Humans have evolved to find tiny, small things cute and endearing. But in a world of densely populated cities and limited space, tiny dogs are not just an appealing option for a pet: they're an essential.
If you're considering a pint-sized pooch, you should always do your research – with many tiny 'teacup' dogs in high demand, breeders have sometimes turned to unethical means to make their dogs smaller and smaller. So it's best to choose one of the smaller dog breeds, avoiding the teacup variety, and always buy from a reputable dealer.
From the pint-sized pomeranian to the tiny toy poodle, we've rounded up some of the smallest dog breeds in the world... (but if you're a fan of the larger-than-life alternatives, check out our round-up of the biggest dog breeds.
10 of the world's smallest dogs
1. Chihuahua
In 2023, a chihuahua called Pearl from Florida took over the Guinness World Record from her sister, Miracle Milly, as the world’s shortest living dog. Clocking in at 12.7cm long and 9.14cm tall, she was a hit with the press, thanks to the fact that she was about the same length as a dollar bill and could fit in her owner’s pocket. Although not all chihuahuas are as tiny as Pearl, they remain among the smallest dog breeds in the world – if not the smallest. They are thought to have derived from the Mexican state of Chihuahua in the 19th century. Chihuahuas are loyal, but this tendency can slip over into territorial if not carefully managed. They make an excellent pet dog for small-apartment living.
Chihuahua average size: 5-8 inches tall, weighs 4-6 pounds
2. Havanese
Named after the capital of Cuba, the Havanese breed was originally the lapdog of Cuba’s aristocrats and upper classes. They’re smart, agile and are bouncy and outgoing. This makes them a good option for those dog owners who live in a small house but want a friendly, sociable dog. The Havenese is technically a toy breed, but they’re really smart animals so can be used as assistance dogs. They’re also fairly low maintenance, with silky hair that doesn’t shed significantly and are easy to train. As is the case with most of the other pups on this list, the Havanese is an energetic dog – but probably only needs 30 minutes or so of exercise per day. Be sure to consult our list of the best small dog harnesses before you head off for a walk...
Havanese dog average size: 8.5-11.5 inches tall, weighs 7-13 pounds
3. Toy poodle
Toy poodles were bred from standard and miniature poodles in the early 20th century. As a result, they have the benefit of – like all other poodles – being hypoallergenic. These low-maintenance small companion dogs first appeared in the early 1900s in France and were believed to have roamed the palaces of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. They were also found in travelling circuses, loved by audiences for their adorable small size and also their athleticism and dog agility.
Toy poodle average size: 10 inches tall, weighs 4-6 pounds
4. Rabbit dachshund
The standard dachshund and the miniature dachshund are among the most popular dog breeds. But are you familiar with the kaninchen, or ‘rabbit’ dachshund? In Europe, the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale) added this third size of dachshund, which is smaller than the typical miniature. Just like their larger counterparts, rabbit dachshunds are playful and energetic, recognisable for their smooth, silky coats. The term ‘rabbit’ refers not just to their bunny-like floppy ears – they’re also bouncy, agile and quick, despite their very short legs.
Rabbit dachshund average size: 30cm chest circumference, weighs 7.5-11 pounds
5. Chinese crested
Another toy breed dog, the Chinese crested is a good choice for a first-time dog owner with a small apartment or house. They are hypoallergenic and are low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They come in two types: hairless – with a naked body and fine, fluffy hair on the head, tail and legs – and powder puff, which has a fine overcoat over the entire body. Suffice to say – they're not everyone's favourite, as one of the weirdest-looking dog breeds. Believed to date back to 16th-century China, the Chinese crested is intelligent and is happiest on someone’s lap. It’s worth noting that they are prone to health problems, such as eye and skin conditions, but they’re loyal companions and thrive on human company.
Chinese crested average size: 11-13 inches tall, weighs 8-12 pounds
6. Papillon
Dylan the Belgian papillon won Best in Show at Crufts in 2019, which helped elevate the status of the elegant papillon breed in the UK and around Europe. The name ‘papillon’ comes from its origins in France and Belgium, and translates as ‘butterfly’ – but in Europe it’s also known as the ‘dwarf spaniel’. The butterfly name reflects its feathered ears which resembles the shape of a butterfly. The papillon is a breed of toy dog that is believed to have featured in paintings by the Old Masters in the 16th century, when it was admired by the European nobility. They are a very obedient small dog breed with a unique look, making them a popular entry in dog shows. The papillon is best suited to warmer climes, due to its single coat of hair.
Papillon average size: 8-11 inches tall, weighs 5-10 pounds
7. Brussels griffon
Unlike many of the other small dogs featured here, the Brussels griffon has a smooth or wiry coat – but is best recognised for its distinctive beard. From certain angles they have a look of a pug to them, but with more hair. They’re study alert watchdogs, but can be also be sensitive, so might not be best suited to families with children. As is the case for many of the other tiny dogs listed here, the Brussels griffon originates from Belgium and was first loved by aristocrats as a lap dog. You might be thinking it looks a little like an Ewok – and you’d be right! George Lucas’s Brussels griffon inspired the appearance of the Ewoks in Star Wars.
Brussels griffon average size: 7-10 inches, weighs 8-10 pounds
8. Pomeranian
Queen Elizabeth II was famed for her love of corgis, but Queen Victoria had a penchant for an even smaller dog: the Pomeranian. It is said that at one time she had 35 pomeranians in her royal kennels. Thanks to her influence, they soon became among the most popular and fashionable toy breeds of dog. These small dogs are loyal to their owners and are the smallest of the spitz breeds – but their enthusiasm can be unbridled if not kept in eyesight! They have been known to challenge bigger dogs and escape from back gardens, so it’s worth keeping that in mind when considering a Pom. If you're struggling, our dog walking guide has plenty of tips to help your dog behave while you're out and about.
Although Pomeranians are still among the smallest dog breeds in the world, this surprisingly wasn’t always the case. Early records show that Pomeranians once weighed around 30 pounds, which is 10 times more than they can weigh today!
Pomeranian average size: 6-7 inches tall, 3-7 pounds
9. Affenpinscher
Originally bred to kill rats and mice in stables, the small dog breed Affenpinscher translates to ‘ape terrier’ or ‘monkey dog’ in German. Since then, they’ve earned their place as a cosy companion in the home as well. Like other terriers, the Affenpinscher is lively and playful but can be a little yappy if not well trained. Its wiry hair frames a monkey-like expression, where the breed’s name originates. Affenpinschers are a great choice for those looking for a lively and playful pet that doesn’t need huge amounts of space, but they can be stubborn and territorial so may not be best suited for families with small children.
Affenpinscher average size: 9.5-11 inches tall, weighs 7-10 pounds
10. Maltese
The Maltese is an ancient dog from the ‘bichon’ family, originating from the Mediterranean island of Malta. They have long been a common household dog, thanks to their small size and affectionate temperament. Their white, silky coat doesn’t shed, which makes them hypoallergenic, but it is worth bearing in mind that they will require regular grooming.
Maltese average size: 9-10 inches tall, weighs 4-6 pounds
- Weirdest (yet wonderful) looking dog breeds
- The rarest dog breeds
- Gifts for dog lovers to give furry friends
What is the smallest dog breed in the UK?
The chihuahua is the smallest breed of dog in the UK recognised by The Kennel Club. It is also the smallest breed in the world.
