If you’re a fan of the world’s smallest dog breeds, then you’ll enjoy PupVine’s ultimate list of 52 pooches that can fit inside your bag!
They’re all small pups with big personalities, charming looks, and an overall easy-going temperament that suits everyone.
From little Chis, to unusual Pumi dogs – we’ve got them all!
Come check out these small paws with a huge pawsonality!
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are the first thing that we all think of when someone mentions the smallest dog breeds. And, we have every right to do so. Chihuahuas are so small, with only five to eight inches at the withers, and around six pounds.
But, their small body is the exact opposite of their big personality. Chihuahuas are sassy pooches with an attitude you can’t ignore. However, Chis are not aggressive if trained properly.
What’s so special about Chihuahuas is that they’re one of the most loyal dog breeds in the world. They are fearless, and won’t hesitate to fight bigger dog breeds if they have to.
Thanks to their long lifespan, you will enjoy many years with your Chi.
If you like the regular Chihuahua, just imagine how tiny and sweet a teacup Chihuahua is!
2. Maltese
They don’t come only in white. Maltese pups can also fashion other coat colors. But, one thing remains the same: their incredibly pawsitive energy and overall easy-going temperament.
Both Maltese boys and girls are good family dogs, with some differences.
Despite their good nature, Maltese pups aren’t as popular in the States as they are in Europe. Still, we have some pretty great Maltese breeders here.
3. Pomeranian
Pomeranians (or Poms) are the ultimate fluffy pooches with incredibly photogenic skills. They’re so small and sweet that you can easily mistake them for plush toys. A teacup Pom is like a little, cuddly teddy bear. All you want to do with one of the smallest dog breeds in the world is to cuddle it.
Oh, well… Poms are born to be cuddled, spoiled, and loved. They’re companion dogs ready to cheer you up no matter what. With their permanent grin, Poms are a ray of sunshine even in the darkest times.
What’s so amazing about Poms is that they’re all wonderful pets. I see no difference between male vs female Poms in terms of companionship. One thing is certain: no matter which Pomeranian you adopt, you will get a friend for life.
4. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier (or Yorkie) is one of the most popular family dogs. They’re also superstars of our smallest dog breeds list and pups you absolutely must adore!
So, what makes Yorkies so popular? Is it their appearance? Well, their appearance does have a lot to do with it. Yorkies are hypoallergenic pups that are proud of their silky coat in many pretty colors. Moving on, we have their tiny size, which is always a bonus for someone living in a tiny home.
If Yorkies are so great, wait until you see our teacup Yorkie! Since Yorkshire Terriers are so pricey, you can expect their teacup version to cost even more.
5. Papillon
With their frizzy ears shaped like a butterfly’s wings, Papillons are as cheerful as real butterflies. Their bouncy personality and alertness are some of the finest traits of this dog breed.
Papillons are really tiny dogs. On average, they never weigh more than 10 pounds. This makes them ideal lap dogs. Papillons love to cuddle and share their love with all family members, including little children.
The only downside of these pooches may be their availability. Papillons are still pretty uncommon in the States, and they’re not as popular as their French cousins – miniature Poodles, for example.
6. Pug
Who wouldn’t like to kiss that adorable smushy face? Pugs are absolutely pawdorable! They’re one of the best small dog breeds that can be excellent family pets.
Standing proud at 10 to 13 inches, this charmer with Chinese origins is here to amaze you. Pugs are loving creatures, and they don’t mind hanging out with other dogs. These dogs are little angels trapped inside a small dog’s body.
Oh, well… they can be little devils, too! Pugs have that mischievous side, but you can’t stay angry at them for too long. Pugs are simply too wonderful to be mad at them.
Our Pug buddy comes in lots of different coat colors, and they’re all beautiful. If you want this sweet addition to your family, check out these reliable Pug breeders.
7. Toy Poodle
I know the first thing you’re gonna ask me about toy Poodles is where can you find good toy Poodle breeders, right? Well, as you’ll see, the USA has plenty of good toy Poodle breeders. But, why is all that rage about this type of Poodle?
