Top 5 Most Popular Small Dog Breeds in the UK 2025

Choosing a small dog breed offers many advantages, from fitting comfortably in smaller homes and urban settings to being more economical to care for compared to larger dogs. Small breeds often adapt well to busy modern lifestyles, thrive in apartments, and many are so petite they can be carried in bags or carriers, integrating easily into daily life.

The UK sees a wide array of small dog breeds loved for their diversity in looks and temperament. Whether you desire a lively terrier or a gentle lapdog, there's a small breed to match almost everyone’s lifestyle.

To help you make an informed decision in 2025, this article presents the UK’s most popular small dog breeds, updated with recent data and current trends. We include practical insights on breed personalities, price expectations, and health considerations, promoting responsible and ethical pet ownership.

What defines a small dog breed?

Small dog breeds are categorised primarily by their weight and height, though such categories can vary. In the UK, official breed groups by the Kennel Club don't specifically group by size but by function and origin. For example, the Toy Group includes many small-sized breeds, though several small dogs also appear in Terrier or Hound groups.

In this article, "small dog" refers to breeds that are larger than the tiniest toy breeds like the Chihuahua but still predominantly compact and manageable in size, roughly between 5kg and 12kg in weight.

How we determine breed popularity

The rankings in this article are based on the latest 2025 data collected from Pets4Homes, the UK's busiest dedicated pet classifieds site. This data aggregates the number of adverts placed for small breed puppies and dogs for sale during the year and includes information on advertised asking prices and pedigree status.

This real-world data offers a unique insight into current demand trends and allows prospective owners to assess average costs and popular breeds reliably. We focus on purebred small dog breeds recognised by the Kennel Club to promote ethical breeding practices.

Number 5: Dachshund

The Dachshund, affectionately known as the "sausage dog," is well known for its distinctive long back and short legs. Originally bred for hunting badgers, this breed has transitioned well into a loving companion dog.

Facts and figures

• The Dachshund ranks as the 5th most popular small dog breed in the UK based on Pets4Homes 2025 listings.
• Average asking price is around £1,000, with pedigree dogs costing more.
• The breed typically weighs between 7 and 12kg and stands about 20 to 27cm tall.
• As part of the Kennel Club's Hound group, Dachshunds still retain some hunting instincts.

Personality and care

Dachshunds have a courageous personality with a bit of stubbornness, requiring patient and consistent training. They enjoy moderate exercise but should be protected from activities that strain their long backs to prevent health issues like intervertebral disc disease.

Their affectionate nature makes them loyal family pets, though they may not suit households with very young children due to their sensitivity to rough handling.

Number 4: Jack Russell Terrier

Famous for their lively spirit and boundless energy, Jack Russells are small terriers that remain a steadfast favourite for active owners.

Facts and figures

• Ranked 4th in popularity among small dogs in the UK in 2025.
• They typically weigh up to 8kg and stand 25 to 30cm tall.
• Advertised prices average around £400, making them affordable for many.
• Predominantly sold as non-pedigree, reflecting their working dog heritage.

Personality and care

Jack Russells are intelligent, energetic, and require substantial daily exercise to remain happy and healthy. They thrive in homes where they receive lots of mental and physical stimulation, including puzzle toys and activities like agility training.

While their bold and confident demeanor is endearing, they need an experienced owner due to their strong prey drive and tendency to be stubborn. Early socialisation is key to harmonious family life.

Number 3: Shih Tzu

Elegant and charming, the Shih Tzu is a small dog best known for its beautiful flowing coat and affectionate personality.

Facts and figures

• 3rd most popular small dog breed by adverts in 2025.
• Average price around £550, with pedigree dogs costing more.
• Weight usually around 6 to 8kg and height about 20 to 28cm.
• Belonging to the Kennel Club's Utility group, its origins as a lap dog shine through.

Personality and care

Shih Tzus are affectionate and sociable dogs that fit well into family life, often getting along well with children and other pets. They do require daily grooming, and many owners opt for a trimmed coat to reduce maintenance.

