Small dogs win people’s hearts every day. Those little furballs are impossible to dislike. You can take them everywhere, put them in a bag, and most importantly, they don’t need a lot of space. Have you ever wondered what the smallest dog in the world looks like?
Many people think that their dog should carry the title of the smallest dog in the world, but there is a certain criterion. The dog needs to be older than a year, then stop growing, in order to enter the selection for the smallest dog in the world.
The Smallest Dog In The World
In 2013, the Guinness Book of Records announced that the Chihuahua Milly is officially the smallest dog in the world. Milly is only 3.8 inches tall and is the shortest dog in the world. She is incredibly miniature, looks like a newborn puppy, and is 10 years old.
Milly lives in Puerto Rico with her owners, Vanessa Semler and Edwin Davila. They say it wasn’t easy for the first 6 months, they had to feed her using a dropper and because of her small weight, they weren’t sure if she would survive. Her mouth was so small she couldn’t breastfeed and she could fit in a teaspoon. It now has about 1 pound and can literally fit in your pocket.
What’s even more interesting is that Milly loves to pose when she sees the cameras around her. Her owner says that whenever she takes a picture, Milly sticks out her tongue. When they are out with her she is a real sensation because you can not see often a dog like her.
About Chihuahuas
The Chihuahua is a type of extremely small dog. However, don’t let their size fool you because they have a big personality. As for the color of the hair, they can be black, brown, beige, or with spots. Their coat can be long or smooth. Chihuahua stand at 5 to 8 inches tall and weigh around 6 pounds.
Chihuahuas love spending time with people and cuddling. This breed is careful with strangers, so draw the attention of new people in the environment to slowly get to know your pet. They are great family dogs and do not require too much care. They require a minimum of grooming and exercise.
In terms of health, they are considered a healthy dog breed. However they can get Collapsed Trachea, Hypoglycemia and Heart Murmur.
Smallest dog breeds in the world
While the Chihuahua is famous for being so small, they aren’t the only tiny dog breed in the world! There are actually a lot more. So if you want a petite little pup but aren’t such a big fan of the Chi, don’t despair, because there are plenty of other breeds that you can choose from. So let’s take a quick little overview on the smallest dog breeds in the world.
Maltese (8-10 inches, 5-7 lbs)
Although Maltese dogs have been around for a long time, nothing is known about their beginnings. In their writings, the ancient Romans and Greeks both mentioned the Maltese Dog. Although it is thought that the Maltese dog receives its name from the Mediterranean island of Malta, there is little to no evidence to back this up, hence the breed’s origins are unknown. However, there is substantial evidence that the Maltese descended from spitz-type dogs in south-central Europe and resembled the modern-day Pomeranian.
The Maltese has a long coat and the most trendy haircuts of any dog breed. Owners of this petite breed prefer hairstyles including the standard cut, show cut, bob cut, puppy clip, and teddy bear cut.
Yorkshire Terrier (7-8 inches, 5-7 lbs)
The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the smallest terrier-type dogs and is hypoallergenic. A maximum weight of 7 lbs is the breed standard. Despite the fact that Yorkies are a small breed, they have numerous Terrier features. It’s in their blood to be brave, feisty and dominating.
The Teacup Yorkie is a Yorkshire Terrier that has been purposely bred to be small. Teacup Yorkies are small dogs that weigh two to four pounds and reach five to seven inches tall. A Teacup Yorkie is easy to spot when compared to the usual Yorkie’s size – yet they can also attain weights of up to seven pounds while remaining at their modest height.
Toy Poodle (9-10 inches, 4-6 lbs)
The Toy Poodle is the tiniest of the Poodle breeds. They, like other Poodles, are hypoallergenic and have similar traits.
While this is France’s National dog, the Poodle actually originated from Germany. Toy Poodles initially arrived in France in the early 1900s. Many Poodles were used in circuses, and a smaller Poodle than the Miniature Poodle was preferred since it was easier to transport and handle. Toy Poodles became highly popular companion dogs outside of the circus as well.
Although they are not as swift or nimble as the Standard or Miniature Poodle, they are excellent water retrievers, and their trainability allows them to perform more difficult duties.
Pug (10-13 inches, 14-18 lbs)
Pugs have been companion dogs for nearly two thousand years, since they were first bred as lap dogs by the Shang Dynasty around 300 BC. But they weren’t always as small as we know them now. After Pugs were transported from China to the Netherlands, the breeder purposefully bred them to be smaller.
Queen Victoria helped the Pug acquire popularity in the nineteenth century. She had a litter of Pug puppies that she had bred herself. The Kennel Club was founded in 1873 as a result of Queen Victoria’s involvement with dogs. It is widely regarded as the world’s first kennel club.
The Pug is described by the Kennel Club as “a lot of dog in a small frame,” emphasizing its playful and friendly personality. Pugs are recommended by the American Kennel Club (AKC) for persons who live in compact spaces, such as apartments, or who have small children.