For starters, they’re small, original, and unbelievably sweet pups. Toy Poodles are an excellent conversation starter because everyone will want to know where you got one and what kind of pet they are.
I can tell you that Toy Poodles are terrific family pets. Thanks to their intelligence, sassy temperament, and overall pleasant appearance, Toy Poodles are a delight to own. Poodles come in many coat colors. You’ll be amazed by the stunning looks of a black Toy Poodle… trust me!
8. French Bulldog
They may be bigger, but they still belong on the list of the smallest dog breeds. French Bulldogs are lovely little pups with a fun personality you’re going to love!
Unfortunately, Frenchies can’t brag about being hypoallergenic, especially not fluffy Frenchies and long-haired Frenchies.
But, they can brag about being super friendly and eager to show emotions to all their family members.
French Bulldogs are never aggressive. They’re true friends you need in your life.
9. Dachshund
Dachshunds are one of the most unusual-looking dogs in the canine kingdom. With their elongated body and only growing up to six inches at the withers, Doxies are also some of the smallest pups. Of course, we’re talking about the miniature Dachshund.
These little sausage dogs are the life of the party no matter where they go. And, no… Doxies are not aggressive as some believe. They’re actually very kind and friendly. Some Doxies are so attached to their owner that they become too needy!
It’s the lovely temperament and unusual appearance that makes Doxies so popular. Sadly, they are not hypoallergenic, which could affect their popularity – Doxies shed moderately, but they’re still easy to handle.
10. Brussels Griffon
No, they’re not permanently frowny pups. Brussels Griffons are actually quite cheerful. It’s only their face that makes them look so unapproachable.
Of all the smallest dog breeds on this list, Griffs are those with some of the most unusual looks. At only eight to 10 pounds, Griffs are also some of the lightest pups!
For such a small dog, a Griff has lots of energy to burn. Once your Griff gets enough exercise for the day, he will curl up next to you and cuddle. They’re pretty sensitive, and don’t like stressful situations.
Still, they make good family pets, and they’re even okay with children. However, they do come with one big downside… it’s really hard to find them. There’s only a handful of Griff breeders in the States. You can check them out here!
11. Bichon Frise
A little clown in a canine body – that is how you can describe a Bichon Frise pup! These dogs are full of joy, always acting very happy and ready to jump all over the place. Bichons are packed with energy, and even the biggest dog might envy them!
Our little curly buddies are blessed to be hypoallergenic, with a coat in several light shades. Bichons are a true delight to own and groom since they don’t have many needs. Their biggest need is for you to love them and show them attention. They will pay you back in tiny puppy kisses!
Both male and female Bichons will make good pets. It’s an unwritten rule that male Bichons do well with female owners.
I bet you’d love to have such a sweet, small dog. However, Bichons can be pricey. Luckily, there are some rescues that focus on saving Bichons, which you should check out.
12. Havanese
Both male and female Havanese pups are very sweet and are a pleasure to own. These are one of the smallest dog breeds on this list, but their personality is so big that it can’t even be measured!
Several years ago, Havanese pups weren’t as popular as today. Their hypoallergenic traits have made them valuable among families and people prone to allergies. A Hav’s coat is admirable since they don’t have fur like most dogs. Havs have silky hair in many colors.
These dogs are blessed with a long lifespan. Hav’s can live up to 15 years!
These are gentle family pups that are very loyal to all family members. They may be small, but they will fight a bigger dog if they believe the safety of their family is at stake.
You’ll hardly find a more devoted buddy in a smaller body than a Havanese!
13. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu dog breed is very popular and loved for many reasons.
First of all, Shihs are hypoallergenic, which makes them some of the most ideal companions. A Shih’s low shedding and fairly low grooming needs are also a blessing. But, their fantastic coat features aren’t the only pawesome things about Shih Tzus. Let’s move on!
Shih Tzus are also known to be great with children, all thanks to their kind nature. When it comes to male vs female Shihs, and their behavior, males seem to be more easy-going, but that’s really not that big of a deal. Both dogs turn out to be wonderful pets.
