Comparison of small dog breeds – which breed to choose for an apartment?

Small dogs offer more than just compact size and a wide range of personalities, temperaments, and needs. They're ideal for apartment living, easy to transport, and often better at tolerating city life. In this article, we compare the most popular small dog breeds featured on the Petto.com.pl blog to help you choose the pet that best suits your lifestyle.

Why choose a small dog breed?

✔ Great for apartment living
✔ Easier for travel and daily care
✔ They often live longer than larger breeds
✔ Perfect for seniors, families with children and singles

Comparison of small dog breeds

🐶 Chihuahua

Weight: 1.5–3 kg
Personality: brave, vigilant, loyal
Who is it for? For people who value contact with their dogs and can devote their time to them.
Grooming: easy (short-haired), moderate (long-haired)
👉 The smallest dog in the world – perfect for traveling and apartment living.

🐾 Yorkshire Terrier

Weight: 2–3.5 kg
Character: intelligent, energetic, independent
Who is it for? For active people who want a dog for everyday play and walks.
Care: Demanding – silky coat requires regular brushing
👉 A miniature dog with a great temperament – a great companion for your handbag and for walks.

🐩 Toy Poodle

Weight: 2–4 kg
Personality: very intelligent, easy to train, friendly
Who is it for? For allergy sufferers, families with children, and dog sports enthusiasts.
Care: regular trimming, but little shedding
👉 Hypoallergenic dog – perfect for people who value elegance and activity.

🐕🦺 Maltipoo

Weight: 3–6 kg
Personality: gentle, loyal, sensitive
For whom? For families, seniors, and allergy sufferers.
Care: medium – coat requires regular brushing
👉 Maltese and Poodle mix – a cute dog to cuddle.

🐶 Cavapoo

Weight: 4–8 kg
Character: sensitive, sociable, balanced
Who is it for? For families with children and beginner caregivers.
Grooming: Requires brushing and ear care
👉 A cheerful and family-friendly breed – perfect for an apartment.

🐕 Papillon

Weight: 3–5 kg
Character: intelligent, alert, energetic
Who is it for? For active people who enjoy dog training.
Grooming: moderate – long coat, but no undercoat
👉 Impressive appearance and "butterfly ears" - a great spirit in a small body!

🐾 Pug

Weight: 6–8 kg
Personality: gentle, friendly, cheerful
For whom? For families and seniors.
Care: easy, but requires checking skin folds
👉 A great couch dog who loves people and rest.

🐕 Miniature Pinscher

Weight: 4–6 kg
Character: self-confident, brave, energetic
Who is it for? For active, experienced owners.
Care: very easy - short coat
👉 Miniature Doberman – an elegant and feisty companion.

How to choose the right breed of small dog?

Consider this:
🔹 Do you prefer an energetic or calm dog?
🔹 Do you have time to care for your fur?
🔹 Are there children or other pets in the house?
🔹 Do you travel often and need a mobile dog?

Perfect accessories for small dogs

🐾 Oi car seat – ensures safety and comfort while traveling
🐾 Dog steps – protect joints and make it easier to access the couch
🐾 Beds from the Sen collection – tailored to the size and needs of small breeds

Summary

Small dog breeds range from energetic athletes to calm couch potatoes. Their size makes them easy to care for, ideal for apartment living, and ideal as first pets. Whether you're looking for an active companion, a family dog, or a cuddly companion, you're sure to find the perfect small dog among these breeds.