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The 15 Smallest Dog Breeds in Existence

Written by: Scott H
Scott Haiduc is the Director of Publishing for iHeartDogs, iHeartCats and The Hero Company. When not working, Scott spends his time on the farm, taking care of his animals and crops.Read more
| Published on August 5, 2014

Did you know the smallest dog in existence only stands 4 inches tall? Her name is Milly and she’s the cutest little Chihuahua ever!

Is your pup tiny like Milly? If so, you know the joys of raising a small dog. Every day is a close-to-the-floor adventure and though their bodies may be little, their hearts are gigantic!

And aside from being just absolutely adorable, small dogs are great at being family companions and snuggle buddies. They’re easy to care for, easy to travel with, and tons of fun! It might seem like our little friends can’t boast adventurous personalities like their larger cousins, but they can! Little hounds enjoy getting out and being active with their owners just as much as any other dog – they’re still canines, after all! So if you’re looking for a tiny breed to add to your family, take a look at these little breeds!

The Smallest Dog Breeds in Existence 

#1 – Affenpinscher

affenpinscher small smallest dog breed
Gareth Roberts/Flickr

This German breed dates back to the 17th century and was used to exterminate vermin from kitchens, stables, and other environments. Weighing around 6-13lbs, the Affenpinscher maintains a terrier-like stubborn attitude with a love for activity and adventure.

#2 – Bolognese

small fluffy dog breed bolognese
@bella.bolognese/Instagram

A beautiful fluff, the Bolognese tips the scales with average weights of 5-9lbs, making them one of the smallest dog breeds. Cuddly, calm, and cute, these little lovelies love their people, but tend be shy with strangers.

#3 – Boston Terrier

smallest dogs boston terrier
@bologna_hawk/Instagram

Known as the “American Gentleman,” the Boston Terrier may be a little, but he’s big on heart. To be a highly affectionate dog, look out, these little ones can be stubborn too! Though they like their way, the Boston has gentle personality that makes them ideal family dogs.

#4 – Brussels Griffon

smallest dogs brussels griffon small breed

These lively dogs come from Brussels, Belgium, and make up for in heart what they lack physical size. Bred to eliminate rodents, these little hunters can be vocal if they feel something unordinary is happening. Brussels Griffons weigh an average of 8-10lbs.

The Brussels Griffon loves to love their families. In fact, they make the list of The 10 Dog Breeds That Give The Most Affection.

#5 – Chihuahua

small tiny breeds chihuahua
@miraclemilly_official/Instagram

These tiny Mexican dogs weigh an average of 4-6lbs. But Chihuahua Milly, seen above, barely tips the scales at 1 pound! Although their history is not fully understood, it is speculated that paintings found in Mexico dating back to 300 BC are of ancestors of the modern-day Chihuahua.

#6 – Chinese Crested Dog

chinese crested smallest dog breeds

This unique-looking hairless dog makes the list as one of the smallest dogs, reaching average weights of only 5-12 pounds. A lively dog, the Chinese Crested is an affectionate playmate the AKC describes as a minimal shedder with no “doggy odor.”

 #7 – Italian Greyhound

smallest dogs italian greyhound breed

The best friend you’ll ever know, the Italian Greyhound is not only an ideal companion but also serves as a great watchdog. Iggys are intelligent dogs who need lots of play and exercise. Though a bit stubborn, these sleek hounds love to snuggle.

#8 – Japanese Chin

small dog tiny japanese chin breed

A teacup pup originating as a lap dog for Japanese royalty, it’s no wonder this breed was kept small. Weighing an average of 7-9lbs, the Japanese Chin has maintained its intelligent, cat-like temperament that’s so endearing for a small companion dog.

Interested in dog breeds that get along with cats? Check out The 12 Best Dog Breeds For People Who Love Cats.

#9 – Maltese

smallest dog breeds maltese

An excellent purse dog, weighing only 2-8lbs, these tiny dogs make wonderful family companions. They have been selectively bred to maintain their diminutive size for many years. In fact, enthusiasts in the 17th and 18th centuries decided to make this cutie even smaller than it was then!

#10 – Papillon

smallest dogs papillon

Papillons are known for their large, butterfly-shaped ears, as their name suggests. These tiny dogs have been depicted in paintings as far back as the 1500s. Since they weigh an average of 8-10lbs, it’s no wonder they were seen as lap dogs then as well!

Love holding a pup in your lap? Have a look at The 10 Best Lap Dog Breeds.

#11 – Pomeranian

 

small dog pomeranian pom dog breed

Pomeranians resemble tiny lions, and they have huge personalities to match their looks. Weighing around 4-8lbs, they rank as one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They are lively floofs that enjoy spending time with their families and have enough energy to keep up with your exercise routine.

#12 – Russian Toy

small dogs smallest breed russian toy

This tiny Russian breed weighs an average of 3-6lbs. There are both short-coated and long-coated varieties, but both are equally tiny, standing between 8-10 inches tall. Originally bred to fight rats, they are vocal pups that have a lot of personality!

#13 – Toy Fox Terrier

smallest dogs toy fox breed
Ltshears/Wikimedia Commons

Although they only weigh around 3.5-9lbs, these little terriers are extremely athletic and are always ready to go. They originate from the larger fox terriers, and were often used in circuses due to their lively nature and easy trainability.

Did you know the Toy Fox Terrier is one of the 12 Dog Breeds That Are Extra-Faithful?

#14 – Toy Poodle

smallest dogstoy poodle

Teeny tiny at only 4-6 lbs., the Toy Poodle is the curliest cutie and the smallest dog of the Poodle family. They tend to love everyone, even the cat! Toy Poodles are family dogs with low exercise needs and a calm temperament.

#15 – Yorkshire Terrier

smallest dogs yorkshire terrier yorkie breed

 

Although they originated as a hunting dog, the Yorkie has become one of the most popular companions in the United States. Weighing around 7lbs, it’s no wonder this feisty little thing has captured the hearts of many who enjoy taking their furry family everywhere with them. Nearly pocket-sized, there’s always room for a Yorkie!

These are the smallest dogs, now what about the big ones? Check out 8 Of The Largest Dog Breeds.

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