This breed needs regular but moderate exercise and enjoys companionship, making them excellent pets for those seeking a gentle, loving companion.

Number 2: Pug

The Pug combines a playful, charming personality with a distinctive wrinkled face and compact frame, making it one of the UK's beloved small breeds.

Facts and figures

• Pugs rank high among small dogs in the UK in 2025.
• Average asking price is approximately £700.
• Typical weight between 6 and 9kg and a height of around 25 to 30cm.
• Kennel Club classifies Pugs in the Toy group.

Personality and care

Pugs are well-known for their affectionate and easygoing nature. They are excellent companions suitable for families and city dwellers alike.

Potential owners should be aware that Pugs are a brachycephalic breed and may require special care concerning their breathing, especially under heat or stress. Regular vet check-ups and careful monitoring are important for their wellbeing.

Number 1: French Bulldog

The French Bulldog continues to dominate popularity charts among small breeds in the UK in 2025, thanks to its charming appearance and adaptable nature.

Facts and figures

• French Bulldogs are the top-ranked small breed based on 2025 data.
• Typical prices range from £1,500 upwards, reflecting high demand and responsible breeding costs.
• Weight commonly between 8 and 14kg, standing around 30 to 33cm tall.
• Included in the Toy group by the Kennel Club.

Personality and care

French Bulldogs are known for their affectionate and sociable temperament, making them ideal companions in various living environments, including apartments.

They require moderate exercise and thrive when included in daily family life. However, as a brachycephalic breed, they need gentle care regarding respiration, avoiding overheating and strenuous exercise.

Ethical breeding is essential to reduce health problems, so prospective owners are encouraged to seek reputable breeders who conduct health screening.

How to choose the right small dog breed for your lifestyle in 2025

Choosing a small breed that suits your lifestyle means balancing factors such as your living space, activity level, grooming willingness, and family dynamics.

For apartment dwellers or those with less active lifestyles, breeds like the Shih Tzu or Pug may be excellent choices for their moderate exercise needs and affectionate nature. Active owners who enjoy outdoor activities might prefer energetic breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier or Dachshund.

Additionally, grooming considerations are important—long-coated breeds like the Shih Tzu require daily brushing, while short-haired breeds such as the French Bulldog need minimal grooming.

Always prioritise purchasing from reputable breeders committed to ethical practices and health screening to ensure the wellbeing of your new companion.

Popular questions about small dog breeds in the UK in 2025

What is the most popular small dog breed in the UK?

Quick Answer: The French Bulldog remains the most popular small dog breed in the UK in 2025, valued for its companionship and adaptability.

Across various data sources, including Pets4Homes and the Kennel Club, French Bulldogs top popularity lists for small breeds due to their affectionate nature, manageable size, and suitability for urban living.

How much does a small dog cost to buy and maintain?

Quick Answer: Small dogs generally cost less to maintain than larger breeds, with average purchase prices ranging from £350 to £1,500 depending on breed and pedigree status.

Maintenance costs include feeding, grooming, vaccinations, and vet care. Breeds like the Jack Russell Terrier are more affordable upfront, while the French Bulldog tends to be more expensive due to high demand and health testing costs.

Are small dogs good for families with children?

Quick Answer: Many small breeds can be great family pets if trained and socialised properly, though suitability depends on the breed and child’s age.

Breeds like the Shih Tzu and Pug are often recommended for families, but some terriers like the Jack Russell require experienced owners. Supervision during interactions is always essential to ensure safety for both children and dogs.

Conclusion

In 2025 UK, small dog breeds remain a popular and practical choice for many prospective owners. The French Bulldog leads the pack in popularity, closely followed by breeds like the Dachshund, Jack Russell Terrier, Shih Tzu, and Pug.

Selecting the right breed involves careful research into breed characteristics, health, and lifestyle fit. Prioritising responsible breeders and ethical acquisition supports the wellbeing of both dogs and owners.

Whatever small dog breed you choose, providing love, attention, and proper care ensures a fulfilling companionship for years to come.