19 Adorable Dogs With Short Legs Who Will Be Your New Best Friend
Naturally, we appreciate the little things about our canine companions—especially if those "little things" are their adorably short legs. A distinctive trait like short legs is typically seen in small and even medium-sized dogs.
We talked with two veterinarians to learn more about these 19 dogs with short legs, including why some dogs have short legs, how to care for them, and the potential health issues that come along with them.
Breed Characteristics
Some breeds have short legs due to a genetic condition known as chondrodysplasia, says Sabrina Kong, DVM, staff veterinary writer at We Love Doodles. This condition, also known as canine dwarfism, results in abnormal cartilage development, leading to shorter, often slightly bowed legs, she adds.
Meanwhile, other breeds known and beloved for their short legs were selectively bred over generations for specific functional purposes, like hunting, for example.
“Chondrodysplasia is not the only reason for short legs, but it is the most common genetic basis for this trait in dogs,” Dr. Kong says.
Short-legged dogs can live healthy, active lives, says Stacie Atria, DVM, CVA, CVMMP, CVTP, owner at Lotus Veterinary Alternatives. However, they can be prone to health issues.
These health issues, according to our veterinary experts, may include:
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Joint issues, including arthritis
Limb deformities
“Managing the health of short-legged dogs involves proactive care and regular veterinary check-ups,” Kong says. To help a short-legged dog stay happy and healthy, they should maintain a healthy weight and get daily, low-impact exercise. It’s best to consult your vet about treatment options if they show signs of discomfort or reduced mobility.
Kong recommends creating a home environment that accommodates their dog’s unique needs, such as using ramps instead of stairs to prevent jumping, which can be hard on their joints and back.
01 of 19
Dachshund
Wiener dog, Doxie, sausage dog—whichever name you prefer, the dachshund is widely recognized and beloved for their long body and short legs. These dogs can appear in standard or miniature size. Their German name translates to “badger dogs,” as these small hounds were once used to hunt badgers in the 17th century. Today, dachshunds are popular choices for family dogs because of their playful, loyal, and protective nature. Due to their development, they have a high prey drive that makes them best suited for households without pocket pets. These hot dog-shaped hounds are prone to unwanted weight gain and should get low-impact exercise or playtime daily and be fed a healthy, portioned diet.
Breed Overview
02 of 19
Basset Hound
The Basset hound’s floppy ears are longer than their cute, short legs. Developed as a low-built scent hound in France, this medium-sized breed loves nothing more than their people—and to follow a scent, of course. They’re excellent family dogs who are calm, lovable, and brilliant. Though their little legs might be deceiving, Basset hounds require daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. They’ll be thrilled to go on a long walk or play with their favorite toys in the backyard.
Breed Overview
03 of 19
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
The Cardigan Welsh corgi is a medium-sized herding breed from Wales that's well-known for their tiny legs, pointed ears, and friendly faces. They were intentionally developed to have shortened legs as cattle herders to protect them from the herd’s dangerous kicks. Not only are Cardigan Welsh corgis skilled drovers, farm dogs, and barn guards, but they’re also amazing family dogs and canine companions. They’re energetic, playful, vocal, and protective. Due to their hardworking heritage, they should be exercised daily with activities like leashed walks or running in a fenced-in yard. As a breed who has a long back and short legs, pet ramps can help keep the Cardigan Welsh corgi's back protected.
Breed Overview
04 of 19
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh corgi is a medium-sized herding dog from Wales. They’re considered to be a dwarf breed with their shortened legs and are the shortest of the herding dog group. Pembrokes were bred to be herding dogs, guard dogs, and companions. These dogs are happy, go-lucky and quite adaptable. They enjoy putting their intelligence and energy to good use for about an hour a day. Due to their short legs, they should have steps and ramps to use in the home.
