Italian greyhound
This gentle and elegant dog looks like a miniature greyhound. The dogs from this small breed reach a height of only 13 to 15 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 7 to 14 lbs.
They are part of the toy dog group, and even though they can be perfect lap dogs, they still have a strong prey drive and will enjoy a good run and a fun chase whenever they get a chance.
They have very fine and delicate bones and are susceptible to cold weather, so they do require extra care and measures during the cold seasons, as well as precautions to prevent broken limbs.
But overall, this small breed is highly affectionate, and alert, and will be a lovely companion for any dog owner.
Basenji
This African small dog breed is like no other canine breed in the world. Basenjis are known as “barkless dogs” as they never bark. They are also very fastidious about their grooming and will spend most of the day grooming themselves, much like felines. Thanks to this cat-like feature, Basenjis do not have the typical doggy odor which other pups have.
Another typical feature of the Basenji is its horse-like fast trot.
As a whole, this is a one-of-a-kind dog breed from the hound group, but it is a superb choice for a companion dog. Basenjis are incredibly smart and charming with their sweet faces and very expressive eyes.
The Basenji reaches a height of up to 17 inches and a weight of up to 24 lbs. It requires extensive daily exercise and requires minimal grooming.
Australian terrier
The Aussie may look like a cute little toy dog, but it has the character of a real terrier.
The Australian terrier will reach a height at the shoulders of only up to 11 inches, and a weight of up to 20 lbs.
The dogs from this breed are highly confident and are excellent watchdogs. They love chasing small animals, digging holes, playing and doing everything the other terriers like doing.
The Australian terrier requires minimal grooming and is a low shedder.
It also needs daily mental and physical stimulation in order to stay happy and obedient. It is a suitable pet for active people.
English Toy Spaniel
The dogs from this toy breed reach a height of no more than 10 inches and a weight of up to 14 lbs. They were bred to be companion dogs for Kings and Queens. Then again, the pups from this small breed still have a lot of spaniel features in them too.
Dogs from this breed shed moderately, but their silky and wavy long coats do need regular brushing and grooming.
English Toy Spaniels do enjoy playing outside, but they won’t mind spending their days snoozing on the couch too.
These small dogs are perfect apartment dogs for city dwellers.
An interesting fact is that during the reign of King Charles II, with a special royal decree, this dog breed became the only one allowed in the English Parliament.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
A close cousin with the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, is a charming and sweet-faced small dog that can become your most loyal and affectionate pet.
The dogs from this breed reach a height at the shoulder of up to 12.5 inches, and a weight of up to 38 lbs.
They have short but very sturdy legs, deep chests and are actually superb working dogs. They are natural herders, as well as alert watchdogs that bark like big dogs.
The Cardigan Welsh Corgi is smart, trainable and can adapt to any lifestyle – active or not so active.
This makes this small breed a perfect pet choice for any kind of owner.