25 of the Smallest Dog Breeds You Should Know If You’re Not Into Big Dogs

Even if you’re a dog lover, you don’t necessarily share your neighbor’s taste in breeds. Some folks prefer big dogs, while others lean towards smaller ones. If you belong to the latter group, you’re exactly where you need to be—we’ve put together a list of the 25 absolute smallest dog breeds in the world for you.

Of course, there are plenty of “teacup” versions out there, but since they aren’t officially recognized, we’ve left them off our list.

Russian Toy Terrier

The Russian Toy Terrier is one of the tiniest breeds, weighing only about 2.2–6.6 lbs (1–3 kg) and standing roughly 7.9–11 inches (20–28 cm) tall. This lively and elegant pup is perfect for anyone looking for a compact, spirited companion with plenty of attitude.

Pomeranian

Pomeranians typically weigh around 2.9–6.6 lbs (1.3–3 kg) and stand about 7.1–11.8 inches (18–30 cm) tall. With their fluffy coats and energetic demeanor, these little dogs make a big impression and are a favorite for those who love a feisty, portable companion.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers usually tip the scales at roughly 2.9–7.1 lbs (1.3–3.2 kg) and stand about 7.9–9.1 inches (20–23 cm) tall. Known for their brave, alert nature and stylish, low-maintenance coat, they’re ideal for dog lovers who appreciate a mix of elegance and spunk in a small package.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are among the smallest dogs in the world, weighing in at about 3.3–6.6 lbs (1.5–3 kg) and standing approximately 5.9–9.1 inches (15–23 cm) tall. Don’t let their tiny stature fool you—their big personalities and fearless nature make them excellent companions for apartment living and active lifestyles.

Japanese Chin

Weighing around 4.4–8.8 lbs (2–4 kg) and standing roughly 7.9–10.6 inches (20–27 cm) tall, the Japanese Chin is admired for its aristocratic appearance and gentle temperament. This charming breed strikes a perfect balance between playfulness and refinement, making it an excellent choice for those with a taste for the finer things.

Biewer Terrier

The Biewer Terrier is a relatively new breed that weighs about 5.5–8.8 lbs (2.5–4 kg) and stands roughly 7.9–11 inches (20–28 cm) tall. With its colorful coat and friendly, curious nature, this little dog quickly wins hearts as a spirited and devoted companion.

Bichon Bolognese

The Bolognese is a small, white dog that weighs around 5.5–8.8 lbs (2.5–4 kg) and stands about 9.8–11.8 inches (25–30 cm) tall. Known for its calm and loving demeanor, this breed makes a wonderful family pet for anyone in search of a gentle, loyal friend.

Maltese

Maltese dogs typically weigh about 6.6–8.8 lbs (3–4 kg) and stand approximately 7.9–9.8 inches (20–25 cm) tall. Beloved for their silky, long coats and sweet, affectionate nature, they bring timeless charm and warmth into any home.

Toy Poodle

Toy Poodles generally weigh around 6.6–8.8 lbs (3–4 kg) and stand about 9.4–11 inches (24–28 cm) tall. Praised for their intelligence and elegant appearance, these pups are highly trainable and full of life, making them a delightful addition to any family.

Papillon

The Papillon, famous for its distinctive butterfly-like ears, weighs approximately 6.6–11 lbs (3–5 kg) and stands about 7.9–11 inches (20–28 cm) tall. With an energetic, friendly, and inquisitive personality, this breed is as smart as it is charming.

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound weighs roughly 7.9–11 lbs (3.6–5 kg) and stands about 12.6–15 inches (32–38 cm) tall. Known for its slender, graceful build and gentle temperament, this breed exudes refined elegance in a compact form—perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated companion.

Affenpinscher

Affenpinschers typically weigh around 6.6–13.2 lbs (3–6 kg) and stand approximately 9.1–11.8 inches (23–30 cm) tall. With their distinctive, slightly mischievous expression and energetic personality, these little dogs bring humor and charm into any home.

Chinese Crested

Chinese Crested dogs usually weigh about 6.6–13.2 lbs (3–6 kg) and stand roughly 12.6–15 inches (32–38 cm) tall. Their unique look—featuring patches of hair with smooth skin—is as quirky as their playful, affectionate temperament, making them an eye-catching and endearing companion.

Pekingese

Pekingese dogs typically weigh around 6.6–13.2 lbs (3–6 kg) and stand about 5.9–9.1 inches (15–23 cm) tall. With their regal bearing and distinctive flat faces, these dogs exude dignity and loyalty, offering a calm and devoted presence in your home.

Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon weighs approximately 7.7–13.2 lbs (3.5–6 kg) and stands about 7.1–7.9 inches (18–20 cm) tall. Known for its expressive face and compact build, this breed is lively and alert, quickly forming strong bonds with its family.

Coton de Tulear

Coton de Tulears usually weigh about 8.8–13.2 lbs (4–6 kg) and stand roughly 8.7–11 inches (22–28 cm) tall. Their soft, cotton-like coat and cheerful, friendly demeanor make them a favorite for families seeking a loving and joyful companion.

Miniature Pinscher

Also known as the Dwarf Pinscher, the Miniature Pinscher weighs around 8.8–13.2 lbs (4–6 kg) and stands about 9.8–11.8 inches (25–30 cm) tall. This spirited breed is energetic and fearless, with a commanding presence in a small frame—ideal for active dog enthusiasts.

Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus typically weigh about 8.8–15.4 lbs (4–7 kg) and stand roughly 7.9–11 inches (20–28 cm) tall. With their luxurious coats and friendly, sociable nature, these dogs have long been a classic choice for families, offering calm and loyal companionship.

Löwchen

Often called the “little lion dog,” the Löwchen weighs approximately 8.8–17.6 lbs (4–8 kg) and stands about 9.8–13 inches (25–33 cm) tall. Its unique, lion-like appearance and lively, friendly personality make it a standout choice for those looking for something truly special.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel weighs around 11–17.6 lbs (5–8 kg) and stands approximately 11.8–13 inches (30–33 cm) tall. Renowned for its gentle, affectionate nature and elegant looks, this breed is a beloved family pet that exudes warmth and charm.

Lhasa Apso

Lhasa Apsos usually weigh about 11–17.6 lbs (5–8 kg) and stand roughly 9.8–11 inches (25–28 cm) tall. Originally from Tibet, this breed is known for its independent yet loyal character, serving as both a devoted companion and a surprisingly effective watchdog.

Pug

Pugs typically weigh around 13.2–17.6 lbs (6–8 kg) and stand approximately 9.8–13 inches (25–33 cm) tall. With their distinctive wrinkled faces and cheerful, humorous nature, these compact dogs are incredibly charming and have won over hearts in households across America.

Miniature Schnauzer

Miniature Schnauzers weigh roughly 11–19.8 lbs (5–9 kg) and stand about 11.8–14.2 inches (30–36 cm) tall. With their signature beards and eyebrows, these alert and intelligent dogs are known for their loyalty and quick wit, making them perfect for active families and individuals alike.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Dandie Dinmont Terriers typically weigh around 17.6–24.3 lbs (8–11 kg) and stand about 7.9–11 inches (20–28 cm) tall. Although they’re on the heavier side for a small breed, their unique appearance and gentle, friendly temperament make them a delightful addition to any home.

French Bulldog

Rounding out our list, the French Bulldog weighs approximately 17.6–30.8 lbs (8–14 kg) and stands about 11–12.2 inches (28–31 cm) tall. Known for their muscular build, expressive faces, and occasionally stubborn yet endearing personalities, French Bulldogs have become a beloved companion in households all over America.