Not every small dog wants to be a lap dog. Some breeds may be little in size but large in personality and independence. Here are 10 small dogs that often dislike being carried and prefer exploring the world with all four paws.
Jack Russell Terrier
Full of energy and curiosity, Jack Russells love running, jumping, and sniffing around. Being picked up can make them anxious or restless. These dogs prefer freedom and adventure to being cradled in someone’s arms. They’re tiny but tough and always ready for action.
Miniature Pinscher
Miniature Pinschers are proud, self-assured little dogs that see themselves as much larger than they are. Being carried often offends their strong sense of independence. They’d rather walk beside you than be tucked under your arm or in a carrier bag.
Cairn Terrier
Cairn Terriers are natural-born diggers with a fearless spirit. They hate being confined or restricted, especially when it comes to being carried. These dogs want to explore the world under their own steam, not watch it go by from someone’s arms.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers enjoy being near their people but don’t typically enjoy being carried. They like their independence and can become squirmy when held. These playful dogs prefer to trot along confidently at your side, not be lifted off the ground unnecessarily.
Border Terrier
Alert and athletic, Border Terriers are too busy sniffing, digging, and chasing to be carried. They get bored quickly when held and may try to escape your grasp. These dogs thrive on activity and prefer their paws to stay firmly on the ground.
Dachshund
Dachshunds dislike being carried for both behavioral and physical reasons. Their long backs make improper lifting uncomfortable or risky. They’re bold little dogs who prefer to walk, sniff, and patrol on their own rather than be carried like a fragile object.
Italian Greyhound
Delicate in appearance but surprisingly bold, Italian Greyhounds often dislike being carried unless they initiate it. They prefer to move gracefully on their own and may become tense or anxious when scooped up unexpectedly. These dogs value personal space and a sense of control.
Fox Terrier
Fox Terriers are energetic, fearless, and always on alert. They want to be part of the action—not an observer in your arms. Being carried frustrates them, especially if there’s something exciting going on. They like their freedom and hate being held back.
Brussels Griffon
While affectionate, Brussels Griffons can be finicky about being carried. Some enjoy it occasionally, but many prefer to cuddle on their own terms. When carried without warning, they may wriggle away or grow annoyed. These dogs love attention but value their autonomy too.
Scottish Terrier
Scotties carry themselves with pride and dignity. They’re independent thinkers and usually dislike being carried, especially by unfamiliar people. These little dogs would much rather walk with purpose than be treated like lapdogs. Their small size hides a very strong-willed personality.
- Please Note: This content was created with the assistance of AI and thoroughly edited by a human before publishing.
