Top 10 Cutest Dog Breeds

Kate Barrington
by Kate Barrington

If you needed something to brighten up your day, you’ve come to the right place. Get ready to feel all sorts of warm and fuzzies with our cutest dog breeds picks. If these pups don’t melt your heart, then you might not have a heart at all! Consult a doctor!

Every pet parent thinks that their dog is the cutest pooch in the world. Here’s the thing…they’re right! Big or small, fuzzy or fluffy, yappy or chubby, we know your four-legged bestie is probably one of the cutest dog breeds you’ve ever laid eyes on. That’s just how dogs work. They are born to be adorable!


We know that looks are not everything and that the beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Though, seriously, is there anybody out there who thinks that dogs who are not cute even exist? That’s what we thought. While we’re not saying that being adorable is the most important thing for our furry companions, it certainly doesn’t hurt to take a quick peek at some pics that will make your heart melt. You might even say that it’s our favourite pastime. Maybe. Probably. Ok…it is!


Come on now, you know you want an excuse to look at photos of outrageously precious dogs and puppies. It’s not like there’s such a thing as too many adorable animal pictures, right? The internet must be at least 95% adorable dog pictures, or at least it should be. So for that reason and that reason only, we have put together a Top 10 list of cutest dog breeds. We dare you not to say “AWWWWWWWWWWW!” while scrolling through these pics. It’s impossible. We tried it. We couldn’t get past the first page without a loud squeal of absolute delight. You don’t want to deprive yourself of that special joy. You want to keep your eyeballs glued to this page so that you can check out our definitive list of the top 10 cutest dog breeds! If you can make it through this list without feeling your heart expand, you might not be human. Get that checked out.


Now, without further ado, let’s get on with the cuteness!


(Photo credit: Sergey Lavrentev/Shutterstock)


10. Pomsky

Look at him! This designer breed has been all the rage for the last few years, and that’s no surprise. Considering that these puppers look like tiny and fluffy wolves, it’s hard not to get all gooey inside when you see one. It’s almost as if they were designed to provoke that reaction. A cross between the Pomeranian and Husky, the Pomsky is a small breed of dog with a soft coat, plush tail, and pointed ears. Everything that a pup needs to be a proper snugglemuffin.


There’s no doubt that Pomskies are one of the prettiest looking pooches on the block- these doggos even come in different sizes and colors. There’s your standard Pomsky in all its undeniable cuteness, which weighs between 20 to 30 pounds. Then there’s mini Pomski, which is smaller in size but no less cute. It weighs 9 to 18 pounds. Finally the toy Pomsky (a name so cute we almost can’t take it!), the cute-as-a-button miniature version that weighs no more than 9 pounds.


Sure, the fab appearance of these doggos might be the first thing you’ll notice, but it’s not their only quality. Not only are these dogs cute and cuddly, they are also packed full of energy and always ready to play. They only need a moderate amount of exercise, such as going for a single long walk every day. So that means that they are a good option if you live in a small home or apartment. Just keep in mind that they can be talkative, which might disturb your neighbors if you do live in an apartment complex.


When it comes to grooming, you should also be aware that these pooches could shed a lot. A regular grooming routine, such as brushing your Pomsky a few times a week, might help keep fur off of your clothes and furniture as much as possible. Overall, though, these funny dogs are adaptable, so they can get used to change quite easily, and once they’re comfortable around you, they’re full of love. Also, LOOK HOW CUTE THEY ARE! AHHH! (Photo credit: Apex Pomskies)

9. Dachshund

I mean…come on! You’d think that looking like a sausage with legs wouldn’t be so adorable. Yet, look at that picture. Seeing a Doxy makes everybody squeak with joy! This breed of dog is known for its short stature and long body. Not to mention the fact that every single part of their body is super-duper loveable. Seriously. Long, floppy ears? Check. Short, pudgy legs? Check. Long wiener bod? Check. Wagging tail? Check. Me experiencing heart palpitations from merely looking a picture of one of these beauties? Check. What else do you need to be delighted, peeps?!


Dachshunds come in several varieties, some with short hair and others with long, silky coats or wiry fur. Of course, it goes without saying that in each and every one of the varieties, Doxies are mind-blowingly adorable. I’m sorry, but if you can remain indifferent to the short-legged loveliness that this breed is, you have no soul. That’s a fact. You can look it up. I’ll wait.


If you are looking for a cute little dog that will be content to sit in your lap all day and sleep in your bed at night, the Dachshund just might be the pup for you! Just make sure to do your research first. They might be the personification of cuteness, but these miniature dogs have a mind of their own and are not shy about it. These smart, playful, and loyal pooches may show quite a bit of stubbornness and independence, so training might be somewhat challenging. Classes are recommended. Plus, they might even become spiteful or envious, which could lead to all sorts of undesirable behaviors. It is also quite important to note that a Dachshund might not be afraid of showing aggression towards strangers and other animals or canines, including those that are bigger. These pups don’t realize that they look like a furry hot dog with a head. They think they are threatening! Fortunately, there are also aspects of their personality that make them great watchdogs. They are protective of those that they love and they can make wonderful pets for families with kids. It is all about really getting to know your Dachshund and providing the appropriate training in a firm, patient, gentle, and consistent manner that utilizes positive reinforcement. Train them right, Dachshunds can be absolute sweethearts. (Photo credit: Hannamariah/Bigstock.com)


8. Golden Retriever

Are you kidding me? That picture makes me tingle. I mean look at that little gentleman! The glossy golden coat, those warm, soulful eyes and the million dollar smile? Give me a break! If you ever hear someone squeal from looking at a dog picture, it won’t be hard to guess which canine they are sequealing about. Goldies are practically synonymous with the world adorable! It’s almost unfair how cute they are.


