Small Dog Breeds: Choosing and Caring for a Little Companion

By Dr Duncan Houston

A small dog may be easier to lift and need less food, but size does not predict how much exercise, training or company it needs. A terrier and a companion spaniel can be equally small and very different to live with.

Choose for the dog's whole routine, not just whether it fits comfortably on your lap.

Quick Answer

Small dogs need the same foundations as larger dogs: suitable nutrition, exercise, enrichment, training and veterinary care. Breed and individual differences determine grooming, activity and health needs. Pay particular attention to dental care, safe handling and any breathing or mobility changes, and avoid choosing extreme smallness as a health benefit.

Compare the practical needs

Use breed descriptions as a research starting point. Adult size and temperament vary, and labels such as teacup do not establish a healthy breed or predictable outcome.

Health concerns worth discussing

Small dogs can be prone to dental crowding and periodontal disease. Comfortable daily brushing and regular oral assessments matter. AAHA dental guidance explains why prevention needs particular attention in smaller mouths.

Kneecap instability, airway problems, heart disease and spinal disease are relevant in some breeds. These are risks to discuss, not diagnoses to assume. Ask for documented health screening appropriate to the breed and family line.

No dog is guaranteed not to trigger allergies. Spend time with the individual and seek appropriate medical advice if a household member has significant allergies.

How urgent are health changes?

• Routine review: discuss weight, dental care, grooming and preventive health before problems arise.
• Prompt appointment: repeated coughing, skipping steps, mouth pain or reduced activity.
• Emergency: breathing difficulty, collapse, seizures or sudden inability to walk.

A tiny puppy that becomes weak or misses meals needs early veterinary advice. Young, very small animals have less reserve than a healthy adult.

Build a safe daily routine

1. Feed a complete diet suited to life stage and measure portions. Small treats can contribute a large share of daily calories.
2. Provide walks, sniffing and short reward-based training sessions.
3. Use a well-fitted lead setup and check that the dog cannot slip out.
4. Teach children gentle, supervised interaction and support the dog's body when lifting.
5. Provide secure footing, comfortable rest and appropriately sized toys that cannot be swallowed.
6. Practise cooperative grooming and mouth handling gradually.

Common mistakes

• Carrying the dog everywhere and overlooking exercise or confidence building.
• Allowing rough interactions because the dog is small.
• Assuming apartment suitability means tolerance of long absences.
• Ignoring noisy breathing as a breed trait.

The RVC advises that noisy breathing at rest or light exercise is not healthy in flat-faced dogs.

Frequently asked questions

Do all small dogs need short walks?

No. Activity should fit the individual dog's health, fitness and interests.

Is a small dog cheaper to keep?

Food may cost less, but grooming, dental treatment and illness can still be substantial commitments.

Is a small dog automatically good with children?

No. Temperament, handling, supervision and the dog's ability to retreat all matter.

Further reading: AVMA dog-selection guidance.

Small dogs thrive when they are treated as capable dogs with individual needs, while being protected from avoidable handling and size-related risks.

ASK A VET™ supports thoughtful breed choices and daily care. Discuss your shortlist and practical routine with a veterinarian before bringing a new dog home.