Shih Tzus are proud of their many coat colors, including lovely shades like the silver Shih Tzu and the black and white Shih. There’s a pup for everyone’s taste!
14. Japanese Chin
The Japanese Chin is one of those small dog breeds that reminds us of felines due to their gracious kitty posture and behavior. They’re regal dogs in terms of appearance and temperament.
What’s interesting about these pups is that they come from China, not Japan. But, the curiosities don’t end there. The Japanese Chin was a lap dog of Asian nobility. Today, they’re beloved lapdogs of everyone who’s into small dogs, especially those from Asia.
With their fluffy coat and rich mane, Japanese Chins are a delight to look at. They’re usually a combination of two colors. For example, white Chins with black ears and a black tail are very common.
15. Chinese Crested
That spotted, marked pooch with a feathery tail and ears is called a Chinese Crested. This dog breed is as ancient as a dog can be. We don’t even have clear information as to when exactly Chinese Crested dogs first appeared.
What we can say for sure is that these small dogs were always used as companions. However, sometimes they have proved their good work ethic by chasing vermin and accompanying sailors on their journeys.
Chinese Crested pups should be considered lucky if they reach 12 pounds and 13 inches at the withers since these measurements are on the higher end of the scale.
16. Teacup Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, wait until you see a teacup Cavalier King Charles!
Besides being one of the friendliest of all the smallest dog breeds, the teacup King Charles is also one of the kindest. It’s written all over their little face how gentle they are.
Their lovely personality will win you over, but a handful of gorgeous King Charles Spaniel colors will make you stay.
There’s always a possibility for your teacup King Charles to live a shorter life since breeding teacups is sometimes considered unethical. However, with proper care, your King Charles can have a long lifespan.
That’s why it’s of great importance to pick a reliable King Charles breeder. Go with someone you know who pays lots of attention and money to the health of their dogs.
17. American Hairless Terrier
You might think this pooch is a Chihuahua’s relative, but that’s not really the case.
Meet the pup originally from Louisiana. This is the American Hairless Terrier – one of many American dog breeds you’re going to love.
With this dog, everything is in the sign of the number, 16. They can grow up to 16 inches, and weigh 16 pounds. American Hairless Terriers can also live up to 16 years.
I believe their popularity will spike up since this is a hypoallergenic dog breed. And, since hypoallergenic dogs are all the rage today, I see why our American Hairless shouldn’t belong to the club.
Maybe someday, he’ll knock the Goldendoodle off his throne as America‘s #1 allergy-free pet.
18. Pekingese
That flat-faced pup with a permanent smile and a floof of hair is called a Pekingese. As you can see, it’s a Chinese dog breed, and one of the smallest dog breeds on this list.
At around six to nine inches at the withers, Pekingese dogs are also one of the shortest pups. But, being so small did not affect their temperament. Pekingese pups are highly affectionate towards people, and they love spending time with them. Kids, adults, seniors, and all humans are welcome! Other dogs? Not so much.
Your average Pekingese will amaze you with its regal posture and all sorts of lovely coat colors.
Check Also: Teacup Pekingese: Appearance, Temperament, Grooming, And More
19. Miniature Pinscher
Min Pins are really mini!
Weighing only up to 10 pounds, and standing tall at around 10 inches at the withers, Miniature Pinschers are one of the smallest dog breeds on this list. They’re truly tiny pups with a huge temperament.
The first thing that comes to my mind when someone mentions Min Pins is how sassy they are. These dogs are not to be joked with. They have an attitude that you may not like if you provoke them.
Min Pins are fearless dogs with something we call a small dog complex. Although they get along fine with other dogs, make sure you keep an eye on them. Min Pins will easily come at larger dogs just because they believe they can handle them.
20. Toy Fox Terrier
These little fox-like canines are Toy Fox Terriers. Yes, they do look like little foxes, with their huge ears and pointed muzzle. But, the only thing they have in common with foxes is that they used to chase them down their holes.
