Small dogs have always charmed people with their portable size and big personalities. From lap dogs that were once companions of royalty to energetic little breeds that never seem to tire, tiny dogs come in many shapes and temperaments.
While their size makes them appealing, each breed has its own quirks and care needs that potential owners should know.
This article is for general information only and is based on details from reliable online sources. Individual dog behaviour, health, and temperament can vary.
1. Chihuahua
Standing at just 6-9 inches tall, Chihuahuas pack enormous personality into their tiny frames. These pint-sized pups often believe they’re much larger than reality suggests, fearlessly confronting dogs triple their size.
Despite weighing only 2-6 pounds, they’re incredibly loyal companions with lifespans reaching 14-16 years. Their minimal exercise needs make them perfect for apartment living, though their stubborn streak requires consistent, gentle training.
2. Pomeranian
Descended from large Arctic sled dogs, Pomeranians underwent a dramatic size reduction while retaining their thick double coats. Queen Victoria’s love for these furballs sparked their worldwide popularity in the 19th century.
Weighing just 3-7 pounds, these animated companions demand attention with their fox-like faces and vibrant personalities. Their intelligence shines through during training sessions, though their luxurious coats require regular brushing to prevent matting.
3. Yorkshire Terrier
Don’t let those silky locks fool you. Yorkies began as fierce ratters in Victorian-era textile mills. These glamorous little dogs combine surprising courage with elegant appearance, typically weighing under 7 pounds.
Their human-like hair (not fur) grows continuously and requires regular maintenance or stylish trims. Behind those adorable topknots lies a clever mind that thrives on learning tricks and receiving adoration from their favorite humans.
4. Papillon
Named for their distinctive butterfly-shaped ears (“papillon” means butterfly in French), these elegant little dogs have graced royal portraits for centuries. Marie Antoinette reportedly clutched her beloved Papillon en route to the guillotine.
Weighing 5-10 pounds, they’re surprisingly athletic and excel in canine sports. Their remarkable intelligence places them among the top ten smartest dog breeds, making them quick learners who thrive on mental challenges and affectionate interaction.
5. Maltese
Aristotle mentioned these snowy-white companions in his writings around 370 BCE, making them one of the oldest toy breeds. Their floor-length silky coats historically symbolized wealth and leisure, as only the privileged could maintain such pristine pups.
Weighing 4-7 pounds, Maltese dogs form intensely devoted bonds with their humans. Their playful antics contrast charmingly with their dignified appearance, though their delicate build requires gentle handling, especially around boisterous children.
6. Toy Poodle
Forget those fancy haircuts. Toy Poodles were originally working water retrievers. Bred down from Standard Poodles, these 4-6 pound geniuses consistently rank among the most intelligent dog breeds.
Their hypoallergenic curly coats benefit allergy sufferers but require professional grooming every 4-6 weeks. Beneath those sophisticated exteriors lie sensitive souls who form deep bonds with their families and often live 14-18 years, making them lifelong companions for devoted owners.
7. Shih Tzu
Buddhist monks in Tibet gifted these “little lion dogs” to Chinese emperors who treasured them as living hot water bottles during chilly palace nights. Their name actually means ‘lion dog’ in Mandarin, reflecting their regal manes and proud bearing.
Weighing 9-16 pounds, Shih Tzus were bred specifically for companionship rather than working roles. Their friendly disposition makes them excellent therapy dogs, while their distinctive underbite and prominent eyes give them an endearingly human-like expression.
8. Japanese Chin
Often called “cat-like” for their tendency to perch on high furniture and groom themselves meticulously, Japanese Chins were treasured gifts among Asian nobility. These 7-11 pound companions have distinctive flat faces with large, wide-set eyes that seem to look directly into your soul.
Their asymmetrical facial markings are considered highly desirable. Indoor-oriented and sensitive to temperature extremes, these quiet companions excel at reading human emotions and adjusting their behavior accordingly, perfect for those seeking an intuitive pet.
9. Brussels Griffon
With their almost human expressions and prominent beards, Brussels Griffons look like tiny wizards contemplating the universe. These 8-10 pound characters starred in the movie ‘As Good As It Gets’ alongside Jack Nicholson.
Originally bred to hunt rats in Belgian stables, they developed sturdy bodies and outsized personalities. Their sensitive nature means they form intense bonds with owners, often following them from room to room like furry shadows, while their expressive eyebrows communicate a range of emotions.
10. Italian Greyhound
Archaeological digs have uncovered Italian Greyhound remains in tombs dating back 2,000 years, these elegant pups were ancient celebrities. Despite their delicate appearance, they can reach speeds of 25 mph in short bursts.
Weighing just 7-14 pounds, these graceful companions have minimal body fat, making them sensitive to cold. Their affectionate nature often manifests as burrowing under blankets for warmth and comfort, creating adorable ‘dog nests’ throughout your home.
11. Pekingese
According to Chinese legend, Pekingese originated when Buddha shrunk a lion to dog size. These 7-14 pound royals were so revered in ancient China that stealing one was punishable by death.
Their distinctive rolling gait results from slightly bowed legs and a lion-like mane. Despite their small stature, Pekingese carry themselves with remarkable dignity and independence, often appearing aloof with strangers while maintaining fierce loyalty to their chosen human companions.
12. Bichon Frise
Sailing as companions aboard Mediterranean trading vessels, Bichons charmed their way into ports across Europe. Their name combines “bichonner” (French for ‘pamper’) with “frise” (curly), perfectly describing these cotton-ball canines.
Weighing 7-12 pounds, they became circus performers during the Renaissance due to their intelligence and trainability. Their hypoallergenic coats grow continuously rather than shed, requiring regular grooming to maintain that signature fluffy appearance that makes them resemble animated stuffed animals.
13. Dachshund (Miniature)
Their nickname “wiener dog” hardly does justice to these determined hunters bred to pursue badgers underground, “Dachs” means badger and ‘hund’ means dog in German. Miniature versions weigh under 11 pounds but maintain the standard Dachshund’s courage.
Their distinctive elongated bodies and short legs enable them to navigate tunnels efficiently. Despite their hunting heritage, these clever companions adapt well to family life, though their stubborn streak and prey drive means reliable recall training requires patience and consistent positive reinforcement.
