Top 15 Small Dog Breeds in India – Best Pets for Indian Homes (2025 Guide)
Are you looking for a small dog that fits perfectly into your Indian home? Whether you live in an apartment or have limited space, Small dog breeds in India are becoming more popular due to their size, cuteness, and friendly nature.
In this guide, we will explore the top 15 small dog breeds that are best suited for Indian climates, lifestyles, and budgets. These dogs are easy to handle, need less space, and are ideal for families, singles, and seniors.
Let’s find your perfect small furry companion!
Why Choose a Small Dog Breed?
Small dogs are adorable and manageable. Here are some reasons why people in India prefer small breeds:
Top 15 Small Dog Breeds in India
1. Pomeranian
- Height: 7-12 inches
- Weight: 3-7 kg
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Temperament: Lively, playful, alert
The Pomeranian is one of the most popular small dog breeds in India. They are known for their fluffy coats and energetic nature. They bark often and are good watchdogs for small homes.
Suitable for: Small homes, families, singles
Care tip: Regular brushing is needed due to their thick fur.
2. Shih Tzu
- Height: 9-11 inches
- Weight: 5-8 kg
- Lifespan: 10-16 years
- Temperament: Friendly, loyal, calm
Shih Tzus are charming little dogs that love being around people. Their long coat makes them look royal. They’re great indoor pets and don’t need too much exercise.
Suitable for: Apartments, elderly people
Care tip: Regular grooming is needed.
3. Pug
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 6-8 kg
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Temperament: Gentle, loving, lazy
Pugs are perfect lap dogs with a sweet nature. Known for their wrinkly face and cute eyes, they are popular in India due to their low grooming needs.
Suitable for: Families, kids, seniors
Care tip: Avoid hot weather; they can overheat easily.
4. Beagle
- Height: 13-15 inches
- Weight: 8-14 kg
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Temperament: Curious, active, friendly
Beagles are small hound dogs known for their strong sense of smell. They are great for active people who enjoy walks and playtime.
Suitable for: Active families, kids
Care tip: Needs daily exercise and mental stimulation.
5. Chihuahua
- Height: 6-10 inches
- Weight: 1.5-3 kg
- Lifespan: 14-17 years
- Temperament: Bold, energetic, loyal
Chihuahuas are among the smallest dog breeds. They have big personalities and love being with their owners. They are easy to carry and ideal for travel lovers.
Suitable for: Singles, apartment dwellers
Care tip: Needs protection from extreme cold and heat.
6. Dachshund
- Height: 8-9 inches
- Weight: 7-14 kg
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Temperament: Playful, stubborn, curious
Dachshunds, also called sausage dogs, are long-bodied and short-legged. They are great companions and loyal to their families.
Suitable for: Small homes, families
Care tip: Avoid high jumps due to long spine.
7. Indian Spitz
- Height: 10-14 inches
- Weight: 5-10 kg
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Temperament: Alert, loyal, energetic
Indian Spitz is often confused with Pomeranian but is a distinct breed. It’s one of the best small dog breeds in India due to its adaptability and low maintenance.
Suitable for: Indian homes, first-time owners
Care tip: Regular brushing keeps their coat clean.
8. Lhasa Apso
- Height: 10-11 inches
- Weight: 5-8 kg
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Temperament: Confident, independent, loyal
Lhasa Apsos are alert little dogs with long hair and a royal attitude. They are good watchdogs and loyal to family.
Suitable for: Indoor homes, small families
Care tip: Needs frequent grooming.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
- Height: 7-8 inches
- Weight: 2-3 kg
- Lifespan: 13-16 years
- Temperament: Brave, confident, affectionate
These tiny dogs are full of energy and style. Their silky coat and small size make them a favorite in Indian cities.
Suitable for: Singles, small homes
Care tip: Needs coat trimming and brushing.
10. Toy Poodle
- Height: 9-11 inches
- Weight: 3-5 kg
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Temperament: Smart, cheerful, obedient
Toy Poodles are intelligent and easy to train. Their curly coat doesn’t shed much, making them great for people with allergies.
Suitable for: Families, allergy-prone people
Care tip: Needs regular haircuts and mental exercise.
11. French Bulldog
- Height: 11-12 inches
- Weight: 9-12 kg
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Temperament: Playful, calm, friendly
French Bulldogs are rising in popularity in India. They are quiet, relaxed, and love staying indoors.
Suitable for: Apartments, calm families
Care tip: Keep in cool environments; they can’t handle heat well.
12. Miniature Pinscher
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 4-5 kg
- Lifespan: 12-16 years
- Temperament: Energetic, brave, independent
Often called the “King of Toys”, this breed is alert and fearless. Their short coat is easy to manage.
Suitable for: Active owners, apartment dwellers
Care tip: Needs physical and mental activities.
13. Japanese Chin
- Height: 8-11 inches
- Weight: 2-5 kg
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Temperament: Elegant, smart, calm
A royal companion, the Japanese Chin is elegant and affectionate. They are quiet and sensitive.
Suitable for: Indoor life, peaceful homes
Care tip: Keep their coat clean and brushed.
14. Maltese
- Height: 8-10 inches
- Weight: 3-4 kg
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Temperament: Sweet, playful, loyal
Maltese dogs are loving and cute, with a silky white coat. They enjoy human company and are easy to train.
Suitable for: Families with kids, small homes
Care tip: Brush their coat daily to prevent tangles.
15. Indian Pariah Dog (Small Mix)
- Height: 14-18 inches
- Weight: 10-15 kg
- Lifespan: 13-15 years
- Temperament: Smart, loyal, alert
While not always tiny, smaller mixed Indian Pariah dogs are smart, strong, and low-maintenance. Many NGOs in India offer small rescued desi dogs for adoption.
Suitable for: Any Indian household
Care tip: Easy to care for and naturally healthy.
Tips Before Adopting a Small Dog in India
Also Read:- 10 Easy Tips for Old Dog Care in India
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog is a big decision. The good news is that small dog breeds in India come in many shapes, colors, and personalities. From playful Pugs to graceful Shih Tzus, there is a perfect match for every Indian home.
Adopt or buy from trusted sources, and give your new pet a safe, loving, and happy home.
