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Top 10 small breed dogs

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If you're thinking of getting a small dog because they're cute, cuddly and quiet, you probably should think again; what they lack in stature, they often make up for in arrogance. Sure, small dogs are cute, and some of them look cuddly, but not all small dog breeds have meek personalities. Like people, small dog breeds come with different personalities, so before you pick up your small, cute friend, it's a good idea to know exactly what you're getting.

Here are PetMD's top 10 favorite small breed dogs:

Maltese10. Maltese

A good dog for those with allergies (it's not a big shedder), the Maltese is friendly and often gets along well with other dogs and even cats. Just don't leave them alone too much, these companion dogs need human contact. Easily distinguished by their straight and long white coat; it may seem as though the Maltese has just stepped out of a doggie hair salon. However, over-coddling these adorable creatures can actually do them more harm them good, often leading to behavior disorders.

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Tags: boston terrier chihuahua dachshund maltese miniature poodle miniature schnauzer pomeranian pugs shih tzu yorkshire terrier

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Comments on "Top 10 small breed dogs"

Mike June 17, 2013 | 4:14 PM

HOW DO YOU NOT EVEN HAVE RAT TERRIERS OR JACK RUSSELLS ON THIS LIST!!!! DUMBEST LIST EVER POMERANINS, ZU'S AND POODLES SMH! UGLY --- DOGS!

Airforce-princess June 11, 2013 | 7:51 AM

Chihuahua....Even though the caption says they are "known for nipping at children" they are not all like that. Every puppy is different and its all in how you train them. I get compliments regularly how on my chihuahua, Dollar, is not yappy or nippy. Nor is he the steroptypical 1 owner kind of dog, where he won't allow anyone to comeup to me. He is beyond friendly and unfortunately he has NO stranger danger concepts! he is the best fur-baby ever and so loving!

vics June 10, 2013 | 8:21 PM

pugs should be at the first

Winnie June 03, 2013 | 6:44 PM

I have a Tibbie (Tibetan Spaniel).They were used to be companion dogs for the monks in Tibet. You could imagine how calm they are. Great companion small breed

sandra May 31, 2013 | 2:49 PM

I love yorkies I have a 6lb. yorkie and he is just so loyal I get no dog hair in the house. This is my 3rd yorkie I have owned. Full of personality.

Carol Ashbert May 31, 2013 | 4:45 AM

A Cavalier King Charles is a sweet, small, lap dog.

Lanette Walsh May 23, 2013 | 11:31 AM

need small laid back lap dog any ideas?

mo May 13, 2013 | 8:33 AM

is there such a dog breed as a pattingham terrier?

Crysta May 04, 2013 | 5:40 PM

Pomeranian's have never been described as mellow. They are hyper and full of energy and love to hop on their hind legs like circus dogs. I love this breed, but tend to be very needy only because they love you more then anyone in the world and want to be near you 24/7! Overall, lovely breed, better off with older children and adults, not the best kid friendly dog, unless like you said introduced to children as a puppy.

C Powers April 12, 2013 | 8:31 PM

to Judy Cole, there are a few non allergic breeds. The one I have is a minature Pinscher, I have severe allergies and several tried with several breeds but my Vet helped me find my lil buddy. Good Luck! Cynhtia

Reverend-Pastor Jose Romero-Sisneros-Vallejos April 04, 2013 | 3:16 PM

My choice is a small breed. I gave an 8yr old Chihuahua a 6moold Chihuahua a 7yr old japaschon and a 2yr old maltipoobaschon and they are the best watch dogs ever!!! They even protect my family and I from the spirit that lives here and the spirit is a bad spirit, it has done some harm to our crew but nothing life threatening nor abusive, it has scared them badly and has spanked them cause we could be watching tv and one of the dogs could be lying there or standing there and all of a sudden whomever it is will just bark like it just got spanked and look back at us like what just happened???

Judy Cole April 03, 2013 | 4:01 PM

I am interested in a small non-shedding dog and one with little or no order. Is there such?

Terrie April 03, 2013 | 2:59 PM

The best breed is the designer dog. The (Chi-poodle)which is a combo. 6-8 lb.s of love. Very loyal, loving and smart too! They are a hardier small than your maltese, toypoodle, papillion, pug,etc......

cillya ann fries March 25, 2013 | 6:41 AM

i have a small dog a minicherpincher and she is sooooooo adourible who els has one

Tina March 23, 2013 | 10:06 PM

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is one of the best of the small breed dogs. They are beautiful and have one of the best personalities of all dogs. They truly are a love sponge!

Sally March 19, 2013 | 7:05 AM

I truly believe that a good breeder will breed dogs of any variety to have a good temperament. I own a lovely mini poodle Who is loyal, fun loving and rarely barks. She's gentle with my children and lets them pick her up and haul her around when they're playing. Personally, I have met many dogs of different breeds that I adore and many of those same breeds I can't tolerate including poodles. Dogs are like people, some are great, some are okay, and some you keep your distance.

chloe March 18, 2013 | 8:40 AM

My favorite would be the black pug, teacup yorkies, & in my opinion if you get a Pug, make sure yours isn't too mellow! Wouldn't them to be too pyscho! (: P.S.- Pomerainians are adorable, (espeically the white/black ones!!)

Donna February 23, 2013 | 3:59 AM

Havanese is in the Maltese, Bichon family of breeds and makes a GREAT family pet!! Known as a Cuban Maltese, history finds information that this breed has been used as circus dogs, children companions, alert dogs for royalty, chicken herders and much more :o))

Toti February 13, 2013 | 9:19 AM

If you want the best dog ever just adopt one that needs a home badly. I assure you, best friend for life!

cohen February 01, 2013 | 12:04 PM

This list cannot be complete without a golden cocker spaniel!

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