12 Cutest Dog Breeds to Keep As Pets

Have you ever gone thru a pet shop? What’s the type of breed that caught your attention and interest? Perhaps, it’s the smallest dog. 

Who can resist such an adorable, jolly, energetic, and playful pet? No matter how much you try, it is hard not to look at any of those cutest dogs in shelters. 

As you go home, you’re probably thinking of what breed you like to adopt. Of course, you cannot remember all teacup breeds in the rescue center. 

Worry no more! You have come to the right place! This article came up with a list of the top 12 cutest dog breeds you can keep as pets today.

1. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel 

Originally from the United Kingdom, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has become more popular in the U.S. for the past years.

Currently, it is one of the top 20 breeds in America. 

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are known for their unique coat that ranges from tricolor, ruby, black & tan to chestnut & white. Compared to other breeds, they are affectionate and caring.

They can work well with kids, love your cuddle, and socialize with other dogs at home without much difficulty. 

As a social breed, they do not require 24/7 human interaction. They are extremely independent. 

But as a family dog, never leave them alone for a few hours at home. This might trigger their anxiety and aggression. 

Pros 

• A perfect breed for those who prefer a happy lap dog

• They are very intelligent

• They love going out

• A quiet and calm dog

• They require minimal care

Cons 

• They are not a good guard dog.

• Brushing their coat should be done regularly.

2. Havanese 

Another cute breed is Havanese. Native to Cuba, Havanese dogs are now available in many parts of the world. 

Like Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, this breed is cheerful and playful, changing your mood after a stressful shift in the office. 

Havanese dogs are a friendly companion. They can mingle with other breeds and your close friends, too. 

As a perfect lap dog, Havanese is a good addition to apartments and other types of urban households. 

Unlike a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Havanese has distinctive features. Their tail, for example, curls over their silky coat. 

Pet owners also love the dogs’ adaptability. They can adjust to any environment. They are more likely to be contented with a consistent routine. 

Pros 

• Sturdier than other toy breeds.

• They enjoy being around people.

• They respond to a variety of training situations. 

• They don’t require strenuous activities to stay fit and healthy.

Cons 

• The risks of suffering from anxiety are higher than ever.

• Excessive barking.

3. Pug 

Originated from China in 200 B.C., people believe that Pugs brought fortune and good luck to pet owners. Many individuals fall in love with this breed at first sight. They are adorable and energetic. 

Unlike large dogs, Pugs don’t need strenuous activity or exercise. Letting them play with toys or peers are advisable. 

Because of their size, Pugs are a go-to lap dog. You can cuddle this breed while watching your favorite movies on Netflix or working from home. 

Pugs are great for kids, but proper and regular training is important. How about grooming pugs? Well, they don’t require costly and extensive maintenance. 

Pros 

• Easy to travel with and transport

• They are playful and energetic

• Suitable for homes without much space

• They can be an incredible guard dog

• An excellent choice for new and inexperienced pet owners

Cons 

• They have a higher risk of suffering from breathing problems.

• They gain weight easily.

4. Bichon Frise

Bichon Frise is easy to live with. They are active, enjoying most of your indoor and outdoor games. 

Their exercise needs are not as complicated as large breeds. A daily walk in a yard is more than enough. 

Bichons are friendly dogs. They can adjust to strangers and other pets at home. But you need to train them. 

Just like the other breeds, Bichons are timid. To develop their confidence, let them socialize with other dogs. It is relatively useful. 

Bichon Frise is also known for being independent. They don’t require extra attention. But they would enjoy your cuddle. Who doesn’t want a warm hug after all? 

Another thing you would love about Bichons is how well they respond to training. They are indeed smart and highly trainable. 

Pros 

• Small but strong. 

• Playful but don’t require complicated outdoor exercise.

• They don’t shed much.

• Good with dogs and even cats.

Cons 

• They are prone to separation anxiety.

• They are shy.

5. Basset Hound 

Another popular breed of dogs in the U.S. is Basset Hound. What makes them one of the favorites of many folks in the country is their even-tempered personality. 

As a companion, Basset Hounds are faithful and ready for some unplanned adventures. They are adaptable, independent, and energetic. 

Despite their size, Basset Hound has a great personality that small and big families would enjoy. 

Their floppy ears, sense of humor, and long body make them an ideal choice for homes with kids. Unfortunately, they might be stubborn when they are tracking something. 

Pros 

• They have a personality that best matches with most family

• Compared to other breeds; there are fewer care issues to handle

• Known to have a positive indoor temperament

• They look adorable that you cannot even resist

• They are ideal for the elderly and children

Cons 

• Pay attention to their diet.

• Expect some health concerns in the future.

• They drool every day. 

• They excessively bark. 

6. Beagle 

Are you still searching for a loyal companion and an incredible hunting dog? Don’t look further than Beagle. 

Recognized as an excellent family pet, Beagles only require low maintenance. Say bye to unnecessary costs and acquire great savings over time. 

Affectionate and caring, they love to cuddle. They appreciate your attention and time. A go-to pet for most families, Beagle is independent.

With proper and consistent training, you can leave them at home for hours without getting your upholstery damaged. 

Recently, they worked in airports to sniff smuggled products. The USDA chose this breed because of their strong sniffing ability and adorable appearance. 

