The 10 smallest dog breeds

This ranking orders breeds by the midpoint of their typical height at the withers, lowest first. When two breeds tie, the one with the lower average weight comes first, then alphabetical order. These are breed ranges: individual dogs can differ.

No. 1 — Chihuahuaabout 19 cm on average (15–23 cm)The world's smallest dog has a big personality: lively, loyal and brave, the Chihuahua is an ideal companion for city life.
No. 2 — Pekingeseabout 19 cm on average (15–23 cm)Once the dog of China's imperial palaces, the Pekingese is dignified, independent and devoted to its owners, with the look of a little lion.
No. 3 — Pomeranianabout 20 cm on average (18–22 cm)A tiny ball of fluff with a big personality, the Pomeranian is lively, playful and devoted to its owners.
No. 4 — Yorkshire Terrierabout 20.5 cm on average (18–23 cm)A small dog with a silky coat and a terrier's spirit, the Yorkie is lively, cuddly and deeply attached to its owners. It sheds very little.
No. 5 — Malteseabout 22.5 cm on average (20–25 cm)A small dog with a long, silky white coat, the Maltese is gentle, playful and devoted to its owners. It sheds very little.
No. 6 — Brussels Griffonabout 23 cm on average (18–28 cm)A small Belgian dog with a wiry red coat and an almost human expression, the Brussels Griffon is lively, curious and devoted to its owner.
No. 7 — Dachshundabout 23.5 cm on average (20–27 cm)Long, low and full of confidence, the Dachshund is a brave hunter turned affectionate companion. It comes in three sizes and three coat types.
No. 8 — Shih Tzuabout 23.5 cm on average (20–27 cm)Gentle, cuddly and full of charm, the Shih Tzu is a calm little companion dog, perfect for apartments but sensitive to heat.
No. 9 — Russian Toyabout 24 cm on average (20–28 cm)A tiny, elegant dog with large ears, the Russian Toy (Russkiy Toy) is lively, cheerful and very attached to its owners.
No. 10 — Japanese Chinabout 24 cm on average (20–28 cm)An elegant little dog of the Japanese nobility, the Japanese Chin is calm, refined and very affectionate with its family.