Many pet parents love puppies, but when these puppies become older, you can’t help but wish they remained small forever.
One moment you’re with a cute tiny dog, the next you’re having to deal with a 100-pound canine. That’s not what we signed up for, Nature.
Fortunately, there is a way to have a forever puppy. This involves going after toy dog breeds that remain small and cute even when they become seniors.
No more scary transitions from a little puppy to a gigantesque monster. What could be better than having a small dog breed that remains so forever?
For the love of tiny dogs, getting a toy dog breed is one of the best decisions you can make.
These dogs offer fewer pet challenges compared to their bigger counterparts and are easier to maintain.
Below, you’ll find a list of the best toy dog breeds you can consider, both in the United States and worldwide.
Before we get into that, let’s have a brief overview of the subject.
What is a Toy Dog Breed?
According to the American Kennel Club, toy dogs have the main function of making their owners happy.
While some can be gentle and others tougher, they all play the role of companionship.
The United Kennel Club even prefers giving them the term ‘Companion dogs’ rather than toy dogs to emphasize the role more than the size.
Note that not all small dogs are registered under the AKC’s Toy Dog Group.
Therefore, some of the dogs you see on this list may not feature in the Toy group.
We added them here because of their sizes and because they also play the role of companionship.
Are Toy Dogs Healthier Than Bigger Ones?
All dog breeds fall ill, and there exist some illnesses that are specific to the breed.
Pugs, for instance, are prone to breathing problems because of their snout. Toy dogs in general are also prone to dental problems.
That said, experts have found that some particular small dog breeds are indeed healthier. An example is the Havanese.
Experts have also noticed that Toy Dogs tend to have a longer life span.
The health advantage and living space are some reasons toy dog breeds are more advisable, especially to new pet owners.
Here are some of the best tiny dog breeds you can own.
The Best Toy Dog Breeds For Tiny Dogs Lovers
01. Papillon
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 8 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 4 to 9 pounds |
| Coat Type | Single, long, straight, fine |
| Coat Colors | White, sable, white, and chocolate |
| Temperament | Friendly, alert, happy |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 16 years |
| Origin | France |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Average |
| Energy Level | High |
Papillon’s fanciful french name stands for butterfly, a name gotten because of the ears that look like the wings of a butterfly.
Papillon cuts the ribbon for this list and is an amazing companion.
This breed isn’t a mellow lapdog, though. While it can sometimes relax with you, the outgoing Papillon prefers running around like an actual butterfly looking for a flower to pollinate.
This breed loves everyone and is eager to show that affection.
02. Japanese Chin
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 8 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 4 to 9 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, silky |
| Coat Colors | Black and white, red and white, black and white with tan |
| Temperament | Affectionate, happy, charming |
| Life Expectancy | 8 to 11 years |
| Origin | China |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Average |
| Energy Level | Low |
The Japanese Chin served as a companion for Asian nobles for a long time.
While the name might make you believe this breed came from Japan, it hailed from China and only got into Japan as a gift.
The Japanese Chin is a better lapdog than the Papillon because of its lower energy level.
It also has the mannerism of a cat, including jumping on higher places and cleaning itself up.
If you’re a cat person who’s still trying to warm up to dogs, the Japanese Chin is a good first-time breed.
03. Havanese
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Non-Sporting Group |
| Height | 8 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 7 to 13 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, straight, curly |
| Coat Colors | White, black, black and tan, gray, sable |
| Temperament | Gentle, affectionate, playful |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | Cuba |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Average |
Like the Japanese Chin, the Havanese was bred to be a companion to a higher class.
In this case, it was a companion to the Cuban aristocrats. It soon became popular amongst other popular personalities, including Charles Dickens and Queen Victoria.
The popularity is for good reason. Havanese is a friend to everyone, including cats.
It is one of the best dogs for new pet parents as it is easy to train. A Velcro dog to the core, expect this breed to always be by your side.
