TOP 20 smallest dog breeds in the world

When it comes to pets, small dogs have a special charm that many adore. Small in stature, they frequently have large personalities, which makes them excellent companions for both individuals and families. From their affectionate disposition to their playful antics, these small puppies brighten many homes.

We’ll look at the top 20 tiniest dog breeds worldwide in this article. Every breed has distinctive characteristics and eccentricities that demonstrate why dog lovers all over the world adore them. Whether you’re searching for a cuddly lap dog or a travel companion, these breeds might be the best choice for you.

Come explore the fascinating world of small dogs with us as we celebrate their diversity and the happiness they bring to our lives. Let’s find out which small breeds are the best and what characteristics set them apart!

Breed	Average Height (inches)
Chihuahua	6-9
Pomeranian	8-12
Yorkshire Terrier	7-8
Maltese	8-10
Papillon	8-11
Pekingese	6-9
Italian Greyhound	13-15
Toy Poodle	10
Shih Tzu	9-10
Dachshund (Miniature)	5-6
Boston Terrier	10-15
Brussels Griffon	7-12
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	12-13
Miniature Pinscher	10-12
Chinese Crested	11-13
Jack Russell Terrier	10-15
Havanese	8.5-11.5
American Eskimo Dog (Toy)	9-12
Pug	10-14
Norfolk Terrier	9-10

1. Australian Silky Terrier

Qualities: vigilant, quick, loud, and self-assured

Size and cost: from $500; 23–26 cm; 4.5 kg

In the 1930s, the first Silky Terriers were registered. Over time, rat catchers who were born with a hunting instinct have not lost them. Even though they have the potential to be aggressive, puppies will always be submissive and devoted to their parents. Dogs with long hair need to have their hair carefully combed on a daily basis to prevent tangles. Australians are tidy and modest by nature. Kids enjoy taking long walks and playing active games. Due to their propensity for joint disorders, owners should pay close attention to the condition of their pet’s paws.

2. Affenpinscher

Qualities: inquisitive, gregarious, envious, and combative

Size and cost: 3–4 kg, 24-28 cm, starting at $300

In the seventeenth century, Affenpinschers were developed to keep rodents out of barns. The puppies have surprisingly complex personalities. They are intelligent, enviously defend their turf, adore their owner dearly, enjoy traveling, and demand a wide selection of games. Without instruction, Affens become obstinate and unruly as children. It is recommended that breeders assert their authority and confidently guide the animal. Puppies, however, are sensitive to too much strictness and cannot forgive. Shaggy hair requires less maintenance; a short haircut and little personal area are sufficient.

3. Bolognese (French lapdog)

Qualities: initiative, docile, loving, and loyal

Dimensions: 25-30 cm; weight: 2.5-4 kg; starting at $100

Italy is the genuine homeland of the Bolognese people. Poodles are the breed’s primary source of thick curls and gregarious nature. Children can’t handle large loads, but if they don’t get enough sleep, they can destroy the house. Puppy rearing done right makes them shy and serene. They are easy to get along with and interact with around kids. Because they are delicate and sensitive, brusqueness and loneliness deeply distress them. The owners will need to give the curly hair frequent attention. However, there are no health issues with pets because this breed has a robust immune system and a long lifespan.

4. Brussels Griffon

Qualities: alert, curious, well-balanced, and arrogant

Dimensions and cost: 18–20 cm, 3–6 kg, starting at $500

Affenpinscher ancestors of the Brussels breed are astute hunters and rat trappers. Faithful "bearded ones" stay with their breeders, eagerly join their adventures, and need a lot of love. They enjoy being caressed and in close contact with their loved ones, but they are only mildly proud around strangers. Children who are robust and active astound with their agility. They appropriately protect the area and view outsiders with distrust. If a griffon sees a leader in someone, training them is simple. Contrary to popular belief, hard wool requires special attention.

5. Yorkshire Terrier

Personality traits: assertive, erratic, daring, upbeat

Dimensions and cost: 18–20 cm, 2-3 kg, starting at $500

Tiny Englishmen have developed from being elite decorative beauties to peasant assistants. In contrast to popular belief, babies possess courage, energy, and a strong hunting passion. They are not arbitrary. Without an undercoat, wool sheds less and is similar to human hair in terms of allergies. It is simple to train pets to use a litter box, which eliminates the need for regular walks. Care comes with its own set of challenges. To keep their eyes and ears clean, terriers need to have their hair cut on a regular basis.

6. Chinese Crested

Traits: restless, gentle, loving, and selective

Dimensions and cost: 23–33 cm; 2.5–4.5 kg; $200

Chinese nobility’s favorite pets have always been kept indoors. However, "crested" people are not inherently intelligent. Dog aristocrats require a moderate level of training as well. Children need a lot of care, are very gregarious and tactile, and idealize their owners. Warm globs of happiness and vitality value warmth, affection, and care and make their homes cozy. To properly care for your pet, stock up on soft products for their fur and skin, set up a cozy spot, and show consideration for the delicate "Chinese kids."