Breed Overview
05 of 19
English Bulldog
Bulldogs are a popular breed—and for good reason. These dogs are loyal, gentle, and silly. There’s so much to love, from their wrinkly faces and little legs to their slobbery kisses and sweet snores. The bulldog is a stout, medium-sized breed who loves to eat, sleep, and be around their family—despite what their grumpy faces might suggest. Since they’re considered to be a flat-faced breed, it’s important to keep them out of too warm of temperatures and provide them with low-impact exercise. They’re also prone to unwanted weight gain, which can cause stress on their joints, and thus, should be kept on a healthy diet with measured meals.
Breed Overview
06 of 19
French Bulldog
French bulldogs, or Frenchies, are compact, flat-faced dogs with bat-like ears, short legs, and sweet faces. These small, silly clowns love their family—both people and pets alike. Friendly, devoted, and playful, French bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They prefer to be a lapdog and require short walks and playtime. Being a flat-faced breed, they’re prone to health issues and are sensitive to heat and cold and should avoid being out in the heat or heavily exercised. It's also important to watch for health problems, such as IVDD, patellar luxation, and hip dysplasia due to their size and build.
Breed Overview
07 of 19
Cairn Terrier
The Cairn terrier is a small, sweet breed from Scotland with coarse fur, pointed ears, and short legs. They were developed in the 19th century, making them the oldest of the terrier group. While they are lapdog size, these little dogs prefer to be putting their bodies and minds to work and are at their best with regular exercise and training. Though, they do enjoy spending time with their favorite people, too. Playful, loyal, and protected, the Cairn terrier is a great family dog who enjoys running, playing, and digging.
Breed Overview
08 of 19
Pekingese
An ancient dog breed that originated in China, the Pekingese was bred to be a companion. Pekingese, or Pekes, are characterized by their lion’s mane-like coat, prominent eyes, petite physique, and characteristic V-shaped facial wrinkle. These little dogs have big personalities and are known for being social, affectionate, and protective. They love to be around people (and other Pekes) and can get along with other household pets if socialized early on. Their small size also makes them great for apartment dwellers. Because of their short snouts, which can lead to overheating, Pekes require low-impact exercise and should only spend time outside when temperatures are cool.
Breed Overview
09 of 19
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Dandie Dinmont terriers are small, short-legged dogs with silky hair and long bodies who were developed in England and Scotland. The Dandie Dinmont terrier is an independent breed that’s easy to care for and keep happy. Plus, they’re perfectly content with being home alone when they’re pet parents are at work or away from home. Dandie Dinmont terriers are known for being great companion dogs with calm, adaptable personalities and can get along with cats and dogs if raised together. Due to their terrier origins, they’re not suitable for homes with small pets, like hamsters or mice.
Breed Overview
10 of 19
Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature schnauzers are a small breed whose origins involve working on farms and hunting vermin in Germany. They have wiry double coats that are considered hypoallergenic, making them good choices for people with allergies. Their small size also makes them suitable for apartment living. The miniature schnauzer makes a great watchdog, as they’re protective of their family and are known to bark a lot. Active, intelligent, and playful, miniature schnauzers tend to get bored easily and are at their best when they’re putting their minds to use with puzzle toys and fun training sessions. They naturally like to chase small animals and should always be on a leash or in a fenced area when outside. Expect to brush their wiry double coat daily, including their beards.
Breed Overview
11 of 19
Beagle
The beagle is an English medium-sized scent hound recognized for their floppy ears, tricolored coat, and upright tail. Beagles are energetic and thrive with daily exercise and plenty of opportunities to use their noses, making them a great addition to an active household. As pack dogs, beagles are excellent family members because they love both their two-legged and four-legged friends all the same. They're big on companionship and are best suited for pet parents who are home for the majority of the day.
