Need help in choosing a small dog? It is easy to get information overload when looking through dog breed information. If you are looking for a small one, we have a great list of small dog breeds that will help you in your search. It notes their habits and their characteristics that are important to consider when getting a compatible small dog.

Miniature Poodles

The Miniature Poodle is a highly intelligent and very playful dog that is easy to train. It interacts very well with people and that happens to be one of the main reasons why it's a popular type of small breed. It weighs around 12 to 19 pounds, stands 9 to 15 inches, and has a life expectancy of nearly 15 years. They're very obedient and they happen to be very good with children. They're suited for people who love to groom dogs since all poodles require constant care (brushing, bathing, etc). They are great for allergy sufferers as they generally do not shed any hair.

Pugs

For lots of people, Pugs happen to be the best type of small breed. The Pug is an enjoyable dog to have since they're not burdensome, never a bore, and can even make you laugh at times. Their average height is around 10 inches and they weigh about 15 pounds or so. Happily, these dogs need very little grooming. Only the wrinkles on their face need a through cleansing on a regular basis. They're extremely good with children and are excellent watchdogs, too. They basically have a lifespan of 12 years but some can go for more than 15.

Boston Terriers

Boston Terriers happen to have a reputation for being kind, gentle, and fun. They're actually well-mannered as well as extremely loyal and that's why they are so popular among dog owners. Although they have a lot of energy and love to play outdoors, Boston Terriers are sensitive to most temperatures and they like it better indoors. Weighs roughly around 19 pounds, stands as high as 17 inches, Boston Terriers have a short and smooth coat that they are less likely to cause allergic reactions to people.

Shih Tzu

Another popular type of small dog breed happens to be the Shih Tzu. They are extremely good watchdogs and are best noted for being good around children. Shih Tzus are very laid-back and loyal as well as lovable. Constant attention and regular grooming will make sure that the Shih Tzu is happy and they'll give the same affection towards you. They stand at around 9 to 10 inches, weighs roughly at 14 pounds, and sheds very little hair.

Papillon

Papillons are good all-around dogs. They are very easy to train and are full of energy that they love to spend their time with you during exercises or games. They're also popular simply because they're reliable around children. They can be highly excellent watchdogs but are also well-mannered around guests. The Papillon has a height of 9 to 10 inches, weighs about 9 pounds, and has silky flowing hair that needs to be brushed regularly.

Beagle

Another popular dog happens to be the Beagle. The Beagle is a fun and friendly dog that's good around children as well as guests. Though you have to be patient when training him to be a good watchdog, you can find that Beagles are extremely reliable and obedient once they get used to basic training. One of the best things about the Beagle is that it doesn't drool and has no doggy odor unlike most dog breeds. Its height is around 14 to 15 inches and it weighs 19 to 34 pounds. Regular grooming is a requirement since the Beagle can shed some hair from time to time.

American Hairless Terriers

The American Hairless Terrier happens to be an energetic and playful type of dog. If you are looking for a watchdog, this breed is good choice. They are also very loyal. Training is not that hard but you'll need to be a bit patient with him. Being hairless, he is a good hypoallergenic dog. These Terriers stand at 7 to 15 inches and weighs 5 to 15 pounds.

Many small dogs are actually considered hypoallergenic. That means: Generally, the smaller a dog is, the chances of someone having an allergic reaction is reduced. This is due to the dog simply having less hair. However, the best ones for allergy sufferers are noted above. They're great as watchdogs, lapdogs, and they're very fun to have around.