The Toy Fox Terrier’s tiny body and extraordinary speed were great assets for a hunting dog. But, their career did not stop there. Toy Fox Terriers were also used as circus attractions. They’re goofy, agile, and very intelligent in terms of learning tricks and commands.
Toy Fox Terrier owners say these dogs are the perfect combination of feisty terriers and cuddly toy pups.
21. Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are in the same size range as Beagles, for example. You won’t see any noticeable difference between male and female Boston Terriers in terms of appearance. They all feature the same bat-like ears, and short coat in many colors, i.e., Boston Terriers can either be red or fashion a blue coat.
Boston Terriers may seem a bit unusual with their brachycephalic face, but they’re generally sweet and very down-to-Earth. These dogs get along easily with everyone, including other dogs, which is not often the case.
If you want a dog breed that won’t bother you that much, and doesn’t need lots of grooming, go with this terrier pup. Even though Boston Terriers are not hypoallergenic, they’re still low-shedding dogs and a delight to take care of.
22. Beagle
One of the most popular scent hounds is definitely the Beagle. This doggo belongs to the higher end of the scale when it comes to the smallest dog breeds. You see, Beagles carry about 20 to 25 pounds of weight. If you follow their growth chart, you’ll see these pups won’t get any bigger.
They’re small and sweet, but their intelligence is on a high level.
The reason why Beagles are great family dogs lies in the fact that they’re super friendly, and love meeting new people. On top of everything, Beagles have a long lifespan. If you take good care of them, you’ll live many happy years with your Beagle.
Since many small dogs are exclusive breeds, and have a high price, I have to point out that’s not the case with Beagles. Our Beagle puppies don’t cost much, especially if you only want a companion-quality dog.
23. Italian Greyhound
The smallest of all Greyhounds is the Italian Greyhound. Let’s check out the size of this small pup.
An average Italian Greyhound will not weigh more than 14 pounds. Some pups are even as small as seven pounds!
When it comes to their height, Italian Greyhounds will grow from 13 to 15 inches at the withers. These are slim, sleek, and sporty pups. Even though they look a bit fragile, these little Greyhounds are quite durable.
This dog breed has been the favorite companion for some 2,000 years, and this situation hasn’t changed up to today. Greyhounds easily create a bond with their owner, and they prefer to stay close to them.
If you’re looking for a cuddle companion that will share a blanket with you and binge-watch TV shows, then the Italian Greyhound is the right dog breed for you.
24. Affenpinscher
Even though they aren’t terriers, Affenpinschers were bred to serve as purebred terriers. These funny-looking dogs are not doing any monkey business at all. Well… their name does mean the monkey pinscher dog.
The Affenpinscher is one of the rarer buddies on this list of smallest dog breeds. However, their popularity has been rising lately. People are realizing that Affenpinschers are more than just funny pups. They’re deeply loyal, and they love sharing their love with everyone.
What will amaze you with this dog breed is the bravery and confidence that oozes anywhere they go.
25. Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai will never grow over the 25-pound mark. They’re small, feisty, agile, and alert, and they will remind you of a small, compact Siberian Husky. However, they’re not Huskies, but they might be their distant relatives, given the fact that they can be found in the same region.
The Alaskan Klee Kai has a lovely, dense coat, which sheds just like a Husky’s. Their appearance matches their temperament since they’re both lovely.
This dog breed is sweet and caring… maybe a bit stubborn, but never aggressive. Their Husky cousins are not aggressive either. As you can see, a similar appearance brings along a similar temperament.
26. Jack Russell Terrier
Jack Russell Terriers are probably the craziest of all terrier dogs. Yes, they’re also one of the smallest dog breeds in the world, but their personality is huge. Jack Russell Terriers are the reason why we have something called typical terrier behavior.
Jack Russell Terriers may be a handful with their endless energy levels, but they’re still good family pets. With proper care, your Jack Russell Terrier should have a lifespan of 13 to 16 years. That’s quite a lot of time to spend with this happy doggo.
All in all, JRTs are not that needy when you exclude their exercise requirements. Even though Jack Russell Terriers are not hypoallergenic, they still don’t shed like crazy, so that’s another bonus point for this small dog breed.