04. Maltese
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 8 to 10 inches |
| Weight | 4 to 8 pounds |
| Coat Type | Silky, straight |
| Coat Colors | White |
| Temperament | Playful, Affectionate, intelligent |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | Malta |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Average |
Maltese is one of the oldest toy dog breeds, having existed for some millennia.
Its many names, including “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta” and “Roman Ladies Dog”, can attest to that fact.
While this breed looks delicate and best fit for palaces, it is more down-to-earth in its desire to play around.
It has a lot of energy and enjoys having fun, but can cope in an apartment because of its size.
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05. Brussels Griffon
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 7 to 8 inches |
| Weight | 7 to 12 pounds |
| Coat Type | Rough, smooth |
| Coat Colors | Red, black and tan, Belge, black |
| Temperament | Sensitive, inquisitive, alert |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | Belgium |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Average |
| Energy Level | High |
The Brussels Griffon differs from others we’ve mentioned so far in that it wasn’t solely bred to be a companion.
Griffon had a job to do, and that was keeping the environment free of rats (Side note: don’t leave a rodent close to this dog.)
Nonetheless, the Brussels Griffon is a good companion due to its friendly attitude and love for its family.
It is also a velcro dog and dislikes being left alone. However, we don’t recommend the Griffon for a new pet because of its bossy nature.
06. Affenpinscher
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 9 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 7 to 9 pounds |
| Coat Type | Wiry |
| Coat Colors | Black, grey, tan, silver, beige, red |
| Temperament | Playful, stubborn, adventurous |
| Life Expectancy | 11 to 14 years |
| Origin | German |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Average |
| Energy Level | High |
The Affenpinscher was also a ratter before it became a companion and a ladies’ favorite.
While it is rarer than many other breeds on this list, it is very much around and is a solid household pet in some American homes.
Affen, as it is fondly called, is a clownish and funny dog that would leave you in stitches with its comical expressions.
Though small, it can provide some security services by being an alert watchdog.
07. Chihuahua
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 6 to 9 inches |
| Weight | 3 to 6 pounds |
| Coat Type | Smooth, long |
| Coat Colors | Black, white, fawn |
| Temperament | Devoted, alert, lively, courageous |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 18 years |
| Origin | Mexico |
| General Health | Low |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
Ever met someone who mistakenly refers to all small dogs as ‘Chihuahua’? It goes to show how easily known this breed is.
Though not the most popular toy dog, it is highly famous and renowned. The Chihuahua is considered the smallest dog, but it acts like a big one.
This breed is an interesting combination of fun-loving and toughness. It loves being around its owners and is generally sweet, but it can get feisty.
This breed is fraught with health issues, so be prudent when buying or adopting one.
08. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 12 to 13 inches |
| Weight | 13 to 18 pounds |
| Coat Type | Medium, silky, slightly wavy |
| Coat Colors | Blenheim, tricolor, black and tan, ruby |
| Temperament | Playful, affectionate, fearless |
| Life Expectancy | 9 to 15 years |
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | Average |
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a companion with the Spaniel blood still running inside it. Sure, it would love to stay on your laps.
It would also enjoy running after birds and trying to retrieve them like its ancestors.
Thus, while it makes a good apartment dog, it should be let outdoors to play.
Far from being a shy type, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel takes everyone as its friend.
Some of these dogs are quieter than others, but they all have the same love for humans.
09. Chinese Crested
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 11 to 13 inches |
| Weight | 10 to 12 pounds |
| Coat Type | Hairless, powderpuff |
| Coat Colors | Blue, lavender, mahogany, copper |
| Temperament | Alert, happy, intelligent |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 14 years |
| Origin | Africa, Mexico, China |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | Low |
Regardless of its name, the Chinese Crested didn’t originate from China. No one is quite certain if its ancestors come from Africa or Mexico.
Chinese breeders were responsible for its small size, though, hence the name. The Chinese Crested is a good lapdog because of its low exercise need.
