Small Home Dog Breeds: 29+ Great Options For Aspiring Dog Owners In A Small Home Setting In 2024

Some of the best small home dog breeds include the Basenji, Beagle, Bichon Frisé, Biewer Terrier, Border Terrier, Boston Terrier, Boxer, Brussels Griffon, Bulldog, Cairn Terrier, Cardigan Welsh Corgi, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Chinese Crested Dog, Dachshund, Danish–Swedish Farmdog, English Cocker Spaniel, French Bulldog, Great Dane, Greyhound, Havanese, Italian Greyhound, Japanese Chin, Pomeranian, Pug, Shih Tzu, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Standard Poodle, Whippet, and Yorkshire Terrier.

*Details of The Analysis

 

Breed	Main Advantages
Basenji	Low grooming, moderate exercise needs, adaptable temperament.
Beagle	Friendly, adaptable temperament; moderate grooming and exercise needs.
Bichon Frisé	Affectionate, cheerful temperament; suitable for smaller homes.
Biewer Terrier	Affectionate, loyal temperament; moderate grooming requirements.
Border Terrier	Sociable, adaptable temperament; moderate grooming and exercise needs.
Boston Terrier	Gentle, adaptable temperament; low grooming and moderate exercise needs.
Boxer	Energetic, loyal temperament; adaptable to smaller living spaces.
Brussels Griffon	Affectionate, adaptable temperament; suitable for smaller homes.
Bulldog	Docile, calm temperament; low grooming and exercise needs.
Cairn Terrier	Friendly, adaptable temperament; moderate grooming and exercise needs.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi	Intelligent, adaptable temperament; moderate to high exercise needs.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	Affectionate, gentle temperament; suitable for smaller homes.
Chihuahua	Bold personality, adaptable temperament; low to moderate exercise needs.
Chinese Crested Dog	Affectionate, adaptable temperament; moderate grooming needs.
Dachshund	Curious, adaptable temperament; moderate grooming and exercise needs.
Danish–Swedish Farmdog	Energetic, adaptable temperament; suitable for smaller homes.
English Cocker Spaniel	Gentle, adaptable temperament; moderate to high exercise needs.
French Bulldog	Adaptable, calm temperament; low grooming and exercise needs.
Great Dane	Gentle, friendly temperament; suitable for larger apartments.
Greyhound	Calm, adaptable temperament; low grooming and moderate to high exercise needs.
Havanese	Affectionate, playful temperament; suitable for smaller homes.
Italian Greyhound	Calm, adaptable temperament; moderate exercise needs.
Japanese Chin	Friendly, adaptable temperament; suitable for smaller homes.
Pomeranian	Lively, adaptable temperament; moderate grooming and exercise needs.
Pug	Affectionate, adaptable temperament; low to moderate exercise needs.
Shih Tzu	Affectionate, adaptable temperament; suitable for smaller homes.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier	Affectionate, adaptable temperament; moderate to high exercise needs.
Standard Poodle	Gentle, adaptable temperament; moderate to high grooming and exercise needs.
Whippet	Calm, adaptable temperament; moderate to high exercise needs.
Yorkshire Terrier	Spirited personality, adaptable temperament; low to moderate exercise needs.

Key Points

• Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds, and Whippets are cost-effective choices for small homes.
• Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Pugs, and French Bulldogs exhibit adaptable and affectionate temperaments.
• Breeds with lower grooming needs include Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, and Beagles, while Shih Tzus, Bichon Frisés, and Standard Poodles have higher grooming requirements.
• Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have lower exercise needs, whereas Beagles, Italian Greyhounds, and Whippets require moderate to high levels of activity in smaller living spaces.

1. Basenji:

Relative Cost: Moderate to high. Basenjis can be relatively expensive to purchase initially, and their veterinary care might require additional expenses due to specific health considerations.

Temperament: Intelligent, independent, and affectionate. Basenjis are known for their cat-like grooming habits and reserved behavior, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

Grooming Requirements: Low. Basenjis have a short coat and are fastidious groomers themselves. Minimal shedding and odor make them convenient for indoor living.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Basenjis are an energetic breed that requires daily exercise. However, their compact size allows for indoor play and shorter outdoor walks, making them suitable for smaller homes.

 

 

 

2. Beagle:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Beagles are generally affordable to purchase, and their maintenance costs are reasonable. Regular veterinary care and quality nutrition contribute to their overall well-being.

Temperament: Friendly, curious, and good-natured. Beagles are adaptable and sociable, making them excellent companions for families in smaller living spaces.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate. Beagles have a short, easy-to-maintain coat, and their grooming needs are minimal. Regular brushing and occasional baths are usually sufficient.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Beagles are an active breed that benefits from regular exercise. Their playful nature makes them suitable for indoor activities, making them well-suited for smaller homes.

