35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (2024)

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but you might agree that these are some of the cutest dog breeds around. Dogs are adorable—and arguably, all dogs are cute—but if you're looking for a stunning pup to have as your pet, we have you covered. There's a look for everyone to love, from big shaggy dogs to dogs with wrinkled faces to tiny pups with perky expressions.

Here are 35 of the cutest dog breeds with looks sure to make you smile.

Tip

If you're planning on getting a dog, match up a dog's energy level, care needs, and space requirements with your own—then consider looks, coat color, and names.

  • 01 of 35

    Maltipoo

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (1)

    This breed is a cross between a Maltese and a toy poodle or miniature poodle. Super cute and fun, this friendly dog can quickly become your best friend and loyal companion, and is small enough to sit in your lap. Be sure you give them enough time and attention, as they can have separation anxiety.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Designer

    Height: 8 to 14 inches

    Weight:5 to 20 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Friendly, loyal, intelligent

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color:Curly to straight coat; colors include chocolate, cream, white, apricot, and more

    Life Span:10 to 16 years

  • 02 of 35

    Chow Chow

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (2)

    Often described as looking like a little bear or lion, the chow chow is a breed from China that dates back to 206 B.C. These dogs are protective (in Asia, they were used as temple guards), and can bond with one person in the family in particular. One look at their adorable face and you’re sure to melt.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Non-sporting

    Height: 17 to 20 inches

    Weight:40 to 70 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, independent, calm, loyal

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Smooth or rough, double coat; black, cinnamon, blue, red, cream

    Life Span:8 to 12 years

  • 03 of 35

    Beagle

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (3)

    Beagles are one of those breeds that maintain their puppy looks. Beagles are excellent hunting dogs, but did you know their ears can improve the performance of their noses? Beagles' long flappy ears push smells toward their noses, so they can better process scent information. These dogs need an active household and are often great for families with children.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Hound (AKC)

    Height: Up to 15 inches

    Weight: Up to 30 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Brave, active, energetic

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Short coat; colors include black and tan, brown and white, and more

    Life Span: 10 to 15 years

  • 04 of 35

    French Bulldog

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (4)

    French bulldogs were bredto be little warming blankets for artisans working in chilly shops. The Frenchies would sit in their laps, keeping them cozy. These dogs still love laps today. These big-eared, scrunchy-faced pups are very affectionate and loyal dogs that often get along well with children and other animals.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Non-sporting (AKC)

    Height: 11 to 13 inches

    Weight: Under 28 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Affectionate, social, playful, loyal

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Short, smooth coat; colors include fawn, brindle, and more

    Life Span: 10 to 12 years

    Continue to 5 of 35 below

  • 05 of 35

    Golden Retriever

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (5)

    Golden retrievers have a personality that matches their face—gentle, loving, and sweet. It's no wonder they are one of the top breeds in the U.S. year after year. As puppies, they melt your heart; as adults, the trend continues.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Sporting (AKC)

    Height: 21.5 to 24 inches

    Weight: 55 to 75 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Playful, loyal, intelligent

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Medium-length double coat; light to dark gold

    Life Span: 10 to 12 years

  • 06 of 35

    Border Collie

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (6)

    Border collies are medium sized, intelligent, athletic dogs that enjoy working. They love being around people and need a lot of exercise to let their energy out. With an expressive face and fun personality, they are a great choice for active families.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Herding

    Height: 18 to 22 inches

    Weight:28 to 48 pounds

    Personality/Temperament:Loyal, alert, intelligent, athletic

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color:Smooth or rough, medium length, double coat with soft undercoat and coarse outer coat; solid, bicolor, tricolor, sable, or merle, usually in blue, blue merle, red, red merle, black, gold, brindle, or lilac, with or without white patches

    Life Span:10 to 17 years

  • 07 of 35

    Samoyed

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (7)

