You come to visit your friend’s new puppy, but you aren’t sure of the breed. You are sitting on the couch when a flash of hair dashes by your feet. You think, “Oh, what a cute guinea pig! I’ll just keep waiting until I see the puppy.”
It dawns on you that it was not a hamster, but a real puppy! Your friend has a new small-breed puppy from Pawrade that just arrived, and he’s so tiny! It makes you wonder what other tiny dog breeds rival the size of other small pets like gerbils, hamsters, and more.
Meet Some of the World’s Smallest Dog Breeds
Small dog breeds tend to share a few characteristics in common even though the individual breeds can be very different. First, they tend to live well over a decade, making them some of the longest-living dog breeds. Second, they’re usually a great choice for people living in smaller spaces like condos and apartments. Next, some of them tend to be suitable for first-time dog owners and are low maintenance, requiring just up to 30 min. of exercise a day. In addition, many of these dog breeds have feisty, bold personalities and don’t know they’re big dogs trapped in such tiny bodies! Lastly, they’re portable pets, and many have a temperament perfect for emotional support dogs.
While not a comprehensive list, we’ll highlight some of the world’s smallest dog breeds to introduce you to these diminutive, delightful puppies. See if any of these tiny dog breeds appeal to you, and let us know how we can help you snuggle with one of these little guys every day!
Affenpinscher, 7-10 lbs.
Affenpinschers may not be one of the more popular dog breeds, but their adorable, funny faces have given them the nicknames “mustached little devil,” “ape terriers,” and “monkey dogs.” Many people even swear they look like a cross between Wookiees and Ewoks from Star Wars! Affenpinschers have human-like personalities and are loyal, affectionate puppies. These sturdy yet tiny puppies can command a room despite their small size. They’re bold, feisty, and courageous, often amusing owners with their shenanigans. Without proper training, Affenpinschers can own you rather than the other way around!
Biewer Terrier, 4-8 lbs.
Biewer Terriers (pronounced “beaver” terriers) are a new addition to the AKC joining in 2021. These small, endearing Terriers are devoted to their families and love to play. Their long, silky coats come in various tri-color patterns and require lots of care to look good and stay healthy. With their child-like attitudes, Biewer Terriers are curious and eager to investigate new things in their world. They may be confused with a Yorkshire Terrier, but they are a distinct breed. Biewer Terrier puppies are happiest with owners who will provide plenty of lively exercise and mental stimulation opportunities to keep their problem-solving abilities sharp.
Brussels Griffon, 8-10 lbs.
Brussels Griffon puppies originally hail from Belgium dating back centuries as a favorite of royalty and nobility. Like an Affenpinscher, Brussels Griffons look like Ewoks and provided inspiration for the forest-dwelling characters. Their fringed little beards and whiskers even show up in old Belgian folk songs. Brussels Griffons think very highly of themselves, making for some hilarious mishaps and amusing owners with their self-assured air. Living with a Brussels Griffon puppy is like having a shadow, as they crave human companionship. Brussels Griffon puppies have a cheerful temperament despite their grumpy-looking faces.
Chinese Crested, 8-12 lbs.
Often described as having “only a face a mother could love” and looking like a“hybrid between a rat and a dog,” Chinese Crested dogs have a unique appearance that is sure to turn heads. They come in both hairless and a haired variety with tufts of hair on their heads and are one of a few dogs that sunburn. Chinese Cresteds often win titles at the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest annually due to their rather interesting looks. Despite their name, the Chinese Crested is actually native to Mexico, brought over by traders from China, and developed on the streets and in local villages. These puppies are playful and devoted to their families, and owners enjoy dressing them up to keep their thin skin warm.
Chihuahua, Up to 6 lbs.
A spunky, confident Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. They have delicate bodies and large, bat-like ears, but their sassy yet sweet personalities make them a favorite for families who want a tiny, spitfire companion. Chihuahua puppies have long or short hair and apple-shaped or deer-shaped heads, all under the same breed standard. From small apartments to large homes, Chihuahuas fit in any living situation, literally. Chihuahuas make wonderful lapdogs and are extremely loyal companions. They are very adaptable and make great pets; however, supervise them around children due to a Chihuahua’s small size and feisty, bold temperament.
Coton de Tulear, 8-15 lbs.
Coton de Tulear puppies are fluffy white dogs with a coat that feels like cotton balls. They are native to Madagascar and were used as rat catchers on merchants’ ships, but eventually, they made their way into the hearts of nobility. While not as common as other white-haired dogs, these bright, lively dogs have a happy-go-lucky attitude owners cherish. Coton de Tulear puppies form strong bonds with their families and make excellent lap dogs due to their cuddly nature. However, they do not make great watchdogs because they’d rather lick robbers than alert you to a stranger as they make friends with everyone!
Havanese, 7-13 lbs.
Havanese puppies, also called Havana Silk Dogs or Spanish Silk Poodles, are a lively small breed known for their cheerful personality and luxurious coats. These lovable little charmers steal hearts with their vivacious personalities, infectious enthusiasm, and cuddly good looks. Havanese love learning new tricks and make quite the little performers. Thanks to their gentle and empathetic nature, Havanese make fantastic emotional support dogs. From Cuban aristocrats to your home, the playful, mischievous Havanese will make owners smile. Havanese dogs are a great choice for first-time and experienced dog owners. They are smart, outgoing, and cheerful, and their low maintenance status makes them suitable for different living situations.
Italian Greyhound, 7-14 lbs.
Italian Greyhound puppies, also called Iggys, are a unique and endearing breed with a rich history, delicate physique, and a gentle disposition. Their combination of elegance and athleticism, along with their affectionate nature, make them popular pets for those looking for a companion dog. Italian Greyhounds are perfect dogs for a variety of living situations and are good for first-time owners. Italian Greyhounds are often called “Velcro” dogs because they love being right beside their owners and should not be left alone for long periods. Iggys have a high prey drive and can jump high, so use a leash while outside.