 

3. Bichon Frisé:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Bichon Frisés are moderately priced, and their grooming needs may incur additional expenses. Regular grooming appointments contribute to their overall well-being.

Temperament: Cheerful, gentle, and affectionate. Bichon Frisés have a friendly disposition, making them well-suited for smaller homes and families.

Grooming Requirements: High. Bichons have a curly coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Professional grooming may be necessary to maintain their appearance.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. While Bichon Frisés enjoy playtime and short walks, their compact size and adaptable nature make them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

4. Biewer Terrier:

Relative Cost: Moderate to high. Biewer Terriers may be on the higher end of the cost spectrum, and their small size might lead to slightly lower maintenance expenses.

Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and intelligent. Biewer Terriers form strong bonds with their owners, adapting well to apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate. Their long, silky coat requires regular brushing and occasional professional grooming to maintain its beauty.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Biewer Terriers are playful and enjoy indoor activities, making them suitable for smaller homes. Regular short walks contribute to their exercise needs.

 

5. Border Terrier:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Border Terriers are reasonably priced, and their sturdy health reduces potential veterinary costs.

Temperament: Alert, friendly, and adaptable. Border Terriers are known for their sociable nature, making them suitable for various living environments, including smaller homes.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate. Their wiry coat requires regular brushing, and occasional hand-stripping may be needed to maintain their appearance.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Border Terriers are energetic and benefit from regular exercise. Their small size allows for indoor play, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

6. Boston Terrier:

Relative Cost: Moderate. Boston Terriers are generally affordable to purchase, and their maintenance costs are reasonable. Regular veterinary care and a well-balanced diet contribute to their overall health.

Temperament: Friendly, intelligent, and adaptable. Boston Terriers have a gentle disposition, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low to moderate. With their short coat, Boston Terriers have minimal grooming needs. Regular brushing and occasional baths are usually sufficient.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Boston Terriers are playful and enjoy indoor activities, making them suitable for smaller homes. Short walks and interactive playtime contribute to their exercise requirements.

 

7. Boxer:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate to high. Boxers may be on the higher end of the cost spectrum, and their larger size can lead to increased maintenance expenses.

Temperament: Energetic, loyal, and affectionate. Despite their size, Boxers adapt well to smaller living spaces, displaying a gentle and playful nature.

Grooming Requirements: Low to moderate. Boxers have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and occasional baths help keep them clean.

Exercise Needs: High. Boxers are a highly active breed and benefit from regular, vigorous exercise. Their adaptability, however, makes them suitable for smaller homes with consistent physical activity.

 

8. Brussels Griffon:

Relative Cost: Moderate to high. Brussels Griffons may be moderately priced, and their small size can result in lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, alert, and adaptable. Brussels Griffons form strong bonds with their owners, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate to high. Their unique coat requires regular brushing and occasional professional grooming to maintain its texture and appearance.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Brussels Griffons are adaptable to various activity levels. Indoor play and short walks can meet their exercise needs, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

9. Bulldog:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Bulldogs are generally moderately priced, and their sturdy health reduces potential veterinary costs.

Temperament: Docile, friendly, and adaptable. Bulldogs have a calm demeanor, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low. Bulldogs have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular cleaning of facial wrinkles and ears helps maintain their hygiene.

Exercise Needs: Low to moderate. Bulldogs have a more laid-back approach to exercise. Short walks and indoor play are usually sufficient, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

10. Cairn Terrier:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Cairn Terriers are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Alert, cheerful, and adaptable. Cairn Terriers are known for their friendly nature, making them suitable for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate. Regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping help maintain their wiry coat. Their grooming needs are manageable for smaller living spaces.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Cairn Terriers are energetic and enjoy playtime. Short walks and interactive activities indoors contribute to their exercise requirements.

 

11. Cardigan Welsh Corgi:

Relative Cost: Moderate to high. Cardigan Welsh Corgis may be moderately priced, but their long bodies may result in higher veterinary costs for certain health considerations.

Temperament: Intelligent, affectionate, and adaptable. Cardigans are known for their friendly nature, making them suitable for various living environments, including smaller homes.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate. Regular brushing, especially of their double coat, is essential. Their grooming needs are manageable for smaller living spaces.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Cardigan Welsh Corgis are energetic and benefit from regular exercise. Their adaptability makes them suitable for smaller homes with consistent physical activity.

