Who can resist the charm of a pint-sized pooch with stubby legs and a heart full of love? Short-legged dog breeds have captured the hearts of pet lovers worldwide, and for good reason.
Research showed that pet ownership isn’t just a selfless act of compassion—it’s also a powerful investment in your well-being. As Dr. Jeremy Barron, medical director of the Beacham Center for Geriatric Medicine at Johns Hopkins, points out, embracing a furry companion can unlock health benefits.1
Whether you’re in the market for a new best friend or just want to appreciate their cuteness from afar, these 13 short-legged wonders are guaranteed to brighten your day.
1. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is perhaps the most well-known short-legged breed. These clever, active little dogs were originally bred to herd cattle in Wales. Don’t be surprised if your Corgi tries to herd you – it’s in their nature!
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They are known for their big personalities in a compact package. Corgis are loyal and affectionate, and they make great family pets.
Their short legs and long bodies have an unmistakable silhouette that has captured the hearts of many, including Queen Elizabeth II, who famously owned over 30 Corgis throughout her reign.
2. Dachshund
Affectionately known as the “wiener dog” due to their long bodies and short legs, Dachshunds were originally bred in Germany to hunt badgers. Their name translates to “badger dog” in German.
These brave little hounds come in two sizes (standard and miniature) and three coat types (smooth, wire-haired, or long-haired). No matter the variety, Dachshunds are known for being lively, playful, and protective of their loved ones.
They can be stubborn sometimes, but their endearing nature makes up for it.
3. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs, or “Frenchies” as they are often called, are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. With their signature “bat ears,” wrinkly faces, and compact, muscular bodies, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this breed.
Frenchies are known for being adaptable, playful, and affectionate companions. They don’t require much exercise, making them well-suited for apartment living.
However, their flat faces can cause breathing difficulties, so avoiding overheating and overexertion is important.
4. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound is instantly recognizable with their long, floppy ears, sad-looking eyes, and short, crooked legs. Originally bred in France as a scent hound, the Basset’s keen nose and low-built stature allowed them to track small game through dense underbrush.
Today, Bassets are beloved family pets known for being patient, sweet-tempered, and gentle with children. They can be stubborn and prone to howling, but their endearing personalities make them a favorite among hound lovers.
Just be prepared for some drool – those droopy jowls can make quite a mess!
5. Pug
Pugs have been charming humans for centuries with their squished faces, curly tails, and compact bodies. These ancient dogs can be traced back to China, where they were bred as companions for royalty.
Pugs are known for being even-tempered, playful, and loving little lap dogs. They thrive on human companionship and make wonderful family pets.
Like other flat-faced breeds, Pugs can be prone to breathing issues and overheating, so it’s important to watch them in warm weather.
But with their big personalities and adorable expressions, it’s hard not to fall in love with these little charmers.
6. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier, named after a character in Sir Walter Scott’s novel Guy Mannering, is a small Scottish terrier breed with a distinctive “top-knot” of fur on its head.
These tenacious little dogs were bred to hunt badgers and otters on the border of England and Scotland.
Dandie Dinmonts are known for their affectionate, independent, and dignified personalities. They make excellent companion dogs but retain their strong hunting instincts.
The breed’s unique coat requires regular brushing and trimming to maintain its characteristic shape. With a long, low-built body, Dandie Dinmonts are prone to back issues, so avoid letting them jump from heights.
7. Pekingese
The Pekingese, also known as the “Lion Dog,” is an ancient Chinese breed that was once the exclusive companion of Chinese royalty. These small, regal-looking dogs are known for their abundant mane-like coat, flat face, and rolling gait.
Pekingese are affectionate and loyal to their families but can be aloof with strangers. They make alert watchdogs but are not overly yappy.
As a brachycephalic breed, Pekingese are sensitive to heat and should not be over-exercised. Regular brushing is essential to prevent the matting of their long, double coats.
8. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu, meaning “Lion Dog” in Chinese, is an ancient breed favored by Chinese royalty for centuries. These small, sturdy dogs are known for their round, wide-eyed expression, short muzzle, and long, flowing coat.
Shih Tzus are affectionate, playful, and adaptable companions that thrive on human attention. They make alert watchdogs but are not yappy.
Shih Tzus is a brachycephalic breed prone to respiratory issues and heat sensitivity. Their long, silky coat requires daily brushing to prevent matting unless clipped short.
9. Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel is a rare breed known for its golden-liver-colored coat and low-slung body. Originally bred in Sussex, England, these dogs were developed to flush game birds from dense undergrowth.
Sussex Spaniels are calm and even-tempered, making them excellent family companions. They have a unique vocalization, often described as a “yodel,” which they use to communicate with their hunters.
Despite their short legs, Sussex Spaniels are active dogs that enjoy outdoor activities and require regular exercise.
10. Lancashire Heeler
The Lancashire Heeler is a small herding dog from England with a distinctive appearance: a long body, short legs, and pricked ears. These dogs were originally bred to drive cattle to market and to catch rats.
Lancashire Heelers are intelligent, alert, and full of energy. Despite their small size, they excel in various dog sports and make excellent watchdogs.
These dogs have a strong herding instinct and may try to herd children or other pets. Their coat is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing.
11. Swedish Vallhund
Often described as a “big dog in a small package,” the Swedish Vallhund is an ancient breed with Viking roots. These short-legged herders bear a striking resemblance to their distant cousins, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi.
Swedish Vallhunds are intelligent, energetic, and highly trainable. They excel in various dog sports and make excellent watchdogs. Their double coat sheds seasonally and requires regular brushing.
Despite their small size, Vallhunds have a big bark and a fearless attitude, making them effective farm dogs.
12. Drever
The Drever is a Swedish breed that resembles a cross between a Beagle and a Dachshund. These short-legged hunting dogs were bred to track and hunt small game in the dense Scandinavian forests.
Drevers are known for their friendly and even-tempered nature, making them excellent family dogs. They have a strong hunting instinct and a loud, melodious bark that can be challenging in urban environments.
Their short coat is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing. Drevers need regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
13. Bolognese
The Bolognese is a small, fluffy companion dog that originated in Italy. These charming little dogs are closely related to the Bichon Frise and share their cousin’s affectionate nature.
Bolognese dogs are known for their calm and gentle temperament, which makes them excellent lap dogs. They’re also intelligent and eager to please, which makes training relatively easy.
Their distinctive white, fluffy coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. Bolognese dogs are adaptable and thrive in various living situations, from apartments to large homes.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.