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Small dog breeds in India are becoming increasingly popular. Whether you’re looking for a companion to add to your family or an intelligent watchdog, there’s a small dog breed that fits the bill.Â
But with so many options available, how do you choose which one is right for you? This article will explore the different types of small dog breeds in India and help you decide which one is best suited for your lifestyle.
21 Best Small Dog Breeds in India
1. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a small and lively companion dog. They are known for being courageous and alert, as well as having a loyal and protective nature.Â
They can be quite independent, and sometimes a bit aggressive, but are also known for being fiercely loyal and loving to their owners.
Health issues:
- Hypoglycemia
- Heart Disease
- Patellar Luxation
- Eye Problems
- Dental Issues
- Portosystemic Shunt
- Collapsed Trachea
To Know Its Price And More Read- Chihuahua Dog Price in India
2. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a small, lively and active breed with a fox-like expression. They are intelligent and independent, yet loyal and affectionate to their owners.Â
They are usually good with other animals and can make good watchdogs as they are alert and quick to let out a sharp bark.
 Health Issues
- Dental Disease
- Eye Problems
- Luxating Patella
- Collapsed Trachea
- Hypoglycemia
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Skin Allergies
- Bladder Stones
- Heart Disease
- Cushing’s Disease
To Know Its Price And More Read- Toy Pom Price in India
3. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small, lively, and devoted breed with a friendly and outgoing personality. They are loyal and affectionate and crave attention from their family. They can be playful and energetic but also gentle and calm.Â
They can get along well with other dogs and animals, but can also be possessive of their family and home.
Health IssuesÂ
- Skin Allergies
- Eye Problems
- Patellar Luxation
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Ear Infections
- Dental Issues
- Heart Disease
- Bladder Stones
- Allergic Bronchitis
To Know Its Price And More Read- Shih Tzu Price in India
4. Indian Spitz
The Indian Spitz is a small to medium size dog with a lively, friendly, and intelligent temperament. It is an active, playful and curious dog that loves to explore and interact with its family.Â
The Indian Spitz is an excellent watchdog and is very loyal to its family. It is usually good with children, although it may try to herd them if not properly socialized. It can be wary of strangers, so early socialization is important.Â
This breed is generally easy to train and responds best to positive reinforcement. The Indian Spitz needs plenty of exercises and mental stimulation, so regular walks and playtime are a must. With its friendly and outgoing nature, this breed makes a great family pet.
Health issues
- Gastrointestinal Problems
- Hypothyroidism
- Allergies
- Patellar Luxation
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
- Eye Conditions
- Hip Dysplasia
- Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD)
- Dental Problems
To Know Its Price And More Read- Indian Spitz Price in India
5. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is an intelligent, active, and devoted breed. They are brave and spirited, and they don’t back down from a challenge. They are also loyal, loving, and affectionate, and make great companions.
 They have an independent streak and can be an independent thinker, but they also have an eagerness to please their owners. Yorkshire Terriers are also quite energetic and playful and enjoy going for walks or playing fetch.Â
They are known for being quite vocal, so expect a lot of barking. They are also quite protective of their owners and are known for being alert and on guard. Yorkshire Terriers are generally healthy, but can be prone to certain health issues, so they should be taken to the vet regularly.
 Health issuesÂ
- Luxating patella
- Collapsed trachea
- Portosystemic shunt
- Dental disease
- Eye problems
- Hypoglycemia
- Skin allergies
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Bladder stones
- Liver disease
- Heart defects
- Congenital deafness
To Know Its Price And More Read- Yorkshire Terrier Price in India
6. Toy PoodleÂ
The Toy Poodle is an intelligent, active, and loving breed of dog that is great for families.Â
They are obedient and eager to please, and very responsive to training. They are very loyal and affectionate and make excellent companions.Â
Toy Poodles have a lively and playful temperament, and they are also very good watchdogs. They do require a good amount of exercise and need to be well-socialized to get along with other animals and children.Â
They are also very adaptable and can easily adjust to many different lifestyles. Toy Poodles are smart, loving, and devoted pets that make wonderful companions.
 Health issues
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Luxating Patella
- Hypoglycemia
- Epilepsy
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
- Cushing’s Disease
- Heart Disease
- Bladder Stones
- Allergies
- Tracheal Collapse
To Know Its Price And More Read- Poodle Dog Price in India
7. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small, white, non-shedding, hypoallergenic dog that is popular as a family pet. Bichons are often energetic, playful, and affectionate.Â
They are intelligent and easily trained. They are also known for their strong desire for human interaction and companionship.
 Bichons require regular grooming and brushing and should be taken outside for regular exercise and play. Bichons can be prone to snoring if not exercised properly.
