If you've got a small space, you can still have a smart, affectionate pet with one of the smallest dog breeds.
Small dogs make great family additions, affectionate lap buddies, and all around companions. They don't let their small size stop them from expressing their big personalities, and they can do almost anything a big dog can do. They love to go on adventures, run around at the dog park, and make new friends.
The best part is they're small enough to fit comfortably in your lap for maximum cuddles. Here are some of the world's smallest dog breeds that would look great by your side.
Smallest Dog Breeds
1. Pomeranian
When it comes to toy dog breeds of the world, Pomeranians are among the most elite. Loyal and smart, Poms pack their often large personalities into a tiny package — Pomeranians weight between three and seven pounds, perfect sidekicks for dog owners who like having their travel buddy close by!
2. Maltese
The long hair of the Maltese is hard to miss. Standing around nine inches tall and weighing under seven pounds, the American Kennel Club describes the Maltese aesthetic as one that "depicts free-flowing elegance and balance." As of 2020, the Maltese claimed top honors five times in the Toy Group (also includes Pugs and Chinese Crested dogs, among others) of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
3. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is often called the "monkey dog" or "ape terrier" for its uniquely good looks — For Star Wars fans, they could pass as miniature Wookies or Ewoks. Affenpinschers are willful dogs that behave more like children than canines, but they're deeply loyal and affectionate. An average Affenpinscher weighs 6-13 pounds.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
With their shoulders no higher than seven inches off the ground, Yorkshire Terriers are little dogs with big personalities. Commonly called Yorkies, these little pups are overflowing with energy. This small breed loves to run and play, but their little legs tire quickly.
Their silky coats require regular grooming, and their glamorous good looks are always drawing attention. Most Yorkies weigh less than seven pounds.
5. Brussels Griffon
Ranked as the 98th most popular dog breed by the AKC, you may have never heard of this pint-sized pup. The Brussels Griffon is a German dog breed with a terrier-like disposition.
They're small, but they make fearsome watch dogs and love learning new tricks. Most Brussels Griffons range between 8 and 12 pounds.
6. Chihuahua
These famous dogs come in nine different colors and are known for their large, pointy ears and big, dewy eyes. They're enthusiastic little lap dogs that don't realize how small they actually are. A Chihuahua is never one to cower from a bully or turn down a new adventure.
Even the biggest Chihuahuas usually don't weigh more than six pounds.
7. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are ideal family dogs and great companions. These pooches won't be taller than about 10 inches and typically weigh between 4 and 6 pounds. Though the smallest of poodles compared to their Standard or Miniature counterparts, these are some of the best dogs for anyone searching for a smart, compact poodle.
8. Papillon
Standing just shy of a foot tall, the Papillon is often called the butterfly dog for its wide, pointy ears. They have big brains inside tiny bodies and are listed among some of the smartest dog breeds in the world.
They excel in both obedience training and agility trials, and training them is easy and enjoyable. Even with that impressive temporal lobe, Papillons only weigh between 8 and 11 pounds.
9. Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier is a miniature version of larger fox terriers, and they're often seen showing off their lively personalities in the center ring at the circus. They're easy to train, and though small, they're very mighty. These athletic little dogs love going on walks and runs that will take them as far as their short little legs will go. On average, they weight between 3.5 and 9 pounds.
10. Russian Toy
The Russian Toy is one of the smallest dog breeds on the list. Weighing in at a mere 3-6 pounds, these tiny dogs were originally bred to fight rats. They bring a whole new meaning to the phrase "pick on someone your own size."
There are both long and short haired Russian Toy varieties, and they stand between 8 and 10 inches tall.
Some other small dog breeds that are honorable mentions, but no less adorable include: Boston Terriers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, the Bichon Frise, the Japanese Chin, French Bulldogs, Shih Tzus, Jack Russell Terriers, and so many more. Really any toy breed is just too adorable to manage.
If you're looking for a new canine companion but can't handle the size of some of the more popular breeds, these tiny dog breeds are a great option. They're fun, affectionate, and full of personality. Adopt one or adopt them all, sometimes mixed breeds are the best breeds—you won't regret the time you spend with your miniature new best friend.
Do you live with a small yet mighty dog? Show them off at our Wide Open Pets Facebook page!