    The Samoyed’s perpetual smiley face instantly makes anyone with a sweet spot for dogs say, "Aww." This super-fluffy dog may be a dog allergy sufferer's nightmare, but for others, this happy canine is the greatest buddy ever.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Working (AKC)

    Height: 19 to 23.5 inches

    Weight: 35 to 60 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Energetic, playful, friendly

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Thick undercoat beneath a soft, fluffy, and straight outer coat, primarily bright white, though some are more cream or biscuit (extremely light brown)

    Life Span: 12 to 14 years

  • 08 of 35

    Dalmatian

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (8)

    A Dalmatian is an energetic, playful polka-dotted canine pal that wants to be at your side. They will run with you, fetch, play a game of hide and seek, and nap at your feet, always with a happy look on their face and smile to go along with it.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Non-sporting (AKC)

    Height: 19 to 24 inches

    Weight: 45 to 65 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Playful, active, affectionate

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Short coat; white with black or liver spots

    Life Span: 11 to 13 years

    Continue to 9 of 35 below

  • 09 of 35

    Pug

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (9)

    Pugs likely date back to 400 B.C. in China, where they were called fu dogs or lo-chiang-sze. For thousands of years, this scrunchy-faced pup has endured as a favorite cutie. The word "pug" meant "little cutie" in English in the 1500s. By the 1600s, it took on the meaning of "monkey," "sprite," or "imp." It wasn't until the mid-1700s that the word "pug" meant "a dwarf type of dog." Pugs are affectionate and love to clown around.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy (AKC)

    Height: 10 to 13 inches

    Weight: 14 to 18pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Playful, loving, affectionate

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Smooth, short double coat in fawn or black

    Life Span: 13 to 15 years

  • 10 of 35

    Siberian Husky

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (10)

    The distinctive wolf-like look of huskies makes some swoon for all things wild and furry. This giant ball of fur relishes the cooler temps and bounding through the snow. This is another dog breed with an expressive face for days and interesting vocalizations that some swear is "talking."

    Breed Overview

    Group: Working (AKC)

    Height: 20 to 23.5 inches

    Weight: 35 to 60 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Friendly, smart, playful

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Dense, double coat; variety of colors, including but not limited to combinations of black, gray, white, and tan; markings include black points, piebald, or pinto

    Life Span: 12 to 15 years

  • 11 of 35

    Pembroke Welsh Corgi

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (11)

    According to Welsh legend, corgis are associated with cute, little fairiesthat loved Pembroke Welsh corgis. Stories of corgispulling fairy coaches, herding fairy cattle, and carrying fairy warriors abound in Wales. Corgis are playful, intelligent, and affectionate dogs. They need lots of exercise and attention.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Herding (AKC)

    Height: 10 to 12 inches

    Weight: Up to 30 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Loyal, smart, social, active

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Low-set and long; colors include black and tan, fawn, red, and sable with white markings

    Life Span: 12 to 16 years

  • 12 of 35

    Pomeranian

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (12)

    Pomeranian faces look like they're constantly smiling. Pomeranianstoday have gained somewhat of a stuffy reputation for being lapdogs, but they were initially herding dogs that pulled massive sleds over rough terrain. Poms used to weigh about 30 pounds and were packed with muscle. Modern Poms are affectionate but need consistent training to keep their stubborn nature in check.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy (AKC)

    Height: 6 to 7 inches

    Weight: 3 to 7 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Lively, alert, affectionate

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Fluffy double coat; colors include black, chocolate, orange, red, and more

    Life Span: 12 to 16 years

    Continue to 13 of 35 below

  • 13 of 35

    Yorkshire Terrier

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (13)

    Puppy-faced Yorkshire terriers have a lap dog reputation these days. But in their heyday, these petite pups worked hard to keep workspaces pest-free. Their small stature enabled them to squeeze into tight spaces to chase after rodents, and their big-dog attitudes made them fearless when it came to the hunt.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy (AKC)