This breed comes in hairless and coated types. It doesn’t have a high grooming need, but that doesn’t make it very easy to take care of. Both coat variants have challenges.
10. Italian Greyhound
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 13 to 15 inches |
| Weight | 6 to 15 pounds |
| Coat Type | Short, satin, soft |
| Coat Colors | Fawn, black, red |
| Temperament | Affectionate, athletic, intelligent, playful |
| Life Expectancy | 14 to 15 years |
| Origin | Italy |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
The Italian Greyhound is both a companion and a hunter. It was loved by noblewomen in Italy, but is a sighthound and hunted smaller prey.
An old and once revered dog breed, you can find it in some old paintings like that of Pisanello.
As a modern-day companion, the Italian Greyhound should not be limited to being a lapdog.
It is an apartment dog like all others on this list but should be exercised regularly and allowed to move around.
It also needs to be well socialized as it tends to be shy around strangers.
11. English Toy Spaniel
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 10 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 8 to 14 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, straight, wavy |
| Coat Colors | Blenheim, black and tan, tri-color, ruby |
| Temperament | Gentle, reserved, loving |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 12 years |
| Origin | Great Britain |
| General Health | Low |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | Average |
The English Toy Spaniel and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are related, and you’d have to look closely to spot the differences between both.
The English Toy Spaniel was bred to be a companion and had as a fan an old British royal family consisting of Queen Mary of Scotland, Charles I, and Charles II.
A quiet companion, this dog breed is not as gregarious as its cousin. It is rather the picture of a calm, devoted dog with a manageable exercise need.
It is suitable for owners who get easily overwhelmed by excitable animals.
12. Miniature Pinscher
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 10 to 12 inches |
| Weight | 8 to 11 pounds |
| Coat Type | Short, sleek |
| Coat Colors | Red, black and rust, chocolate and rust |
| Temperament | Clever, playful, assertive |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 14 years |
| Origin | Germany |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
The Miniature Pinscher had the same role as the Affenpinscher in that it was a ratter for homes and stables in old Germany.
Contrary to what people think, this breed is not the mini version of the Doberman Pinscher. Although they resemble, they are different.
The Miniature Pinscher can be both fun and frustrating. New pet parents should be cautious with this breed lest they get overwhelmed.
It needs regular exercise and firm training lest it displays bad behaviors.
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13. Manchester Terrier (Toy) / English Toy Terrier
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 10 to 12 inches |
| Weight | Under 12 pounds |
| Coat Type | Short |
| Coat Colors | Black and tan |
| Temperament | Devoted, alert, keen |
| Life Expectancy | 14 to 16 years |
| Origin | England |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
The Manchester Terrier is a bit controversial. In the United States and Canada, the Manchester Terrier is a breed of two sizes—the Standard and Toy.
However, England doesn’t see things this way. Over there the Toy Manchester Terrier is a different breed called the English Toy Terrier.
That aside, the traits are the same. This breed loves being around its owner.
While it won’t openly demand attention, lack of it can make your pooch anxious and restless.
Because it is a terrier, the Manchester Terrier can be stubborn and needs firm training.
14. Pekingese
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 6 to 9 inches |
| Weight | 7 to 14 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, straight, coarse |
| Coat Colors | Affectionate, Intelligent, Stubborn, Good-natured |
| Temperament | Affectionate, wary, sensitive |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | China |
| General Health | Low |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Low |
The Pekingese is an old toy breed that existed since the days of Ancient China.
It served as a companion for the Imperial Chinese family, which might explain its dignified manners.
The Pekingese is good for everyone unless you don’t fancy grooming or have toddlers.
The Pekingese is lively and friendly, especially with family. Some can be reserved when they meet strangers.
Sometimes, this breed can get stubborn. It is easy to train, however.
15. Pug
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 10 to 14 inches |
| Weight | 14 to 18 pounds |
| Coat Type | Double, short, smooth |
| Coat Colors | Fawn, black |
| Temperament | Clever, playful, charming |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | China |
| General Health | Low |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | Average |
The Pug and Pekingese have a shared origin. Both were bred by the Chinese to be companions and lapdogs.