Japanese Chin, 7-11 lbs.
Japanese Chin puppies are sensitive, playful small dogs hailing from the royal courts of China and Japan and once traveled the Silk Road Only royalty could own them, and eunuchs used to dote on them and were considered valuable treasures. Today, owners still love to pamper their Japanese Chins which carry an air of elegance and have a cat-like demeanor. A Japanese Chin puppy makes a funny sneeze-like noise called a “snizzle.” They do well with owners ready to devote their attention to this noble, charming canine companion. Japanese Chins do well with other dogs and are extremely affectionate with their families.
Maltese, Up to 7 lbs.
A Maltese puppy is a small, elegant toy dog breed known for its long, silky white coat and lively personality. Originating in the Mediterranean, Maltese were one of the first dogs to be bred specifically for companionship instead of having another purpose. Maltese puppies are affectionate and friendly and often form strong bonds with their owners. Their size, low-to-no-shedding hair, friendly nature, and adaptability to various living situations make a Maltese dog a great choice for different living situations and first-time dog owners. Their affectionate nature means they get along with children who know how to treat them safely. Maltese learn quickly and are easy to train and even used to entertain crowds with their amazing tricks.
Miniature Dachshund, Less than 11 lbs.
Also known as a Doxie, a sausage dog, a wiener dog, a weenie, a badger dog, a low rider, or a hot dog, the curious, spunky, and affectionate Mini Dachshund is one of the most recognizable canines in the world thanks to its long, short body. Mini Dachshunds are comical, friendly, and curious, making them a popular indoor companion. Mini Dachshunds have three types of coats: Smooth or Short-haired, Wire-haired, and Long-haired. Mini Dachshunds, Tweenie Dachshunds, and Dachshunds are all the same breed but come in different sizes determined by the size of the puppy at one year old. Due to their watchful nature, socialize them early and train them to not bark, as they tend to bark a lot due to their watchdog instincts. Mini Dachshund puppies are excellent playmates for children and are popular family dogs.
Miniature Pinscher, 8-10 lbs.
Miniature Pinscher puppies are known as “Min Pins” and the "King of Toys" thanks to their “pupularity” with the working class and aristocracy alike in their native Germany. They prance around in a lively manner, giving them an air of confidence and a funny sense of importance despite their small size. Their inflated attitudes and curiosity often get them into silly situations, and owners like to laugh at their shenanigans. Miniature Pinschers are lovely-dovey with their family, make great playmates for older children, and are excellent watchdogs. With its high intelligence and energy levels, this lively toy breed can sometimes be stubborn but is always a delight to be around.
Papillon, 5-10 lbs.
Papillon puppies got their name from the French word for “butterfly,” a fitting name since they are so lively and love to give snuggles to everyone around. The most distinguishing part of their appearance is their giant fringed ears that stand upright on their tiny heads reminiscent of butterfly wings. Their fine, straight silky coats can be kept long or trimmed to an easy-to-care-for length. Papillons are great for first-time dog owners because they are playful, portable, and match many lifestyles. Papillons are incredibly intelligent and excel in obedience and agility trials. They were even circus performers in traveling shows and are now cherished household companions.
Pomeranian, 3-7 lbs.
The Pomeranian, also called a Pom or Pom-Pom, is a proud, active little toy dog. Pomeranian puppies are intelligent, eager to learn, curious, and very loyal to their owners. Pomeranians are typically very playful and love to be the center of attention. Their liveliness and spirit make Pomeranians well-liked by people who do not usually care for toy dogs. Pomeranian puppies can make great pets for families but may not be the best choice for those who have small children. As one of the most independent of the toy breeds, it needs a firm, gentle hand when training.
Shih Tzu, 9-16 lbs.
A Shih Tzu puppy is a perky, happy toy breed that is a joy to be around! They have large eyes, short snouts, and silky hair considered hypoallergenic. Shih Tzus are known for their funny, confident attitudes as well as their loyal dispositions. Shih Tzus can change colors from puppyhood to adulthood based on several factors. Shih Tzus are adaptable to any lifestyle and make great companions for first-time dog owners, individuals, and families with children. They do well in apartment living and are relatively quiet. Shih Tzus are friendly with strangers and get along well with other pets.
Toy Poodle, 4-6 lbs.
People might assume Toy Poodle puppies are a frou-frou breed with their elaborate haircuts and air of importance, but don’t let looks fool you. The Toy Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds in the world, and intelligence comes naturally to this tiny dog. Often used as therapy and emotional support dogs, owners swear they can read and understand human emotions. Toy Poodles are also extremely athletic and love to swim as a nod to their duck-hunting origin. They excel in agility competitions and love being active with their families.
Yorkshire Terrier, Up to 7 lbs.
The Yorkshire Terrier, also called a Yorkie or a “Tomboy Toy,” is one of the smallest toy breeds known for its stunning long, silky coat, portable nature, and feisty, smart personality. Yorkie puppies tend to bark frequently and make effective (although tiny) watchdogs. While Yorkies are lively playmates and can match kids’ energy, supervise them around children due to their small size so they don’t get hurt. One famous Yorkie named Smoky the Yorkshire Terrier was a hero in World War II, squeezing through pipes where humans could not fit to carry vital messages to protect a crucial taxiway.
Adopt a Tiny Pawrade Puppy
At Pawrade, we may offer tiny puppies for sale, but we’re big on customer service and partnering with trustworthy breeders. Our seamless, fraud-free adoption process makes finding your perfect furry friend a breeze. We’re here for you, from the smallest of questions to the biggest of smiles!
