Cutest dog breeds? Discover 7 you'll want to bring home (2024)

Feeling like something is missing in your everyday life? Maybe you want something to liven up the family household? You probably want to add a canine to your family.

Choosing one of the cutest dog breeds can make an excellent addition to a family, couple, or single-person home.

Several of the cutest dogs are small dog breeds, but bigger dogs can be adorable, too.

Consider seven of the cutest dog breeds that make great companions.

Golden Retriever

These dogs are typically friendly, laidback, and great with families. The golden retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds. They’re honestly lovable and one of the cutest dog breeds.

Let’s get into the origins of this breed a bit more. This breed started as a Scottish gundog. Its development began around 1835.

They used to help in hunting and even field work. Now, they’re a great family pet. The dogs assist people who are blind and can help in search and rescue missions.

Golden Retrievers are active and energetic dogs that need regular exercise and socialization.

They’re relatively easy to train and energetic, so if you’re down to play catch, walk, swim, and play fetch, this is the golden option.

They are prone to health concerns like hip dysplasia and obesity, so proper care and regular check-ups are essential.

They also shed a lot, so managing their shedding with grooming and a healthy lifestyle is necessary.

Shih Tzu

Known as the little “lion dog,” the Shih Tzu is an ancient breed. It’s been around for a thousand years (reportedly).

These dogs are typically small in size, which increases their cute factor, but they’ve still got a lot of character, even if they’re smaller than other breeds.

Typically, Shih Tzus are great with children, so for those with a family to consider, this won’t be a problem.

Shih Tzus are prone to eye infections due to their long hair, and owners should regularly trim the hair and clean the eyes.

Other health concerns include allergies, thyroid disorders, and hip dysplasia.

They do not require intense exercise and should be kept cool in hot weather. Shih Tzus are intelligent but can be stubborn to train and may also suffer from separation anxiety.

Don’t forget that in the genes of this dog breed lies the memory of being served like royalty.

Shih Tzus were a popular choice for many royalties. Get your lap ready since they love sitting on it.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Corgis are loyal, clever, and loving dogs who are generally excellent in family settings.

This corgi breed is athletic and used to be cattle herders.

They’re affectionate and are one of the most popular herding breeds.

Be warned the dogs can also be stubborn, so start training early and use positive training methods to motivate and ensure good behavior.

Their independence and herding instincts may require clear rules and boundaries.

Careful monitoring of exercise and feeding is essential due to their tendency to gain weight.

They enjoy staying active and playing with other dogs, but they take caution and limit jumping and climbing to reduce risks due to their predisposition for back and joint problems.

Australian Shepherd

The Australian Shepherd might be your match for energetic owners who need active dogs.

Full of energy, playfulness, cheerfulness, and the whole mix, Aussies are herding dogs that will run across the park with you and bounce around as they do so.

They have a beautiful and peculiar look that’s hard to miss. Some of these dogs have snow-piercingly beautiful blue eyes, and their fur coats vary in color and pattern.

Australian Shepherds are energetic and active dogs that need owners who can keep up with their energy.

They excel in dog sports and benefit from physical and mental exercise and puzzle toys.

Health issues like hip dysplasia, epilepsy, cataracts, and allergies can be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight and responsible breeding.

Aussies are intelligent and eager to please but require proper training and mental stimulation to avoid misbehavior.

Consistency, socialization, and positive reinforcement are essential for building a strong bond with these dogs.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

His name is directly connected to a British king; therefore, these Spaniels get bragging rights just from their name alone.

These small dogs with long, floppy ears are both gentle and athletic.

Graced with an even temper and a unique look, it’s not difficult to see the ties to old royalty and fancy origins when looking at this dog.

Depending on the dog’s character and the owner’s influence, the dog can sometimes be laid back and even lazy. On the other hand, the dog can be energetic and active.

They are prone to specific health issues and require regular check-ups, but they can live long and happy lives with proper care.

Socializing them at a young age and using positive reinforcement techniques in training is essential. Mental stimulation is also crucial for their well-being.

Yorkshire Terrier

Sassy and loveable, these dogs are playful and aren’t shy about demanding attention.

They are cute little lap dogs who have more vicious origins. Nowadays, they’re busy making your heart melt.

Yorkshires used to be ratters in mines and mills before becoming lap dogs for the upper class.

Despite having a silk coat that gives the breed a dainty appearance, you’d be surprised how feisty and bossy these dogs can be.

They are intelligent, trainable, and have a lifespan of 12-15 years. They tend to suffer from oral health issues. Regularly brushing their teeth and feeding them dry food can help prevent dental problems.

While they make good watchdogs, they can be prone to barking and will need training to teach them when to be quiet.

If you want a cute dog with character, here’s your pick.

French Bulldog

Small in stature but still a bulldog, this dog is playful, adaptable, cautious, and adorable.

If you want a dog that doesn’t bark too much but is still an excellent watchdog, Frenchies could be ideal. They are also great family pets and don’t require much exercise.

Frenchies are friendly and get along with many humans and animals alike.

They might look feisty, but they’re surprisingly friendly and easy to get along with. And if you’re a fan of their unique look, then all the better.

French Bulldogs are petite and enjoy moderate exercise. They can overheat quickly in hot weather and are prone to respiratory problems, allergies, and joint issues.

Training them can be challenging due to their stubbornness, but socialization and crate training are essential. Consistent positive reinforcement is necessary for successful training.

Positive reinforcement is the most effective method for training these clever little dogs.

Final thoughts on the cutest dog breeds

Getting a dog is undoubtedly a huge responsibility that should be considered. However, we hope this article will help guide you to a decision soon enough.

There are many adorable breeds out there. You’ll need to pinpoint the one that suits your character.

Perhaps one of our picks of the cutest dog breeds has piqued your interest, and if that’s the case, then we’re happy.

Other cute dog breeds to consider include the Bichon Frise, Chow-Chow, Havanese, Beagle, Cairn Terrier, Dachshund, Shetland Sheepdog or Shelties, Dalmatian, Great Danes, Siberian Husky, Pomeranian, Labrador Retrievers, or Papillon.

We recommend visiting a breeder to get first-hand experience with the breed you are considering. Check with the American Kennel Club for AKC-approved breeders.

Consider adopting one at a foster home or shelter if you’re lucky enough to find the breed. We wish you a successful search.

Determining the cutest dog breed is subjective and depends on personal preference. Whether you prefer a medium-sized, big, or small dog is up to you.

And whether the dogs are males or females doesn’t matter.

Some people might find Corgis the cutest due to their short legs and fluffy butts, others might prefer the unique look of French Bulldogs, while some might find the squishy faces of Pugs irresistible.

Ultimately, the cutest dog breed is the one that captures your heart.

Kenneth is an animal enthusiast who’s traveled the world and seen lots of wildlife. Currently writing as a consultant for an essay edit service, Kenneth loves to read up on animals and has an innate liking for them. As a dog owner himself, Kenneth loves to write about keeping dogs as pets and shed light on dog care.

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