Like the Pekingese, Pugs enjoyed the comfort of royalty as they were favorites of Emperors and received special treatment.
Not surprisingly, Pug shows a lot of dignity. However, it is also playful and funny. It loves attention and is highly sensitive, so try not to leave it alone for long.
The Pug’s short coat is deceitful as it sheds heavily. You should also try not to overexert your Pug because of its short snout.
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16. Shih Tzu
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 9 to 10 inches |
| Weight | 9 to 16 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, silky |
| Coat Colors | Black, black and white, gray and white, red and white |
| Temperament | Playful, intelligent, affectionate, spunky |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 16 years |
| Origin | China |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Low |
The Shih Tzu is a companion to the core and can do nothing more than that. It is considered one of the oldest dog breeds, going as far back as the 8,000 B.C.
The history is blurry, but one clear fact is that the Shih Tzu was a prized companion. It remains so today.
The two main challenges you would face with this breed are grooming and separation anxiety.
Its coat requires a lot of care, and the Shih Tzu doesn’t like being left alone. Other than those, owning this breed is easy.
17. Yorkshire Terrier
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 8 to 9 inches |
| Weight | 4 to 6 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, silky, straight |
| Coat Colors | Blue and Tan, Blue and Gold, Black and Tan, Black and Gold |
| Temperament | Intelligent, independent, courageous |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | England |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | High |
Yorkie is everything companion and everything terrier. This English breed was developed from some other Terriers like the Clydesdale Terrier and the Skye Terrier.
It has Terrier blood in its veins, and it displays that in its behavior.
The Yorkshire is good for an apartment, but do not neglect its exercise needs or it would get restless. It is feisty and sometimes seems to forget its size.
If you have a bigger dog, don’t be surprised when Yorkie challenges it. Its confidence is more than its size.
18. Silky Terrier
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 9 to 10 inches |
| Weight | 8 to 10 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, sleek |
| Coat Colors | Tan, blue |
| Temperament | Friendly, intelligent, spirited |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | Australia |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
Just like the Yorkshire Terrier, the Silky Terrier acts bigger than its size.
The Australian bred Silky is a relation of the Yorkshire Terrier, and they both exhibit classic Terrier behaviors.
People do expect it from the Yorkshire Terrier but they tend to be surprised when the calm-looking Silky Terrier acts tough. It is normal, though.
The Silky’s coat can fool you into thinking it is high maintenance, but in reality, the coat is easy to groom.
19. Toy Fox Terrier
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 8 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 3 to 7 pounds |
| Coat Type | Short, fine, smooth |
| Coat Colors | White and tan, tricolor, white and black |
| Temperament | Alert, playful, friendly |
| Life Expectancy | 13 to 14 years |
| Origin | United States of America |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
The Toy Fox Terrier is a truly American breed as it is a native of the United States.
It was bred to be more than a companion as it hunted small prey and also kept rats at bay. The Chihuahua and the Manchester Terrier are both ancestors of this breed.
Toy Fox is a sweet lapdog with a strong attachment to its family.
This devotion makes it wary of strangers, and socialization can help that not get out of hand. It also has the traits of a Terrier.
20. Toy Poodle
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | Not more than 10 inches |
| Weight | 6 to 9 pounds |
| Coat Type | Dense, curly, wiry |
| Coat Colors | Black, blue, white, gray |
| Temperament | Loving, loyal, intelligent |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | France, Germany |
| General Health | Low |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | High |
Toy Poodle is not a breed of its own. Rather, it is a size type of the Poodle breed that was bred exclusively for companionship in France.
The Toy Poodle was loved by the Paris upper class and is still loved by Americans today.
This breed is considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds, regardless of what people think.
It is also loving and loyal to its family. It needs regular exercise as it has high energy.