    Height: 7 to 8 inches

    Weight: 7 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Active, playful, affectionate

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Silky coat; colors include black and tan, blue and tan, and more

    Life Span: 13 to 16 years

  • 14 of 35

    Old English Sheepdog

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (14)

    Despite their name, Old English sheepdogs are only a few hundred years old. They were developed to drive livestock, amongother farm work. Nowadays, they're primarily adorable pets who are alert, intelligent, and very playful. To keep them looking their best, they typically need a daily brushing and regular bathing.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Herding (AKC)

    Height: 21 inches and up

    Weight: 60 to 100 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Social, playful, intelligent

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Shaggy, double coat; colors include blue and white, gray and white, and more

    Life Span: 10 to 12 years

  • 15 of 35

    American Staffordshire Terrier

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (15)

    You can't get much cuter than a pit bull puppy."Pit bull" isn'ta breed but rather a category for several breeds, includingAmerican Staffordshire terriers. These dogs tend to be affectionate, friendly, and playful. But they do need vigorous daily walks and play sessions to channel their high energy.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Terrier (AKC)

    Height: 17 to 19 inches

    Weight: 40 to 70 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Friendly, brave, confident, protective

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Muscular body; short coat; colors include black, blue, fawn, and more

    Life Span: 12 to 14 years

  • 16 of 35

    Labrador Retriever

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (16)

    From theirsweet personalities to their happy smiles, there's a lot to love about Labrador retrievers. According to American Kennel Club, Labs have been the No. 1 dog in the U.S. for more than two decades. These dogs are good-natured, sociable, and highly trainable. But they do prefer an active household.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Sporting (AKC)

    Height: 22 to 25 inches

    Weight: 55 to 80 pounds

    Personality/Temperament:Outgoing, energetic, active, friendly

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Short, dense coat; colors include black, chocolate, and yellow

    Life Span: 10 to 12 years

    Continue to 17 of 35 below

  • 17 of 35

    Boston Terrier

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (17)

    Boston terrierslook similar to Frenchies sporting the same giant ears. They are a fun-loving, affectionate breed that is full of enthusiasm for life. They've been nicknamed the "American gentleman" due to their tuxedo-like markings, which helpmake them even more lovable. These dogs can make great family pets and tend to respond well to training. They prefer a household in which they can have company for most of the day.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Non-sporting (AKC)

    Height: 15 to 17 inches

    Weight: 12 to 25 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Social, playful, affectionate

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Short face; smooth coat; colors include black and white, brindle and white, seal and white, and more

    Life Span: 12 to 14 years

  • 18 of 35

    Maltese

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (18)

    TheMalteseis one of the world's oldest dog breeds. It has been depicted in artwork and literature from many ancient civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians. Today's Maltese is an adorable, affectionate, and friendly companion that loves to hang out in their favorite person's lap. This breed gets by with daily walks and playtime to satisfy exercise needs.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy (AKC)

    Height: 7 to 9 inches

    Weight: Up to 7 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Affectionate, protective, alert

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Big, dark, alert eyes; long, silky, single-layer, white coat

    Life Span: 12 to 15 years

  • 19 of 35

    Bernese Mountain Dog

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (19)

    Big and fluffy and weighing between 80 and 110 pounds (females are on the lighter end), Bernies (or Berners) are steady-tempered and easygoing. Their sweet puppy eyes make this very big dog feel like an instant friend. This thick-coated dog is not a fan of hot weather but can pull a snow sled with kids any day of a winter week.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Working (AKC)

    Height: 23 to 27.5 inches

    Weight: 70 to 115 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Gentle, loyal, outgoing, playful

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Thick, moderately long and slightly wavy or straight, with a bright, natural sheen; tricolored (jet black ground color with white and tan markings)

    Life Span: 6 to 8 years

  • 20 of 35

    American Eskimo

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (20)