 Health issuesÂ
- Atopy
- Ear Infections
- Eye Infections
- Hypothyroidism
- Patellar Luxation
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Renal Dysplasia
- Cataracts
- Diabetes Mellitus
8. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer is an intelligent, active, and alert breed. They make great family pets, as they are loyal and affectionate.Â
They can be quite territorial and protective of their family, making them excellent watchdogs. They are also very intelligent and love to learn new things.Â
They are always up for a challenge and enjoy problem-solving tasks. They are also known to be quite independent, making them great dogs for apartment living.Â
Miniature Schnauzers are usually good with children, but because of their size, they may not be suitable for households with small children or those with other animals.
 They need daily exercise and should be socialized early on to prevent barking and other nuisance behaviours.
 Health issuesÂ
- Diabetes
- Pancreatitis
- Bladder Stones
- Ear infections
- Hypothyroidism
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- Eye Problems
- Allergies
- Skin issues
9. PapillonÂ
The Papillon is an intelligent, active, lively, and alert breed. They are extremely social and affectionate with their owners and get along well with other pets.Â
They are easy to train and can learn a variety of tricks. Papillons are very lively, and they love to play and explore.Â
They are intelligent and can easily learn commands, especially when positive reinforcement is used.Â
They require daily mental and physical stimulation and can be quite vocal when they want something.Â
Papillons are very loyal and devoted to their owners and love to be the centre of attention. They do best in a home where they will be given plenty of love and attention.
 Health issuesÂ
- Heart disease
- Eye diseases
- Hip dysplasia
- Hypoglycemia
- Luxating patella
- Epilepsy
- Tracheal collapse
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease
- Allergies
- Gastrointestinal problems
To Know Its Price And More Read- Papillon Dog Price in India
10. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an even-tempered, gentle, and loving breed. They are very affectionate and loyal to their owners, and they love to be around people.Â
They are known for their eagerness to please and desire to be the centre of attention. Cavaliers are also very intelligent, and they can quickly pick up on commands and tricks.
 They are social dogs that enjoy the company of other animals, and they get along well with children. They have an adaptable nature and can thrive in both active and quiet environments.
Although they are generally gentle, Cavaliers can be active and playful, making them great for families. They are also very alert and make good guard dogs.
 Health issuesÂ
- Mitral Valve Disease
- Syringomyelia
- Hip Dysplasia
- Luxating Patella
- Epilepsy
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Allergies
- Heart Murmurs
- Ear Infections
- Dry Eye Syndrome (DES)
- Chronic Skin Problems
- Pancreatitis
- Eye Problems
- Hypothyroidism
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD)
- Bladder Stones
- Cataracts
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
11. Pekingese
The Pekingese is a loyal, dignified, and independent breed of dog. They are alert and can be quite brave, but they can also be stubborn and aloof with strangers.
 They are affectionate and playful with their family and can be very protective of them. They are easily trainable with patience and consistency and can learn basic commands.Â
They do not require a lot of exercises and can adapt to a variety of living spaces. They can be quite vocal and bark at strangers, but they are generally good with other pets and children when properly socialized.
 Health issues Â
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome
- Eye disorders
- Ear infections
- Cardiac disease
- Patellar Luxation
- Intervertebral Disk Disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Cushing’s Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
12. Maltese
The Maltese are an affectionate and lively breed that loves to be around people. They are known to be very intelligent, and they are also quite active and energetic.Â
They are very social and enjoy being around their families, as well as other animals and people. They enjoy going for walks, playing games, and learning new tricks. They are also known to be loyal and devoted to their owners.
Their coats are long and silky and require regular brushing and grooming to keep them looking their best. Maltese are generally good with children and other animals, as long as they are properly socialized.Â
They can be somewhat stubborn at times, but are easily trained with patience and consistency. They are also known to be brave and courageous and can make great watchdogs.
 Health issuesÂ
- Diabetes
- Cardiovascular disease
- Respiratory diseases
- Cancer
- Kidney diseases
- Obesity
- Depression
- Autism
- Osteoporosis
- Gastrointestinal diseases
- Hypertension
- Anaemia
- Mental Health issues
- Stroke
To Know Its Price And More Read- Maltese Dog Price in India
13. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a loyal and devoted little companion. They are highly intelligent and learn quickly. They are also quite energetic and playful and will keep you entertained for hours with their antics.Â
They are also quite social and love to be around people, making them great companions for families. They are not shy and will often seek attention from their owners.Â
They are also quite independent and can be stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are key when training them. The Brussels Griffon is an alert watchdog and will bark to alert their family of any potential danger.Â
They can be quite vocal and bark more than other breeds. They can also be quite possessive of their owners, so they may not get along with other animals in the home. This breed requires regular grooming and occasional trimming of its coat.