Pekingese (6-9 inches, 7-14 lbs)
The Pekingese is a sweet and intelligent toy breed, yet it can be stubborn and difficult to teach.
Harsh training methods do not work well with them, but early and persistent training can help them accomplish tasks on demand. The Pekingese is a sociable dog with his family, but he has a tendency to bark at outsiders, making him an excellent watchdog. Pekingese are known as lion dogs, just like Shih Tzu. The Japanese Chin and other small dog breeds that were popular at the period are thought to have influenced the development of the breed.
Pomeranian (5-8 inches, 4-6 lbs)
Pomeranians weren’t always this little, did you know? The breed’s early records reveal an average weight of 30 pounds, which is ten times more than the breed’s current average weight! Pomeranians have evolved from a medium-sized breed to a little companion dog as a result of years of breeding.
Poms have a lot of characteristics that you’d expect to see in a companion dog. They crave attention, are affectionate, and form close ties with their human companions.
Papillon (8-11 inches, 5-10 lbs)
The Papillon, sometimes known as the butterfly dog because of its ears, is a highly trainable companion dog.
Paintings are used to teach a lot about Papillion’s past. Tiziano Vicelli (Titian) painted numerous of the companion dogs that existed in the mid-1500s, including little dogs that looked like Papillons. A Papillon can also be seen in a portrait of Louis XIV’s family. The breed’s early standards included a curled tail over the back, earning it the moniker ‘Squirrel Spaniel.’
Papillons, despite their small stature, are a breed that can truly stand out in dog shows. They are simple to teach and become adept at accomplishing practically any task assigned to them by their owners. Papillons get along well with other pets and strangers thanks to their strong energy and amiable personalities.
Shih Tzu (9-10 inches, 9-16 lbs)
With a long straight coat and curving tail, the Shih Tzu is a widely prized Asian toy breed. They are sociable, alert, and knowledgeable. In addition, the breed is hypoallergenic. Shih Tzu, also known as Shih Tzu Kou, or Lion Dog in Chinese, are friendly house dogs who enjoy spending time with their human friends but are prone to clinginess.
This Toy Group member is not only good-natured and kind, but also extremely adaptive. They’re equally at home in city apartments as they are on a country farm. They get along with other animals and enjoy being around children. Despite being a tough dog, the Shih Tzu’s tiny stature puts them at a disadvantage. Adults should always watch interactions between children and dogs, which is especially important for Shih Tzus, to ensure that they do not be injured accidently during rough play.
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Havanese (8-12 inches, 7-13 lbs)
The Havanese, Cuba’s National dog, is a small breed descended from the now-extinct Bichon Tenerife and Blanquito de la Habana (which translates as the little white dog of Havana).
The Havanese, sometimes known as the Havana Silk Dog, is a bichon-type dog. During the Cuban Revolution, the breed first arrived in the United States, and American breeders began to develop an interest in the Havanese. In 1996, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the Havanese breed.
Despite their status as a toy breed, Havanese dogs may perform a wide range of jobs, including therapy, support, and signaling, as well as tracking and detection. They’re quick and agile, and their trainability qualifies them for dog sports like obedience and flyball.
Brussels Griffon (7-10 inches, 8-10 lbs)
The Brussel Griffons have a beard that resembles that of a Pug, but they have a completely different attitude. This little breed, known in Europe as the Griffon Bruxellois, has many of the attributes of a companion dog. They have a higher level of alertness than other companion dogs. Brussel Griffons are ideal watchdogs since they are shy around strangers and distrustful of people at first, but they get along with other dogs and pets.
This one-of-a-kind breed is not for everyone. The Griffon requires an owner who prefers a dog that is close to them rather than self-sufficient. Griffons are like children who never grow up and leave for college, therefore empty nesters are typically ideal. Of course, this personality trait isn’t for everyone. Griffons demand a lot of time and attention from their owners, and they can live to be 14 or 15 years old.
Affenpinscher (9 -11 inches, 7-10 lbs)
The Affenpinscher is one of the Pinscher breeds, and its terrier-like appearance earned it the nickname Monkey Terrier. Affenpinschers, despite their little size, have a very adventurous and curious attitude.
Affenpinschers were created in Germany as house pets. They are stubborn and self-reliant by nature. Obedience training is strongly advised because they lack the motivation to respond to commands like a working dog would.
The Affenpinscher is a small dog Breed of German origins.
Smallest crossbreeds in the world
Maybe these purebred dogs aren’t exactly what you are looking for? Well, in that case, we have some amazing news for you! There are plenty of different crossbreeds that are not only tiny but also adorable! Crossbreeds are, as the name says, the product of crossing two or more dog breeds. Many dog breeds are crossed with small canines two get the best of both worlds, an even-tempered and sweet pet in a tiny and compact body.
