The 10 Smallest Dog Breeds in the World

Affenpinscher

Height: from 25 cm (10 in) Weight: 4–6 kg (9–13 lbs) The Affenpinscher likely originates from southern Germany. In the Middle Ages, Pinschers and Schnauzers were the constant companions of travelling merchants. As a result, they are used to physical demands. They learned to guard the merchants' goods at night, making them experienced and loyal watchdogs. Due to their high intelligence, they get bored quickly and need constant variety. Thanks to their well-trained endurance, they also need plenty of exercise despite their small size.

Russkiy Toy

Height: from 20 cm (8 in) Weight: 2.5–3 kg (5.5–6.5 lbs)

"Toy" in the breed name is fitting, because this bright and lively little dog looks like a cuddly toy. Its character matches its name too. It is always affectionate, playful, and hardly ever prone to fear or aggression. This makes it the ideal playmate for small children and people who like to take their little friend everywhere.

Shih Tzu

Height: from 20 cm (8 in) Weight: 4–7 kg (9–15 lbs) The Shih Tzu was bred in the monasteries of Tibet. The monks wanted a dog with the appearance of a small lion. According to legend, the enlightened Buddha had a dog as a companion that could transform into a lion. The Shih Tzu knows how magnificent it is and therefore loves to be the centre of attention. It has a cheerful and playful nature that drives it to spend lots of time with its family.

Maltese

Height: from 20 cm (8 in) Weight: 3–4 kg (6.5–9 lbs) The Maltese is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence. Its lineage stretches back four thousand years to ancient Egypt. Today it is often dismissed as a lap dog, but this energetic dog has much more to offer than its cute appearance might suggest. Maltese dogs are loving companions that still radiate the dignity of the ancient pharaohs. Despite this, they are very easy to keep.

Papillon

Height: 20–28 cm (8–11 in) Weight: 3–4.5 kg (6.5–10 lbs) A small, delicate dog with large, erect ears that resemble the wings of a butterfly. The Papillon belongs to the Spaniel group, specifically the Continental Toy Spaniels, and is known for its large, butterfly-shaped ears — hence the name Papillon (French for butterfly). The Papillon is one of the oldest toy breeds and originally comes from France and Belgium. Its friendly and alert character makes it a perfect companion for active people. Despite its small size, the Papillon loves exercise and mental challenges. Thanks to its intelligence, it is easy to train and even excels at dog sports like agility.

Pekingese

Height: from 20 cm (8 in) Weight: 5–5.4 kg (11–12 lbs) The Pekingese has its roots in China. Only members of the Chinese imperial family were allowed to own a Pekingese. This is why the breed is also sometimes called the Peking Palace Dog. Today, the Pekingese is still very popular thanks to its long coat and lion-like mane. With its clever and lovable nature, the Pekingese charms everyone within seconds.

Pomeranian

Height: from 18 cm (7 in) Weight: 2–3.5 kg (4.5–7.5 lbs) There are many different spitz-type breeds, but none has such an astonishing appearance as the Pomeranian. Thanks to its velvety soft and dense coat, Pomeranian puppies can easily be mistaken for a ball of wool. Fully grown, they look like a small, fluffy fox. This breed is very sociable, alert, and well-suited for first-time owners. However, regular coat care is essential, as they tend to shed quite a lot.

Brussels Griffon

Height: from 18 cm (7 in) Weight: 2.5–5.5 kg (5.5–12 lbs) These tiny wire-haired dogs were popular in the Brussels area for a long time. The Brussels Griffon is a tiny, scruffy, and pleasant companion. As a family dog, it is perfectly suited thanks to its gentle and lively nature. It also gets used to other dogs quickly and gets along well with them. First-time owners will find this breed particularly easy thanks to its uncomplicated and trusting character.

Yorkshire Terrier

Height: from 18 cm (7 in) Weight: 2.4–3.2 kg (5–7 lbs) The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the smallest dog breeds. With a height from just 18 cm, it is a true miniature. But its appearance can be deceiving — the Yorkie makes up for what it lacks in size with great courage and self-confidence. This adorable little dog is recognised by the FCI and classified in the toy dog group. As its name suggests, the Yorkshire Terrier has its roots in Scotland and northern England.

Chihuahua

Height: from 15 cm (6 in) Weight: 2–3 kg (4.5–6.5 lbs) Exactly how the Chihuahua breed was developed by the indigenous peoples of Mexico remains a legendary mystery. The breed has always been popular in this region and is considered a national symbol of Mexico. The Chihuahua may be small enough to claim the top spot on our list, but its temperament is anything but tiny. These adorable pocket-sized dogs are very alert, curious, and among the oldest breeds in the Americas. They are quite affectionate and now enjoy great popularity worldwide.

Bonus: Miracle Milly

Height: 9.65 cm (3.8 in) Weight: 0.5 kg (1 lb) Miracle Milly was the smallest dog in the world from 2014 to 2018. This tiny Chihuahua is also the reason her breed claims first place on our top 10. Milly weighed just 28.3 grams at birth and as a puppy could fit in a teaspoon. She lives in San Juan, Puerto Rico, with her owner Vanessa Semmler. Vanessa says that little Milly has an impressive personality.

Conclusion

Now you know the 10 smallest dog breeds. Although they may not look like it, these dogs have a proud history, big hearts, and plenty of character. Despite their tiny size, they would stand up to any danger to protect their owners.