It’s not a secret that black dogs are usually the cutest. There is something about their jet-black fur and sleek features that makes them irresistible to humans of all ages. But, what breeds can be considered small?
What other traits should you consider when deciding on which breed to adopt? This article will answer these questions for you and provide insight into some of the most popular small black dog breeds.
Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a small dog that has an adorable, wrinkly face. They are often referred to as “monkey terriers” because of their unique appearance and the way they move around. They are a well-mannered breed that can live in an apartment or house with ease.
The breed was originally used for hunting rats in Germany but now serve as loving companions to many families. They are known for being playful and friendly dogs who get along well with children and other pets.
Breed Overview
- Height: 9 – 12 inches
- Weight: 7 – 13 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
- Litter size: 2–3 puppies
- Life expectancy: 11 – 15 years
Pug
The Pug is a small dog breed. This animal has a distinctive flat face and large, round eyes. They are not known for being guard dogs because they will let anyone pet them with no problem. They’re great for people who live in apartments or don’t have a lot of space to keep a larger dog.
Pugs also make wonderful companions and can easily be trained due to their friendly personalities. Pugs are very intelligent dogs who will do anything to please their owners, which makes them great pets.
Breed Overview
- Height: 10 – 14 inches
- Weight: 14 – 18 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Litter size: 4-6 puppies
- Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Pomeranian
One might say that the Pomeranian is one of the world’s most recognizable breeds. The breed is popular because of their small size, which makes them perfect for apartment living or traveling. They are also quite playful and intelligent, so they make great companions for children.
The Pomeranian is a very small dog that has a thick coat of fur to keep it warm in cold weather. These dogs were originally bred as herding dogs, but now serve more than companion animals due to their friendly nature.
Breed Overview
- Height: 7 – 12 inches
- Weight: 4.5 – 8.0 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Litter size: 2-3 puppies
- Life expectancy: 12 – 16 years
Puli
The Puli is a Hungarian herding dog breed that has many qualities which make it unique and interesting to own, including its dreadlock-like coat. Pulis are often found on farms due to their natural skills as herders, but they can also be great family pets. They have a long lifespan and do not require much grooming because of their lack of shedding hair.
The Puli is bred for intelligence and work ethic as well as its natural beauty. This versatile breed can act as a watchdog or family pet, and participate in agility competitions because of their high energy level.
Breed Overview
- Height: 14 – 18 inches
- Weight: 22 – 33 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Litter size: 4-6 puppies
- Life expectancy: 12 – 16 years
Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is a small breed of dog that looks like a smaller version of the Doberman. The breed has been around since the 1800s and was originally bred as an all-purpose farm dog. Miniature Pinschers are intelligent, lively, active, and affectionate dogs who enjoy playing with children.
They are also protective and will bark to alert their owners when someone is approaching the house or yard. These qualities make them great watchdogs for apartment dwellers.
Breed Overview
- Height: 10 – 12 inches
- Weight: 7.5 – 11 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Litter size: 2-5 puppies
- Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Schipperke
Schipperke dogs are known for their strong and confident personalities. They can be found in a variety of colors including black, blue, tan, cream, brown or combinations thereof. Schipperkes are typically intelligent, loyal, loving dogs that make excellent companions for those who live in apartments.
They can be hard to train because they have a stubborn streak and are quite willful when it comes to making decisions on their own. This high-energy, independent breed thrives on human companionship and does not do well left alone for long periods of time.
Breed Overview
- Height: 10 – 13 inches
- Weight: 6.5 – 20 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Litter size: 3-7 puppies
- Life expectancy: 13 – 15 years
Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terriers are well-known for their loyalty. They have a thick, wiry coat that is easy to groom and keep clean. Their size makes them perfect for apartments or small homes. This breed loves playing with children and other animals in the family home.
The Scottish Terrier has been around since the late 1800s, when it was first bred as a hunting dog in Scotland. Today they are considered one of the most popular breeds in America.
Breed Overview
- Height: 10 – 11 inches
- Weight: 18 – 22 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
- Litter size: 1-6 puppies
- Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Mini & Toy Poodle
Poodles are not just for the rich and famous. They can be a perfect family pet, too! Miniature and Toy Poodles are perfect because they have the same coat as other poodle breeds but in a smaller size. They can be playful, or they can be calm; they’re also hypoallergenic which is great for those with allergies who want to own a pet without being irritated by animal hair.
Miniature and Toy Poodles are great for apartment living since they don’t need much space to live in, plus you won’t hear them barking all day long like larger dogs would do.
Breed Overview
- Height: 9 – 14 inches
- Weight: 15 – 17 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
- Litter size: 1-6 puppies
- Life expectancy: 12 – 15 years
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a small dog breed that is one of the oldest breeds in North America. They are well known for their cute appearance and loyal temperament. Chihuahuas can make good pets for families with children, elderly people, or anyone who lives in an apartment because they don’t need much space to run around.
Despite their small size, they are extremely intelligent, brave animals that can live well into their teens or 20s if taken care of properly. This dog breed is famous for its ability to be around people and not get stressed or nervous, as well as their protective nature.
Breed Overview
- Height: 6 – 10 inches
- Weight: 4 – 6 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Litter size: 2-5 puppies
- Life expectancy: 12 – 20 years
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a toy dog breed that originated in Belgium. It was developed as a cross between the Pug and the Wire-haired Fox Terrier breeds. The dogs were bred to have curly hair like their Pug ancestors, but without the wrinkles or snub nose of a Pug.
Brussels Griffons are energetic and playful, but they also make excellent companions for people who live alone because they crave human contact. They’re especially good with children because they love to play games.
Breed Overview
- Height: 7 – 8 inches
- Weight: 7 – 12 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: Yes
- Litter size: 1-3 puppies
- Life expectancy: 10 – 15 years
Patterdale Terrier
The Patterdale Terrier is a small breed of dog that has an average weight of 15-20 pounds. They are known for their high energy and intelligence, which makes them great companions for any type of owner.
Patterdale Terriers have a natural curiosity, and can be stubborn at times, but they also love to play and be affectionate with people. They can be mischievous at times making great watchdogs because they will bark when there’s someone or something new around the house.
Breed Overview
- Height: 12 – 15 inches
- Weight: 11 – 13 pounds
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Litter size: 2-5 puppies
- Life expectancy: 11 – 14 years
