Despite what many of the movies would have us think, dinosaurs weren’t always huge and scary creatures. These animals walked the earth for between 165 and 180 million years, meaning they came in all shapes and sizes - and some were pretty cute. Let’s explore some of the more adorable dinosaurs that roamed the planet. 

1. Yi Qi

Yi Qi (pronounced ‘ee chee’) was about the size of a pigeon and lived in the mid-Jurassic period, about 159 million years ago. It looked a bit like a bat but also had feathers and is thought to have been a glider rather than being capable of full flight. Very little is known about it, but we can imagine it making a good companion to have perched on your shoulder.

2. Psittacosaurus

Psittacosaurus is widely considered to be one of the cutest dinosaurs, having many of the physical features we associate with cuteness today. This creature was roughly the size of an English Bulldog and had large eyes, chubby cheeks and short, stubby legs. It was also a herbivore, so you wouldn’t have to worry about going after your other pets.
 

3. Sinosauropteryx

If your idea of cuteness requires a fluffy coat, Sinosauropteryx fits the bill.  Measuring about a metre in length, including its tail, this dino was covered in tiny, hair-like feathers, giving it a fluffy appearance. It would probably be quite pleasing to stroke - as long as it didn’t nip your fingers!
 

4. Mei long

Mei long (meaning ‘sleeping dragon’) is another pint-size dinosaur covered in feathers. It’s thought to have been about the size of a duck, and was found sleeping with its head tucked under its forearm like a bird. It was possibly warm blooded, which means it might have made a good companion to have curled up at the end of your bed at night.

5. Limusaurus

When it reached adulthood, this slender dinosaur from the Late Jurassic era was about the height of a person. What made it cute was that it had large eyes and no teeth - a bit like Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon. Strangely, the babies had teeth but lost them as they matured.
 

6. Microraptor

Microraptor was one of the smallest dinosaurs and boasted four wings - one on each limb. These bird-like creatures were about the size of a crow and probably just as intelligent. That means they may have been smart enough to recognise and remember your face, and even bring you little gifts in payment for kindness. 

Searching ‘dinosaur event near me’ this summer? Don’t miss Dinosaur World Live, a dinosaur experience aimed at families. This spectacular stage show uses stunning puppetry to introduce you to some of the most exciting dinosaurs ever to have lived, from the tiny Microraptor to the fearsome T. rex. It’s stomping its way to BEAM in Hertford from 14 - 16 July 2026, then to the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre from 28 July to 6 September 2026. Get your tickets today and join the fun at this award-winning dinosaur family show.