This American dream doggo is sort of a celebrity in the canine world. They have starred in numerous Hollywood movies and you’d be hard-pressed to find a person who doesn’t know how a Golden Retriever looks like. And, of course, any person who isn’t smitten by this pupper’s wheaten locks and big brown eyes is an absolute monster unworthy of human contact. But the cute looks alone are not enough to keep a dog breed popular throughout the decades: these dogs have a wonderful personality, too. Golden Retrievers are friendly, affectionate, and easy to train, all highly desirable traits in a pet.


Easily one of the most popular dog breeds, Golden Retriever puppies are also some of the cutest things you will ever see. Even when these dogs grow up, they still retain their puppy-like curiosity and love for play. A Golden Retriever will be your friend for life. But these big dogs, which aren’t the best choice if you live in an apartment, do require plenty of exercise every day. Going into the backyard for a short play session and taking a few walks throughout the day might be enough to keep your Golden Retriever happy and healthy. Besides, these activities are also a wonderful way for you to get outside and have some fun with your pooch too. Feel free to take this dog with you on all of your adventures, as Golden Retrievers enjoy everything from hiking and running, to swimming and playing fetch. And be sure to give this pooch plenty of chew toys as well.


These dogs make amazing family pets. They always get along well with children, but you need to have a lot of time to devote to them to keep them happy. As social dogs, Golden Retrievers really like being around people, so they can suffer from separation anxiety and grow sad or frustrated if they are ignored or left alone for too long. They really do need to be shown affection, and they need to be given the chance to exercise, in order to maintain their positive personality and avoid unwanted, destructive behaviors. Fortunately with a face like that, it’ll be impossible to tear yourself away from your Goldie. So providing the attention they need will be a breaze. It’s fitting in a life around all of the snuggles and love that will be a challenge. (Photo credit: sarrobi/Bigstock.com)


7. Pomeranian

Step aside, doggos, the fluffiest cutie just came up to the stage! The Pomeranian is a toy dog breed that resembles a tiny, energetic ball of fur and, in all honesty, it’s hard not to fall in love with these canines. They are designed to make your heartbeat a little faster. I mean, they actually look like stuffed toys. Well, until they start barking, that is. Their yappiness will quickly let you know that you’re not looking at a lifelike teddy bear, but rather a tiny doggo. A fluffy little ball with a big ol’ mouth.


These little dogs have full, fluffy coats and a curled tail carried high over the back. While the most recognizable Poms might be the caramel-colored ones, these dogs come in a variety of colors. You can easily spot black, white ,grey, tan or brown Pomeranians strutting about, each as cute as the next one!


Pomeranians are fluffy, tiny and pretty. So, it’s no wonder why these pooches made our cutest dog breeds list. If you are looking to get one as a pet, you should know that these dogs are tiny but mighty. Poms have a small dog syndrome and think they’re much bigger than they actually are. Which only makes them more adorable, of course. Also, these smart little dogs are active, so you need to set aside time every day to give them the exercise that they need. Fortunately, they can make good family dogs because they are usually good with kids. Plus, they can make good watch dogs, too, because they will alert you to what’s going on. The only problem is that they might end up barking too much and annoying your neighbors, especially if you live in an apartment. (Photo credit: Laures/Bigstock.com)


6. Yorkshire Terrier

Are you seeing this?! I seriously think I’m in love. The Yorkshire Terrier (aka Yorkie) is a small breed of dog known for its long, silky coat as well as the fact that your average cat is easily twice bigger than them. Seriously, these pooches are so tiny that it’s ridiculous. Seeing one on a leash will make you go from nah to awwwwwwwww in a matter of milliseconds.


It’s not only their silky locks that make the Yorkie a fabulous breed. Their personality is as charming as their appearance. If you are a fan of small and sassy pooches, this petite doggo will not disappoint. They have a biiiig attitude, they’re a bit yappy, and are completely unaware of the fact that they weigh around 3 pounds. All uniquely lovable traits of small dog breeds!


While these little dogs are popular as show dogs, they are also well loved as lap dogs. Yorkshire Terriers can often be seen sporting little bows in their hair or wearing jeweled collars, begin carried around town by their adoring owners in a designer bag. (Photo credit: Alta Oosthuizen/Bigstock.com)


5. Cockapoo

My heart! It aches! It also begs the question: what do you get when you intentionally cross two cute breeds?Why, a dog that’s one big stinkin’ pile of cuteness, of course! Don’t you know how math works? By now, I think that every dog lover worth their salt can guess that if a dog breed has words ‘poo’ or ‘doodle’ in it, it’s highly likely that the dog is adorable. Heck, it’s guaranteed!


