Short legged dogs have a way of stealing hearts with just one look.
Their low riding frames and adorable waddles make them impossible to resist, whether they’re herding livestock or simply lounging on the couch.
From brave hunters to loyal companions, these pint sized pups pack enormous personality into compact packages.
While we’ve gathered information from reliable sources, individual dogs may vary in temperament and characteristics.
Always research thoroughly and meet any breed before bringing one home to ensure it’s the right fit for your lifestyle.
1. Basset Hound
With ears that sweep the ground and eyes that melt even the coldest hearts, Basset Hounds originated in France as expert tracking dogs.
Their incredible sense of smell ranks second only to Bloodhounds, making them natural born detectives.
Despite their hunting heritage, they’re remarkably patient with children and form strong bonds with family members.
Their relaxed demeanour makes them wonderful apartment dogs, though they do enjoy occasional outdoor adventures.
2. Dachshund
Germany’s fearless badger hunters come in three coat varieties and two sizes, but all share that unmistakable sausage silhouette.
Don’t let their small stature fool you.
These determined dogs were bred to chase prey into underground burrows, which explains their stubborn streak and surprising bravery.
They’re fiercely loyal to their families and often bond especially close with one particular person in the household.
3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Royal favourite and internet sensation, Corgis combine intelligence with endless energy in one fluffy, low to the ground package.
Originally tasked with herding cattle in Wales, they’d nip at the heels of livestock while their short stature kept them safe from kicks.
Their clever minds need regular mental stimulation, making puzzle toys and training sessions essential.
They’re surprisingly athletic despite their compact build.
4. French Bulldog
Those signature bat ears and snorty snuffles have made Frenchies one of the most popular city dogs worldwide.
They adapted from English Bulldogs when lace workers moved to France during the Industrial Revolution, creating a smaller companion version.
Their easygoing personality suits apartment living perfectly, requiring minimal exercise compared to many breeds.
They’re social butterflies who thrive on human interaction and companionship.
5. Cairn Terrier
Toto from “The Wizard of Oz” introduced the world to this spunky Scottish breed, originally developed to hunt vermin among rocky cairns.
Their weatherproof double coat and fearless attitude made them perfect for harsh Highland conditions.
Despite standing just 10 inches tall, they possess enormous courage and independence.
They’re natural entertainers who keep families laughing with their playful antics and spirited personalities throughout their lives.
6. Scottish Terrier
Dignified and somewhat aloof, Scotties carry themselves with an aristocratic air that earned them the nickname “the Diehard.”
Their wiry coat, typically black but sometimes wheaten or brindle, requires regular grooming to maintain that signature look.
Bred to hunt foxes and badgers on Scottish estates, they’re independent thinkers who prefer making their own decisions.
They’re devoted to their chosen humans but selective about showing affection.
7. Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Often confused with their Pembroke cousins, Cardigans sport a long, foxlike tail and slightly larger, rounded ears.
They’re actually the older of the two Corgi breeds, with ancestry tracing back over 3,000 years to dogs brought by Celtic tribes.
Their versatile nature made them excellent farm helpers, capable of herding cattle, guarding property, and controlling vermin.
They’re more reserved than Pembrokes around strangers.
8. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Named after a character in Sir Walter Scott’s novel, this rare Scottish breed sports a distinctive pouf of hair atop their head.
Their elongated body and curved topline give them a unique silhouette unlike any other terrier.
Originally bred to hunt otters and badgers along the border between Scotland and England, they’re surprisingly mellow for terriers.
They form deep attachments and prefer quiet households over chaotic environments.
9. Sussex Spaniel
This golden liver coloured spaniel nearly went extinct after World War II, making them one of Britain’s rarest native breeds today.
Developed in Sussex County for pushing through dense underbrush, they’re slower and more methodical than other spaniels.
Their deep, musical bark helped hunters locate them in thick vegetation.
They’re calmer and more laid back than most sporting breeds, content with moderate exercise routines.
10. Skye Terrier
Greyfriars Bobby, the legendary Edinburgh dog who guarded his master’s grave for 14 years, was a devoted Skye Terrier.
Their floor length coat, which can take years to fully develop, requires dedicated grooming but creates an elegant, flowing appearance.
Bred on the Isle of Skye to hunt foxes and badgers, they’re courageous despite their refined looks.
They’re intensely loyal but cautious with unfamiliar people and situations.
