When you think of small dogs, do you think of a Chihuahua or a Yorkie stuffed into a
purse?
If so, you’re not alone.
But small dogs are more than just four-legged fashion accessories.
Although small in stature, most petite pooches are big on personality.
And the guys on this list, well, they’ve got spunk from sweet to spirited.
Let’s get to know some of these small dog breeds with big personalities.
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10.
Boston Terrier
We start off our list of small dogs with big personalities with the American Gentleman,
the Boston Terrier.
The Boston terrier might have a neat and trim, tuxedoed appearance, but it’s all just a
ruse for what lies beneath the fur.
Like the class clown, the Bostie loves to entertain and amuse, both others and itself.
They are gentle dogs with an optimistic personality, always finding the fun in every situation.
These energetic spirits capture the hearts of all who meet them.
But the Boston Terrier is happiest when hanging with family and its gentle temper make the
Boston Temper easy to love; making it a worthy entrant to lead off this list.
9.
Italian Greyhound
The smallest of the sighthound breeds, the Italian Greyhound is more than just a small
version of its cousin, the standard Greyhound.
At just over a foot tall, this miniature Usain Bolt can run at speeds reaching up to 40 miles
per hour.
This lightning-fast canine is sleek, athletic and loves to run more than almost anything.
Well, that is other than its family.
The Italian Greyhound is a sweet, friendly, good-natured dog that can be a bit needy in
its search for affection from family and an unending desire to find a warm place to sleep.
8.
French Bulldog
I can’t do a list with the Boston Terrier without including the French Bulldog.
You just don’t allow it.
French Bulldogs may have faces only a mother could love, but to know a French Bulldog is
to love a French Bulldog.
These little dogs are adventurous and goofy, always turning the most boring situations
into something fun and exciting.
French Bulldogs are one of the greatest companion dogs on the planet.
They are small, easy to handle and are generally well behaved around people and other pets.
Frenchies have a reputation for stealing attention whenever and wherever possible from family
and strangers alike.
This little dog adores people and craves constant companionship.
They don't need a lot of gym time, but love to chase balls and play during the day.
But at night, they are more than happy to curl up and watch some Animal Facts with you.
Just be prepared for some snoring, snorting and some room-clearing poots.
If you want to see a more in-depth comparison with the Boston Terrier, check out the video
in the card.
7.
Corgi (Pembroke Welsh Corgi & Cardigan Welsh Corgi)
We’ve just got to put the Corgis together.
Whether Pembroke or Cardigan, Corgis are pups that love the limelight.
As herding dogs, Corgis are extremely bright and alert, enthusiastic and enjoy being around
people, but they need constant mental and physical stimulation to be most content.
This is not a “lay in your lap” lap dog.
A Corgi must have a job to do, even if that job is to make a toy squeak its last squeak.
If you don’t give the creative Corgi a job to do, it will find something to keep itself
amused.
You might not be so amused.
6.
Border Terrier
The Border Terrier may be small in size, but she’s huge in spirit.
They are a popular choice for performance dog handlers because of their outgoing, although
sometimes over-enthusiastic, personalities.
The Border is a very social, intelligent dog that excels in sports like obedience and agility.
Considering that they're Terriers, Borders are good-tempered, affectionate, obedient,
and easily trained.
They're highly intelligent and quickly learn the cues that signal you're going outside
for a walk or to the office, and especially when it's meal time.
They are great with children and do very well with active families.
5.
Affenpinscher
Although the Affenpinscher hasn’t made many appearances on Animal Facts, it’s toy breed
that should not be underestimated when it comes to personality.
The Affenpinscher bonds closely with its family and makes a great watchdog.
Energetic and intelligent, the Affenpinscher does need an active family or it will become
bored.
They are active, adventurous dogs, but they can be stubborn and difficult to train.
This is one dog that you’re going to need a big personality of your own to train.
4.
Miniature Schnauzer
Not too long ago, I did a video, linked in the card, comparing the Border Terrier to
another breed; the Miniature Schnauzer.
Although some say it’s not technically a Terrier, the Mini Schnauzer does have many
of the traits of one and it does happen to be in the Terrier group and their personalities
make the fact very clear.
These energetic, intelligent and fiery little dogs need big adventure.
Miniature Schnauzers are generally well-mannered and fun-loving dogs that make great additions
to most families.
They are loyal companions who are playful, curious, and alert, and love to be the center
of attention.
They were originally used as ratting dogs but make excellent watchdogs as well.
3.
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon might be considered a toy breed, but has no small personality and
they certainly have a lot of heart and character.
They are sensitive dogs that bond strongly with their owners, but they carry a confidence
that must be admired.
Alert and curious dogs, they are quite active despite their diminutive size and are generally
unhappy just to be a lapdog.
But, they are very affectionate dogs that enjoy snuggling with their owners as long
as they get enough mental and physical activity.
2.
Rat Terrier
Both sturdy and elegant, and often described as having a dual personality, the Rat Terrier
is a tenacious hunter in the field, yet an affectionate companion at home.
The Rattie is athletic and agile, loves to play, and has a special passion for chasing
things.
Rat Terriers crave lots of companionship, often using their paws to demand attention.
Though the Rattie has a stubborn streak, it is also smart, sensitive, and attentive.
So, before we get to numero uno, don’t let me forget any small dogs with big personalities.
Tell me which ones I missed in the comments.
1.
Dachshund
We certainly couldn’t have finished this list without the Weiner dog, could we?
These tiny hounds were bred to hunt, chase, and catch fierce burrowing prey like badgers
and maybe not so fierce bunnies.
Dachshunds are clever and courageous little dogs that are surprisingly active for their
small size.
The Dachshund has a jovial, although sometimes barky personality.
And although small make excellent watchdogs.
Dachshunds are not recommended for everyone because of their energetic nature, but they
are the perfect choice for someone looking for a small, active canine companion.
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