21. Pomeranian
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 7 to 12 inches |
| Weight | 3 to 7 pounds |
| Coat Type | Double, soft, thick |
| Coat Colors | Black, black and tan, chocolate, blue, chocolate, and tan, blue and tan |
| Temperament | Playful, friendly, sociable |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 16 years |
| Origin | Pomerania |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Average |
Pomeranian is a cute little ball of fluff that was developed to be a companion in Pomerania, a city in Germany.
It was owned by some well-known personalities in history, including Martin Luther (the theologian), Isaac Newton, Mozart, and Michelangelo.
Though one of the smallest breeds in the world, Pom has a large personality. It is friendly and sweet just as much as it is independent and even stubborn.
Left by itself, Pom can even challenge a bigger dog.
22. French Bulldog
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Non-Sporting Group |
| Height | 11 to 12 inches |
| Weight | 16 to 28 pounds |
| Coat Type | Short, smooth, shiny |
| Coat Colors | Fawn, cream, brindle |
| Temperament | Playful, Affectionate, Easygoing, Sociable |
| Life Expectancy | 11 to 14 years |
| Origin | England |
| General Health | Low |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Average |
The French Bulldog is currently one of the most popular dogs in the United States with celebrities like John Legend, Lady Gaga, and Hugh Jackman owning one.
Despite its name, this breed originated in England where it was bred as a mini bulldog.
Frenchie makes both a good companion and watchdog due to its many good qualities.
It is gentle and calm, making it appropriate for city life as it won’t disturb your neighbors with incessant barking.
It doesn’t do well with heat, so limit its outdoor time then.
23. Bichon Frise
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Non-Sporting Group |
| Height | 9 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 7 to 12 pounds |
| Coat Type | Double, soft, coarse |
| Coat Colors | White |
| Temperament | Cheerful, playful, affectionate |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | Spain, Belgium, France |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | High |
The Bichon Frise is one of the loveliest small breeds in the world. With its white coat and innocent expression, it looks like a walking teddy bear.
Its origin remains unclear, but it seems to have ties with France, Spain, and Belgium.
Part of the Bichon Frise’s charm is its personality. A cheerful pooch, Bichon is a friend of all and makes no enemies.
It can be independent but doesn’t enjoy being left alone.
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24. Miniature Schnauzer
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Terrier Group |
| Height | 13 to 14 inches |
| Weight | 11 to 20 pounds |
| Coat Type | Double, wiry, loose |
| Coat Colors | Black, salt and pepper, white, black, and silver |
| Temperament | Friendly, fearless, obedient |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 14 years |
| Origin | Germany |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
The Miniature Schnauzer is more than just a mini version of the Schnauzer and the Giant Schnauzer.
Unlike the Toy Poodle, the Miniature Schnauzer is a separate breed of its own.
It is an extroverted dog breed with a mischievous streak and a lively personality.
It does have a bit of the Terrier personality—feistiness and high confidence—but it is less stubborn than others.
25. Cockapoo (Toy)
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Not recognized |
| Height | 10 to 15 inches |
| Weight | 6 to 19 pounds |
| Coat Type | Tight curly, loose wavy, straight |
| Coat Colors | Black, white, red |
| Temperament | Intelligent, active, loving |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | United States |
| General Health | Low |
| Grooming Need | Average |
| Energy Level | Average |
The Cockapoo is a designer breed that is a cross between the Cocker Spaniel and the Poodle.
It is one of the oldest and most popular hybrids and was bred to get a hypoallergenic dog breed.
Fans of this breed have canvassed for Kennel club recognition, but it hasn’t happened yet.
The Cockapoo is friendly, sweet, and very intelligent. It got the best from both worlds. It is also known as the Cockerdoodle or Spoodle.
