Here’s the truth about cute dogs: Every dog is cute in their own way. But we’ll admit that some breeds are more traditionally cute than others, either due to their fluffy, cuddly stuffed animal-like appearance or their endearing puppy dog eyes. It’s the kind of cuteness that tugs at your heartstrings and leaves you grinning from ear to ear.
So, whether you’re a dedicated dog-lover in need of a daily dose of adorable inspiration or simply seeking a heartwarming pick-me-up, get ready to meet some of the most irresistible pups around. These pups are living, breathing bundles of cuteness that will make your day a little brighter. Here’s a list of some of the cutest dog breeds out there.
See more adorable big dog breeds and small dog breeds.
Cutest purebred and mixed dog breeds
1. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inus are a compact and foxy breed with red coats and a signature curled tail. Their independent and spirited nature makes them quite the escape artists. These internet-famous dogs tend to do what they want.
2. Brittany
Brittanys have an athletic build with a happy-go-lucky expression and feathered ears. These adorable pups make fantastic companions for families who love the outdoors. And they’re smart to boot.
3. Chiweenie
The Chiweenie is a cross between two very cute breeds: A Chihuahua and a Dachshund. Both parents are loyal and have big personalities, which translates into a pint-sized but feisty offspring; Chiweenies have a lot of energy and make great watchdogs. Make sure they get exercise and play to keep them in good spirits and allow them to get to know new people slowly. Then go home and cuddle on the couch.
4. Beagle
With floppy ears and adorable big eyes, the Beagle isn’t just cute but known for being a gentle and friendly breed. These dogs are great companions but can have a bit of a stubborn streak. Though they do need regular walks, they love mental stimulation even more: for example, exploring scents with their sharp noses using treat puzzles or playing tracking games will keep them very happy.
5. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz turns heads with their fox-like appearance, including red coats, perky ears, and floofy tails. This medium-sized northern breed is great for families with children and other dogs, as they love company and are loyal, playful, and good watchdogs. Since the breed is of Scandinavian origin, they do best in colder climates and enjoy a good romp in the snow, especially as it makes a stunning backdrop to their gorgeous coat.
6. Bernese Mountain Dog
Big dogs can be cuties, too, and the Bernese Mountain Dog is one of the most adorable large breeds out there. These dogs love being with their families, children, and other pets and are super eager to please. They’re also quite smart and enjoy positive reinforcement training. This breed needs exercise and socialization to stay happy, so enjoy this funny, happy companion and make sure they are able to live their lives to the fullest.
7. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are sometimes described as living teddy bears because of their adorable facial features set in a puffball body. These pups are wildly cute but also quite delicate, so be careful with kids who might not know how to handle small pets. This breed is super smart, and many Pomeranians love canine sports, such as trick training and obedience.
8. Dalmatian
The Dalmatian’s signature black spots on a white coat give them an instantly recognizable and almost timeless appeal. Made famous by movies like “101 Dalmatians,” these pups can be a great fit for active and energetic families.
9. Maltese
The Maltese is a popular cute, small, white dog breed. They’re friendly dogs who love sitting in your lap and luxuriating in your company. These pups are smart and are pretty adaptable to their environments. These dogs want to take a nice walk and then get back on the couch with you.
10. Dachshund
Dachshunds, the famous “wiener dogs,” originated in Germany and are very recognizable: they have long, tubular bodies and very short legs which many consider beyond adorable. They come in all different shades and have different coat types: smooth, wirehaired, and long-haired — there’s even a miniature version. Dachshunds are intelligent and curious dogs with big personalities and are also affectionate and enjoy people in general.
11. Yorkipoo
A mix of Yorkshire Terrier and Poodle, Yorkipoos are small cute dogs who don’t require a lot of exercise but need playtime to stay happy — and lots of cuddles. They are known for their friendly personalities and are easy to train because they love to please their people. They’re also considered “hypoallergenic” because of their low-shed coats, but they still need to be bathed and brushed regularly.
12. Husky
The Siberian Husky will win your heart with their beautiful, thick coats and gorgeous eyes. These pups love the cold and follow their own impulses. They’re also extremely vocal, yodeling and wooing to communicate with their pack (you). They love being a part of families and love kids. Huskies can run fast and far without becoming tired, so their parents will need to get strong leashes.
13. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Another adorable pup with an eye-catching smile is the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. This breed is the definition of a velcro dog; they make gentle and loving companions. These muscular and athletic dogs have short coats in various colors, including black, blue, fawn, red, and brindle. Bonus: They are intelligent dogs and easy to train because they love to please their pet parents.