27. Pumi
Have you heard of the Pumi dog? They’re one of the rarest dogs in the world, and a fine example of what a herding dog should be like.
Pumi dogs are truly an incredible breed. Their scruffy-looking appearance is not the only thing that will make you fall in love with them… it’s their wonderful, friendly temperament, and overall easy-going nature that will make you wish for one.
Pumis, other than their pawdorable name, are ideal toy dogs with big personalities. They’re great companions and loyal friends for eternity.
28. Toy Rat Terrier
Dog lovers might know this dog breed as Teddy Roosevelt’s dog. But, here, we’re talking about their significantly smaller versions, toy Rat Terriers. These toy pups weigh no more than 10 pounds. They’re tiny dogs, but their energy bar is significantly high.
Toy Rat Terriers have terrier genes perfectly in balance. They’re curious and love to explore, but they still have a rather calm side when they like showing affection to their owner.
29. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Oops, we almost forgot about one of the best family dogs when it comes to little dogs. Technically, Corgis aren’t tiny, but they’re still smaller compared to some other, large dog breeds.
While we don’t see any notable difference between male vs female Corgis in terms of size and appearance, we do have differences between two Corgi types: regular and teacup!
Yes, teacup Corgis do exist despite the questionable breeding practices behind obtaining the teacup size.
These cuddle buddies usually don’t weigh over five pounds. This makes them ideal lap dogs, unlike their standard versions, which are more prone to herding and serving as watchdogs.
Teacup Corgis are a bit pricey compared to regular Corgi prices. However, I truly believe that this dog breed is absolutely worth every penny since all Corgis are so easy-going and great with kids.
Corgis may not be hypoallergenic dogs, and yes… they do shed like crazy, but I’d still want one for their incredible personality.
30. Wire Fox Terrier
These handsome boys are called Wire Fox Terriers, and they’re as crazy as any other terrier dog. All terriers, including this one, have lots of energy that they must spend during the day. They have this wacky drive that keeps them going on and on.
Do they ever get tired?
Absolutely! But, their “vacation” is still an active one because they love performing all kinds of tricks in order to see you laugh.
Wire Fox Terriers strive to master anything they do. At only 15 inches at the withers, these wiry boys and girls can be the best dogs for small homes.
31. Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka is a Russian dog that isn’t that popular in the Western World, but it was back in the days when the former Soviet Union was a strictly closed country. These lovely Russian Bichons almost went extinct after the Cold War.
Luckily, there are still Bolonkas to continue the legacy of this small breed.
‘Bolonka’ roughly translates to ‘Bolognese dog’. It was actually Italian Bolognese, Lhasa Apsos, Shih Tzus, and Toy Poodles that were used to breed Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonkas.
They’re tiny lap pooches that are long-haired, but also sometimes curly. Bolonkas come in many coat colors, and I truly believe they have inherited the Shih’s colors. What makes them incredibly good family pets is the fact that they don’t shed, and are considered to be hypoallergenic!
32. Basenji
It is believed that the Basenji was the dog of the Egyptian pharaohs. Since they’re pretty much royalty, I had to include them on this list of smallest dog breeds. But, do they qualify as small? Let’s see!
An average Basenji will grow to be around 15 inches at the withers, and it should weigh no more than 25 pounds. So, I’d say they still fit into the small dog group.
Basenjis are quiet dogs. They don’t bark at all like some dogs (yes, I’m thinking of that high-pitched Husky howl!). Living with a Basenji should be a walk in the park. They’re smart, trainable, and durable. And, yes – they will love you like crazy.
Even though they’re quite rare in the States, we do have excellent Basenji breeders!
33. Whippet
They might be small, but man… they surely run fast!
Here’s the Whippet – a small English Greyhound. Some people even believe they’re miniature Greyhounds, but that’s not the case. They’re only descendants of Greyhounds.
The first thing you’ll notice about these dogs is their elegant posture and their gracefulness that oozes. However, they aren’t as confident as you might think.
