12 Best Small Dogs That Can Be Left Alone — our top picks
Basenji
Barkless African hunting dog with cat-like cleanliness. Independent, intelligent, and unique.
Pekingese
Ancient Chinese breed with lion-like mane and dignified bearing. Independent and somewhat aloof companion.
French Bulldog
Muscular flat-faced breed with bat ears and adaptable personality. Excellent apartment companion.
Shiba Inu
Smallest Japanese spitz breed with fox-like appearance. Independent, clean, and alert with strong personality.
Japanese Chin
Oriental toy breed with distinctive flat face and cat-like personality. Elegant and dignified companion.
Boston Terrier
American Gentleman with tuxedo markings and friendly disposition. Intelligent and easy-going companion.
Chihuahua (Smooth Coat)
World's smallest dog breed with huge personality. Alert, confident, and devoted to their family despite their tiny size.
Chihuahua (Long Coat)
Long-haired variety of the Chihuahua with soft, flowing coat. Same bold personality as smooth coat variety.
Lhasa Apso
Tibetan breed with floor-length coat and watchful nature. Independent and somewhat aloof but devoted.
Shih Tzu
Flowing-coated toy breed bred to be a companion. Friendly and outgoing with all people.
Shar Pei
Chinese breed with distinctive wrinkles and blue-black tongue. Independent and loyal but can be aloof.
Pomapoo
Pomeranian and Poodle cross creating tiny companion with big personality and reduced shedding.
How this ranking works: each of DoggyQ's 321 breeds is scored on the traits that matter most for this lifestyle — energy, size, temperament, grooming and trainability — using our vet-reviewed breed database. Read more about our methodology, or take the free quiz for a ranking personalised to you.
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Find your perfect matchFrequently asked questions
- Which small dog can be left alone during the day?
- Based on temperament and care needs, the Basenji ranks as the top choice for small-dog owners who work away from home, followed by the Pekingese and French Bulldog.
- How was this list of dogs for small-dog owners who work away from home chosen?
- Each breed is scored on the traits that matter most for small-dog owners who work away from home — such as energy, size, grooming and temperament — using DoggyQ's breed database. For a recommendation tailored to your exact situation, take the free quiz.