Miniature dogs are expensive to keep, but have several advantages over their larger brethren. Here are a few reasons why you might consider purchasing one of the smallest dog breeds:
- Lifespan: The smaller the dog, the longer it can live. Many toy dog breeds live for 15+ years.
- They can do without the obligatory daily walks. If you teach a small dog to a tray or a disposable diaper, then you can not take your pet out in bad weather or frost.
- Saving space: small dogs are ideal for living in a small apartment.
- Love and dedication: even the smallest dog in the world is a true friend who adores its owner.
We present you the name of the breeds and the photos of the dogs.
10. Shih Tzu - weight 4-7.2 kg
The Chinese name "Shih Tzu" in translation into Russian means "lion cub". The long silky hair around the head of the Shih Tzu really does look like a lion's mane.
Shih Tzu are one of the oldest breeds in the world, with a history dating back to 8000 BC.
The Shih Tzu can be a great companion for a child who understands that a dog is not a living toy. These fluffy babies are very gentle, sociable, temperamental, intelligent and not at all aggressive.
9. Papillon - 3.6-4.5 kg
Small, friendly and affectionate dog. The name "papillon" means "butterfly". This name was given to the breed in honor of its amusing ears covered with thick hair, resembling butterfly wings.
Papillons are very temperamental, affectionate and clean dogs that need daily walks. Daily brushing is important to maintain the beauty of your animal's long, silky hair.
8. Bichon Frize - 3-5 kg
A small breed developed in France. The name "bichon frize" means "curly lapdog".
Bichon Frize are incredibly funny, friendly, playful and intelligent. They have a compact body with a dense coat. Such a dog can be easily confused with a white poodle.
A cheerful temperament is a distinctive quality of the breed. They are also very patient and friendly with children and other pets in the family.
7. Japanese Chin - 2-4 kg
Translated from Japanese "hin" means "jewel". It is not hard to guess that the dogs that were given this name were companions of dignitaries. However, the exact origin of the Japanese Chin is unknown. Perhaps he came to Japan from China.
This long-haired, sociable and loyal little one is a great dog for a city apartment. Chins are moderately active indoors and will do without a daily walk, especially if it's cold or hot outside.
Their coats need regular grooming with a brush and comb (twice a week).
The breed is very friendly to other pets, but it can be jealous of children. Ideal if the puppy and the child are growing up together.
6. Russian toy - 2-3 kg
One of the most unpretentious in everyday life of all miniature dog breeds.They are undemanding to food, get along well with other animals, and do not need long walks.
There are two varieties of Russian Toy: one is smooth-haired and the other is long-haired. Moreover, in the long-haired toy, the ears are covered with long and soft wool, hanging like a fringe.
Despite the fragile physique, the Russian toy will fearlessly rush to attack even a large dog, if it considers that the owner is in danger.
5. Pomeranian Spitz - 1.9-3.5 kg
This is one of the smallest dogs in the world. The photos of the breed look more like a beautiful toy, but they are very active, intelligent, social and playful dogs.
Oranges have a long, beautiful coat that makes them look like cheerful fluffy balls.
This is not the best dog for small children, because even the largest of the breed is not big enough to withstand rough play.
Pomeranian Spitz is one of the most capricious breeds to keep. Daily brushing and brushing is a must to keep your dog looking beautiful.
4. Maltese lapdog - 1.8-3.2 kg
This tiny dog with long, snow-white coat is native to the Mediterranean island of Malta.
The Maltese do not shed much and are therefore a good choice for those with dog allergies.
Despite their small size, Maltese lapdogs are very active and stubborn creatures, and may not be suitable for those who have not dealt with dogs before. It takes patience and perseverance to train them adequately.
3. Toy fox terrier - 1.5-3.5 kg
Long-eared, athletic-looking dogs with short, shiny coat were bred from small, smooth-haired fox terriers. A fearless, active and easily trained puppy can, despite its modest height and weight, "sit on the neck" of the owner. So if you decide to have a toy fox terrier, you should show him from his young teeth who is the boss.
During the moulting period, these crumbs lose a surprising amount of wool. Therefore, they are unlikely to be suitable for allergy sufferers. But grooming is not difficult, and toy fox terriers do not bark too loudly. Therefore, they will be excellent companions for the elderly.
2. Yorkshire Terrier - 1.3-3.2 kg
A popular miniature breed that is well known for its long, silky hair. Yorkies have a small head, black eyes, and sharp, erect ears.
The temperament of these dogs depends on the training and socialization they receive during puppyhood. Well trained dogs will be calm and courageous. They are not suitable for outdoor activities because they cannot withstand too cold or too warm conditions.
Yorkshire Terriers are good watchdogs. They will bark at anything they find strange or threatening to their owners.
1. Chihuahua - 0.9-2.7 kg
Here is the answer to the question of what breed of dog is the smallest. With a maximum weight of 2.7 kg, Chihuahuas are by far the smallest dogs in the world. Photos of these tiny beauties are even in the Guinness Book of Records. 
- The size of a dog named Milli, which belongs to a resident of Puerto Rico Vanessa Semler, is only 9.65 cm at the withers, and weighs 400 grams. She is the smallest of all dogs on Earth.
- And the record holder in the nomination "shortest dog" is a Chihuahua named Brandy, whose length is 15 centimeters.
Chihuahua breed comes from Mexico. They are named after the state of Chihuahua, in which breeders found amazingly miniature dogs. These dogs have a small, rounded head, straight ears, and large moist eyes that seem to be about to pop out of their sockets. There are both short-haired and long-haired Chihuahuas in the world.
As with any breed, early socialization and training is essential for the Chihuahua. They are very smart and curious, learn quickly. These animals are devoted to their family, although they tend to be especially attached to one person. Chihuahuas also love to follow their master wherever he goes.
Despite their tiny size, they are very good watchmen, they will always warn by barking if someone approaches the front door.In general, Chihuahuas love and know how to bark. They will bark at strangers, strange sounds, and other dogs. Chihuahuas should not be left unattended in the open air, because they can get involved in a fight with larger animals.