I wouldn’t let Whippets walk off the leash as they’re very curious and tend to wander off while exploring.
Whippets are good pets for dog persons only. They don’t get along well with kitties, so don’t let their feline-like behavior fool you. Check out some reputable Whippet breeders here!
34. Smooth Fox Terrier
It’s time to meet the gentleman of the terrier family!
This is the Smooth Fox Terrier – a short-haired terrier menace you’re gonna love.
Smooth Fox Terriers were the first of all terriers to get official recognition from the FCI. Today, they’re not as popular as their cousins, Jack Russell Terriers, but they’re still worth mentioning.
Smooth Fox Terriers also look like Wire Fox Terriers, but there are some things that set these two apart, i.e., the V-shaped head.
This small dog is usually around 15 inches tall, and weighs no more than 18 pounds.
Smooth Fox Terriers are exceptional hunters, which means they’re persistent, brave, and eager to please their humans.
35. English Cocker Spaniel
Who’d have known that the English Cocker Spaniel is a sporting dog?
At only 15 inches at the withers, English Cocker Spaniels seem like cuddly teddy bears to me. Well, they are cuddly, and they look like little curly teddy bears, so I’ve got that right.
English Cocker Spaniels have an elongated body, which makes them resemble Corgis a bit. But, they’re not related in any case.
This small dog is pretty easy-going, and doesn’t act problematic in terms of training and obedience. English Cocker Spaniels are mellow-hearted family dogs you didn’t know you needed.
Besides their lovely temperament, you’re gonna enjoy the English Cocker Spaniel’s silky-soft coat.
If you want to get this pup for your family, I’ve got some pretty pawesome English Cocker Spaniel breeders.
36. Cairn Terrier
Originally bred to hunt down foxes, these earthdogs aren’t as popular as some other hunting dog breeds. This is the Cairn Terrier – a pup from Scotland. He may remind you of the Westie, but they’re not the same.
This is a dark-coated, slightly scruffy-looking terrier with a feisty temperament.
Some people claim that Cairn Terriers are the best little buddies in the world. Well, I have to add they’re the best buddies among all terrier dogs.
Cairn Terriers have the terrier temperament ideally in balance, which makes them both excellent companions and working dogs. These breeders know what it’s like to raise a Cairn!
37. Silky Terrier
The Silky Terrier definitely looks a lot like our Yorkie buddy, but the American Kennel Club (AKC) says they’re different dog breeds.
Despite their similarity, we have to agree that Silky Terriers and Yorkies are different in so many ways.
Our buddy from Australia, the Silky Terrier, is an energetic pup that loves bouncing around. They don’t like the sedentary life, thank you very much. Instead, they prefer to show their wild side. At first glance, you’d say these pooches are as soft as cotton buds.
But, don’t let their looks fool you. The Silky Terrier will give you everything you need in a dog, but he’ll expect love and gratitude in return.
38. Lhasa Apso
Here’s an ancient dog breed you’re gonna absolutely adore!
This pooch is called the Lhasa Apso, and it comes from the Himalayan Mountains. Roughly translated, ‘Lhasa Apso’ means ‘Beared Lion Dog’ or ‘Snow Lion Dog’. As a dog breed connected with the Dalai Lama, Lhasa Apso dogs are really something special.
These dogs often get confused with Shih Tzus, but a knowing eye knows the differences between these two. Lhasa Apsos are big dogs compared to Shihs, but they still belong to the list of smallest dog breeds.
Overall, Lhasa Apsos are stunningly beautiful, and incredibly sweet lap dogs. These breeders may have the ideal Lhasa Apso pup for you!
39. Schipperke
The first time I heard about Schipperke dogs, I thought they were crossbreeds between some shepherd dogs and who knows what else.
Well, I don’t have to mention that I was wrong.
The Schipperke is as purebred as any other dog on this list of smallest dog breeds. But, are they small in size? We’re about to see that.
The Schipperke is definitely a small dog as they don’t grow over 13 inches at the withers.
