Everyone enjoys cuddling with irresistibly cute dogs. These adorable dogs are the perfect little friends and are simple to maintain due to their tiny size. They are also better suited for apartments and less expensive to own than larger canines. Additionally, they never stop being puppy-sized.
These little dogs come in a variety of sizes and colors. While certain breeds are laid-back and prefer freedom, others tend to have bold, outspoken attitudes. They also differ in coat types and grooming needs. The ideal tiny dog for you will therefore depend on your preferences for personality, grooming commitment, and preferred activity level.
Even though hundreds of small dog breeds worldwide exist, not all are suitable for India. Hence, we put together a list of small pups that can thrive in Indian households.
List of Small Dog Breeds in India With Price (Best 20)
Pug
Pugs gained fame in India as a result of the Hutch advertisement. In India, pugs are now among the most popular dog breeds.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 6 to 10 years
- Buying Price: INR 6,000 to 18,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 70,000
- Height: 15 to 20cm
- Weight: 6.5 to 8.5kg
- Temperament: Stubborn, playful, affectionate, Silent
- Physical Characteristics: short-muzzled face, wrinkly and curled tail
- Trainability: Easily distractible, hard to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Perfect for new owners.
- Calm and friendly with children.
What’s bad about them?
- Breathing problems, snoring in sleep.
- Generally not very healthy.
Conclusion –
A Pug is an ideal dog if you’re seeking a calm, low-maintenance, and apartment-friendly pooch.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a tiny dog with a big personality. Known for being the smallest dog in the world, it is a breed with incredible energy and intelligence that enjoys interacting with its family.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 18 years
- Buying Price: INR 12,000 to 35,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 45,000 to 55,000
- Height: 15 to 23cm
- Weight: 1.5 to 3kg
- Temperament: loving, might be snappy if threatened, dominant.
- Physical Characteristics: Domed head, short pointed muzzles, longish tails, big round eyes, available in short and long coats.
- Trainability: Stubborn, hard to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Adapts well to the Indian climate
- Make do with little exercise
- Easy to maintain
What’s bad about them?
- Rarely found in India
- Difficult to train
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a tiny lap dog that is friendly and confident, a Chihuahua can be the perfect choice for you as long as you are ready for a challenge when it comes to training it.
Maltese
Maltese are lively dogs who can be your perfect companion dog. They love being with people and can be excellent even for first-time pet parents.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 15 to 20 years
- Buying Price: INR 30,000 to 90,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 80,000 to 1,50,000
- Height: 21 to 25cm
- Weight: 1.36 to 3.6kg
- Temperament: affectionate, trusting, playful.
- Physical Characteristics: long and silky straight coat, big dark eyes, black nose.
- Trainability: enjoy learning tricks.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
What’s good about them?
- Friendly and playful with strangers and other animals
- Light shedder
What’s bad about them?
- Physically fragile.
- Separation anxiety.
- High grooming needs.
Conclusion
If you love spending a lot of time playing, bonding, and training your pet dog, then a Maltese is perfect for you.
Dachshund
Also known as the sausage dog, the Dachshund is known for its unusual shape and playful nature. Despite their small size, they are very courageous and protective.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Buying Price: INR 5,000 to 15,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 45,000 to 55,000
- Height: 20 to 23cm
- Weight: 7 to 15kg
- Temperament: playful, courageous, intelligent.
- Physical Characteristics: short, muscular legs, long back, long droopy ears, long muzzle.
- Trainability: Slightly difficult to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Excellent family dog.
- Great watchdogs
What’s bad about them?
- High exercise needs.
- They cannot be left alone for a long time.
Conclusion
A Dachshund is perfect if you’re looking for a tiny dog that is also great at keeping watch.
Boston Terrier
Due to its tuxedo-like markings, the Boston Terrier is famously known as the American Gentleman. Originally bred to be a pit-fighter, they have recently grown to be loving and family-friendly dogs.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 11 to 13 years
- Buying Price: INR 30,000 to 70,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 70,000
- Height: 38-43 cm
- Weight: 4.5-11 kg
- Temperament: Playful, good-natured, cheerful.
- Physical Characteristics: Tuxedo coat, large eyes, short wrinkle-free muzzle, squarish head, pointed ears.
- Trainability: East to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Small but sturdy.
- Easy-care coat.
What’s bad about them?
- Snorting, wheezing, snoring.
- Potential health problems.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of sophistication, playfulness, and humorous charm, the Boston Terrier can be the best choice for you.
Jack Russell Terrier
Originally bred as a hunting dog, the Jack Russel Terrier was popular with sailors who kept it to control rats on their ships. Even today, their tiny size and agility are relied on to control rodent issues.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
- Buying Price: INR 10,000 to 20,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 70,000
- Height: 28-38 cm
- Weight: 6-8 kg
- Temperament: Energetic, workaholic, happy.
- Physical Characteristics: compact, muscular body.
- Trainability: Highly trainable.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Energetic, friendly.
- Low shedder.
What’s bad about them?
- High exercise needs.
- Loud and Noisy.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dog that you can take along on exploration trips or are tired of rat infestations, a Jack Russell Terrier might be the dog for you.
