If you’re a dog lover, you know that dogs come in all shapes and sizes. Some people prefer larger breeds, while others prefer smaller ones.
In this article, we’ll be focusing on the smallest dogs in the world. These dogs are not only adorable but also have some advantages over their larger counterparts. They require less space and exercise, making them perfect for apartment living.
You are reading: The Top 9 Smallest Dogs In The World
So, if you’re looking for a tiny companion to add to your family, keep reading!
The Top 9 Smallest Dogs In The World
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is a toy dog breed that originated in Mexico and is named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua. It is one of the smallest dog breeds recognized by some kennel clubs.
The breed has a distinctive look with a well-rounded, apple-shaped head, a short and pointed muzzle, and large, round eyes that are set well apart. The erect ears are large, and the body is longer than it is tall.
Chihuahuas are usually kept as companion animals or for showing. They are known for their loyalty, playfulness, and adorable appearance.
The breed is available in a variety of colors and markings, and they can be either short or long-haired. Chihuahuas are energetic and need at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. They are good pets for first-time owners and can live up to 20 years.
Dwarf Yorkshire Terrier
The Dwarf Yorkshire Terrier, also known as the Teacup Yorkie, is a miniature version of the Yorkshire Terrier breed. They are also sometimes referred to as Toy Yorkies or Micro Yorkshire Terriers.
These tiny dogs are only about 5 to 7 inches tall and weigh between 2 to 4 pounds. They have a lifespan of around 12 years.
The Teacup Yorkie is not a separate breed from the Yorkshire Terrier but is rather a Yorkie that has been bred from small parents to produce small puppies. They are bold, confident, and mischievous despite their small size.
Teacup Yorkies are energetic dogs that love to play and are extremely affectionate towards their humans.
However, they can be cautious around strangers and may experience separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. It’s important to note that Teacup Yorkies require proper care and attention from their owners to live happy and healthy lives.
Maltese
The Maltese is a toy dog breed that is known for its playful and affectionate personality. They are originally from the Mediterranean and have a long history, with many names given to them throughout the years.
The Maltese is a small, white, long-haired dog with a slightly rounded skull, black nose, drop ears, dark, alert eyes, short, straight legs, and a graceful tail. They are one of the smallest toy breeds, standing about 7-9 inches at the withers and weighing up to 6-8 pounds.
The Maltese is a natural ham with a lively personality and is responsive to his environment. They are affectionate and entertaining companions for people of all ages.
Despite their small size, they are bold and sometimes even irrationally brash toward larger dogs. They tend to be aloof toward strangers but make excellent lapdogs once they have burned off their excess energy. The Maltese is fairly easy to train and is an alert and enthusiastic watchdog. They are good with older children but can be snappish with younger children.
It’s important to note that the Maltese requires proper care and attention from their owners to live happy and healthy lives.
Papillon
The Papillon, also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel, is a breed of dog that belongs to the spaniel type.
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Appearance
– Papillons have a butterfly-like look due to the long and fringed hair on their ears.
– They are small, dainty-looking dogs with a long and silky coat and a tail that is carried over their back.
– They stand about 8-11 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 4-9 pounds.
Temperament
– Papillons are very intelligent and self-assured dogs that have a very easy time learning new tricks.
– They are sociable with children and strangers but are generally reserved around new people.
– They can be socialized to get along well with other pets, but care should be taken with rambunctious pets or cats with claws, as they may injure them.
– If not properly socialized, Papillons can be distrustful and exhibit aggressive tendencies toward other dogs and people.
Care
– Papillons require regular grooming to maintain their long and silky coat.
– They are active little dogs but most of their exercise needs can be met simply with some indoor play.
– Papillons are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues such as patellar luxation, dental problems, and eye problems.
Overall, the Papillon is a beautiful and intelligent breed that makes an excellent companion for those who are willing to give them the attention and care they need.
Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is a small dog breed that is known for its elegant appearance and curly coat.
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Appearance
– Toy Poodles are one of the smallest variations of the Poodle breed, standing at 10 inches or under at the shoulder and weighing between 4-9 pounds.
– They have a slender muzzle, long neck, and a profuse and curly coat that is often styled.
– The coat can come in a variety of colors, including black, white, brown, gray, and apricot.
Temperament
– Toy Poodles are highly intelligent and trainable dogs that enjoy being with people.
– They are playful, self-confident, and agile dogs that excel in a variety of canine sports.
– Toy Poodles are generally good with children and other pets, but all interactions should be supervised due to their small size.
– Without proper socialization and training, Toy Poodles can develop Small Dog Syndrome, which is a human-induced behavior where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans.
Care
– Toy Poodles require regular grooming to maintain their curly coat.
– They are relatively calm dogs but still require daily exercise and playtime with their owners.
– Toy Poodles are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, eye problems, and patellar luxation.
Overall, the Toy Poodle is a smart, playful, and elegant breed that makes an excellent companion for those who are willing to give them the attention and care they need.
Pomeranian
The Pomeranian, also known as the Pom, is a toy breed that originated from the Pomerania region in Europe.
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Appearance
– Pomeranians are small dogs that weigh between 3-7 pounds and stand 6-7 inches tall at the shoulder.
– They have a long, fluffy double coat that comes in many colors, including red, orange, cream, sable, black, brown, and blue.
– Pomeranians have a distinctive neck ruff and a plumed tail that is set high and flat.
