18 Smallest dog Breeds in the World.

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There’s little doubt that dogs are the most popular pets in most parts of the world. A large reason for that is their sheer versatility – there are hundreds of dog breeds, and they come in all shapes and sizes.

Smaller dog breeds can have some advantages over larger breeds in terms of popularity and overall convenience. For example, a smaller dog like a Chihuahua may be a better fit for certain lifestyles than larger dogs like a Newfoundland. As a general rule, smaller dog breeds are usually easier to care for, with feeding and veterinary expenses also tending to be cheaper. Some dog owners simply prefer to own a dog that stays small throughout their life, as it is more suited to their life circumstances.

While tiny dog breeds will never be able to take the jobs primarily given to larger dogs (like guarding or protection), many of them are great for novice owners. If you are limited by time, a small breed is something to consider – although like medium and large dog breeds, smaller breeds still need exercise to maintain a healthy life. Smaller dogs can be easier to take out for walks and socialize – they become tired more quickly and cause fewer hurdles to their owner's thanks to their size.

In this article, we will look at 18 of the smallest dog breeds in the world, covering their basic characteristics, their average height and weight, and provide further information about the breeds mentioned.

Shih Tzu
Average height: 9 – 10.5 inches
Average weight: 9 – 16 lbs

The Shih Tzu is a highly valued Asian toy breed with a long straight coat and curved tail. They are very friendly, alert, and intelligent. The breed is also hypoallergenic. Also known as the Shih Tzu Kou, translated to Lion Dog in Chinese, Shih Tzus are affectionate house dogs that love spending time with their human companions but often enact clingy behavior.

Chihuahua
Average height: 5 – 8 inches
Average weight: 4 – 6 lbs

The Chihuahua is commonly regarded as the smallest dog breed in the world. The smallest dog in history was a Chihuahua named Miracle Milly. She was 3.8 inches tall, and weighing approximately one pound.

Chihuahuas are one of the most popular of the smaller dog breeds. The breed adapts well to apartment living and is very loyal to its owner. With their playful personalities and affectionate nature, the Chihuahua can be a great family pet. Despite a tendency to be territorial, any behavioral problems can be resolved with training.

Pomeranian
Average height: 5 – 8 inches
Average weight: 4 – 6 lbs

Did you know that Pomeranians weren’t always this tiny? The earlier records of the breed show an average weight of 30 lbs – ten times greater than what the breed typically weighs today! Years of breeding made Pomeranians go from a medium-sized breed to a small companion dog.

Poms demonstrate many traits you would expect to see in a companion dog. They want to be the center of attention, are loving, and create strong bonds with their humans.

Pug
Average height: 10 – 13 inches
Average weight: 14 – 18 lbs

Originally bred to be lap dogs by the Shang Dynasty in 300 BC, Pugs have taken the responsibility of being companion dogs for over two thousand years. Like Pomeranians, they weren’t always this small, though. After Pugs were imported to the Netherlands from China, the breeder intentionally bred Pugs to make them smaller.

The Pug gained popularity in the 19th century thanks to Queen Victoria. She had several Pugs that she bred herself. The involvement of Queen Victoria with dogs inspired the creation of The Kennel Club in 1873, which is acknowledged as the first kennel club in the world.

The Kennel Club describes the Pug as “a lot of dogs in a small frame”, pointing out its playful and affectionate nature. The AKC recommends Pugs to people who live in small places such as apartments and those with small children.

Maltese.
Average height: 8 – 10 inches
Average weight: 5 – 7 lbs

Maltese Dogs have been around for a long time, but not much is known about the origins of this small breed. Both the ancient Romans and Greeks mentioned the Maltese Dog in their literature. Although it is believed that the breed gets its name from the Mediterranean island of Malta, there is little to no evidence available to prove this – and thus, the origins of the Maltese dog remain unknown. However, there is strong evidence that suggests that the Maltese originated in south-central Europe from spitz-type dogs and resembled the modern-day Pomeranian.

The Maltese has a long coat and has the most fashionable array of haircuts among any dog. Hairstyles like the standard cut, show cut, bob cut, puppy clip, and teddy bear cut are popular among owners of this tiny breed.