Dorkie (5-9 inches, 5-12 lbs)
Dorkies are a mix of Miniature Dachshunds and Yorkshire Terriers. The most common color combination is black and tan, although it can also be chocolate and tan, fawn and tan, or gray and tan. They come in a variety of colors, including dapple, brindle, piebald, and sable.
Because both lines of their family are hunters, you can expect this designer dog to have strong prey instincts. Many owners claim to be attached to a single person. They are frequently wary of small children. Because this dog is prone to intervertebral disk illness, try to restrict the amount of jumping he does.
Chiweenie (5-9 inches, 6-11 lbs)
Chiweenies are small dogs with incredibly big personalities. They are a hybrid dog that combines the genes of a Chihuahua with the genes of a Dachshund. Although they’re best suited to tiny or single-person households, and they have a tendency to be yappy, these beautiful pups are wonderful apartment pets for energetic people.
This breed produces excellent watchdogs, but they are difficult to train. Although these dogs don’t have a strong prey drive, they will bark to notify you to any changes in your surroundings. While this designer dog breed may have been accidentally bred much earlier, it was only in the 1990s that breeders began purposefully breeding these dogs.
Chorkie (6-9 inches, 4-8 lbs)
The Chorkie is a hybrid between a Yorkshire terrier and a Chihuahua. Another popular name you may know them by is Yorkiechi. With this crossbreed, any color combination is possible, but due to their Yorkshire ancestry, the most have a shabby appearance.
Many Chorkie owners describe their dogs as outgoing, amusing, humorous, and devoted companions—to the point where they may display hostility toward others. In public settings, keep them on a leash at all times.
If left alone for long periods of time, the Chorkie, like both parent dogs, may experience separation anxiety. This can be aided by having other pets in the house with them.
Maltichon (6-12 inches, 6-12 lbs)
A Maltichon could be the perfect companion dog for you if you’re seeking for a gorgeous, affectionate, and hypoallergenic canine. These Maltese and Bichon Frise mixes are wonderful tiny dogs with a calm and sweet temperament who like being with their owners.
Maltichon puppies are low-maintenance canines with a high level of intelligence and trainability. Because Maltese and Bichon Frise dogs are so similar, it doesn’t really matter which breed your Maltichon puppy takes more after.
This makes Maltichon dogs excellent companions, and their size and appearance remain rather constant. They’re also relatively healthy and live for long periods of time. Even better, they’re low-energy, which makes them ideal for city and apartment dwellers.
Malshi (9-11 inches, 6-12 lbs)
The Maltese and Shih Tzu, two popular small dog breeds with lively personalities, are combined in the Malshi crossbreed. The Maltese are a bit more vivacious and sound-oriented. Shih Tzus are more laid-back and quiet than other breeds.
Both parent breeds are hypoallergenic, which means they are unlikely to cause allergic responses in people. When choosing a breed to welcome home, owners who suffer from allergies can choose this cross without any hesitation.
These canines are ideal therapy or emotional support animals due to their temperament and size. Even if they get along with everyone, they are affectionate, perceptive, intelligent, loyal, and connected to their owners, and will develop a special bond for their “one” person.
Broodle Griffon (6-11 inches, 6-12 lbs)
The Broodle Griffon is a rare breed, but those who are fortunate enough to possess one adore them. The tenacious breed is a cross between the AKC Toy Brussels Griffon and the Miniature Poodle. The GriffenPoo, Griffon Doodle, and Brus-a-poo are all popular names for this breed.
While practically everyone knows what a Poodle is, many people may not know what a Brussels Griffon is. They are a puppy that resembles an unkempt Pug or Bulldog. They are a petite breed with an overbite and huge eyes peering out from a wiry fur coat.
You get a dog breed that is the best of both worlds when you combine the joyful Brussels and the smart Mini Poodle. Broodle Griffons are usually well-behaved and like being part of a human pack. They have a strong desire to please others and are hence quite simple to train.
Conclusion: Which small dog is right for me?
We can’t give you a definite answer to this question. That is something only you and your family can decide. Sure, there are plenty of options, but not every single one of them will be a good option for you.
Not all dogs are made equal, and certain breeds are more suited to your home than others. Once you’ve decided on the breeds you want, the first thing you need do is do some research on their care requirements, temperament, and potential health issues.
Don’t get too scared when reading about potential health issues, your dog may never experience any of them. While it’s good to know what they are, don’t let them put you off from getting the dog breed you want. While these health issues can be used as a pointer for what might happen in the future, your dog could also stay completely healthy. But even if he doesn’t, you’ll be alright as long as you’re financially and emotionally prepared to deal with illness. Many health diagnoses aren’t in any way death sentences.
When you decide which small dog breed you want, start looking for breeders in your area. The American Kennel Club gives a plethora of information on various breeds as well as a list of places to look for a trustworthy breeder. But you can also start visiting your local dog shelters and see if they have any tiny canines that are looking for you to be their owner.