 Health issuesÂ
- Intervertebral Disk Disease
- Allergies
- Eye Problems
- Patellar Luxation
- Respiratory Issues
- Heart Conditions
- Cushing’s Syndrome
- Hypoglycemia
- Epilepsy
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
14. French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is a sociable, affectionate, and loyal breed. They are often quite playful and can be quite active, although they are not typically hyperactive. French Bulldogs are known for their intelligence and can be easily trained.Â
They are generally easy-going and can get along with both people and other animals. French Bulldogs are also known for their strong bond with their owners and can become quite attached.Â
This breed typically barks very little, making them an ideal choice for apartments or condos. They also tend to be quite tolerant of children, although they can possess a bit of a stubborn streak.Â
French Bulldogs are also known for their clownish behaviour and can be quite entertaining. Overall, the French Bulldog is a great companion breed with a loving personality.
 Health issues
- Breathing Problems
- Skin Allergies
- Brachycephalic Syndrome
- Eye Problems
- Heart Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Luxating Patella
- Hypothyroidism
- Dental Issues
- Bladder Stones
- Heat Sensitivity
- Allergies
To Know Its Price And More Read- Bulldog Price in India
15. HavaneseÂ
The Havanese is a small, cheerful, and social companion dog. They are known for their intelligence and willingness to please, making them easy to train.Â
They are gentle and loving and enjoy spending quality time with their families. They are usually friendly with people and other animals, though they may be wary of strangers.Â
They can be lively and playful, but they can also be calm and gentle. The Havanese is an adaptable breed and can adjust to many types of living situations, from apartments to larger homes.
 They are considered to be low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a great choice for people with allergies.
 Health issues
- Hip dysplasia
- Luxating patella
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Cataracts
- Portosystemic shunt
- Ear infections
- Heart disease
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome
16. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a small breed of dog that is known for its affectionate and intelligent nature. They are very adaptable and can live happily in a variety of living environments.Â
They are good with children and other pets, provided they are properly socialized. They are generally laid-back and tolerant but can be energetic and playful when the mood strikes them.Â
They are very sensitive and will respond to gentle training with patience and understanding. They are also very loyal, and bond deeply with their owners. They may be timid around strangers, but warm up quickly to those they know.Â
They are alert and attentive and make excellent watchdogs. They are intelligent and eager to learn but can be stubborn at times.
 With consistent, positive training, they can be taught a variety of tricks and commands. They can be somewhat vocal, especially when excited, but rarely bark excessively.
 Health issues
- Dental Problems
- Respiratory Issues
- Heart Disease
- Eye Problems
- Skin Allergies
- Hypoglycemia
- Bone and Joint Issues
- Gastrointestinal Problems
- Seizures
- Immune-Mediated Disorders
17. Â Pug
The Pug is an ideal companion for an owner who is looking for a loving, loyal and affectionate pet. They are intelligent, alert, and eager to please.
 They are also known for their good-natured and playful demeanour. Pugs have calm, even-tempered personalities and are usually good with other pets and children.Â
They have a big, clownish personalities and love to be the centre of attention. They are not known to be aggressive or overly yappy and are usually content with being around people and other animals.Â
Pugs are also generally easy to train and have an excellent sense of smell. They are generally low-energy dogs, but they do need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Health issuesÂ
- Eye conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy and dry eye
- Breathing issues due to a flat muzzle
- Skin allergies
- Obesity
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Luxating patella
- Hypothyroidism
- Bladder stones
- Heart disease
- Heat stroke
- Dental problems
To Know Its Price And More Read- Pug Dog Price in India
18. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is an intelligent and affectionate breed. They are known for their gentle nature and endearing personalities. They are a highly active and playful breed, but also love to cuddle and be close to their owners.Â
They are very loyal and devoted to their owners and make excellent companion pets. They are good with children but may be too active for young children. They do well in homes with other pets, but can be territorial and may bark at strange dogs.Â
They are an easy breed to train but need consistent and patient training. They tend to be independent thinkers, so they need positive reinforcement and consistency. They are good watchdogs but are not aggressive.
They are alert and attentive and may bark at unfamiliar noises or people. They can adapt to most living conditions, but do need regular exercise and mental stimulation.
 Health issuesÂ
- Luxating Patella
- Tracheal Collapse
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Cataracts
- Portosystemic Shunt
- Distichiasis
- Hydronephrosis
- Heart Murmurs
- Allergies
- Kidney Diseases
- Hypothyroidism
- Thyroid Tumors
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
19. Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)Â
The Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie) is an intelligent, loyal and eager-to-please breed. Shelties are known for their alertness, with a tendency to bark at unfamiliar sights and sounds.
