Pearl is a Chihuahua who holds the Guinness record for the smallest dog in the world. She is from Florida and weighs 500 g. Although this is the tiniest dog around, you may be surprised at some of the other smallest dog breeds we share at Animal Wise.
It’s no coincidence that Pearl is so small. The Chihuahua breed is considered one of the smallest in existence, generally weighing between 2.2 and 6.6 lb or 1 and 3 kg. They are stubborn dogs, and seemingly unaware of their size. The reason you see them facing off against dogs much larger than themselves.
The 10 Most BEAUTIFUL DOGS in the World
Prag R
Although the Chihuahua is a very small dog, the Prag R is considered to be the smallest breed in the world. They weigh between 2.2 and 8.8 lb or 1 in4 kg, but typically do not reach more than 6.6 lb or 3 kg. They are sociable, and affectionate dogs, ideal for apartments or small houses.
Pomeranian
Don’t be fooled by the thick coat. Beneath all that fur hides a tiny dog. Pomeranians weigh between 3.3 and 7.7 lb or 1.5 and 3.5 kilos. They are very homely, and affectionate dogs, but they also need daily exercise. They tend to require a lot of attention to have a stable temperament.
Toy Poodle
There are four different types of poodles in terms of size, toy, miniature, medium, and large. Only the toy is one of the smallest dogs in the world. It weighs between 5.5 and 8.8 lb or 2.5 and 4 kg. Although they rarely reach this maximum weight, they are active, intelligent, and characterful dogs. They do not usually tolerate solitude very well.
Russian Toy
Do you know the little Russian toy? It is little known outside its home country, but this doesn’t stop it from being one of the smallest breeds. Elegant in appearance, they weigh between 4.4 and 6.6 pounds or 2 and 3 kg. They are also active, cheerful, and very curious, taking any opportunity to explore.
Maltese
With its silky white coat, the Maltese dog is another of the smallest breeds, weighing no more than 8.8 lb or 4 kg. They are active, and playful dogs, but they need to be properly socialized from the moment they arrive home. If you don’t know how to do it, in the video we share here and in the description, we teach you how to socialize a puppy.
Yorkshire Terrier
Due to its popularity, you may have been expecting to see the Yorkshire Terrier on our list of the world’s smallest dogs. The International Canine Federation indicates in its breed standard that it should not exceed 7 lb or 3.2 kg. However, there are currently specimens that exceed this weight. For this reason, the mini size is often distinguished from the medium size. The only officially recognized type is the mini, but all are equally beautiful. They stand out for being intelligent, alert, and quite vocal.
Continental Toy Spananiel (Papalon and Phalene)
Small with a lot of character. We continue with one of the most graceful and adorable breeds, the continental toy spananiel. You may be more familiar with the name papalon for this breed, although it is known for having two variations. The papalon stands out for their straight butterfly shaped ears, which provide their characteristic appearance. The other variety is known as the failing. Unlike the papalon, its ears are drooping.
In both cases, we are dealing with small dogs that weigh between 3.3 and 9.9 lb or 1.5 and 4.5 kilos. They are intelligent, sociable, and alert, always noticing any unusual sound or movement.
Miniature Dashund
This is the smallest variety of dashund and could not be missing from this list. It weighs approximately 9.9 lb or 4.5 kilos. It is an adorable dog due to its body, and elongated ears. Despite their size, miniature dashins are very brave and fast dogs with an excellent sense of smell.
Japanese Spaniel
We finish with a dog originating in Japan. Less known than the previous on our list, but equally adorable is the Japanese spaniel. It weighs between 4.4 and 8.8 pounds or 2 and 4 kg, and is in general elegant and very particular. It’s not just their appearance that makes you fall in love. They are a very sweet and charming dog.
Conclusion
And that’s it for the 10 smallest dog breeds. Although it’s important to know there are other similarly small statured breeds. Of course, we haven’t forgotten about small mixed breeds. To know more about small dog breeds, check out our playlist here. We’ll see you next time.
Overview Table
| Dog Breed | Weight Range | Special Traits |
|---|---|---|
| Chihuahua | 2.2–6.6 lb (1–3 kg) | Stubborn, fearless, unaware of small size |
| Prag R | 2.2–8.8 lb (1–4 kg) | Smallest breed, sociable, affectionate |
| Pomeranian | 3.3–7.7 lb (1.5–3.5 kg) | Fluffy, homely, affectionate, needs attention |
| Toy Poodle | 5.5–8.8 lb (2.5–4 kg) | Active, intelligent, dislikes solitude |
| Russian Toy | 4.4–6.6 lb (2–3 kg) | Elegant, cheerful, curious |
| Maltese | Up to 8.8 lb (4 kg) | Silky coat, playful, needs socialization |
| Yorkshire Terrier | Up to 7 lb (3.2 kg) | Intelligent, alert, vocal |
| Continental Toy Spananiel | 3.3–9.9 lb (1.5–4.5 kg) | Butterfly ears (Papalon) or drooping (Phalene) |
| Miniature Dashund | Around 9.9 lb (4.5 kg) | Brave, fast, great sense of smell |
| Japanese Spaniel | 4.4–8.8 lb (2–4 kg) | Elegant, sweet, charming |
FAQs
1. Who is the smallest dog in the world?
Pearl the Chihuahua from Florida is the smallest dog in the world, holding the Guinness record.
2. Are Chihuahuas always the smallest breed?
Chihuahuas are one of the smallest breeds, but the Prag R is considered the smallest breed in existence.
3. Why are Pomeranians popular small dogs?
Pomeranians are fluffy and affectionate, but they also need daily exercise and attention.
4. What is special about the Toy Poodle?
The Toy Poodle is active and intelligent, but they usually dislike being left alone for long periods.
5. What makes the Russian Toy unique?
The Russian Toy is elegant, cheerful, and very curious, making them adventurous little companions.
6. Are Maltese dogs easy to raise?
Maltese dogs are playful and loving, but they need early socialization to adapt well.
7. Why are Yorkshire Terriers famous?
Yorkies are intelligent, alert, and vocal, with a mini size officially recognized by standards.
8. What are the traits of the Continental Toy Spananiel?
They can be Papalon with butterfly ears or Phalene with drooping ears, both small and sociable.
9. Is the Miniature Dashund a brave dog?
Yes, despite their small size they are brave, fast, and have an excellent sense of smell.
10. What is special about the Japanese Spaniel?
The Japanese Spaniel is elegant, sweet, and charming, winning hearts with its unique look.
