There are tons of reasons to adopt a cute, small dog. Beyond their tiny size, they are incredibly practical.

• Small breeds fit into small spaces. Apartments or homes with limited space for animals make shorter, lighter breeds ideal.
• Small dogs make terrific companions. It’s easier to keep tiny pups with you at all times than, say, a Saint Bernard. This is especially true when traveling by airplane.
• Small dogs can fly more frequently. Airlines became stricter about allowing pets on board after the Covid-19 pandemic. Southwest and United are prime examples. They only allow small dogs who fit in a carrier under your seat on flights.
• Small dogs may cost less over time. Market Watch estimates food for one dog costs between $210 and $2,340 each year. Depending on what brand your dog eats and how much, you’ll probably spend less on meals for a Yorkie than a Rhodesian Ridgeback. However, small dog breeds tend to live longer than large breeds. So, you might spend more over a longer period of time!
• Small dogs make great senior pets. Seniors especially may find that social, cute small dogs are less work and more fun to take out on walks.

Dog ownership isn’t all rainbows and sunshine, no matter how little they are. Small dog breeds present their own set of challenges.

• Extra gear. Many small breeds require extra care in cold climates. This means stocking up on sweaters, booties and jackets to ensure your tiny pup doesn’t freeze to death in winter weather.
• Stubbornness. Many small breeds are known for their reluctance to follow commands. Now, this is a gross generalization. Every dog is unique and firm training can work wonders on even the most stubborn pups. In actuality, the problem usually lies with us humans (oops!). But prepare yourself for challenges. 
• Fragile. Small dog breeds leaping off tall beds can result in broken or sprained legs. If you own a tiny pup, it’s wise to keep an eye on them and invest in dog stairs to prevent injury. Michael Kearley, DVM, writing for PetMd, says many small dogs require surgery to fix broken bones, as they don’t have as many blood vessels in their bones to heal on their own.

25 Fluffy Dog Breeds You’ll Want to Pet All Day Long