After receiving more than 900 entries, we’re delighted to reveal the winners of our 2019 Small Breed Photo Contest. We want to thank the hundreds of Wellness fans who shared their photos — each submission made us smile, laugh, and appreciate the personalities of these small dogs. Below, meet the pups behind the winning images and read the heartwarming, funny, and memorable moments their owners shared.
WINNER!
Chihuahua, “Chi” — Age 4
Photo location: Uptown Charlotte, NC
Favorite Wellness food/treat: Grain-free lamb and salmon soft treats
Nicknames: Chi, Blue Boy
Funniest or naughtiest moment: One day I walked into the kitchen and found that he had opened the drawers and used them like stairs to climb up onto the counter. He stood there looking so proud — like he’d just completed a major achievement!
Best memory: The first day I met him. He was two years old and his family needed to rehome him because of their work schedules. I met them at a park and as soon as I saw how confident he was — especially when he did his happy dance for treats — I knew he was meant to be mine.
Why small-breed ownership is great: You get a big-dog personality in a compact, travel-friendly package. They’re cuddle-ready and fit perfectly on your lap for snuggles.
FIRST RUNNER UP!
Charlie, Schnoodle — Age 3
Social handle: @sweetbabycharlie
Photo location: Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn, NY
Favorite Wellness food/treat: Soft WellBites in turkey and duck
Nicknames: Bear, Boo, Charles, Chuckles (and many more)
Funniest or naughtiest moment: As a puppy she investigated the lilies in our apartment. I stepped away for only a few seconds, and when I returned her face was bright yellow from pollen. It took days for the color to fade — and it was impossible not to laugh.
Best memory: Bringing her home for the first time. She instantly filled our lives with joy and continues to brighten every day.
Why small-breed ownership is great: Her small size means I can take her everywhere — she’s a constant companion.
SECOND RUNNER UP!
Odin, Yorkshire Terrier — Age 2
Photo location: At home
Favorite Wellness food/treat: Pure Rewards chicken and lamb jerky bites
Nicknames: Odie, Stinky
Funniest or naughtiest moment: He once stood on our living room bench, looked out the window, and let out a fart so loud he scared himself. He looked around completely baffled — it was hilarious.
Best memory: Seeing my wife’s reaction the day we picked him up. She had a Yorkie while living at home, but couldn’t bring him when she moved. Bringing Odin home and watching her smile and cry made that day unforgettable.
Why small-breed ownership is great: They’re easy to travel with and seem to pack huge personalities into a small body. Cleanup is simpler, and they fit comfortably into our lives and routines.
HONORABLE MENTION!
Smokey, Shih Tzu/Poodle mix — Age 12
Social handle: @smokeandsade
Photo location: Lower Calf Creek Falls, Utah
Favorite Wellness food/treat: Lamb and apple WellBars
Nicknames: Smokey, Smokes
Funniest or naughtiest moment: He learned to open a cabinet, pulled out all the treat bags, and began helping himself. I caught him before he overindulged — but it was too funny to be mad about.
Best memory: We’ve had so many adventures since rescuing Smokey seven years ago. The best memories are always our trips and new experiences together: we’ve traveled to 35 states and lived in four. He’s been the perfect sidekick.
Why small-breed ownership is great: Smokey is always up for hiking, swimming, or kayaking — but he’s equally content to cuddle. His small size makes traveling with him easy; sometimes he even naps in my backpack when he gets tired.
Franklin, French Bulldog — Age 3
Social handle: @the_dapper_frenchie
Photo location: Skinner Bark Park, Chicago, IL
Nicknames: Little Man, Squirt
Funniest or naughtiest moment: While playing in a wading pool at the dog park, a huge Great Dane charged over and started splashing. Frank puffed out his chest, let out a mighty Frenchie war cry, and the Dane sprinted away — proof that size isn’t everything.
Best memory: Bringing him home for the first time — he weighed only three pounds and was the tiniest, sweetest companion.
Why small-breed ownership is great: They’re perfect for snuggles and can go almost anywhere with you, making them ideal companions for people who love to bring their dogs along.
We loved seeing how these small-breed dogs bring joy, adventure, and personality into their families’ lives. Follow Wellness on Facebook and Instagram for more small-breed stories, photos, and highlights from our Small Breed Takeover, where we celebrated these charming dogs and the special bond they share with their owners.