Small dogs have a special way of winning people over with their big personalities, expressive faces, and affectionate nature. Over the years, crossbreeding two established dog breeds has also become popular among people looking for a companion with a combination of physical and behavioral traits from both parent breeds.

These dogs are often called designer dogs or designer breeds. Unlike recognized purebred breeds, many designer crosses are not standardized breeds with predictable characteristics. Puppies from the same cross can sometimes look and behave quite differently depending on which traits they inherit from each parent.

That unpredictability is important to understand—but it is also part of what makes these dogs unique.

If you’re considering a small crossbreed, here are five popular mixes worth learning about.

What Is a Designer Dog?

A designer dog is generally a dog intentionally produced by crossing two different established breeds.

The goal may be to combine certain characteristics, such as:

• Small size
• Companionable temperament
• Particular coat characteristics
• Trainability
• Energy level
• Appearance

However, crossing two breeds doesn’t guarantee that every puppy will inherit the desired characteristics from both parents.

A mixed-breed dog can inherit health conditions, behavioral tendencies, coat characteristics, or physical traits from either parent.

That’s why researching both parent breeds is essential before bringing one of these dogs home.

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1. Chihuahua-Poodle Mix: The Chipoo

The Chihuahua-Poodle mix, commonly called a Chipoo, combines the tiny Chihuahua with either a Toy or Miniature Poodle.

These dogs can be extremely small, although their exact size depends on the Poodle parent.

Personality

Chipoos can be lively, affectionate, intelligent, and playful. Many form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being involved in household activities.

Their Poodle heritage may contribute to their willingness to learn, while their Chihuahua side can bring confidence and plenty of personality.

However, some Chipoos can also be vocal or wary of unfamiliar people, so early socialization is important.

Grooming

Coat type can vary significantly.

Some Chipoos have a short coat, while others inherit a longer, wavier, or curlier coat.

Regular brushing may be necessary depending on the individual dog’s coat.

Is a Chipoo right for you?

A Chipoo may suit someone looking for a small companion who enjoys attention, play, and interactive training.

Because of their tiny size, young children should always be supervised around them. Small dogs can be injured accidentally through rough handling or falls.

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2. Pomeranian-Yorkshire Terrier Mix: The Porkie

The Pomeranian-Yorkshire Terrier mix is commonly known as a Porkie.

This small cross combines two energetic companion breeds: the fluffy Pomeranian and the Yorkshire Terrier.

Personality

Porkies can be energetic, affectionate, curious, and confident.

Despite their small bodies, they may have surprisingly bold personalities. They often enjoy playing, exploring, and spending time with their owners.

Their Terrier ancestry can also contribute to determination and a strong interest in their surroundings.

Training

Small dogs sometimes receive less training than larger dogs because owners may find unwanted behaviors easier to tolerate.

However, a small dog still benefits from consistent training.

Teaching basic cues, appropriate barking habits, leash skills, and polite greetings can make everyday life much easier.

Grooming

Both parent breeds can have coats requiring regular care, so a Porkie’s grooming needs may be significant depending on the coat they inherit.

Regular brushing can help prevent tangles and mats.

Is a Porkie right for you?

This mix may appeal to people looking for a small, lively companion who enjoys attention and interactive activities.

Their energy and potential tendency to bark should be considered before choosing one for a quiet apartment environment.

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3. Shih Tzu-Maltese Mix: The Mal-Shi

The Mal-Shi, also known as a Maltese-Shih Tzu, combines two popular companion breeds: the Maltese and Shih Tzu.

These small dogs are often known for their affectionate personalities and charming appearance.

Personality

Mal-Shis can be friendly, playful, gentle, and strongly attached to their families.

Many enjoy being close to their owners and may happily spend time relaxing beside them after playtime.

They can also be good companions for households looking for a smaller dog, provided their individual temperament and needs are a good match.

Grooming

Don’t assume that a Mal-Shi will automatically have a low-maintenance coat.

Both parent breeds can require regular grooming, and a Mal-Shi’s coat may be long, wavy, silky, or somewhere in between.

Depending on the coat, regular brushing and professional grooming may be necessary.

Are Mal-Shis hypoallergenic?

No dog can be guaranteed to be completely hypoallergenic.

Although Maltese and Shih Tzus are sometimes described as lower-shedding or allergy-friendly breeds, individual dogs can still produce allergens. People with allergies should spend time around the specific dog before making a decision.

Is a Mal-Shi right for you?

A Mal-Shi may be a good fit for someone seeking a small companion who enjoys human interaction and doesn’t require the level of physical exercise associated with many larger working breeds.

They still need daily activity, mental stimulation, training, and companionship.

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4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel-Poodle Mix: The Cavapoo

The Cavapoo is a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle, usually a Toy or Miniature Poodle.

Cavapoos have become widely recognized as companion dogs because of their affectionate personalities and expressive appearance.

Personality

Cavapoos can be friendly, playful, affectionate, and eager to interact with their families.

Their parent breeds can both be highly people-oriented, so many Cavapoos enjoy spending a lot of time with their owners.

However, this also means some individuals may struggle if left alone for long periods.

Training

The Poodle’s intelligence and the Cavalier’s generally cooperative nature can make many Cavapoos responsive to positive-reinforcement training.

Start with basic skills such as:

• Name recognition
• Sit
• Recall
• Leash walking
• Calm greetings
• House training
• Settling independently

Early socialization is equally important.

Grooming

Cavapoo coats can vary considerably.

Some have loose waves, while others have tighter curls. Regular brushing may be needed to prevent mats, particularly in longer coats.