 

12. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate to high. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may be moderately priced, but their potential health issues may result in increased veterinary costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, and adaptable. Cavaliers have a friendly disposition, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate. Regular brushing and attention to their long, silky coat are necessary. Their grooming needs are manageable for smaller living spaces.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Cavaliers enjoy playtime and short walks, making them suitable for smaller homes. Their adaptable nature accommodates various activity levels.

 

13. Chihuahua:

Relative Cost: Low to moderate. Chihuahuas are generally affordable to purchase, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Lively, loyal, and adaptable. Chihuahuas have a bold personality, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low. Chihuahuas have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and attention to dental care contribute to their overall well-being.

Exercise Needs: Low to moderate. Chihuahuas have varying activity levels, and indoor play can contribute to their exercise needs. Short walks are usually sufficient, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

14. Chinese Crested Dog:

Relative Cost: Moderate. Chinese Crested Dogs may be moderately priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, alert, and adaptable. Chinese Cresteds form strong bonds with their owners, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: High. Their hairless or powder-puff coat requires regular care, including moisturizing for the hairless variety. Professional grooming may be necessary.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Chinese Crested Dogs are adaptable to various activity levels. Indoor play and short walks can meet their exercise needs, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

15. Dachshund:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Dachshunds are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Curious, clever, and adaptable. Dachshunds are known for their friendly nature, making them suitable for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low to moderate. Regular brushing and attention to their unique coat are necessary. Their grooming needs are manageable for smaller living spaces.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Dachshunds enjoy playtime and short walks, making them suitable for smaller homes. Their adaptable nature accommodates various activity levels.

 

16. Danish–Swedish Farmdog:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Danish–Swedish Farmdogs are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Energetic, friendly, and adaptable. Danish–Swedish Farmdogs have a lively nature, making them well-suited for various living environments, including smaller homes.

Grooming Requirements: Low. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing helps keep them clean and healthy.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Danish–Swedish Farmdogs are energetic and benefit from regular exercise. Their compact size allows for indoor play, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

17. English Cocker Spaniel:

Relative Cost: Moderate to high. English Cocker Spaniels may be moderately priced, but their longer coat may result in higher grooming costs.

Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and adaptable. English Cockers have a friendly disposition, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate to high. Regular brushing and attention to their feathered coat are necessary. Professional grooming may be required to maintain their appearance.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. English Cocker Spaniels are energetic and benefit from regular exercise. Their adaptable nature accommodates various activity levels, making them suitable for smaller homes with consistent physical activity.

 

18. French Bulldog:

Relative Cost: Moderate. French Bulldogs are generally moderately priced, and their compact size can contribute to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Adaptable, affectionate, and calm. Frenchies have a laid-back demeanor, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low. French Bulldogs have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular cleaning of facial wrinkles is essential for their hygiene.

Exercise Needs: Low to moderate. French Bulldogs have a more relaxed approach to exercise. Short walks and indoor play are usually sufficient, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

19. Great Dane:

 

 

Relative Cost: High. Great Danes may be on the higher end of the cost spectrum, and their larger size can lead to increased maintenance expenses.

Temperament: Gentle, friendly, and adaptable. Despite their size, Great Danes are known for their gentle nature, making them suitable for larger apartments or small homes with ample space.

Grooming Requirements: Low to moderate. Great Danes have a short coat that requires regular brushing. Attention to their ears and occasional baths are necessary.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Great Danes are generally calm indoors, but they benefit from regular exercise. Their larger size requires more space, making them suitable for homes with sufficient room.

 

20. Greyhound:

Relative Cost: Moderate to high. Greyhounds may be moderately priced, but their specific health considerations may result in increased veterinary costs.

Temperament: Gentle, laid-back, and adaptable. Greyhounds have a calm demeanor, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low. Greyhounds have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and attention to dental care contribute to their overall well-being.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Despite their reputation as racing dogs, Greyhounds have bursts of energy but also enjoy lounging. Regular walks and short sprints contribute to their exercise needs.

 

21. Havanese:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Havanese are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, playful, and adaptable. Havanese have a friendly disposition, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate to high. Their long, silky coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain its texture and appearance.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Havanese enjoy playtime and short walks, making them suitable for smaller homes. Their adaptable nature accommodates various activity levels.

 

22. Italian Greyhound:

Relative Cost: Moderate. Italian Greyhounds are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, and adaptable. Italian Greyhounds have a calm demeanor, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low. Their short coat requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and attention to dental care contribute to their overall well-being.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Italian Greyhounds enjoy short bursts of activity, making them suitable for smaller homes. Regular playtime and short walks contribute to their exercise needs.