Pros 

• Bred to work in packs, enabling them to socialize with pets

• They enjoy making new friends

• They don’t have long coats that are expensive to maintain

• They are small but strong

• Able to thrive in different living conditions

Cons 

• They enjoy digging

• Can be loud sometimes

• Stubborn

7. Chow Chow 

Called a miniature lion, Chow Chow is nothing to be afraid of. They are harmless and won’t bite you into pieces. 

As they walk and run, Chow Chow would bring you happiness and excitement. For 2000 years now, Chow Chow has been a source of joy for many.

Whether you prefer to have a teddy bear dog or miniature lion, Chow Chow should be on top of your list. 

Although they look intimidating sometimes, look at their eyes and see these gentle creatures. 

But they are more likely to get arrogant and aloof. Pet owners tend to spoil them. Don’t do the same thing. Train them to become responsible and loving. 

Most of the time, they are adorable. But don’t be deceived by how they look. They might be dangerous when meeting a stranger, making them a good guard dog. 

Pros 

• Loyal to pet owners

• Love to be with cats

• A good dog breed to deter intruders

Cons 

• Can be unfriendly

• Costly grooming requirements

8. Dachshund

Have you ever seen a Dachshund? Not yet? Try to go to a rescue center and be surprised by the dog breed’s cute and energetic personality. 

Dachshunds are excellent pets because of their sniffing ability. They are fun to train and smart.

From basic commands, obedience training to potty drills, they can respond to your tricks and exceed your expectations. 

But with their shape and size, Dachshunds are more inclined to be overweight. Limit their food intake and modify their diet. If your Dachshunds gain weight, vary their exercises. 

Pet owners are also amazed at how loyal Dachshunds are. They might be in your bed while you’re taking a nap. They might follow you in the bathroom, patio, and living room. 

Pros 

• Available in different varieties 

• Bolder than you’ve ever imagined

• A perfect breed for city life

• Fun and simple to groom

Cons 

• They dig everywhere

• Stubborn but can be trained

• Might not be ideal for kids

• Prone to belly injuries

9. Pomeranian 

Poms might be tiny. But that doesn’t affect their popularity. They were in the 23rd spot in the 2019 American Kennel Club ranking. 

Measuring around 7 inches, Poms are great lap dogs, which do not require various exercises. Weighing around 7 pounds, Poms are lightweight and suitable for future adventures. 

When it comes to their lifespan, Pomeranians can live longer than 16 years. Just like Dachshunds, Pugs, and Beagles, Poms have a happy and contagious nature.

If you have been stressed because of paper works, cute Poms can change your mood instantly. 

Pros 

• A dog breed that provides a big personality in a tiny package

• High level of energy

• Can be trained even at a young age

• An excellent choice for apartments and other smaller homes

• Competitively priced food expenses

• Flexible hearing assistance dogs

Cons 

• Noisy. Regular training can correct this behavior

• They need their personal space

• Prone to joint and eye problems

• Costly to groom

10. Poodle

The Poodle is not considered the national dog of France for nothing. They are easily trainable and smart that can respond to different tricks within a short period. 

Some pet owners are unhappy with the dog breed’s level of energy. But it can be an advantage for others.

Who doesn’t want to play with such a cute dog, after all? Small and lightweight, Poodles are known to be lap dogs.

Whether you play your favorite video games, watch action movies on Netflix, or stream to upbeat songs, you can also cuddle your Poodle. 

Pros 

• They can last up to 15 years 

• The risk of serious health problems is less than ever

• They love kids and other small dogs

• Easy to carry during travels

Cons 

• Not good watchdogs 

• They are not as independent as the other breeds in this list

• Regular grooming should not be ignored

• They are noisy. You can turn this habit into a good one with consistent training

11. Chihuahua

A great companion? A good watchdog? Chihuahua is probably the breed you have been looking for. 

Originally came from Mexico, Chihuahua has conquered the world. Many homes in the U.S., the U.K., and other countries have Chihuahua. 

Although they are not as cute as Pomeranian and Beagle, Chihuahua can compete with these dog breeds in terms of intelligence. They are extremely smart, making every session less stressful. 

Chihuahuas are entertaining, expressive, and comical. Their big eyes, energy, and joy are contagious, changing your mood and outlook in life. 

But they can be nasty and mean without thorough training. Seek the assistance of an expert for your peace of mind. 

Pros 

• Available with different colors and coats

• Faithful and loving for an affectionate pet owner

• Great pets for apartment living

• They are adorable

• Can be cute and fierce depending on the situation

Cons

• They can be weak and might not be a good choice for families with kids. 

12. Yorkshire Terrier 

You’ve asked one of your friends what breed of dog to adopt this 2022. Perhaps, they recommend Yorkshire Terrier. 

Although you have heard the dog breed a couple of times before, you might be hesitant whether or not Yorkies are a good pet. It’s all right! It is part of the process. 

Yorkshire Terriers are worth it to keep as pets. Bred to be loyal companions, Yorkies would love to spend most of their time with you. 

Pros 

• Easy to walk on a leash, hold in your lap, or even carry around.

• A great choice for apartments. 

• They require less food compared to larger breeds.

• Devoted, affectionate, and loving.

Cons 

• Housetraining Yorkies does not happen overnight.

• Regular and expensive grooming.