The first thing you’ll notice about Schipperke dogs is that they’re one of those small and fluffy dog breeds. Their appearance will take your breath away. The Schipperke usually comes in a black coat, but other colors are possible, even though they’re not AKC-approved.
This is a hard-working dog that will amaze you with its huge personality and unbelievably strong work ethic.
40. Norwich Terrier
If you have some vermin to get rid of, call a Norwich Terrier. These feisty little guys will take care of it and leave you vermin-free for good. Originally bred to hunt pests, Norwich Terriers are little energetic balls of fur.
But, their role in pest control has diminished over the years. Today, Norwich Terriers are great family pets because they don’t mind showing signs of affection. They’re overall loyal and obedient.
Our Norwich Terrier buddy is great with everyone, especially family and kids.
If you want a smart, compact dog that will be the star of your home, then go with the Norwich Terrier.
41. Scottish Terrier
As you can see, we’ve got lots of terriers on this list of smallest dog breeds. Well, they’re all very special. It would be a shame not to include them on this list.
Our next little buddy is called the Scottish Terrier. You’ve definitely heard of him if you’re a dog person.
Scottish Terriers are, naturally, from Scotland. You probably recognize them for their straight, floor-length hair in black, and those funny-looking mustaches and beards. What’s interesting about this little guy is that they also come in a variety of brindle colors.
You can definitely bring a Scottish Terrier into a home with kids since they get along perfectly fine with them. However, be careful when it comes to playtime and handling because these pups never grow higher than 10 inches at the withers.
42. West Highland White Terrier
West Highland White Terriers (or Westies) are those pups with a permanent smile. They’re small, cute, and kind-natured. Yes, they make ideal lap dogs! How about we check out what else is special with Westies?
For starters, Westies are quite the charmers. They have a sweet, easy-going personality, and they will adapt to pretty much everyone.
What’s so amazing about Westies is that they love to entertain a crowd. They’re real little jokesters whose company you’ll enjoy. No matter how down you feel, 10 inches of this fluffy white dog will make you smile again.
43. Miniature Schnauzer
Schnauzers are really big dogs, but miniature Schnauzers are something else. These fellows belong on our list of smallest dog breeds with big personalities.
Mini Schnauzers are long-coated pups that come in dark shades. Their beard is something to help you recognize them easily.
At only 12 to 14 inches at the withers, Miniature Schnauzers are small enough to be declared as small dogs, but still strong and muscular not to be too fragile like most pups on this list.
Surprisingly, mini Schnauzers are hypoallergenic dogs. This is another bonus point, and a reason why you should adopt one. I’ve got you covered if you need help finding the right mini Schnauzer breeder. PupVine’s list of best mini Schnauzer breeders to the rescue!
44. Cesky Terrier
The name, Cesky, sure sounds familiar, doesn’t it? Of course, it does because this pooch is from the Czech Republic. In fact, it’s the national dog of this country, and another pup on our list of the best smallest dog breeds in the world.
Cesky Terriers have a rich history that dates back to the 14th century. The United States met this unusual terrier back in the 1980s.
But, what makes these terriers different from others on this list?
Technically, they’re terriers, but they’re not as frantic as Jack Russells. Cesky Terriers are peaceful and friendly. They have an excellent prey drive, and will catch anything that comes their way.
There are only around 600 Cesky Terriers living in the States, but thanks to their kind personality and lovely appearance, this number seems to be growing.
45. Bedlington Terrier
No, that’s not a little sheep. Can’t you see that’s a dog? Actually, it’s a Bedlington Terrier – a wonderful little gentleman from the UK.
What will definitely amaze you about one of the smallest dog breeds from the UK is its soft fleece coat. That’s probably the biggest reason why these dogs resemble sheep. The other reason has to be their wedge-shaped head.
These lovely, curly pups are as sweet as lambs, and as loyal as any other terrier.
If you want a dog that will be a conversation starter, then the Bedlington Terrier will surely spark up some fire.
46. Biewer Terrier
No, these elegant, silky-coated pups are not Yorkies. Meet the Biewer Terrier – a pretty uncommon dog breed with a big heart to love everyone they meet. The Biewer Terrier is made of love, and his only purpose is to show you some love.