7. Rabbit dachshund

Features include being upbeat, confident, daring, and stubborn.

Size and cost: from $400, 12–18 cm, 3.5–5 kg

The ancient Egyptians were served by the ancestors of the short-legged, long-eared species. In agricultural Germany during the Middle Ages, the breed evolved into its current form. As devoted hunters and fighting defenders, dachshunds make excellent companions. Puppies are playful, unassuming, and fairly independent. Dogs that are adults need simple care for their delicate ears, teeth, and skin. The dachshund will remain healthy well into old age with a balanced diet and frequent, vigorous walks.

8. Maltese (Maltese lapdog)

Qualities: courageous, perceptive, serene, and creative

Dimensions and cost: 20–25 cm, 3–4 kg, starting at $150

With a long history dating back hundreds of years, lapdogs have always been devoted friends. The Maltese are intelligent, diplomatic, dignified, and reluctant to accept strangers. They have total faith in their owners. They happily obey every member of the family and are affectionate. They love kids and exhibit their best traits when they are being trained. For thorough coat grooming, specialized combs and shampoos are required. An important part of maintaining lapdogs is providing them with proper nutrition, as they frequently struggle with digestion and blood sugar spikes.

9. Pug

Characteristics: endearing, gregarious, submissive, and appropriate for playing with kids

Dimensions and cost: 25–35 cm; 7–11 kg; $200

It is well recognized that canines from ancient China are the most endearing. Imperial pugs are considerate and observant toward humans. Devoted clowns are content to participate in activities, pull their masters during strolls, and are incessantly underfoot. The risk of gaining weight decreases with appropriate exercise. Don’t count on training to go well right away. Although intelligent, pugs would rather be obstinate. Your pet’s eyes and skin folds require special attention. Keep the infant safe from respiratory illnesses and vitamin deficiencies.

10. Norwich Terrier

Qualities: docile, nimble, energetic, and strong-willed

Size and cost: 5–6 kg, 25–33 cm, starting at $400

In the 1960s, Norfolk Terrier descendants from Norwich became their own breed. The enthusiasm and innate adventurous spirit of former hunters have not diminished. Endearing children are gentle with children, tolerant of strangers, and in love with people. Norwich Terriers are true strongmen, even in spite of their small stature. Short-legged puppies are athletic marvels and naughty daredevils. Pet owners will need to adjust to their irrepressible companion’s activities. Members of the breed are resilient, robust, and disease-free. It is sufficient to provide the coat with minimal care, weekly combing, and frequent veterinary visits.

11. Norfolk Terrier

Qualities: resilient, upbeat, accountable, and perceptive

Dimensions and cost: 23–25 cm, 4-6 kg, starting at $1200

Perfect friends, hunters, and protectors all rolled into one. The best choice for novice breeders is a Norfolk. Well-mannered and affectionate puppies get along well with their families, are adaptable to apartment living, and don’t need extra coat maintenance. Pet owners must learn to live with their uncontrollable energy and incessant barking. Long walks are necessary for Norfolks. Allow your pet to run loose in the outdoors; they will be happy to dig holes and chase squirrels.

12. Papillon (Continental Toy Spaniel)

Qualities: loving, loud, friendly, and tactile

Dimensions and cost: 20–28 cm, 3–5 kg, starting at $150

Royalty in the Middle Ages had a fondness for papillons. Adorable "butterflies"—family dogs—enjoy playing in the outdoors or relaxing on their owners’ laps. Throughout the day, the lively disposition of pets keeps both adults and kids from becoming bored. Papillons enjoy the comforts of home and warm company in the evenings. It is advised to comb the wool twice a week, feed babies frequently and in small portions, and keep an eye on their eye health. Phalene is the name of a different breed of "continentals" with hanging ears.

13. Pekingese

Traits: domineering, envious, obstinate, and willful

Size and cost: 3-5.5 kg, 15–25 cm, starting at $400

The tiny "lion cubs" are thought to be related to pugs and shih tzu, and they originate from ancient China. Blue-blooded dogs, pekingese are languid, arrogant, and difficult to approach. Puppies won’t spin around on their hindquarters, beg for attention, or submit to commands quickly. Devotion, bravery, and love for people can only be reawakened in them through a rigorous educational process. A Pekingese will only be faithful to one owner; strangers are not meant to tame him. Because of the way their muzzles are shaped, babies frequently snore and grunt like piglets. Pay attention to the well-being, fur, and mental state of your adorable "lion cub."