Shih Tzu
Native to Tibet, the name Shih Tzu means a little lion! Originally bred as lap dogs for royalty, the Shih Tzu still treat their owners, no matter who, as royalty.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
- Buying Price: INR 20,000 to 30,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 60,000
- Height: 20-28 cm
- Weight: 4-8 kg
- Temperament: Friendly, competitive, playful.
- Physical Characteristics: Sturdy body, short muzzle, round head, tail curled over the back.
- Trainability: Stubborn, hard to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes, but they need a cool temperature.
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
What’s good about them?
- Friendly, agile, and intelligent.
- Affectionate towards family.
What’s bad about them?
- High grooming needs
- Low energy
- Easily spoiled.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dog that makes you feel like royalty, a Shih Tzu might be the perfect choice for you.
French Bulldog
Known for its comical appearance, the French Bulldog will liven up your house with its loving and playful spirit.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 13 years
- Buying Price: INR 35,000 to 50,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 45,000 to 55,000
- Height: 28-30 cm
- Weight: 9-13 kg
- Temperament: Friendly, patient, and cheerful.
- Physical Characteristics: Square head, heavy wrinkles, erect ‘bat ears,’ short nose.
- Trainability: Eager to please.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Comical appearance.
- Family-friendly.
What’s bad about them?
- Health and breathing problems.
- Wrinkles need to be kept clean.
Conclusion
The French Bulldog can be perfect for you if you want a funny and playful pet.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians are known to be the perfect combination between bossy and friendly. Despite their small stature, they are very loyal and ambitious guard dogs.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
- Buying Price: INR 18,000 to 45,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 60,000
- Height: 20-28 cm
- Weight: 3.18-2.72 kg
- Temperament: Cuddly, bossy, friendly
- Physical Characteristics: Fox-like appearance, alert ears, furry double coat.
- Trainability: Medium difficulty.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Alert and protective
What’s bad about them?
- Fragile.
- Heavy Barker.
- High shedder.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a cuddly lap dog that is fierce and protective, a Pomeranian can be your perfect companion.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise appeals to many due to its tiny size and fluffy white hair. Its playful and mischievous nature makes it the perfect family dog.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Buying Price: INR 25,000 to 90,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 54,000 to 66,000
- Height: 23-30 cm
- Weight: 5-10 kg
- Temperament: Gentle, affectionate, playful.
- Physical Characteristics: Double long white curly fur, big dark eyes.
- Trainability: Relatively easy to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
What’s good about them?
- Highly sociable.
- Low shedder
What’s bad about them?
- Separation Anxiety
- High exercise needs
Conclusion
The Bichon Frise might be your dog if you want a mischievous but loving furry friend.
Beagle
Initially bred for hunting, the Beagle is known for its exceptional sense of smell. Their playful and loving nature makes them one of the most popular dogs in India.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Buying Price: INR 15,000 to 30,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 75,000 to 85,000
- Height: 33-41 cm
- Weight: 10-12 kg
- Temperament: Affectionate, cheerful, excessive barking if left alone.
- Physical Characteristics: Short, floppy ears, white coat with brown and black patches.
- Trainability: Medium difficulty.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Healthy and easy to maintain.
- Excellent sense of smell.
What’s bad about them?
- Tendency to howl.
- Easily distracted.
Conclusion
If you’d love a dog that loves sniffing and playing and is easy to maintain, you might want to consider Beagles as an option.
Indian Spitz
You will surely recognize this adorable fur ball if you are familiar with the Bollywood movie ‘Hum aapke hain kaun.’ So often confused with Pomeranians, the Indian Spitz is a different breed altogether.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years
- Buying Price: INR 5,000 to 15,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 35,000 to 45,000
- Height: 35-45 cm
- Weight: 5-7 kg
- Temperament: Kind, communicative, intelligent, loyal
- Physical Characteristics: Fluffy hair, pointed ears.
- Trainability: Easy to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Friendly with kids.
- Great watchdogs.
- Easy to train for novices.
What’s bad about them?
- Heavy shedder.
- Loud and Noisy.
- Can be aggressive towards strangers.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a small-sized friendly dog with Indian origins that is easy to maintain, the Indian Spitz might be perfect for you.
Tibetan Spaniel
Hailing from the Tibetan mountains, this tiny dog was employed as a companion and watchdog due to its alert and intelligent nature.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Buying Price: INR 40,000 to 62,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 80,000
- Height: 21-26 cm
- Weight: 4-7 kg
- Temperament: Charming, happy, cheerful, trusting, clever.
- Physical Characteristics: Long body, blunt wrinkleless muzzle, slightly domed head, front legs slightly bowed, hare-like feet.
- Trainability: Slightly tricky to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Loving and playful.
- Intelligent.
What’s bad about them?
- Very adventurous.
- Very vocal.
- Rare
Conclusion
The Tibetan Spaniel can be an excellent choice for those looking for a tiny dog who is lovable but also protective and alert.
Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is another Tibetan breed regarded as watchdogs at monasteries and palaces. In recent times, they have served as excellent companion dogs.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Buying Price: INR 15,000 to 30,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 60,000
- Height: 23-28 cm
- Weight: 6-8 kg
- Temperament: Aloof, stubborn, affectionate, assertive.
- Physical Characteristics: Curled tail, long hair.
- Trainability: Tricky.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
What’s good about them?
- Excellent watchdog.
- Friendly.
What’s bad about them?
- High grooming needs.
- Stubborn while training.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a small-sized dog that will also protect you loyally, the Lhasa Apso is worth your consideration.
Yorkshire Terrier
Although loving towards its owners, the Yorkshire Terrier is known to be a big dog in a tiny body, always looking for adventure and sometimes even a little trouble.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 13 to 16 years
- Buying Price: INR 30,000 to 45,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 60,000
- Height: 20-23 cm
- Weight: 2-5 kg
- Temperament: Independent, bold.
- Physical Characteristics: Small head, medium muzzle, pointed ears.
- Trainability: Difficult to housetrain.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
What’s good about them?
- Low exercise needs.
- Sociable.
What’s bad about them?
- Overprotective.
- Not suitable for children.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a tiny dog with a spunky but loving and loyal personality, the Yorkshire Terrier might be the perfect fit for you.
Cocker Spaniel
Beautiful to look at, the merry and calm Cocker Spaniel is a highly well-loved family and companion dog.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 11 to 13 years
- Buying Price: INR 15,000 to 30,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 80,000 to 90,000
- Height: 36-43 cm
- Weight: 12-16 kg
- Temperament: loving, friendly.
- Physical Characteristics: Round head, square muzzle, long and feathered ears, back slopes towards the tail.
- Trainability: Easy to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Playful.
- Affectionate
What’s bad about them?
- Require frequent grooming.
- Health concerns.
- May bark a lot.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a tiny dog that is the perfect balance between playful and snuggly, the Cocker Spaniel is worth looking into.
English Bulldog
Despite being bred for bull baiting and guarding, the English Bulldogs loving nature and vigorous waddle will win you right over.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 8 to 10 years
- Buying Price: INR 10,000 to 60,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 55,000 to 80,000
- Height: 30-41 cm
- Weight: 18-23 kg
- Temperament: Dependable, gentle, sweet, sociable.
- Physical Characteristics: Large heads on broad shoulders, thin small ears, folds on forehead, short sturdy and wide legs.
- Trainability: Easy if trained early.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes, but not good with scorching weather.
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Easy to groom.
- Excellent guard dogs
- Friendly towards children.
What’s bad about them?
- Low physical energy, mobility issues.
- Health Issues
Conclusion
The English Bulldog can be the perfect choice if you’re looking for a tiny but brawny powerhouse.
Papillon
Papillon, meaning “butterfly,” comes from this tiny breed’s adorable butterfly-shaped ears. Papillon’s adorable appearance and endearing personality make it the perfect companion.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Buying Price: INR 40,000 to 1,50,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 50,000 to 60,000
- Height: 20-28 cm
- Weight: 4-5 kg
- Temperament: Happy, outgoing, energetic.
- Physical Characteristics: Floppy upright ears with long hair.
- Trainability: Easy to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Low grooming needs.
- Learn quickly.
What’s bad about them?
- Fragile.
- Tendency to bark.
Conclusion
A Papillon may be just the dog for you if you’re looking for a cuddly dog and love grooming.
Irish Setter
Native to Ireland, the Irish Setters were initially raised as gundogs. However, they quickly caught fame as companion dogs owing to their beautiful mahogany coat and friendly nature.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
- Buying Price: INR 20,000 to 35,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 80,000 to 90,000
- Height: 55-67 cm
- Weight: 24-29 kg.
- Physical Characteristics: Domed head, longish tails, big round eyes, available in short and long coats.
- Temperament: Energetic, enthusiastic, and athletic
- Trainability: Easy to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Not suitable for small apartments.
- Hypoallergenic: No
What’s good about them?
- Beautiful and healthy.
- Friendly, alert, and intelligent.
What’s bad about them?
- High exercise needs.
- Separation Anxiety.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a sporty, mischievous, bold, and friendly dog, an Irish Setter would be the perfect addition to your family.
Poodle
Considered to be the second smartest dog on earth, these intelligent and elegant dogs make great family and companion dogs.
Breed Traits
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Buying Price: INR 35,000 to 50,000
- Yearly Maintenance Cost: INR 80,000 to 90,000
- Height: 27-44 cm
- Weight: 5-9 kg
- Temperament: Lively, clingy.
- Physical Characteristics: Square outline, long and elegant neck, straight back, docked tail, long muzzle, and dropped ears.
- Trainability: Easy to train.
- Apartment Friendly: Yes
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
What’s good about them?
- Very Intelligent.
- Elegant appearance
What’s bad about them?
- High grooming needs.
- Requires a lot of mental stimulation.
- Emotionally sensitive.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an intelligent dog that is friendly and can do lots of tricks, a Poodle can be your new companion!
Summary
Small dog breeds make excellent companions. They are portable, easy to maintain, and relatively inexpensive because of their small size. If you allow one to join your family, it can assuredly make your family ever more joyful.