Temperament
Affectionate, Lively, Gentle, Clever.
Health problems to know about
Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed. Veterinary organisations in several countries urge buyers to choose dogs with longer muzzles or health-tested parents, because breathing problems are common and can be severe.
- Brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS)
- Hereditary cataracts
- Cherry eye and dry eye
- Hemivertebrae
- Patellar luxation
Ask breeders for the parents' health test results, and check what your national breed club recommends screening for.
Daily care
Up to an hour of exercise a day, kept short and cool in warm weather. Weekly brushing. Check the prominent eyes daily, keep them lean, and ask breeders for eye and breathing (RFG) test results.
A good fit for
Flats and city homes, families with children, and first-time owners who want a small, sociable dog that enjoys training.
Probably not ideal for
Hot climates without air conditioning, owners wanting a running partner, and anyone not prepared for possible airway or eye surgery costs.
Sources
Popularity: AKC 2025 registration rankings (US); Royal Kennel Club 2025 registrations (UK, ranked by us). Breed traits are tendencies, not guarantees. Individual dogs vary, and mixed breeds and rescues can be wonderful fits too.
