Toy Dogs

Small in size, big in personality—great for condos and city life

Toy breeds like the Pomeranian, Chihuahua, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel offer companionship in compact packages. They’re well‑suited to apartments and urban lifestyles but still need daily walks and mental enrichment. Grooming varies widely; coat care and dental routines are especially important.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pug, and Yorkshire Terrier sitting on a rock along a wooded Canadian trail, representing Toy dog breeds.
A photograph captures a Chinese Crested dog with a hairless body and long white crest sitting on a dirt path surrounded by green forest.

The Chinese Crested is a charming, people-obsessed toy companion that comes in two varieties: Hairless (silky crest, plume tail, and “socks”) and Powderpuff (full, soft veil coat). Affectionate, sensitive, and surprisingly athletic, Cresteds are excellent apartment dogs that thrive on companionship, short daily walks, and training games. If you’re asking “Are Chinese Cresteds hypoallergenic?”—no breed is truly hypoallergenic, though the Hairless variety tends to shed very little. “Do Chinese Cresteds shed?”—Hairless: minimal hair shed; Powderpuff: low to moderate with regular brushing.

Shih Tzu with a long, fluffy coat and topknot sitting on a dirt path surrounded by greenery, looking calm and well-groomed.

The Shih Tzu is a toy breed with royal roots and a charming personality. Originally bred as a palace companion for Chinese emperors, this affectionate dog is known for its luxurious flowing coat, short muzzle, and big, expressive eyes. Despite its regal appearance, the Shih Tzu is a down-to-earth, friendly, and playful companion that thrives in apartment settings and enjoys lounging beside its owners just as much as short bursts of play.

Affenpinscher with a scruffy black coat sitting on a forest trail, displaying its small size, expressive face, and curious posture.

The Affenpinscher is a compact and wiry toy breed known for its comical expression and monkey-like face, earning it the nickname “Monkey Terrier.” Despite its small size, the Affenpinscher is bold, curious, and fiercely loyal to its family. Ideal for experienced dog owners, this breed thrives in apartments or small homes with regular stimulation and attention.

A high-resolution photograph of an English Toy Spaniel sitting on a forest path, showcasing its glossy black, tan, and white coat.

The English Toy Spaniel is a charming, affectionate lapdog with a royal heritage and a soft, soulful expression. This small companion breed thrives in calm homes, especially with adults or seniors. They are ideal for apartment living due to their compact size, quiet demeanor, and minimal exercise needs.

Pomeranian with a thick golden-orange coat sitting on a dirt trail in a forest, looking alert and friendly with a fluffy mane.

The Pomeranian (Pom) is a spirited, ultra-fluffy toy spitz with a big-dog attitude in a 3–7 lb package. Alert, affectionate, and clever, Poms thrive on attention, tricks, and short daily adventures. They suit city and condo life well—if you manage barking and grooming. Common searches like “Do Pomeranians shed?” and “Are Pomeranians good apartment dogs?” are answered here with clear care guidance.