These aren’t working dogs as their name might suggest. Biewer Terriers are tiny companions. They don’t grow past the 11-inch mark. These pups will go everywhere with you and follow you like a shadow. If you take good care of your Biewer Terrier, he might live up to an incredible 16 years!
47. Vallhund
This little fellow comes from Sweden. Meet the Swedish Vallhund – a sheepdog you probably didn’t know about before.
Vallhunds are short, with an elongated body, stubby legs, and a pointy snout. They look like a cross between a Husky and a Corgi. However, this is not one of the Corgi mixes. This is a purebred dog, also known as the Swedish cow dog, so you don’t have to guess what their purpose was.
Vallhunds are pretty agile and versatile dogs. When they’re not herding cattle, they love to perform in dog shows exhibiting all their skills.
48. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
No, that funny-looking poof on their head is not a wig. That’s the original haircut of a Dandie Dinmont Terrier. You may think their hairstyle is outdated or funny, but that’s what makes these pups easy to recognize.
Sadly, besides being one of the smallest dog breeds, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is also one of the rarest dogs. They’re so rare that their whole species is treated as vulnerable. Thankfully, a small group of Dandie lovers is working hard to preserve this breed.
49. Mexican Hairless (or Xoloitzcuintle)
I know most of you have issues pronouncing it, so we’re gonna call this buddy the Mexican Hairless. This dog also comes in a miniature version, so there’s a good reason why he’s on our list of smallest dog breeds.
On average, the Mexican Hairless won’t grow over 20 inches at the withers. They’re rather skinny dogs, with only up to 30 pounds of weight.
Mexican Hairless dogs are intelligent creatures, and love showing affection. Show them some love by adopting a Xoloitzcuintle puppy from these breeders!
50. Löwchen
The Löwchen is the ‘Little Lion Dog’. But, this name isn’t because of their fierce personality and brave heart. It’s because these dogs are long-haired pooches with a mane resembling a little lion. Most Löwchen dogs come without any coat on their hind legs, which makes them even more similar to lions!
Even though they’re low-shedding, generally sweet, and caring, Löwchen dogs haven’t reached the same amount of popularity as other toy breeds. In fact, they’re so rare that they come in a limited specimen of the breed.
But, do Löwchens have anything resembling lions in terms of their temperament? Of course, they do, and it’s their brave personality!
51. Peruvian Inca Orchid
No, that’s not an unusual wildflower. And, that’s absolutely not a real orchid! The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a popular dog breed among lovers of rare dog species. I bet you haven’t even heard of such a dog before!
Well, now is the right time to introduce you to the quirkiest, cutest, and probably the smallest dog breed from South America.
What many people don’t realize is that even the smallest dog breeds can be excellent workers. For example, our Peruvian Inca Orchid was bred as a sighthound. Dogs from the toy group can be something else other than cuddly companions.
These pups come either with a coat or without it. And, yes – they’re one of the most popular hairless dog breeds. Despite which coat they like to fashion, PIOs are still full of elegance.
52. Russkiy Toy
The last pooch on our list of the smallest dog breeds in the world comes from Russia. Meet an odd-looking fellow with the biggest ears you’ve seen on a toy dog.
This is the Russkiy Toy – a breed developed by using the English Toy Terrier. However, at first glance, I’d never say these dogs have terrier blood. Like many other Russian dogs, the Russkiy Toy has been bred to resemble widely-known dog breeds back in the 1950s.
Do you see a resemblance between them and a Chihuahua? Exactly!
Sadly, these pups almost went extinct after the fall of the Iron Curtain. There are only a handful of Russkiy Toy dogs alive today.
To Sum Up…
So, which of the smallest dog breeds listed here is your favorite?
I bet you’ve definitely found a favorite… or maybe even two!
These listed pups are all wonderful family additions. You won’t make a mistake no matter which one you adopt.
Read Next: 20 Chinese Dog Breeds—The Good, The Bad, And The Pugly