They are very sensitive to their owner’s moods and can easily be trained. They are also known for their affectionate, gentle nature and desire to please their owners.
 Shelties are active and energetic, but they can also be quite content with a good walk and some playtime. They thrive on human companionship and do not do well if left alone for long periods of time.Â
Shelties can be territorial and suspicious of strangers and other animals, but with proper training and socialization, this can be minimized. Shelties are also very alert and intuitive, often knowing when something is wrong even before their owners do.Â
Overall, Shetland Sheepdogs make wonderful companions and are an ideal family pet.
Health issues
- Chondrodysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- KCS (Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca)
- Eye Issues
- Cardiac Disease
- Hip Dysplasia
- Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease
- Hypoglycemia
- Respiratory Issues
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
- Kidney Disease
- Liver Issues
- Autoimmune Disease
20. West Highland White Terrier (Westie)Â Â
The West Highland White Terrier, more commonly known as a Westie, is a small, active, and friendly breed.
They are independent and intelligent, making them ideal for those looking for a loyal companion. Westies have a spirited and mischievous personalities, and they don’t always follow commands.Â
They have a strong prey drive and love to bark, dig and jump. Westies are also very affectionate and enjoy spending time with their owners. They are friendly to both humans and animals and are great with children.Â
They need plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Westies are easily trainable but will require patience and consistency. They are loyal and loving and make great family pets.
 Health issuesÂ
- Allergies
- Skin problems
- Bladder stones
- Eye problems
- Cushing’s disease
- Heart disease
- Hypothyroidism
- Hip dysplasia
- Luxating patella
- Von Willebrand’s Disease
21. Boston TerrierÂ
Boston Terrier temperament is known for being friendly, lively, and alert. They are also highly intelligent, eager to please, and eager to learn.
Boston Terriers get along well with children and other animals, but they can be pretty feisty and are known for their strong personalities.Â
They are loyal and devoted to their owners, and they can make excellent watchdogs. They have lots of energy and need plenty of exercises and mental stimulation.
 Boston Terriers are also known for their sense of humour, and they will often play pranks on their owners. They require consistent training and discipline but also plenty of affection and love.
 Health issuesÂ
- Allergies
- Skin Issues
- Eye Problems
- Hypothyroidism
- Heart Disease
- Congenital Heart Disease
- Patellar Luxation
- Hip Dysplasia
- Luxating Patella
- Bladder Stones
- Obstructive Respiratory Disease
- Autoimmune Disease
Tips To Choose Small Dog Breeds in India
Consider the size and breed of the dog:
Small dogs come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s important to consider the size of the breed you are interested in before making a decision. Some small breeds can be quite active, while others may be more relaxed. Do your research and find out what size and breed best suit your lifestyle.
Look at the temperament:
Every breed of dog has its own unique temperament, and it’s important to be aware of this when selecting a small dog breed. Some breeds may be more independent and less likely to bond with their owner, while others may be more affectionate and loyal. Take the time to research each breed and make sure it’s the right one for you.
Consider any health concerns:
Smaller breeds often have specific health issues that need to be taken into account. Some may be more prone to certain health problems, such as dental or skin issues, or may require more frequent veterinary visits. Make sure you know what you’re getting into before bringing a small dog home.
Assess your living situation:
Another important factor to consider is the living situation you’ll be providing for your small dog. Some breeds may require more space or may not do well in apartments or other confined areas. Make sure you’re selecting a breed that will fit in well with your lifestyle.
Research the grooming requirements:
Different breeds have different grooming requirements, and it’s important to be aware of these before deciding on a small dog breed. Some breeds may require more frequent visits to the groomer or more time spent brushing and bathing, while others may require very little maintenance.
Find a reputable breeder:
The most important thing to consider when selecting a small dog breed is finding a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders will have a good reputation and will be able to provide you with health clearances and other important information about the breed you are interested in. Take the time to find a responsible and knowledgeable breeder before making a decision.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, when choosing a small dog breed in India, it’s important to do your research and ensure you’re getting the right fit for your lifestyle. With so many breeds available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. You’ll want to consider size, energy level, coat type, and any health concerns that come with each breed.
It’s also important to remember that no matter the breed, all dogs will require regular exercise and training. Regular vet check-ups are also necessary to maintain their health. If you make sure to put in the time and effort needed for proper care of your pup, then you’ll be rewarded with a loving companion for years to come!
All in all, there are plenty of small dog breeds out there just waiting for a forever home. Whether you choose a Pomeranian, Pug or Chihuahua; as long as you select the right breed for you and provide them with the love and care they need; your pup will be a perfect addition to your family!
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