abruptly.
14) POMERANIAN –
Pomeranian is a popular small dog breed that everyone is fond of. They belong to the spitz canine family but are also known as Dwarf Spitz because of their small size. Despite their small size, they have a high-end temperament.
TEMPERAMENT
They are intelligent and curious in nature. They demand attention from everybody around. Pomeranians need a good amount of exercise. Otherwise, they can be woofy. They can be good companions and adapt to apartment living.
HEALTH
Some common problems a Pomeranian can suffer are –
- Dental Problems
- Collapsed Trachea
- Patellar Luxation
- Legg-Perthes Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Common Allergies and Infections
FOOD
They need a well-balanced diet with high protein content. Make sure to feed them as per their exercise habits. Professional, good, quality dog food is always recommended.
15) BICHON FRISE –
This is a beautiful small dog breed that resembles a children’s soft toy. They look lovely, affectionate, and playful in nature. They are good options for first-time pet owners and can easily adjust to an apartment lifestyle.
TEMPERAMENT
This little bundle of joy loves to be loved by its human family. He seeks love and attention all the time. It makes a great companion to its owner. It can not be left alone as he can suffer from separation anxiety.
HEALTH
In general, it is considered a healthy dog breed. Some problems that can be seen in some cases are –
- Bladder Problems
- Vaccination Sensitivity
- Juvenile Cataracts
FOOD
Good quality professional dog food is recommended in two meals a day. You can add some eggs, fruits, and veggies to their diet.
16) ENGLISH BULLDOG –
They are considered great family dogs that make a good companion. They are not very active and adjust well to apartment living. They have short coats with fewer grooming requirements.
TEMPERAMENT
They are gentle and loving dogs who like to be indoors. They can be good watchdogs if trained well. They are lazy at times but make sure to maintain their daily walk schedule to maintain their health.
HEALTH
They are healthy if taken good care of, but there are still some problems that you should know about. Bulldogs are sensitive to hot or extremely cold weather. They are prone to few respiratory issues due to a small structured nose. Also, take them to the vet if they show any symptoms of Cherry/ Dry Eye, Entropion, Head Shakes, Reverse Sneezing, Patellar Luxation, etc.
FOOD
You need to feed your canine friend a good quality diet, but it is really important to make sure that your dog maintains an ideal weight. Being lazy, they are not exercising enough. Do take them for a walk daily and feed them according to their activity level.
17) TIBETAN SPANIEL –
They have a rich personality of a show dog because of their lion’s mane around the neck. They have silky hair coats. They come in many color options such as black, cream, tan, gold, white, and silver sable. Grooming needs to be done by bathing them weekly. Only foot hair needs to be trimmed, and regular nail cutting is required.
TEMPERAMENT
They are friendly and loving dogs. They can easily adjust according to your living style. They make great companions as they have always wanted to be around people—they gel up well with the family members and also with other pets.
HEALTH
This is a healthy breed in general. You need to be aware of some common problems related to canine health: eyes or ear Infections, Patellar luxation, and liver disease. Always seek professional advice if your dog shows some unusual symptoms.
FOOD
Your dog needs a well-balanced diet that includes eggs, fish, meat, fruits, veggies, and a professional good, quality dog food. You can feed them a combination of home-cooked and professional dog food. Do not overfeed them.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SMALL DOG BREED
As we have mentioned above, all the basic details about the health, characteristics, and temperament of these dogs. You can decide on the basis of this information and as per your need to pet a dog. Make sure to consider their daily activity needs and the amount of time you can give them to play and for your dog walking.
Being small dogs, they also need some time out of the home to do some activity or exercise. Becoming a pet parent is equally important and has a sense of responsibility as you might have for your own child. Bring one home when you are fully prepared and considering all the above points.
Never abandon a pet, especially dogs are very emotionally attached to their human parent, and they can suffer serious health issues if separated from their pet parent. We want you and your puppy will be comfortable and happy in each other’s company. I wish you happy pet parenting.
CONCLUSION
If you are living in compact spaces like apartments or small houses and you want to pet a dog, then small dog breeds in India are your answer. These small dogs are ideal to be your companion as they are super cute and adorable.
Due to their compact size, they can easily adjust to your surroundings. These dogs are easy to carry also if you are taking them for a walk or if you are traveling. You can easily take them along with you in public places. Also, people are more friendly and comfortable with small loving dogs.
They eat less and are easy to maintain and in grooming also. Do comment and let us know which breed you find the most social and lovable?
