5 Tiny Dog Breeds That Stay Small

Numerous dog breeds start out small and then remain small, including Yorkies and Chihuahuas. Here are the top 5 tiny pups we like best!

Many breeds of dogs start small and stay small.

Some people have a preference for tiny breeds because they travel well. These wee companions can easily be carried around, which increases the bond between pet and human.

Keep reading to see my list of the top small dog breeds …

5 Breeds of Tiny Dogs That Stay Small

Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is among the tiny dogs that stay small. Photo: Macskafaraok

1. Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier is a little dog with a huge attitude. Standing at 6–7 inches tall and weighing less than 7 pounds, the Yorkie is a dedicated and protective companion.

Although they are high-energy little dogs, they do not require a lot of exercise.

They do need considerable grooming, however. You have to brush the long, silky coat regularly.

Yorkies are the perfect pet regardless of your living arrangements. They are just as happy in an apartment as they are in a sprawling mansion. This makes the Yorkshire Terrier the ideal pet for almost anyone.

Papillon
The Papillon is another one of the tiny dogs that stay small. Photo: DennisInAmersterdam

2. Papillon

The Papillon is a small and loving companion. They are 8–11 inches tall and weigh 7–10 pounds.

The Papillon is sometimes called the butterfly dog, because the ears resemble the wings of a butterfly.

They are extremely intelligent and highly trainable puppies. Many dog show enthusiasts use these wonderful little pups for obedience and agility trials.

Daily brushing is necessary to maintain a Papillon’s coat. Although the coat is not very long, the feathering and fringes can become tangled.

Considered to be odorless pets, Papillons just need occasional bathing. They are low maintenance but high on the list of tiny dogs people love.

tiny dogs that stay small
Weighing anywhere from 2 to 6 pounds, the Chihuahua is small and stays small. Photo: Dave Baker/Petful

3. Chihuahua

The Chihuahua has been growing in popularity the past few years. It is among the tiniest dog breeds and is often called a purse pooch. Although standing at less than 8 inches tall and weighing 2–6 pounds, the Chihuahua is fearless.

Chihuahuas can be temperamental and tenacious, so they are not for everyone. But in the right home, they can be the best pet ever.

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The American Kennel Club describes the breed this way: “a graceful, alert, swift-moving compact little dog with saucy expression, and with terrier-like qualities of temperament.”

Because of their tiny size, Chihuahuas don’t require much exercise. Grooming time varies according to whether the pup is smooth-coated or longhaired.

tiny dogs that stay small
The rough, shaggy coat and monkey-like expression make the Affenpinscher a unique pet. Photo: W J (Bill) Harrison

4. Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher is a wonderful small dog who is playful and energetic.

They are less than 11 inches tall and weigh 7–9 pounds. The rough, shaggy coat and monkey-like expression make the Affenpinscher a unique pet.

In 2013, an Affenpinscher won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Tiny dogs that stay small
Maltese make great family pets. Photo: yasmapaz & ace_heart

5. Maltese

Another popular small dog is the Maltese. They are white and have silky coats.

Maltese are intelligent and trainable. Playful and high spirited, they love everyone and make exceptional family pets. They do require daily brushing to maintain their coat.