10 Top Small Dog Breeds

So often small dogs get a bad rap - they're said to be yappy, misbehaved brats. They can be! In the wrong home with the wrong people they absolutely can be. But if yours is the right home they're wonderful companions!

Before hunting for a dog consider all aspects. Are there children in the home? How many and what ages? Are you active or more sedentary? Do you have a yard? Spending time grooming and training is a given - it needs to be done. But if you're willing to brush them out yourself you can save on grooming bills.

I will start by admitting I'm not a "little dog" fan. But if you're looking at a dog and prefer a smaller, easier to handle dog please do not choose one because it's what the latest hot celebrity has or it'll go with your handbag or they're such cute puppies. Puppies grow up! Not everyone wants a larger dog. For the purposes of this article I'm looking at dogs under 20 inches and under about 25# (most apartments would allow them) and it's a reference - many breeds have issues you need to research in depth before picking a breed much less an individual. Do yourself a favor and go to a reliable breeder - they can tell you the history on the parents, have a better estimate of the size and can give you much useful information. Sometimes these dogs are not good enough to show but make wonderful pets.

1. Shetland Sheepdog - Advantage - size, low maintenance (with noted exception - read on), wonderful, loyal small dogs. Disadvantages - can be barky (*needs training!*), you must get a good comb/pin brush and regularly (a couple times a week) give them a good brushing. Doing this removes dead hair, helps matts from starting and insures they remain a low maintenance coat. I was somewhat surprised that the coat on my boy was as trouble free as it is. However, after a bath he takes much longer to dry and is harder to rinse because of that beautiful coat. They're active but perfectly content to lay at your feet if you choose the right dog. They'll happily curl up for an afternoon of quiet time with an older couple, go for a walk with responsible children and fit into a family that isn't filled with joggers!