Just because you live in a small home or apartment doesn’t mean you can’t have a dog! Urbanites looking for a four-footed companion are one of the main reasons why the small and toy dog breeds exist in the first place.

A number of small dog breeds make the ideal companion for someone who lives in a small home, villa home, apartment or flat. Small dogs are also ideal for people who live on their own, and for certain families (as long as the children are old enough to avoid inadvertently injuring a small dog) who don’t feel up to the challenge that comes along with managing the larger dogs — or even with fitting a larger dog in the car.

But even the small dog breeds like variety and exercise, so it’s important that you’re prepared to spend time with your dog, no matter what size you decide to take into your home. In order for your dog to remain happy and healthy, you’ll still need to take her for walks, make sure she has playtime and mental stimulation, and ensure that she gets excellent medical care. Once you’ve made that commitment to yourself and know that you have time for all that comes with a dog, no matter size or breed, then you can freely choose which small breed of dog makes best complements you, your family and your lifestyle.

Small dogs make almost irresistible puppies, which has led more than one person to opt for these breeds. One of the cutest puppies around is the Maltese, a small dog breed that’s extraordinarily popular because of its looks, size and temperament. The Maltese generally grows to no more than six pounds in weight, and has a beautiful, soft white coat. The Maltese breed enjoys walking with his or her master, requires only moderate exercise, enjoys children and is very playful, which is why they make a great addition to so many families. The Maltese does, however, require dedicated grooming.

Another good-tempered, good-natured small dog breed is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This lovely, long-haired but very small dog is as regal as its name suggests. King Charles spaniels usually weigh around 12 to 16 pounds – around double that of the Maltese breed. Older people and families love the King Charles breed because of its overwhelmingly friendly and sociable personality.

A gorgeous and elegant smaller breed of dog you may not have yet considered is the Italian greyhound. If you’re looking a small breeed that enjoys exercise, then this is the dog for you. These dogs are imaginative and intelligent, but prone to stress, so Italian greyhounds may not be comfortable in a boisterious, young family with small children. They will require a great deal of love and affection to feel secure. Italian Greyhounds are small, long-lived dogs, growing to about 10 pounds on average.