5 of the Smallest Dog Breeds That Stay Tiny: Perfect Pets for Any Home

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Introduction to the Smallest Dog Breeds That Stay Tiny

Many breeds of dogs start small and stay small, making them some of the smallest dog breeds available.

Some people prefer these tiny breeds because they travel well. These companions can easily be carried around, increasing the bond between pets and humans.

Keep reading to see my list of the top smallest dog breeds that stay small

Yorkshire Terrier: A Small Dog with a Big Personality

The Yorkshire Terrier is one of the smallest dog breeds with a huge attitude. Standing at 6–7 inches tall and weighing less than 7 pounds, Yorkies are dedicated and protective companions. Here are some key points about Yorkshire Terriers:

• Size: 6–7 inches tall, less than 7 pounds
• Exercise: Low requirement
• Grooming: Regular brushing needed
• Living Arrangements: Suitable for both apartments and large homes

Yorkies are high-energy but don’t require much exercise. However, their long, silky coat needs regular brushing. They adapt well to different living arrangements, making them ideal pets for almost anyone.

For more details, visit the Yorkshire Terrier profile on Petful and read about apartment dogs.

Papillon: The Intelligent Butterfly Dog

The Papillon is a small, loving companion known for its butterfly-like ears. Standing at 8–11 inches tall and weighing 7–10 pounds, they are among the smallest dog breeds that stay tiny. Here are some key points about Papillons:

• Size: 8–11 inches tall, 7–10 pounds
• Exercise: Moderate requirement
• Grooming: Daily brushing needed
• Maintenance: Low, occasional bathing

Papillons are extremely intelligent and highly trainable, often excelling in obedience and agility trials. Despite their feathered coat needing daily brushing, they are considered odorless and only require occasional bathing.

For more details, visit the Papillon profile on Petful and learn more about intelligent dogs.

Chihuahua: The Fearless Purse Pooch

The Chihuahua is one of the smallest dog breeds and has been growing in popularity. Often called a purse pooch, it stands at less than 8 inches tall and weighs 2–6 pounds. Here are some key points about Chihuahuas:

• Fearless: Despite their size, Chihuahuas are known for their bold and fearless nature.
• Temperamental: They can be temperamental and tenacious, making them not suitable for everyone.
• Best Pet in the Right Home: In the right environment, they can be the best pet ever.
• Grooming Needs: Grooming varies based on whether they are smooth-coated or longhaired.
• Minimal Exercise: Due to their tiny size, Chihuahuas don’t require much exercise.

The American Kennel Club describes them as “a graceful, alert, swift-moving compact little dog with a saucy expression, and with terrier-like qualities of temperament.”

For more details, visit the Chihuahua profile on Petful and the American Kennel Club’s Chihuahua page.

Affenpinscher: The Playful Monkey Dog

The Affenpinscher is a small, playful, and energetic dog, making it a unique and delightful pet. Here are some key points about Affenpinschers:

• Size: They are less than 11 inches tall and weigh 7–9 pounds.
• Distinct Appearance: Known for their rough, shaggy coat and monkey-like expression.
• Award-Winning: An Affenpinscher won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 2013.

For more details, visit the Affenpinscher profile on AKC and read about the Best in Show win.

Maltese: The Playful and Loving Companion

The Maltese is another popular small dog known for its loving nature and playful spirit. Here are some key points about Maltese dogs:

• Appearance: They have white, silky coats that require daily brushing to maintain.
• Intelligent and Trainable: Maltese dogs are highly intelligent and easy to train.
• Family Pets: They are high-spirited, playful, and love everyone, making them exceptional family pets.

For more details, visit the Maltese profile on Petful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)