14. Chihuahua
Small size? Check. Miniature face? Check. Button nose? Check. Chihuahuas aren’t just one of the cutest dog breeds, but the smallest — they are about six pounds at their biggest. These tiny pups still pack a punch in cuteness and personality, though: Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal to their humans, making them the perfect companion for anyone seeking unconditional love.
15. Pomsky
Could there be a cuter dog than a Pomsky? A mix of Husky and Pomeranian, they’re generally somewhere in between the breeds in size with the markings of a Husky on the face. They have plenty of fluff, which translates to lots of shedding, which they make up for by being incredibly fun-loving, people-oriented pups. And when properly socialized, they can be great with children and other dogs.
16. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is a sturdy dog with tiny ears and a very dense, fluffy double coat — it’s no wonder they’re often mistaken for living teddy bears. They may not be the most playful or patient breed, but they make up for it with their loyalty and regal demeanor. They’re also quite strong despite their soft-looking bodies, so they’re best suited for families with older children. Many enjoy city life, so even if you have a small apartment, as long as you devote time to giving them exercise, it could be a great fit.
17. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi was originally a cattle herding dog from Wales, but they are now better known for being cute low riders who are highly affectionate, loyal pups. This breed loves people, so they’re good in homes with lots of folks around to keep them company. They are very easy to train if you start them from a young age and are better at canine sports than you might think, given their short legs.
18. Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees was bred to guard livestock on the hillsides of Spain and France, and they still have a strong protective instinct underneath their thick, beautiful weather-resistant coat that can be white, gray, and tan and requires a lot of brushing. This breed is intelligent, independent, and can be willful, but they make great family pets with training. As mountain climbers, they need a lot of exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of space to roam, and they also have a strong prey drive, so keep them on a leash outside.
19. American Pit Bull Terrier
American Pit Bull Terriers are muscular and tenacious canines with cute blocky heads. These dogs boast adorable, expressive eyes that can melt your heart. They form deep bonds with their people and are often dubbed “velcro dogs” for their unwavering loyalty and affection.
20. English Setter
English Setters are the ultimate combination of elegance and cuteness with their distinctive, long, silky coat with feathering on the ears, legs, and tail. Originally bred as bird-hunting dogs for grouse and quail, these pups have a gentle nature and love nothing more than spending time with their humans. English Setters don’t like being left alone for long periods of time, though — they adore long walks and attention and are always up for a good play session with kids and other pets.
21. Havanese
The Havanese, a small breed originally from Cuba, is famous for their long, silky, wavy, and fairly hypoallergenic coat, long, floppy ears, and tail carried high over their back. Havanese are typically pretty small, and these lap-dogs have friendly and outgoing personalities. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which makes them a good choice for families with children.
22. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland is known for their massive size — males can grow up to 150 pounds — but they are adorable, gentle giants with sweet, loyal temperaments that make them excellent family pets. They’re excellent swimmers and have thick waterproof coats that keep them warm in the water. This breed has even been used in rescue operations to save people from drowning.
23. Papillon
The Papillon’s name honors their very cute and distinctive butterfly-shaped ears, which are long and fringed with fur. Papillons are fine-boned, delicate, and small but also sharp — this breed is intelligent, trainable, and can excel in obedience competitions and agility courses. They have lively and friendly personalities and make great lap-dogs. They are adaptable to different living situations and do well in apartments as long as they receive daily exercise and mental stimulation (just like people).
24. Bichon Frise
Bichon Frise are adorable small white pups who are friendly and eager to please their pet parents. They love hanging out with their people, cuddling, or romping through the park. They’re also known for being fairly quiet, unlike a number of other small dogs — though they will give a yap if they want your attention.
25. Mixed-Breed Dog
A mixed-breed rescue dog just might be the cutest one you can find. These dogs have a combination of traits from different breeds that make them one-of-a-kind. They can obviously be just as lovable, loyal, and, yes, cute as purebred dogs and can even have fewer health problems due to genetic diversity. If you are looking for a canine companion, consider visiting a shelter and giving a mixed-breed dog a chance at a loving home.
26. Brussel Griffon
Brussels Griffons are a small breed with a big personality. These adorable pocket pups weigh in at 8 to 12 pounds, and sport a comical mustache. While these pups may not be suitable for families with rambunctious young children due to their delicate nature, they make excellent companions for people who are looking for a tiny affectionate friend.
Interested in adopting a dog?
If you’re set on getting a purebred dog, like one of the breeds listed above, check out dog rescues that focus specifically on helping purebred dogs who have been given up for adoption or abandoned. Some breeds have very specific needs, including health issues or behavioral demands, that not everyone is prepared to meet, even if they’ve fallen in love with how the dog looks, so do your research before becoming their real forever home. Start your search on Adopt a Pet.
