Once you have decided that you are going to get a small dog, it is time to find out about the different personalities and characteristics of small breeds, so you get one that fits your home and lifestyle.
Brussels Griffon
These adorable little dogs found in two varieties, which are rough and smooth, usually weigh between eight and twelve pounds. They can be a little stubborn when it comes to housebreaking. The smooth Brussels griffon needs brushing once a week and the rough coated Brussels griffon about twice a week. These dogs are great for apartments or small homes as long as you provide them with exercise. In general, this little dog is happy, playful, friendly, but may be a little standoffish with strangers and is better with children that are older. Their average life expectancy is twelve years.
French Bulldogs
French bulldogs are perfect for smaller homes and apartments as long as they can play and romp a little and you do not force them to exercise. They are wonderful, loving, good-natured dogs that love being with the family. They should spend most of their time indoors, especially if it is warm out. The average lifespan of a French bulldog is twelve years.
Australian terriers
These small dogs are extremely energetic and do best in a home with a fenced backyard for lots of exercise. These terriers are great watchdogs that are brave and fearless. They shed very little so brushing them once a week is enough. Australian terriers love being part of the family.
Miniature schnauzer
Twelve to fourteen inches high, these wonderful dogs are salt and pepper, solid black or black and silver colored. They are happy in an apartment or large home in the country, as long as they are with their family. These great companions are intelligent, busy, friendly, and love to play. They require trimming every four to six weeks and brushing occasionally.
Italian greyhound
You need a home with a moderate amount of room to keep this active dog happy. A small dog, usually less than fifteen inches, they come in many different colors. With their very short hair, they appreciate a sweater when going outside in cooler weather. These dogs let you know when a stranger comes in, not aggressive. They are a long-lived breed with their average life span around fourteen years.
Pomeranians
Usually weighing in at a petite six pounds or less, these cute little dogs require a fair amount of grooming and brushing because of their longer hair. Well suited for smaller places, they love being a lap dog and getting lots of attention. Good with children they grew up with, they are playful and very loyal to their owners. Their average lifespan is fifteen years.
Toy Poodle
A toy poodle is perfect for smaller places but is happy wherever their owners are. Weekly brushing and grooming ever four to six weeks will keep them looking their best. Poodles were born to play and should have a supply of their own toys. Extremely intelligent, you can train them easily. Poodles do not like being alone so are a poor choice for anyway that travels or is away a lot. Their average life span is eleven years.