Well, the Cockapoo is one of the most popular designer dog breeds, and it’s pretty obvious why. The Cockapoo is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle, two cute and curly pooches, and it has all the best traits of both parental breeds. Shockingly, it’s not all about the dazzling curls and puppy eyes! Thought they certainly don’t hurt!


These dogs are also known for their outgoing, fun-loving personalities and impressive smarts. Cockapoos are easy to train, are low shedders and loyal to their owners- it’s hard topping that when it comes to ideal pet qualities. They also love to play and they get along extremely well with children, so they’re a good choice for families. (Photo credit: Flanjo/Bigstock.com)


4. Morkie

Are you seeing that picture?! I’m having trouble breathing! OK, OK, it’s not just the ‘doodles that are giving crossbreeds the reputation of being exceptionally cute! Morkie even has an adorable name, but it’s not like it needs one, considering that the tiny pooch would melt even Grinch’s heart. These toy dogs weigh 4 to 8 pounds, and it’s all sugar, spice, and some silky fur on top. The only downside to owning a Morkie is that you might lose your voice from screaming “Awwwwww” all day long.


This breed is a cross between the Yorkshire Terrier and the Maltese, hence the catchy name. These dogs are fairly small and typically have long, soft coats and pointed ears. As most designer breeds, there are no guarantees with Morkie puppies (except they’re delightful, of course), as their size varies and they come in different colors.


The Morkie exhibits a combination of qualities from the parent breeds, and this dog is often playful and active with a strong love for family. To be fair, they’ve also got the “faults” of their ancestors, meaning that they can be a bit loud and more than a bit stubborn. But, hey, when you’re this cute, you can get away with it. All dogs on this list know it and will take advantage of it. The thing is, you won’t care thanks to all of that cuteness. (Photo credit: Jstaley401/Bigstock.com)

3. Cairn Terrier

Are you kidding me with that photo?! It should be illegal. Look, if you were the dog breed cast to play Toto in the Wizard of Oz, then you’re cute. That’s a fact. I mean, we might not be in Kansas anymore, but it doesn’t mean we don’t know how to tell when a pooch is adorable. The scrappy Cairn Terrier sure is! Almost unfairly so!


These little terriers are one of the oldest terrier breeds, originating in Scotland as a working dog. What makes these dogs so cute are their multicolored coats and their furry, bearded faces. Don’t know about you, but we’re kind of partial to pooches who have a “serious” look but actually look silly. Which pretty much sums up the charming Cairn.


As pets, these pooches are fun, vivacious and full of spirit- not a day will be boring with one of these wonderful doggos by your side. Cairn Terriers come in blue, wheaten, red, gray, brindled and pink, all uniform in color from their wet black noses to the tip of their pointed tails. They’re lovely in any variation, though. You don’t have to be Dorothy to see that! (Photo credit: Rybin/Shutterstock.com)


2. Papillon

Thank god I was sitting down when I saw that picture. I felt my knees buckle. The Papillon dog is a breed of toy spaniel named for the butterfly-like shape of its fringed ears. And even if you have no clue how a Papillon looks, it’s a safe bet to guess that any dog breed whose name was inspired by a butterfly is beautiful. I mean, they were favored by nobles and royalty, and you know that no pooch enjoyed perks at the court if they weren’t fab.


The appearance of Papillon is definitely unique. Their coats are white with patches of color and a colored mask that covers the eyes and ears. These little dogs have large, black eyes and a long tail carried high over the body, but it’s their ears that completely steal the show. It’s hard not to be enamored with this petite pooches!


Papillon dogs are highly intelligent and love to learn new tricks. It’s not like they need to learn tricks to charm the pants off of you, but hey, being smart can’t hurt. Despite their small size, these cutie patooties are pretty athletic- be prepared to take a lot of walks. On the bright side, you’ll probably want to go on as many walks as you can, to flaunt your adorable pupper. (Photo credit: Degtyaryov Andrey/Shutterstock.com)


1. Havanese

I don’t know about you, but personally I’m grateful that this is the last entry the list. These picture have all been too much, but the Havanese?! Good lord! I’m going to need to change my pants after that one.


The national dog of Cuba wasn’t always known outside of the country’s border, but now it is definitely stealing hearts all over the world! The Havanese is a small, fluffy dog with a silky coat and a lovable personality. Their happy-go-lucky attitude beautifully complements their charming look!


A fun trait of these canines is that they LOVE the spotlight and will do tricks to attract attention. Havanese know they’ve got it and they like to flaunt it! These toy dogs will be by your side at all times, waiting for you to shower them with love and affection. Isn’t that adorable?


These little dogs are naturally curious which just adds to their cuteness- the lovely tilting head is a frequent occurrence for these furry explorers. Havanese dogs come in a variety of colors and their fur can be kept long or clipped short according to your preference. In any case, though, they’ll be cute as a button. That’s guaranteed. (Photo credit: Sandra Huber/Shutterstock.com)

Kate Barrington
Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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