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26. Pomsky
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Not recognized |
| Height | 10 to 15 inches |
| Weight | 7 to 38 pounds |
| Coat Type | Double, soft, and fluffy |
| Coat Colors | White, blue, grey |
| Temperament | Playful, loyal, intelligent |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | United States of America |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | High |
The Pomsky is what happens when a big dog is crossed with a smaller breed. Here, the parents are the Siberian Husky and the Pomeranian.
Most times, it looks like a miniature Husky.
This hybrid is a friendly, energetic pooch that’s affectionate towards everyone.
However, it isn’t advisable for new pet parents because of the Husky gene.
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27. Shih Poo
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Not recognized |
| Height | 8 to 18 inches |
| Weight | 8 to 18 pounds |
| Coat Type | Curly or straight |
| Coat Colors | Black, white, brindle |
| Temperament | Playful, clever, affectionate |
| Life Expectancy | 13 to 17 years |
| Origin | North America |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Average |
The Shih Poo is a cross between two small dogs, the Shih Tzu and the Poodle.
Like other designer breeds, the aim was to pick the best from both parents in the hybrid.
Shih Poo is newer than other designer breeds we’ve seen so far.
As a result of having two excellent companion parents, the Shih Poo is a good family dog as well.
It is highly recommended for allergy sufferers and those that want a pet to curb loneliness.
28. Biewer Terrier
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Toy Group |
| Height | 7 to 11 inches |
| Weight | 4 to 8 pounds |
| Coat Type | Long, straight, silky |
| Coat Colors | White, black, blue |
| Temperament | Adventurous, energetic, loyal |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | Germany |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
The Biewer Terrier is a rare dog breed that got recognized by the American Kennel Club as early as 2021.
It originated after the breeding of two Yorkshire Terriers with recessive piebald genes. The Biewer Terrier closely resembles the Yorkie for this very reason.
Biewer is friendly with family members but can be wary of strangers. It loves to cuddle and also play around.
It can be stubborn during training, so you must be firm.
29. Norwich Terrier
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Terrier Group |
| Height | Up to 10 inches |
| Weight | Up to 12 pounds |
| Coat Type | Double, straight, soft |
| Coat Colors | Red, grizzle, wheaten |
| Temperament | Affectionate, energetic, loyal |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 14 years |
| Origin | United Kingdom |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
The Norwich Terrier is one of the smallest known Terrier dog breeds, but don’t count on it to be calm and subdued.
It has the Terrier blood that comes with an expected set of behaviors, so it behaves bigger than its size.
Don’t be surprised when it digs in the yard, chases birds, and even tries to pick up a fight.
On the good side, it is loyal and devoted to its family members. It needs a lot of exercise and firm training.
Also know that it is rare, so finding it might be difficult.
30. Cesky Terrier
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Terrier Group |
| Height | 10 to 13 inches |
| Weight | 13 to 30 pounds |
| Coat Type | Soft |
| Coat Colors | Grey-blue, coffee brown |
| Temperament | Cheerful, reserved, quiet |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 15 years |
| Origin | Czechoslovakia |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | Low |
The Cesky Terrier is a cross between a Scottish Terrier and a Sealyham Terrier.
It isn’t classified as a designer breed, however, but a purebred dog of its right. It is a rare Terrier.
Cesky is less energetic than other Terriers and may not pose as many challenges during training, which is good news for the novice dog owner.
It has also been successful as a therapy dog.
31. Chiweenie
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Not recognized |
| Height | 6 to 10 inches |
| Weight | 5 to 12 pounds |
| Coat Type | Wiry |
| Coat Colors | Fawn, brown, chocolate |
| Temperament | Confident, spunky, playful |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 16 years |
| Origin | Germany |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | High |
Chiweenie is a designer breed gotten from a cross between the Chihuahua and the Daschund.
It is just as popular as other hybrids we’ve mentioned and has been around for centuries.
The Chiweenie gets from both parents confidence, spunk, and energy.
It is also recommended for allergy sufferers because of its easy to groom and short coat.
This hybrid can be stubborn, though.