Professional grooming may also be part of their routine.

Is a Cavapoo right for you?

A Cavapoo may appeal to families and individuals looking for a small-to-medium companion that enjoys both play and relaxation.

However, potential owners shouldn’t choose one based solely on appearance. Their exercise requirements, grooming needs, temperament, and ability to cope with alone time should all be considered.

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5. Dachshund-Chihuahua Mix: The Chiweenie

The Chiweenie is a cross between a Dachshund and a Chihuahua.

This combination produces a small dog that can have a distinctive appearance and a surprisingly confident personality.

Personality

Chiweenies can be affectionate, energetic, alert, and playful.

Both parent breeds can be quite determined, meaning some Chiweenies may have a stubborn streak.

Consistent, reward-based training can help channel that confidence in a positive direction.

Exercise

Although they’re small, Chiweenies aren’t necessarily couch potatoes.

They usually benefit from regular walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation.

However, exercise should be appropriate for the dog’s individual body structure.

Because Dachshunds have a long-backed body shape, owners should take care to minimize activities involving repeated high-impact jumping from furniture or other heights.

Socialization

Early socialization can help Chiweenies become more comfortable around different people, animals, sounds, and environments.

Because small dogs can sometimes develop defensive behaviors when frightened, teaching calm responses from an early age is especially valuable.

Is a Chiweenie right for you?

A Chiweenie may suit someone looking for a small but energetic companion with plenty of personality.

Their exercise, training, socialization, and potential back-care needs should be considered before adoption.

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Are Designer Dogs Healthier Than Purebred Dogs?

There’s no simple rule that designer dogs are automatically healthier than purebred dogs.

A crossbred puppy can inherit health conditions associated with either parent breed.

For example, potential owners should research the known health concerns of both breeds involved in the cross.

Responsible breeding practices can help reduce certain inherited health risks, but no breeder can guarantee that a puppy will never develop a medical condition.

When considering a puppy, ask the breeder about health testing appropriate for both parent breeds and request relevant documentation.

Adoption from a reputable rescue or shelter is another option worth considering.

Are Small Designer Dogs Good for Apartments?

Many small dogs can adapt well to apartment living, but size alone doesn’t determine whether a dog is suitable for an apartment.

Consider:

• Daily exercise requirements
• Barking tendencies
• Energy level
• Ability to settle indoors
• Training needs
• Grooming requirements
• Time spent alone
• Access to safe outdoor areas

A small but energetic dog may require considerably more daily activity than a larger, calmer companion.

Are Designer Dogs Hypoallergenic?

This is one of the most common misconceptions about designer dogs.

Crossing a breed such as a Poodle or Maltese with another breed does not guarantee a hypoallergenic puppy.

Allergies can be triggered by proteins found in a dog’s dander, saliva, and other biological materials—not simply by the amount of fur a dog sheds.

Coat characteristics can also vary among puppies from the same litter.

If allergies are a concern, spend time around the individual dog and speak with a medical professional before making a decision.

How to Choose the Right Small Crossbreed

Don’t choose a dog simply because it looks adorable.

Before bringing a puppy home, think about your lifestyle.

Consider your activity level

Some small dogs are surprisingly energetic and need daily walks and play.

Consider grooming

Long, curly, or continuously growing coats can require frequent brushing and professional grooming.

Consider temperament

Research the typical characteristics of both parent breeds, while remembering that individual dogs can differ.

Consider training

Every dog benefits from training, regardless of size.

Consider alone time

Some companion-oriented dogs can struggle when left alone for extended periods.

Consider health

Research health conditions associated with both parent breeds and ask responsible breeders about appropriate health testing.

Consider adoption

Shelters and rescue organizations sometimes have small mixed-breed dogs and puppies looking for homes. Adoption can be a wonderful way to find a companion without focusing solely on a particular designer mix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are designer dogs considered purebred?

Generally, no. Designer dogs are usually crosses between two different established breeds and are therefore not the same as standardized purebred dogs.

Do designer dogs always inherit the best traits from both parents?

No. Genetics don’t work like a simple checklist. A puppy can inherit a combination of physical characteristics, temperaments, and health risks from either parent.

Which small designer dog is easiest to train?

Trainability varies between individual dogs. Poodle mixes may inherit traits associated with the Poodle’s intelligence, but training success also depends on the individual dog’s temperament, motivation, socialization, and consistency of training.

Do small crossbreeds need much exercise?

Many do. Small size doesn’t automatically mean low energy. Exercise requirements depend on the individual dog and the breeds involved.

Are designer dogs good family pets?

Some can make wonderful family companions, but suitability depends on the individual dog’s temperament and the household. Families with young children should also consider whether everyone can interact safely and respectfully with a small dog.

How much grooming does a designer dog need?

It depends on the coat they inherit. Some may need only occasional brushing, while others require frequent brushing and professional grooming to prevent mats.

Final Thoughts

Small designer dogs can be incredibly charming companions, but their appeal goes beyond their adorable appearance.

A Chipoo, Porkie, Mal-Shi, Cavapoo, or Chiweenie can bring plenty of personality into a home. At the same time, each cross can inherit different characteristics from its parent breeds, so prospective owners should look beyond appearance when choosing a dog.

Research both parent breeds, consider your lifestyle, understand potential health and grooming needs, and choose a dog based on compatibility rather than popularity alone.

Whether you choose a designer cross, a purebred dog, or a mixed-breed rescue, the most important ingredients for a happy relationship remain the same: responsible care, proper training, regular veterinary attention, socialization, exercise, and plenty of love.