Temperament
– Pomeranians are intelligent, lively, and affectionate dogs that are loyal to their loved ones.
– They can be bossy at times and are known for their bold and alert nature.
– Pomeranians are generally good with older and calmer children but may not be suitable for families with young children.
– Without proper training and socialization, Pomeranians can develop Small Dog Syndrome, which is a behavior where the dog believes he is pack leader to humans.
Care
– Pomeranians require regular grooming to maintain their long and fluffy coat.
– They are energetic dogs that require daily exercise and playtime with their owners.
– Pomeranians are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, eye problems, and patellar luxation.
Overall, the Pomeranian is a fun-loving, intelligent, and confident breed that makes an excellent companion for those who are willing to give them the attention and care they need.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is a small dog breed that is known for its long, silky coat, short snout, and large round eyes. They are well known for their playful personality and their calm and friendly temperament.
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Appearance
– Shih Tzus are small dogs that stand no more than 10.5 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 9-16 pounds.
– They have a long, flowing double coat that comes in many colors, including black, white, brown, and gold.
– Shih Tzus have a distinctive head shape, which the Chinese have described as “owl head” and “lion head,” and a mouth that is often referred to as a “frog mouth”.
Temperament
– Shih Tzus are known for their playful personality and their calm and friendly temperament.
– They are highly adaptable dogs that can adjust well to different situations.
– Due to their independent nature, they are not considered the most obedient breed.
– Shih Tzus are generally good with children and other pets, but all interactions should be supervised due to their small size.
Care
– Shih Tzus require regular grooming to maintain their long and silky coat.
– They are relatively calm dogs but still require daily exercise and playtime with their owners.
– Shih Tzus are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, eye problems, and breathing difficulties due to their short snouts.
Overall, the Shih Tzu is a playful, adaptable, and affectionate breed that makes an excellent companion for those who are willing to give them the attention and care they need.
Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a small breed of dog that is known for its fluffy, white coat and cheerful disposition.
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Appearance
– Bichon Frises are small dogs that weigh between 6-18 pounds and stand 9-12 inches tall at the shoulder.
– They have a fluffy, curly, and dense double coat that is always white.
– Bichon Frises have a slightly rounded skull, a short and blunt muzzle, and dark round eyes.
Temperament
– Bichon Frises are friendly, playful, and intelligent dogs that are good with children, other pets, and are relatively easy to train.
– They are known for their love of mischief and their affectionate nature.
– Bichon Frises are generally good with strangers, but they can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
Care
– Bichon Frises require regular grooming to maintain their fluffy and curly coat.
– They are relatively active dogs that require daily exercise and playtime with their owners.
– Bichon Frises are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, eye problems, and skin allergies.
Overall, the Bichon Frise is a cheerful, playful, and affectionate breed that makes an excellent companion for those who are willing to give them the attention and care they need.
Miniature Dachshund
The Miniature Dachshund is a small breed of dog that is characterized by its short legs, long body, and adorable, wrinkled face.
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Appearance
– Miniature Dachshunds are smaller than the standard Dachshund breed, weighing no more than 11 pounds.
– They have elongated bodies, short legs, and floppy ears.
– Miniature Dachshunds come in a range of coat types and colors, including smooth, wirehaired, or longhaired coats, and black and cream, black and tan, blue and tan, chocolate and tan, cream, red, wheaten, wild boar, blue and cream, fawn and tan, fawn and cream, or chocolate and cream with/without brindle, sable, piebald, or dapple.
Temperament
– Miniature Dachshunds are playful and loving dogs that get along well with children and other animals.
– They are fearless and independent, which can sometimes result in stubbornness.
– Miniature Dachshunds are generally spunky and playful, and they make for an alert little watchdog.
Care
– Miniature Dachshunds require regular grooming to maintain their coats.
– They are relatively active dogs that require daily exercise and playtime with their owners.
– Miniature Dachshunds are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, eye problems, and skin allergies.
Overall, the Miniature Dachshund is a fun-loving and loyal companion that makes an excellent family pet.
FAQS
1. What is the smallest dog in the world?
The smallest dog in the world is Milly, a Chihuahua from Puerto Rico, who stands 3.8 inches tall at her shoulders, according to the Guinness Book of World Records.
2. What are the top 9 smallest dogs in the world?
The top 9 smallest dogs in the world are Chihuahua, Dwarf Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Papillon, Toy Poodle, Pomeranian, Shih Tzu, Bichon Frise, and Miniature Dachshund.
3. What are the advantages of owning a small dog?
Smaller dog breeds can have some advantages over larger breeds in terms of popularity and overall convenience. For example, smaller dogs are usually easier to care for, with feeding and veterinary expenses also tending to be cheaper. They also require less space and exercise, making them perfect for apartment living.
4. What are the temperaments of small dogs?
Small dogs can have a range of temperaments, but many are known for being playful, affectionate, and intelligent. They can be good with children and other pets, but all interactions should be supervised due to their small size.
5. What are the health considerations for small dogs?
Small dogs can be prone to certain health issues such as dental problems, eye problems, and joint issues like patellar luxation. It’s important to work with your vet to determine the best feeding plan for your small dog to keep them happy and healthy throughout their lives.
6. How much exercise do small dogs need?
Small dogs still require daily exercise and playtime with their owners, but their exercise needs can usually be met with some indoor play or short walks.
Source: https://petstutorial.com
Category: DOGS