32. Cavachon
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Not recognized |
| Height | 12 to 13 inches |
| Weight | 15 to 35 pounds |
| Coat Type | Soft, silky |
| Coat Colors | White, apricot, black, black, and tan |
| Temperament | Loyal, playful, affectionate |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 15 years |
| Origin | North America |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | Low |
| Energy Level | Average |
Cavachon is a hybrid offspring of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the Bichon Frise.
No one knows when this breed started existing, but intentional crossing began in the late 20th century.
Cavachons are generally low maintenance in many ways. They are easy to train, groom, and even exercise due to their manageable energy.
This mix is usually happy and playful.
33. Maltipoo
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Not recognized |
| Height | 8 to 14 inches |
| Weight | 5 to 20 pounds |
| Coat Type | Soft and silky, thick and curly, wiry and wavy |
| Coat Colors | White, cream, apricot |
| Temperament | Gentle, happy, affectionate |
| Life Expectancy | 10 to 13 years |
| Origin | Malta |
| General Health | Low |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Average |
The Maltipoo is so popular and recognized amongst designer breeds that some assume it is a pure breed.
It came about as a cross between the Maltese and the Toy or Miniature Poodle.
The Maltipoo was crossed to get a hypoallergenic breed, so it is generally recommended for allergy sufferers.
That’s not where its pros ends. This hybrid is an affectionate and fun-loving companion.
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34. Coton de Tuléar
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Non-Sporting Group |
| Height | 8 to 12 inches |
| Weight | 8 to 13 pounds |
| Coat Type | Cottony, long |
| Coat Colors | White |
| Temperament | Happy, smart, playful |
| Life Expectancy | 14 to 16 years |
| Origin | Madagascar |
| General Health | High |
| Grooming Need | High |
| Energy Level | Average |
Coton de Tuléar comes from Africa and resembles the Bichon Frise and Maltese. It acted as a ratter on ships and was also a companion for ladies.
From the Island of Madagascar, it moved to other places, including the United States.
Now, it is a relatively known companion with the beautiful qualities you’d expect from a family pet.
It has a good sense of humor, is willing to please, and enjoys being around its humans.
35. Chorkie
Breed Overview
| AKC Group | Not recognized |
| Height | 6 to 9 inches |
| Weight | 8 to 15 pounds |
| Coat Type | Silky, medium |
| Coat Colors | Brown, white, silver, blue and black |
| Temperament | Cheerful, outgoing, affectionate |
| Life Expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Origin | United States |
| General Health | Average |
| Grooming Need | Average |
| Energy Level | High |
Chorkie, the last dog on our list of toy breeds, is a cross between two spunky breeds, the Chihuahua and the Yorkshire Terrier.
When you get this mixed breed, you’re signing up for some drama and fun.
It is slowly rising in popularity, partly because of its parents and because of its many advantages.
This mix is loyal and devoted but expects some stubbornness.
Frequently Asked Question
What is the calmest toy dog breed?
Toy dog breeds have different personalities with some being calmer than others.
It is hard to pinpoint the calmest toy dog breed, but we have some good options. They include the Japanese Chin, Lhasa Apso, and Pekingese.
What is the most loving small dog?
Small dogs are preferred as companions because they show strong affections. While some might be wary of strangers, a lot of them aren’t.
Some of the most loving small dogs are Papillon, Toy Poodle, Pomeranian, and the Pug
What is the smallest puppy you can buy?
Small dog breeds are all tiny as puppies and retain their puppy looks throughout their lives—though they grow a little in size.
Some of the smallest puppies you can buy are in breeds like the Biewer Terrier and the Chihuahua.
Which Tiny Dog Breed Is Right For You?
There are some considerations to have in mind when deciding which breed to choose.
Those on our list with “Health” tagged “low” are susceptible to more illnesses especially when they are ill-bred.
They still have a long life span and you can reduce the chances of medical complications by getting your pup from a reputable breeder.
You should also ensure you have a lot of time for any small dog you pick as they don’t like being alone.
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