The 18 smallest dog breeds in the world

Small Dog Breeds: A Comprehensive Guide

It's hard to believe that a Great Dane and English Mastiff belong to the same animal species as a Chihuahua and Maltese. The world is full of a great variety of dog breeds, and some people prefer the smallest ones.

Small breeds tend to live longer because they age more slowly than larger ones. For instance, a Chihuahua can live up to 20 years in some cases. They also have a faster metabolism, meaning they need a higher intake of calories and protein in their diet. However, it's important to monitor their food intake to avoid obesity.

Small dog breeds can be a good option for those who need to transport their dogs frequently. However, it's a common misconception that small dogs are more suitable for living in small spaces. Many small breeds can be very active and require plenty of exercise.

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Breed Profiles

Chihuahua

Considered the smallest dog in the world, the largest Chihuahuas can reach 9 inches and weigh up to 6.5 lb. They are sociable, affectionate, and protective.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are known for their cute faces and long, silky, shiny fur. They can reach 9 inches and 6.5 lb, and their life expectancy ranges between 12 and 16 years. They are hypoallergenic and hardly shed hair around the house.

Maltese

Also known as Bichon Maltes, these dogs are very attentive and observant, making them alert and intelligent. They are between 8 and 10 inches tall and weigh no more than 9 lb.

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Bichon Frise

Very similar to the Maltese, the Bichon Frisé differs in that it has curly fur. It is also slightly larger than the Maltese.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus can reach up to 10 inches tall and weigh up to 17.5 pounds. They enjoy a quiet home environment and are not overly playful. They usually need frequent visits to the groomer.

Pekingese

This Chinese breed measures between 6 and 10 inches in height and can weigh up to 17 lb due to their muscular bodies.

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Pomeranian

Pomeranians have abundant fur but are lightweight, not exceeding 8 lb. Their height is not greater than 9 inches.

Papillon

The Papillon breed is beloved for its good character. It usually measures between 8 and 11 inches and normally does not weigh more than 11 or 13 lb.

Miniature Pinscher

These dogs are curious, energetic, and good guards. They weigh a maximum of 6.5 pounds and stand between 10 to 12 inches tall. Their life expectancy is between 12 and 16 years.

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Toy Fox Terrier

This breed is the result of crossing the Fox Terrier with other smaller breeds. They are intelligent, active dogs and great companions. Its weight does not exceed 13 lb and its height is between 10 and 11 in.

Dachshund

Dachshunds are one of the most recognizable small breeds. Their size usually ranges between 6.5 and 10 inches in height at the withers, and the weight does not exceed 17.5 lb.

Miniature Poodle

The Miniature Poodle usually measures at most 11 in and weighs around 9 or 11 lb.

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Australian Silky Terrier

The Australian Silky Terrier is often confused with the Yorkshire Terrier. They weigh no more than 11 pounds and are very dynamic, they love to play and walk.

Griffon Bruxellois

Sociable and curious, they like to explore and be alert to everything around them. Their size is usually between 7 and 11 inches, with a weight between 5.5 and 11 lb.

Prague Mouse

Very similar to the Miniature Pinscher and the Chihuahua, the Prague Mouse usually weighs between 3.5 and 7.5 lb and never measures more than 9 in.

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Japanese Chin

One of the oldest dog breeds, they have a friendly nature and a happy demeanor. Their height ranges from 7 to 11 inches, with a weight that ranges between 4.5 and 15.5 pounds.

Pug

Pugs are very loved and appreciated dogs for their peculiar appearance and their docile and gentle character. Their height at the withers ranges from 10 to 14 inches. Their appearance is solid and muscular with a weight that ranges between 11 and 28.5 pounds.

Jack Russell Terrier

Descendant of hunters, the Jack Russell Terrier is energetic, playful and with a great character. They measure between 10.5 and 14 inches and weigh between 11 and 15 lb.

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If you're thinking about adding a furry friend to your family but don’t know what breed suits you best, talk to one of our pet experts and get customized advice by submitting a request in our web application.