Small Dog Breeds: The Top 10 Tiny Dogs from Around the World

Small dog breeds often have a long history: many were bred as rat catchers, others as companion dogs for European nobility. We present the ten smallest dog breeds in the world, with size, weight, origin and character profiles.

Cairn Terrier

• Size: 25–30 cm (height at the withers)
• Weight: 6–7.5 kg
• Origin: Scotland

The Cairn Terrier originates from Scotland and originally hunted rodents in rocky terrain. Its wiry coat protected it from weather and undergrowth. Despite its small size, it is brave and self-confident.

Did you know? Toto from the film “The Wizard of Oz” was also a Cairn Terrier.

Chihuahua

• Size: 15–23 cm
• Weight: 1–3 kg
• Origin: Mexico

The Chihuahua is the smallest dog breed in the world. Its roots go back to ancient Mexican dogs. Despite its small size, it shows a lively temperament and bonds closely with its key people.

Jack Russell Terrier

• Size: 25–30 cm
• Weight: 5–7 kg
• Origin: Great Britain

This terrier was bred for fox hunting in the 19th century. The Jack Russell is intelligent, enduring and needs lots of enrichment, both physically and mentally.

Maltese

• Size: 20–25 cm
• Weight: 3–4 kg
• Origin: Mediterranean region (likely Malta)

With its silky, white coat, the Maltese has been a valued companion dog for centuries. It is playful and affectionate, but its coat requires regular care.

Norfolk Terrier

• Size: 23–25 cm
• Weight: 5–6 kg
• Origin: Great Britain

The Norfolk Terrier was originally used for hunting in narrow burrows. Its compact build and rough coat are typical of working terriers. It is friendly and sociable.

Norwich Terrier

• Size: 24–26 cm
• Weight: 5–6 kg
• Origin: Great Britain

The Norwich differs from the Norfolk Terrier mainly by its erect ears. It too was bred for hunting, but today it is a popular family dog.

Papillon

• Size: 20–28 cm
• Weight: 2–4.5 kg
• Origin: France/Belgium

The Papillon (you see it on the cover image in the middle) owes its name to its butterfly-like ears. This breed was once popular with European nobility and is considered intelligent and eager to learn.

Prague Ratter

• Size: 20–23 cm
• Weight: 1–3 kg
• Origin: Czech Republic

The Prague Ratter (Pražský Krysařík) belongs to the smallest European breeds. In the Middle Ages it hunted rats; today it is a lively companion dog with a delicate build and large eyes.

Russkiy Toy

• Size: 20–28 cm
• Weight: 1–3 kg
• Origin: Russia

The Russkiy Toy originates from Russian aristocracy. It is dainty but temperamental and affectionate. Despite its name, it is not a modern “toy” breeding, but a breed with historical roots.

Miniature Pinscher

• Size: 25–30 cm
• Weight: 4–6 kg
• Origin: Germany

The Miniature Pinscher is not a mini Doberman, even though the appearance is similar. It was originally used as a rat catcher and is self-confident and alert.

Note: No Toy or Teacup Dogs

In this article we have deliberately avoided so-called toy breeds or teacup dogs, as these often result from extreme breeding that endangers the welfare of the animals. Overbreeding frequently leads to health problems such as breathing difficulties, jaw misalignments or fragile bones.

Instead, we present natural, robust breeds that have retained their original characteristics. Which tiny dog is your favourite?