If you are looking for some small dog breeds instead of large ones, there are quite a number to choose from. It is good to remember the old adage that good things come in small packages. 
The dog breed you choose will depend on your environment. There are many reasons why people have to choose wisely before getting a dog.
A person with an allergy can still enjoy the companionship of a small dog, and there is a wide variety to choose from. If you have allergies, you should look at small dog breeds such as the Chinese Crested. This is a dog that is hairless or powder-puffed, it has no undercoat. The Maltese is another good choice as its coat resembles human hair. Also, the Shih Tzu has hair rather than fur. You can even choose the Toy Poodle that doesn't shed at all.
If you keep cats and want to get a dog, you may be concerned that they won't get along. There are some small dog breeds, such as Havanese, Japanese Chin, Maltese, Pug, Shih Tzu, and toy poodle that would fit perfectly into your household. Any of these small dogs will fit in like they have always been there. Your cats won't mind at all, once they get used to having them around.
If you are an active person, there are also small dog breeds that would fit your lifestyle: Affenpinscher, Brussels Griffon, Miniature Pinscher, Silky Terrier, Toy Manchester Terrier, or Toy Fox Terrier are some examples. Any of these small dogs are active enough to keep up with a busy lifestyle, and will still give you the companionship that you're looking for. They will love the exercise as much as you do.
There are small dog breeds that do very well with families with older children, but don't fair well with younger ones. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, English Toy Spaniel, Havanese, Papillon, and Pug are some examples in this category. They will fit perfectly into a family with older children and become that affectionate adoring companion that you have been looking for. The small dog will enjoy the attention it receives from all family members. With so much attention, it will probably feel like it has hit the jackpot when it comes to families.
Maybe you are a person that just wants a lap dog for a companion, one that is small enough to cuddle and does not need a lot of exercise. Dogs such as the Chihuahua, Chinese Crested, Japanese Chin, and Papillon fit this bill nicely. Any of these small dogs would love stretching out on the couch with you or lying in your lap while you sit back and watch TV. These small dog breeds can be the ultimate couch potato buddies.