    Eskies love attention. They formerly entertained crowds with their spectacular tricks as circus dogs in the 19th century and early 20th century. They have sweet, puppy-like faces and look like they’re smiling, so they melt hearts instantly.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Non-sporting (AKC)

    Height: 9 to 12 inches (toy variety); 12 to 15 inches (miniature variety); 15 to 19 inches (standard variety)

    Weight: 6 to 10 pounds (toy); 10 to 20 pounds (miniature); 25 to 35 pounds (standard)

    Personality/Temperament: Friendly, protective, intelligent

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Thick and glossy coat; almost always pure white, also slightly cream-colored; eyes, lips, and nose should be black

    Life Span: 13 to 15 years

    Continue to 21 of 35 below

  • 21 of 35

    Australian Shepherd

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (21)

    Aussies have pretty faces, often blue-eyed (sometimes one blue and one brown, aka heterochromia). They're smart, playful, and a giant ball of energy. They love learning tricks and pleasing their human companions.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Herding (AKC)

    Height: 18 to 23 inches

    Weight: 40 to 65 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Active, intelligent, playful, energetic

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Medium to long coat in blue merle, red merle, black, or red; all colors may have white markings and/or tan (copper) points

    Life Span: 13 to 15 years

  • 22 of 35

    Cocker Spaniel

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (22)

    The Disney classic"Lady and the Tramp" launched cocker spaniels into the spotlight in the 1950s. Their cute puppy face stays with them throughout their life with long pendulous ears and expressive eyes. These dogs are full of energy, loving walks, hanging out with their human family, and playing with the kids.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Sporting (AKC)

    Height: 14 to 15 inches

    Weight: 20 to 30 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Friendly, gentle, affectionate

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Silky and flat or slightly wavy. Short and fine on the head, medium length on the body, and well-feathered on the ears, chest, belly, and legs; black, ASCOB (any solid color other than black) or particolor (black and white, brown and white, red and white, and tri-color)

    Life Span: 12 to 14 years

  • 23 of 35

    Dachshund

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (23)

    Dachshunds are the hot dogs of the bunch. Their squat legs and long bodies make them so unique-looking that they're adorable. In addition to their standout appearance, Doxies are the best alarm system you could ever have in your home. Their barks will alert you to anyone within 50 feet of your home. This smart, energetic dog needs outdoor exercise and mental stimulation to be happy.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Hound (AKC)

    Height: 5 to 6 inches (miniature); 8 to 9 inches (standard)

    Weight: Up to 11 pounds (miniature); 16 to 32 pounds (standard)

    Personality/Temperament: Loving, protective, alert, loyal, playful

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Coat varieties include smooth (shorthaired), longhaired, and wire-haired. Colors include black, tan, fawn, beige, blue, chocolate, and red with various markings such as dapple, piebald, brindle, and sable

    Life Span: 12 to 16 years

  • 24 of 35

    Cairn Terrier

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (24)

    If you remember how cute Toto from the "Wizard of Oz" was, well, that's a Cairn terrier. These inquisitive little dogs have a cheery disposition and make you fall in love with them with a cock-of-the-head look, a quick lick to the face, and a tongue-hanging smile.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Terrier (AKC)

    Height: 9 to 10 inches

    Weight: 12 to 15 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Active, playful, loyal, friendly

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Double coated with a wiry outer; wide variety of colors (no white markings); most common shades are black, cream and grey, often with a brindle mix

    Life Span: 12 to 15 years

    Continue to 25 of 35 below

  • 25 of 35

    Papillon

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (25)

    A papillon is a lot of dog in a dainty frame. The fluffy, distinctive butterfly ears look like they can lift the dog in flight. The dog's beautiful, feathery coat completes their refined toy pooch appearance.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy (AKC)

    Height: 8 to 11 inches

    Weight: 6 to 10 pounds

    Personality/Temperament:Friendly, smart, alert

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Straight, long, single-layer coat with frills; white with markings and a mask of color—usually red, sable, black, or lemon