14. Pomeranian Spitz (Toy Spitz)

Qualities: brave, watchful, alert, and don’t argue with kids

Dimensions and cost: 18–25 cm, 2-3.5 kg, starting at $750

"Pomeranians" are perpetual pups who remain active and enthusiastic well into old age. Large draft dogs were the ancestors of the toy spitz breed. Babies have retained their suspicion of strangers, resistance to cold and habit of loud barking. Training stubborn dogs should start from the "cradle", the developed intelligence of Spitz in tandem with education will make the puppy an ideal pet. Pomeranians get along well with kids quickly; new family members will be unlucky since the pet will try to gain favor. Owners will need to adjust to regular walks, meticulous coat maintenance, and the fickle health of a Spitz.

15. Prague ratter

Qualities: consoling, modest, grave, and distrustful

Size and cost: $2-2.5 kg, 18-23 cm, starting at $350

Although the breed has been around in Poland and the Czech Republic since the eighth century, official recognition did not come about until the twenty-first century. Miniature rats make excellent athletes, trackers, and students. "Ratliks" have a calm demeanor mixed with a gambling disposition. tend to be superior to other pets. Respect the owner’s personal space while still being open to receiving attention. They will undoubtedly run to play with kids or chase after small animals when out for a walk. Ratliks are well-known for being healthy and unassuming, making them ideal for first-time dog owners.

16. Russian toy

Not fond of noise, fearless, devoted, and upbeat

Size and cost: $200 to 28 cm, 2-3 kg

Adorable and sophisticated, "Muscovites" are modest canines. Puppies also frequently bark loudly and play for extended periods of time in apartments or on the street. It is not necessary to take the toy on daily walks because it readily adapts to the litter box and behaves appropriately inside of four walls. Pets that are fussy or sensitive to loud noises should not be kept around small children. The "Rusichs" are friendly to others. Toys require a lot of maintenance, are prone to illness, and cannot withstand the cold. Hereditary illnesses are more likely to occur.

When it comes to dogs, personality and charm are not determined by size, and the smallest breeds frequently steal the show with their big hearts and silly antics. The top 20 tiniest dog breeds are examined in this article, along with their special characteristics, maintenance requirements, and reasons why they make ideal companions for people who value a small, cuddly pet that fits nicely in your lap or bag.

17. Toy Poodle

Qualities: gregarious, kind, perceptive, and intelligent

Details and cost: 24-28 cm, 2-3 kg, starting at $300

The standard poodle was the ancestor of the miniature breed. Children are not entertained by hunting, but they have excellent security abilities. The toy poodle is quite amiable toward his family members in the house, but he will bark at a stranger who knocks on his door. "Curly" dogs genuinely adore their owners and give their all to training and games. Poodles are known for their high level of intelligence. This breed’s benefits include good health and manners around kids. Babies require frequent feedings, walks, and have a quick metabolism. Although hypoallergenic, the coat needs regular, excellent maintenance.

18. Chihuahua

Qualities: astute, outgoing, energetic, and loyal

Size and cost: 1.5-3 kg, 18-30 cm, starting at $150

Dwarf companions traveled from Mexico to Europe. One theory holds that Indians domesticated the ancestors of the Chihuahua. It is untrue to say that "Mexicans" are a fearless, jovial people; instead, they are evil, capricious, and cowardly dogs. Though they are content to play with other family members, children are loyal to just one person. Sensitive Chihuahuas will gladly answer the call to play and will cheer up a depressed owner. They boldly protect kids and get along well with them. "Mexicans" have long lifespans; given the right care, they can reach 20 years of age.

19. Shih Tzu

Qualities: gregarious, receptive, happy, and kind

Dimensions and cost: 20–30 cm, 4.5–10 kg, starting at $400

The Tibetan breed’s name translates to "beautiful." Rather than being ornamental dogs, Imperial Shih Tzu make devoted family members. Babies that are attached are receptive to new people and love kids. Guys who are attractive and boisterous make poor bodyguards, but they are also true strongmen. Puppies that are tough, energetic, and fun do not run away from their parents. Shih Tzu are sensitive animals that can get upset and experience loneliness-related depression. Puppies enjoy frequent feedings and quick walks. regular brushing, particularly following walks on the street.

How delightful it is to delve into the world of tiny dog breeds! These little friends have a lot of personality for such small packages. There is a small breed to suit every lifestyle, whether you are drawn to them for their loving disposition or their playful antics.

Every breed, from the vivacious Chihuahua to the endearing Pomeranian, has distinctive characteristics. They often need less space than larger dogs because of their small size, which makes them ideal for apartment living. Many of these breeds are brave and self-assured despite their small size.

Recall that selecting a small dog entails taking into account their individual needs. To keep them happy and healthy, regular exercise, good grooming, and socialization are essential. Small dogs can be devoted companions for seniors and singles alike, as well as fantastic family pets.

In the end, the tiniest dog breeds serve as a reminder that love is a universal language. You’ll find a lifelong companion if you’re willing to accept one into your home. Every tiny breed has the capacity to fill your life with happiness, companionship, and boundless love.

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