7 Small Companion Dogs That Are Easy to Care For
There are so many good things when it comes to dog ownership, but having a built-in best friend is up there. And while you need to make sure your pet is happy, well-fed and gets plenty of mental and physical stimulation, the love and company a companion dog brings you makes being a pet parent one of the best decisions you can make. After all, these dogs are known for the emotional support they can deliver, making them the ultimate buddy. However, if you're looking for a furry sidekick that isn't huge, hard to take care of and doesn't require a lot of over-the-top grooming, the good news is, there are several tiny dog breeds that are known to be low-maintenance. Read on to discover 7 small companion dogs that are easier to care for than you think, according to vets.
The good thing about small dogs is that these pets are also portable, so you and your pup can pretty much do everything together, from going on long walks to snuggling together on the couch. Because of this, you'll have a furry bestie that will be by your side through thick and thin. What's better than that?
When searching the best small dog breeds for companionship, it's important to consider all elements of the dog. That includes a breed's typical personality, energy levels, exercise needs and friendliness. While every canine is an individual, it can be difficult to say that you'll definitely get a low-maintenance pup that is also loyal to you if you choose a certain breed. But some lapdogs are considered to be man's best friend more than others. So, whether you're a beginner dog owner or just prefer a pet that just doesn't require high levels of care, start your search with these vet-recommended dog breeds.
Related: Experts Name the No. 1 Companion Dog: A ‘Highly Intuitive, Sensitive Breed'
Small Companion Dogs That Are Easier to Care For Than You Think
If you're looking for small companion dogs that are easy to care for, there are several breeds known for their low-maintenance grooming, manageable energy level, and affectionate temperaments. These easygoing small dogs are ideal for first-time owners, apartment living, and anyone wanting a loyal pet bestie without overwhelming care demands.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
What's a lapdog that's considered man's best friend and not hard to care for? A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel! These pups are hard to resist with their sweet faces and big, soulful eyes. However, this companion dog is more than just cute. "Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are typically very adaptable," says Nita Vasudevan, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor.
This breed also isn't overly active and generally enjoys doing what you do. Therefore, they aren't hard to please and will instantly feel like a devoted dog. "They're happy lounging on the couch but also enjoy a short walk, so you don't need an intense exercise routine," Vasudevan says. Cavaliers tend to be very people-oriented and easy to train, too. They also don't need much grooming, just regular brushing and baths.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Affectionate, gentle, graceful
- Height: 12-13 inches
- Weight: 13-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
Maltese
The Maltese is an affectionate toy dog that typically weighs under 7 pounds, making this furry bestie easy to tote around with you. Talk about a great companion dog! "Maltese dogs are small, lightweight and generally lower-shedding, which means they are easier for a lot of households to care for," Vasudevan says. On top of that, Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel, says this friendly breed tends to listen to its owners well and is very loving.
If you live in an apartment, that's not a problem issue either. "These small dogs don't need a ton of space or exercise, and they bond closely with their owners," Vasudevan says. While this pup is petite, you have to make sure you brush them. However, if you keep their coat short, it's easier to manage.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Playful, charming, gentle
- Height: 7-9 inches
- Weight: Under 7 pounds
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
Related: The No. 1 Dog Breed for Busy People Is Cute, Small and Low-Maintenance
Pug
If you're searching for a small dog who can step in as your furry BFF and chill with you at home, go with a Pug! "Pugs are typically pretty low-maintenance when it comes to exercise-they're not high-energy dogs and are usually content with short walks and indoor play," Vasudevan says.
But the big draw of the Pug is its lovable and friendly personality. "They're very social," Vasudevan says. Warner also notes that this small companion breed is "laidback," making them a good fit for most households. "Pugs also don't have big space requirements, so you can easily have a happy Pug in an apartment," per Vasudevan. "The main care considerations are keeping them at a healthy weight, cleaning their facial folds and being mindful of heat, since they can overheat easily," she says.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Charming, loving, mischievous
- Height: 10-13 inches
- Weight: 14-18 pounds
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a sweet breed that's great with kids and other dogs, making them a great fit for most people. In fact, many would consider them to be the best dog breeds for companionship. "The Shih Tzu is known to be affectionate, adaptable and content living even in small homes, provided they receive attention and exercise on a daily basis," Warner says.
This sweet dog loves its family members, too. While Shih Tzu dogs are playful, this breed tends to be quiet. "They don't require extensive physical activity like other active small breeds," Warner says. "They're easy to train, too". Just make sure your canine bestie gets regular grooming to avoid skin problems and tangles in its coat. That's simple enough, right?
Breed Stats
- Personality: Playful, affectionate, outgoing
- Height: 9-10.5 inches
- Weight: 9-16 pounds
- Lifespan: 10-18 years
Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is a petite form of the Giant Schnauzer and are the ultimate companion dog! This small pup tops out at about 14 inches, is loyal and smart, making them am amazing furry friend to have by your side. "The Mini Schnauzer is known for its intelligence and sturdiness, which means it's a playful pet that can easily learn basic commands with regular training," Warner says.
Are Miniature Schnauzers easy to take care of? They are! This small dog breed is low-shedding, so you don't have to stress about fur tumbleweeds. On top of that, they don't need a lot of extra attention from their owners as Mini Schnauzers like to be mentally stimulated and play dog puzzle toys. Overall, they are can be your perfect chill bestie.
- Personality: Friendly, smart, obedient
- Weight: 11-20 pounds
- Height: 12-14 inches
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
Short-Coated Chihuahua
When it comes to tiny dog breeds, Chihuahuas are ride-or-die besties. In fact, they were originally bred to be just that, and they love nothing more than a good snuggle. But they're also easy to care for when they're not nestled into your lap, too. "A short-coated Chihuahua is relatively simple to care for because they have an easy-to-maintain coat and limited exercise needs," Warner says.
Because this is a tiny (under 6-pound) dog, it's important to handle your Chihuahua with care. "Being tiny dogs, these breeds are fragile enough to be easily injured," Warner points out. But the Chihuahua loves to stick close to its chosen humans, so you can keep a close eye on your pooch.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Charming, graceful, sassy
- Height: 5-8 inches
- Weight: Under 6 pounds
- Lifespan: 14–16 years
Havanese
The Havanese is a cheerful little pup with a pep in its step, making for a great small companion dog. In fact, Warner says this breed loves to be around people, so expect your Havanese to stick close. This breed is smart and easy to train, too. While the Havanese is active, it's not known for being hyper. As a result, Warner says this pooch just needs average levels of exercise.
The Havanese has a coat that can be grown long or corded, but some owners will crop it short to save on grooming time. This pup has a fun, clownish personality, giving you a home-grown entertainer. This pup isn't a big barker and is an extrovert, making it a good choice for busy households.
Breed Stats
- Personality: Intelligent, outgoing, funny
- Height: 8.5-11.5 inches
- Weight: 7-13 pounds
- Lifespan: 14-16 years
Sources:
- Nita Vasudevan, DVM, an Embrace Pet Insurance veterinarian contributor
- Aimee Warner, DVM, resident veterinarian at Waggel
- Havanese. American Kennel Club.
- Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. American Kennel Club.
- Maltese. American Kennel Club.
- Pug. American Kennel Club.
- Shih Tzu. American Kennel Club.
- Miniature Schnauzer. American Kennel Club.
- Chihuahua. American Kennel Club.
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This story was originally published April 25, 2026 at 5:10 PM.