    Life Span: 14 to 16 years

  • 26 of 35

    Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (26)

    The dog with looks to melt is the Cavalier King Charles spaniel. It's all in the eyes. With their mouths closed, it looks like this dog is wearing a frown, but no matter. The eyes have it. Their expression-filled eyes make you know that your dog understands how you feel. These playful pups enjoy a romp as much as a cuddle in your lap.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy (AKC)

    Height: 12 to 13 inches

    Weight: 13 to 18 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Outgoing, gentle, affectionate, playful

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Long, sleek and silky coat with feathering around ears, feet, chest, and tail; four color varieties: tricolor, Blenheim, ruby, and black and tan

    Life Span: 12 to 14 years

  • 27 of 35

    Shetland Sheepdog

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (27)

    Shetlands look a lot like collies, only smaller. Collies have endeared people for decades since the famous collie "Lassie." Shelties look like even smaller, cuter rough collies. They have a lion's mane surrounding their head and fluffy, puffball bodies for ultimate cuddles.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Herding (AKC)

    Height: 13 to 16 inches

    Weight: 15 to 25 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Alert, active, energetic, playful

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Straight and harsh with a dense undercoat; black, sable, and blue merle, with white markings

    Life Span: 12 to 14 years

  • 28 of 35

    Havanese

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (28)

    Bred in Cuba to be companion dogs, these happy little dogs love their people. As loyal companions, they do not like to leave the side of their adopted family members. These adorable pups can get separation anxiety if you leave them alone for too long.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy (AKC)

    Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches

    Weight: 7 to 13 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, friendly, gentle

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Coat varies from silky straight to very wavy with ringlets; one or two colors, including but not limited to black, silver, white, cream, tan, fawn, gold, sable,andred

    Life Span: 14 to 16 years

    Continue to 29 of 35 below

  • 29 of 35

    Shih Tzu

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (29)

    The small shih tzu has a lion-like appearance—in fact, the breed’s name means “little lion” in Mandarin. These friendly and affectionate dogs get along with everyone, including children and other pets. And because they’re hypoallergenic, they could be the ideal choice for those with allergies.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy

    Height: 8 to 11 inches

    Weight:9 to 16 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Alert, friendly, smart, loyal, playful

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color:Long double coat; nearly any color, but usually white, black, blue, liver, gold, and combinations

    Life Span:10 to 16 years

  • 30 of 35

    Shiba Inu

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (30)

    The attractive Shiba Inu is a breed from Japan known for a fox-like appearance and curled tail that makes them ultra-cute. These friendly dogs are smart and loyal, but can also be stubborn. Once trained and socialized, they are wonderful companions.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Non-sporting

    Height:14.5 to 16.5 inches (male); 13.5 to 15.5 inches (female)

    Weight:23 pounds (male); 17 pounds (female)

    Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, independent, reserved, affectionate

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color: Short, double coat; cream, sesame, red, and black and tan, with or without white markings

    Life Span:13 to 16 years

  • 31 of 35

    Welsh Springer Spaniel

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (31)

    With adorable floppy ears and a silky coat, it’s hard to resist the Welsh springer spaniel. Related to the English springer spaniel, this breed is known for energy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to work. These happy, loving dogs have more than just good looks to offer; they also make great family pets.

    Breed Overview

    Group:Sporting

    Height:18 to 19 inches (male); 17 to 18 inches (female)

    Weight:40 to 55 pounds (male); 35 to 50 pounds (female)

    Personality/Temperament: Affectionate, hard-working, playful, smart

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Straight, flat, soft coat with feathering; red with white markings

    Life Span: 12 to 15 years

  • 32 of 35

    Basenji

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (32)

    The basenji is a breed from Africa known as the “barkless dog,” so this is also one of the quietest breeds. With their almond eyes, pointy ears, and curly tail, basenjis are irresistibly cute, and they’re even said to have a catlike personality.

