10 Dog Breeds With Short Legs (With Info & Pictures)

There is something about every canine that makes them irresistibly cute. When it comes to the dogs on this list, you will find at least one common denominator—short little legs. There is certainly a lot of variety in this arena.

You will find long-haired dogs and short-haired dogs. You will find cuddly, curious, lazy, energetic, and everything in the middle. Each of these adorable short-legged dogs brings something unique to the table. So, you’ve come to the right place if you would love to have a long-bodied dog with short legs. Keep reading for a detailed discussion on 10 short-legged dogs.

The 10 Dog Breeds with Short Legs:

1. Basset Hound

Basset Hounds are known for their droopy, sad expressions. They have long, floppy ears and short, stubby legs that point outward. They are as gentle and laid-back as they look, making their image match their hearts. They are very amiable and slow-paced.

Not only are they terrific with humans, but they also tend to do very well with other pets. However, they may have a stubborn streak, making them hard to manage. Their hunting urge is still very much a part of their makeup, and some Basset Hounds love digging in the yard.

They love to eat, and providing a healthy diet and preventing obesity is vital. While chubby, wrinkly bassets may be adorable, the extra weight is bad for their longer backs.

2. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have sweet, cheerful expressions and happy-go-lucky personalities. Their ears are oversized, and yet, they stand utterly erect at all times.

They were too adorable to keep as working dogs, and they have graduated to couch companions instead. They make outstanding family members but require quite a bit of stimulation. Their tiny legs move quickly, and Corgis love to exercise by chasing, fetching, and jumping around.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis are also very versatile, making great apartment or farm dogs. First-time owners and experienced pet parents will enjoy having a Corgi around.

3. French Bulldog

French Bulldogs may have short legs, but they have stocky bodies and larger-than-life personalities. Frenchies are terrific traveling companions because they get along with almost anyone they meet and are stranger-friendly.

If you’re looking for a guard dog, the French Bulldog isn’t ideal. They may well alert you if there is a knock at the door or if a strange dog has meandered into the yard, but they won’t do much about it. They’ll probably be much more concerned about making a new friend.

French Bulldogs can have little dog syndrome, as they tend to be bossy with their canine friends, but they love having other animals around. They are also excellent lap dogs, ready to lounge with you at your request.

4. Cairn Terrier

You may have seen a Cairn Terrier in the classic movie The Wizard of Oz. Toto was a Cairn Terrier. They may be little, but they are fearlessly assertive and have no trouble handling themselves.

They are active and courageous and won’t hesitate to run after a squirrel, rodent, or other vermin. So, you must be careful with them around smaller pets. It’s instinctual for them to chase and even harm smaller animals. While they may not be able to kill cats, they could hurt one.

Cairn Terriers may be big-time barkers, too. They are feisty and alert, picking up on everything happening around them and telling you all about it. They are incredibly cheerful and loyal dogs. They will always be up for a game of fetch or a walk around the block.

5. Miniature Schnauzer

Like the Scottish Terrier, the Miniature Schnauzer has short legs and a big heart. They are immensely obedient and very people-oriented. If you want a smaller companion dog that is like a shadow, getting a Mini Schnauzer is ideal.

They are vigilant and intelligent dogs who will quickly pick up on basic commands. They’re also hypoallergenic, so even if a family member has allergies, they may be able to tolerate a Mini Schnauzer in their home. They’re independent but eager to please, making them easy to train.

While Mini Schnauzers are very welcoming and happy dogs, they also serve as excellent guard dogs.

6. Pekingese

These short-legged dogs of ancestral royalty are widely recognizable for their thick, long coats. Pekingese are incredibly devoted and affectionate toward their owners but may not take the same approach for others. They are a bit picky about who they want around them.

Pekingese are excellent watchdogs, electing themselves as the protectors of the household. While they probably can’t do much damage, they can certainly let you know if they disapprove. Pekingese are also extremely heavy barkers. This will need to be addressed very early on to prevent bad behavior later.

If you can deal with their quirks, you are sure to have a dedicated companion who will love you unconditionally.

7. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has an exceptionally long body and very short legs. They were bred in Scotland and have a very distinct topknot of hair on their head. They were initially used to hunt small game. However, they make incredibly wonderful house dogs.

They may be playful and happy, but they aren’t overly exuberant. Dandie Dinmonts have a very low tendency to bark, unlike most Terrier breeds.

While they aren’t as highly-strung as others, they’re still quite bold. If you want a calmer canine with the classic Terrier looks, the Dandie Dinmont won’t disappoint.

8. Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeesn have the friendliest faces and the scruffiest hair. Their sweet nature perfectly matches their welcoming features. They are very docile, family-oriented, and friendly to strangers, children, and other pets.

While Petit Basset Griffon Vendeens have terrific personalities, they are active dogs. Apartment living may not be the best for them since they need plenty of room to explore the world. They have “little dog” traits such as excessive barking and stubbornness, but you can manage this easily with simple training commands.

Because of their inquisitive nature, they are terrific at escaping. They also love digging and climbing, so fences are often no match for these buccaneers.

9. Miniature Bull Terrier

From Target commercials to the movie The Incredible Journey, Bull Terriers have taken the big screen by storm. Miniature Bull Terriers are nearly identical to their standard counterparts, only smaller. They have quite a fascinating appearance, with a completely flat nasal bridge and tiny eyes.

They are stubborn and immensely independent and require owners who are dedicated to daily training. While they may have minds of their own, they are still fabulous companions. That is especially true for kids because they maintain high energy levels and love to run around. Mini Bulls are territorial and protective of their owners and property. So, they may not be too keen on strangers coming around.

However, their comical antics and charm will keep you entertained for several years.

10. Lancashire Heeler

Lancashire Heelers are related to Corgis. They share a very similar body structure and are used to complete related tasks. While they’re slightly less popular in the US, they are prevalent in Great Britain.

They have very excitable and happy dispositions. They are people-friendly and deeply devoted to their families. Lancashire Heelers are very hardy and do well both outdoors and indoors since their coats are weather-resistant.

Lively and smart, Lancashire Heelers will catch on quickly to any new tasks they are given.

Final Thoughts

Short legs can be such a delightful trait in dogs. As you can see, they have such drastic personality differences and looks that you can get one that suits your lifestyle. Whether you want a relaxed, active, or goofy breed, you can find the tiny-legged friend you’re looking for.

One of them is sure to brighten your life and become a loyal companion.

Related Reads:

• 17 Long-Legged Dog Breeds (With Pictures)
• Cesky Terrier Dog Breed Info, Pictures, Puppies, Facts, History

Featured Image Credit: Angyalosi Beata, Shutterstock