Breed Overview
12 of 19
West Highland White Terrier
Originating in Scotland, the West Highland white terrier, or Westie, is a small terrier with an all-white coat, muscular build, friendly eyes, and triangular ears. Westies were bred as farm dogs and hunting dogs and are at their happiest with lots of exercise, training, and mental enrichment. As much as they love to work, they also love to spend time with their family, particularly playtime. Like other terriers, they have a high prey drive and should always be in a fenced-in area and on-leash.
Breed Overview
13 of 19
Lancashire Heeler
A rare breed, Lancashire heelers can immediately be recognized for their signature heeler smile and short legs. These dogs are a herding breed from England and are known as the smallest heelers in the world. Lancashire heelers are hardworking, devoted, and energetic dogs who are often praised for their versatility. They revel in having a job to do and are happy to lounge on the couch with you after a hard day's work.
Breed Overview
14 of 19
Pomeranian
Known as the smallest spitz dog, the Pomeranian is a toy breed with a beautiful, long coat, neck ruff, friendly eyes, short legs, and a fluffy tail. Developed as a companion dog in Iceland and Finland, the Pomeranian is the ultimate lapdog. They’re loyal, protective, and vocal. Because they have thick double coats, they require brushing at least once a week. This also makes them prone to overheating in hotter temperatures. With a Pomeranian’s small size, it’s best to train them to use a ramp or stay off the furniture for their own safety when jumping on and off couches and beds.
Breed Overview
15 of 19
Miniature Bull Terrier
Miniature bull terriers, also known as MBTs, are an English breed with distinctive characteristics, such as their egg-shaped heads, triangular eyes, and muscular bodies with adorably short legs to match. These goofy, energetic dogs are wonderful companions who love to be entertained, whether it's through lots of exercise or training. They’re also fiercely devoted to their families. The MBT is an ideal canine companion for the experienced pet parent or someone who’s willing to provide consistent training to a willful breed who tends to get bored (very) easily.
Breed Overview
16 of 19
Shih Tzu
The shih tzu is a toy breed dog who was bred as a noble canine companion in China. These popular and petite dogs have long, luxurious coats, kind eyes, and little legs. Their favorite place to be? Your lap, of course! These small sweethearts want to soak up as much of your affection and attention as possible. After all, it’s in their DNA. They also get along with dogs and cats, especially if raised together. Because they’re considered to be a brachycephalic breed, they shouldn’t participate in strenuous exercise or be in the heat, as they’re susceptible to overheating.
Breed Overview
17 of 19
Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, also known as the PBGV, is a small scent hound from France. They can immediately be recognized for their shaggy coats, short legs, long ears, mustaches, and cheerful smiles. The PBGV is nicknamed “the happy breed” due to their extroverted temperament and desire to bring joy to their favorite person. Bred as a hunting dog, the PBGV is an active, bright breed who requires plenty of exercise and enrichment—and not to mention, lots of attention—to stay happy and healthy. Give them a scent to sniff out on leash or in a fenced-in yard and watch them put their incredible instincts to work.
Breed Overview
18 of 19
Tibetan Spaniel
Originating in Tibet, the Tibetan spaniel is an ancient small dog breed and is the pint-sized cousin of the Tibetan mastiff. Tibetan spaniels have silky, medium-length coats, fluffy tails, compact bodies, and soulful eyes. These little lions were bred to be companions and watchdogs and are especially affectionate, devoted, and playful pups who prefer to be around their family at all times. Bright and active, Tibetan spaniels should be trained at a young age and get about an hour of exercise daily. Their medium-length double coat requires frequent grooming.
Breed Overview
19 of 19
Scottish Terrier
The Scottish terrier is a small terrier dog breed from Scotland who’s known for their signature beard, compact body, wiry coat, and short legs. Scottish terriers, or Scotties, are a confident, alert, and loyal breed who require moderate exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy activities like running and playing with chase toys and puzzle toys—anything to keep them busy. However, they should avoid swimming since their short legs makes it difficult for them to swim well. Due to their heritage as hunters and farm dogs, they should always be on a leash or in a fenced yard.
