There exists a vast diversity in dog breed sizes.
From palm-sized pets to dogs as tall as an average adult human, the choices are endless.
Are you curious about the smallest dog breeds in existence?
Read on to find out the best ones in this category.
While some dogs are almost as big as you are, some are so tiny that they can fit into your coat pockets. If you are living in cramped up apartment spaces, getting a small-sized dog home is a good idea. This article explores the smallest dog breeds in the world.
Affenpinscher is a small yet courageous breed. Hailing from Germany, this little dog was bred to battle rats in homes, stables, and shops.
Popularly known as Monkey Dog, the Affenpinscher is a good watchdog. This breed is agile, smart, and attentive.
Height and Weight
Average height: 9 – 11.5 inches
Average weight: 7 – 10 lbs
Fun-loving and affectionate Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed.
They are intelligent, quick learners, and active. These tiny dogs make great family pets and watchdogs.
Chihuahuas originated in Mexico around the 19th century. Interestingly, a Chihuahua called Miracle Milly holds the record of the smallest dog in history. Milly was 3.8 inches tall and weighed close to one pound.
Height and Weight
Average height: 5 – 8 inches
Average weight: 4 – 6 lbs
Slender and elegant, Chinese Crested can be found in two variants. One has a little bit of hair on its head, tail, and feet.
The other kind, popularly known as a Powderpuff, has puff coats.
These hypoallergenic dogs are a friendly and outgoing breed.
Recognized by the AKC in 1991, the Chinese Crested is a relatively new breed. The ancestors of this breed were lapdogs.
Height and Weight
Average height: 11 – 13 inches
Average weight: 8 – 12 lbs
The Shih Tzu or the Shih Tzu Kou is a breed hailing from Tibet. This Asian toy dog is hypoallergenic with an attractive growing coat, round eyes, and a curly tail. Shih Tzus have an amicable and watchful demeanor.
A Shih Tzu is an easy-going dog with minimal exercise requirements.
In recent years, the breed has become popular in dog sport events, rallies, and agility competitions.
Height and Weight
Average height: 9 – 10.5 inches
Average weight: 9 – 16 lbs
With immense historical significance, Pugs were first bred as companion dogs in China by the Shang Dynasty in 300 BC.
They were much larger in size and were later bred in the Netherlands as tinier pets.
This playful and sociable canine gained popularity in the 19th century as dogs of Queen Victoria.
Pugs are charming and make intelligent watchdogs.
With adequate training and socialization, the breed mingles healthily with other animals and fellow humans.
Height and Weight
Average height: 10 – 13 inches
Average weight: 14 – 18 lbs
Similar to the Pug, Pomeranians were initially a sizable breed. Their ancestors were sled dogs.
Pomeranians possess commendable alertness and curiosity. Although small in size, you should not underestimate the might of this breed.
You will notice Pomeranians in a variety of coat colors like red, orange, white or cream, blue, brown, or black.
Height and Weight
Average height: 5 – 8 inches
Average weight: 4 – 6 lbs
Maltese were mentioned in Roman and Greek literature. The breed was originally bred in South-Central Europe. It has a striking resemblance to modern-day Pomeranians.
Gentle and fearless, this dog is a quick learner, especially when enticed with treats.
Height and Weight
Average height: 8 – 10 inches
Average weight: 5 – 7 lbs
The final entry on this list of the smallest dog breeds is the national animal of Cuba. Havanese arrived in the United States amidst the Cuban revolution and piqued several American breeders.
Recognized by the AKC in 1996, the breed is also famous as the Havana Silk Dog.
This toy breed has a wide range of skill sets and complies with various forms of training. Havanese dogs prove to be useful in aiding therapy and assisting the disabled.
They are popular in dog sports and circus events.
Height and Weight
Average height: 8.5 – 12.5 inches
Average weight: 7 – 13 lbs
The smallest dog breeds make exceptional pets. Their affectionate nature and playfulness make them extremely loveable. There are many advantages of having small dog breeds as pets.
They are very easy to travel with and need less grooming. Most of your guests will feel at ease around them. We hope this article will help you bring home the best small breed.
Check out the Top 8 Friendliest Dog Breeds.
Meet Paul, a devoted dog dad to the delightful French Bulldog, Cofi. With a flair for humor and a deep understanding of Frenchie quirks, Paul brings a lighthearted touch to his writings. His relatable stories and practical insights are a blend of laughter and valuable advice and resonate with fellow dog owners.
Through his words, Paul aims to celebrate the joys and challenges of being a dedicated pet parent, reminding you that life is simply better with a four-legged, snorting sidekick by your side.