    Breed Overview

    Group:Hound

    Height:17 inches (male); 16 inches (female)

    Weight:24 pounds (male); 22 pounds (female)

    Personality/Temperament: Intelligent, energetic, independent

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color:Smooth, short; brindle and white; black and white; black, tan, and white; red and white

    Life Span:13 to 14 years

    Continue to 33 of 35 below

  • 33 of 35

    Brittany

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (33)

    Developed in France, the Brittany is a medium-sized dog that’s eager to please and has a lot of energy. These cute dogs have a puppy-like expression and feathering on their ears. Just bear in mind that they require a lot of exercise, so they are best for active families.

    Breed Overview

    Group:Sporting

    Height:17.5 to 20.5 inches

    Weight: 30 to 40 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Playful, affectionate, adaptable, smart

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Dense, flat, or wavy; white and orange or reddish-brown; clean or roan patterns

    Life Span:12 to 14 years

  • 34 of 35

    Bichon Frise

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (34)

    The bichon frise is another irresistibly cute little dog with curly white fur that provides the perfect contract to their dark nose and eyes. To keep their coat looking healthy and clean, though, grooming on a regular basis is required.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Non-sporting

    Height:9.5 to 11.5 inches

    Weight: 12 to 18 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Loving, playful, friendly

    Energy Level: Medium

    Coat and Color:Curly, long; white, white and buff, white and cream, white and apricot

    Life Span:14 to 15 years

  • 35 of 35

    Chihuahua

    35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (35)

    The tiny chihuahua is full of personality. These dogs enjoy being spoiled, so they are great for pet owners who want to cuddle with their dogs and carry them around. Whether longhaired or shorthaired, they always maintain a puppy-like appearance because of their size.

    Breed Overview

    Group: Toy

    Height: 5 to 8 inches

    Weight:Up to 6 pounds

    Personality/Temperament: Alert, loyal, smart, bold

    Energy Level: High

    Coat and Color: Short and smooth or longhaired; black, red, fawn, cream, chocolate, blue and tan, black and tan, chocolate and tan, fawn and white

    Life Span:14 to 16 years

Breeds to Avoid

There are so many cuties that, really, it's hard to go wrong with any of them. However, you can foul up big time if you get a dog that does not match your energy level.

Fancy yourself a runner and want a running companion? Steer clear of bulldogs, pugs, and most toy breeds. Bulldogs and pugs have short muzzles and flat faces that are not built for running for long; they are prone to overheating. Toy breeds have shorter legs, and some have less stamina. Although beagles are small, these hunting hound dogs can run for days.

If you're more of a couch potato, then some breeds are definitely not right for you. Most herding or hunting dogs, like Australian shepherds, corgis, Labradors, golden retrievers, cocker spaniels, and terriers, will want an outlet for their excessive energy. These breeds can work for you if you plan on sending your dog to daycare every day but avoid them otherwise.

14 Best Dogs for First-Time Owners

35 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep as Pets (2024)

FAQs

What is the most low maintenance dog? ›

Top 8 Low Maintenance Dog Breeds
  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are very calm dogs that make great therapy animals. ...
  • Beagle. Beagles are small hounds that have easy-going temperaments and are very smart. ...
  • Whippet. Whippets are great house dogs because they are quiet and easy to train.
Jul 15, 2023

What is the cutest house dog? ›

Top 15 Cutest Dog Breeds
  • Labradoodle. ...
  • Pug. ...
  • Dachshund. ...
  • Havanese. ...
  • Dalmatian. ...
  • Pembroke Welsh Corgi. ...
  • Shetland Sheepdog. This happy-go-lucky pup looks like a miniature Collie, and anything miniature is adorable. ...
  • Yorkshire Terrier. If you're looking for a petite pup to keep you company, bring a Yorkie into your home.