 

23. Japanese Chin:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Japanese Chins are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and adaptable. Japanese Chins have a friendly disposition, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Moderate to high. Their long, silky coat requires regular brushing and attention to maintain its appearance. Professional grooming may be necessary.

Exercise Needs: Low to moderate. Japanese Chins are adaptable to various activity levels. Indoor play and short walks can meet their exercise needs, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

24. Pomeranian:

Relative Cost: Moderate. Pomeranians are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, and adaptable. Pomeranians have a lively nature, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: High. Their thick double coat requires regular brushing and attention to prevent matting. Professional grooming may be necessary to maintain their appearance.

Exercise Needs: Moderate. Pomeranians enjoy playtime and short walks, making them suitable for smaller homes. Their adaptable nature accommodates various activity levels.

 

25. Pug:

Relative Cost: Moderate. Pugs are generally moderately priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, charming, and adaptable. Pugs have a friendly disposition, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low to moderate. Pugs have a short coat that requires regular brushing. Attention to facial wrinkles and ears is necessary for their hygiene.

Exercise Needs: Low to moderate. Pugs have a more laid-back approach to exercise. Short walks and indoor play are usually sufficient, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

26. Shih Tzu:

 

 

Relative Cost: Moderate. Shih Tzus are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, and adaptable. Shih Tzus have a gentle disposition, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: High. Their long, flowing coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain its texture and appearance.

Exercise Needs: Low to moderate. Shih Tzus have a more relaxed approach to exercise. Indoor play and short walks are usually sufficient, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

27. Staffordshire Bull Terrier:

Relative Cost: Moderate. Staffordshire Bull Terriers are generally moderately priced, and their sturdy health reduces potential veterinary costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, and adaptable. Staffies have a friendly disposition, making them well-suited for various living environments, including smaller homes.

Grooming Requirements: Low. Staffordshire Bull Terriers have a short coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and attention to dental care contribute to their overall well-being.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Staffies are energetic and benefit from regular exercise. Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for smaller homes with consistent physical activity.

 

28. Standard Poodle:

 

 

Relative Cost: High. Standard Poodles may be on the higher end of the cost spectrum, and their larger size can lead to increased maintenance expenses.

Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, and adaptable. Standard Poodles have a gentle nature, making them suitable for larger apartments or small homes with sufficient space.

Grooming Requirements: High. Their curly coat requires regular professional grooming to maintain its texture and appearance.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Standard Poodles are active and benefit from regular exercise. Their larger size requires more space, making them suitable for homes with ample room.

 

29. Whippet:

Relative Cost: Moderate. Whippets are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, and adaptable. Whippets have a calm demeanor, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: Low. Whippets have a short, smooth coat that requires minimal grooming. Regular brushing and attention to dental care contribute to their overall well-being.

Exercise Needs: Moderate to high. Whippets are active and benefit from regular exercise. Their adaptable nature makes them suitable for smaller homes with consistent physical activity.

 

30. Yorkshire Terrier:

Relative Cost: Moderate. Yorkshire Terriers are reasonably priced, and their small size contributes to lower maintenance costs.

Temperament: Affectionate, lively, and adaptable. Yorkies have a spirited personality, making them well-suited for apartment or small home living.

Grooming Requirements: High. Their long, silky coat requires regular brushing and professional grooming to maintain its texture and appearance.

Exercise Needs: Low to moderate. Yorkies have a more laid-back approach to exercise. Indoor play and short walks are usually sufficient, making them suitable for smaller living spaces.

 

Conclusion:

I). Best Small Home Dogs Based On Relative Cost:

Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds, and Whippets are among the more budget-friendly options, making them suitable for those mindful of cost in smaller living spaces.

 

II). Best Small Home Dogs Based On Temperament:

Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Pugs, and French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate and adaptable nature, making them ideal companions for apartment or small home living.

 

III). Best Small Home Dogs Based On Grooming Requirements:

Breeds with lower grooming needs include Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Beagles, and Whippets. Those with moderate to high grooming requirements include Shih Tzus, Bichon Frisés, and Standard Poodles.

 

IV). Best Small Home Dogs Based On Exercise Needs:

Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels have lower exercise needs, making them suitable for smaller homes. On the other hand, breeds like Beagles, Italian Greyhounds, and Whippets have moderate to high energy levels, accommodating various activity levels in smaller living spaces.

Criteria	Best Small Home Dogs
Relative Cost	Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Italian Greyhounds, Whippets
Temperament	Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Pugs, French Bulldogs
Grooming	Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Beagles (Low) / Shih Tzus, Bichon Frisés, Standard Poodles (Moderate to High)
Exercise Needs	Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (Low) / Beagles, Italian Greyhounds, Whippets (Moderate to High)