Big benefits come with adopting small breed dogs. For instance, their downright adorable size allows for easy dog-friendly outings and lots of lap time (if they wish). Not to mention, they take up less space translating to easier care. And though little, they are fierce!
Wondering claims the crown for smallest dog breed in the doggie kingdom? Read on for the tiniest, most devoted canine companions you’ll ever encounter.
The 5 Smallest Dog Breeds
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas take the title for the smallest dog breed in the world, weighing anywhere from 2 to 6 pounds and standing just 6 to 9 inches tall. “Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are known for their big personalities and can be quite feisty,” says Joanne McHardy of Logan Whistles, a family-run business that has designed and made sheepdog-style whistles for decades. Originally bred for companionship, it’s easy to see why these pint-sized pups are so popular.
See our list of the top 7 Chihuahua mixes
2. Pomeranian
One could easily mistake Pomeranians for little lions with their fluffy manes, red-orange fur and plumed tails. Beloved for their larger-than-life personalities, Pomeranians jump in as the smallest of the Spitz dog breeds, typically weighing 3 to 7 pounds and growing to 6 to 7 inches tall. Joanne describes Poms as “intelligent, playful and lively,” and it’s no wonder why royalty and celebrities love this teeny-tiny breed.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Recognized as one of the most widely-loved breeds, the small but mighty Yorkshire Terrier radiates confidence and spunk. Yorkies weigh just 4 to 7 pounds and are 6 to 7 inches tall. And though they’re small in stature, they’re known for being energetic, affectionate and protective, Joanne says. With an affinity for sitting on laps, it’s hard to believe these compact canines were initially bred to hunt rats.
4. Papillon
The Papillon exudes elegance, from her appearance down to her very name, the French word for “butterfly” because her ears resemble butterfly wings. These dainty dogs usually weigh 5 to 10 pounds and stand 8 to 11 inches tall. Joanne says, Papillons are friendly, intelligent and highly trainable and considers them to be suitable for apartment living since they’re highly adaptable; that is, as long as they’re getting enough attention and exercise.
5. Toy Poodle
When you think “toy breed,” the Toy Poodle instantly comes to mind. These miniature-sized Poodles resemble tiny balls of fluff with their curly, low-allergen coats, usually weighing 6 to 9 pounds with a height of 10 inches or less. Toy Poodles may be small in size, but they’re just as intelligent, active and affectionate as Standard Poodles and Miniature Poodles. Joanne considers them to be extremely trainable and likely to excel in obedience and agility competitions.
Although they’re smaller and lower maintenance compared to bigger breeds, they still require your utmost care. Since no dog is the same, consider their unique personalities and needs when it comes to exercise and grooming.