What is the prettiest dog in the world? ›

Introduction
  • Samoyed. Topping the charts is the Samoyed with their thick, white coat that reminds you of a polar bear! ...
  • Australian Shepherd. This striking dog has longer fur, that shines and flies in the wind, making for a picture-perfect pup! ...
  • Chow Chow. ...
  • Poodle. ...
  • Saluki. ...
  • Maltese. ...
  • Afghan Hound. ...
  • Irish Setter.

What is the most dumped dog? ›

Let's take a look at some of these dog breeds often in search of a forever home.
  • Pit Bulls. Pit bulls are long misunderstood for their athleticism, which, sadly, often makes them targets of abuse and gives them a reputation for being dangerous. ...
  • Labrador Retrievers. ...
  • German Shepherds. ...
  • Dachshunds. ...
  • Chihuahuas. ...
  • Boxers.

What is the most loyal dog? ›

Most loyal dog breeds that will always be there for you
  • Golden Retriever. When you think of loyal dogs, golden retrievers are probably the first ones to come into your mind. ...
  • German Shepherd. ...
  • Saint Bernard. ...
  • Labrador Retriever. ...
  • Beagle. ...
  • Dachshund. ...
  • Rottweiler. ...
  • Border Collie.
Apr 12, 2023

What is the cutest and easiest dog to take care of? ›

#1: Basenji

This wonderful breed has no "doggy smell," so combined with his short coat and small size, he goes right to the top of the list. The only thing you need to watch out for is not to get water in his ears when bathing him. He is considered a barkless dog, by the way, but he can make plenty of noise.

What is the smartest dog? ›

Who is the smartest dog in the world? The smartest dog in the world is a Border Collie called Chaser . Not only does she know the name of all her 1,000 unique toys, she knows a huge amount of words and brings things when asked. Apparently, she has the cognition and development of a toddler.

What is the tiniest cute dog? ›

Tiny Dog Breeds That Stay Small
  • Chihuahuas, the smallest of dogs. ...
  • Toy Poodles, the affectionate companion. ...
  • Pomeranian, one of the most popular tiny dog breeds. ...
  • Shih Tzu, a lap warmer of a dog. ...
  • Yorkshire Terriers, glorious locks on one of the tiniest dog breeds. ...
  • Maltese, the aristocratic looking tiny dog breed.

What is the hardest dog to own? ›

5 Dog Breeds That Can Be Challenging for New Pet Owners
  • Belgian Malinois. The Belgian Malinois is an intelligent, energetic breed well-suited to military and police work. ...
  • Catahoula Leopard Dog. Bred to hunt boar, Catahoula Leopard Dogs are strong and fearless. ...
  • Siberian Husky. ...
  • Chow Chow. ...
  • Border Collies.

What's the cleanest dog to have? ›

Breeds that are good for clean homes
  • The Tibetian Terrier. Tibetian Terriers are considered clean dogs due to their lack of fur. ...
  • The Poodle. ...
  • The Portuguese Water Dog. ...
  • The Maltese Terrier. ...
  • The Shih Tzu. ...
  • The Golden Retriever. ...
  • The Doberman Pinscher. ...
  • The Border Collie.
May 6, 2022

What breed is number 1 dog? ›

French Bulldogs

What is the rarest and cutest dog? ›

TOP 10 RAREST DOG BREEDS IN THE WORLD
  • Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
  • Nederlandse Kooikerhondje. ...
  • Lagotto Romagnolo. ...
  • Mudi. ...
  • Otterhound. ...
  • Thai Ridgeback. ...
  • Azawakh. ...
  • Norwegian Lundehund. These cute little pups are one of the most unique and rarest dog breeds in the world. ...
Jun 7, 2023

What is the most kid friendly dog? ›

What dogs are good with kids? Finding the right dog to get along with kids can be difficult, but luckily there are a few dog breeds that are good with kids. Labradors, Golden retrievers, Beagles, and Irish Setters, are playful and full of energy, whereas, Pugs and French Bulldogs love their families, fiercely!

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