Toy dog breeds prove that good things really do come in small packages, but don’t let their petite size and sweet expressions fool you — while they may be tiny, many toy dog breeds have bucketloads of energy that will certainly keep you on your toes.
Just like our larger canine companions, toy dogs all have their own unique personalities, so while zooming around after the best dog toys will be the key to keeping some of these breeds happy, others will be more than content to spend most of their day sleeping quietly beside you.
The term ‘toy dog’ typically refers to any very small breed of dog, which can include miniature versions of larger dogs, such as pinschers and terriers. Most toy dogs are affectionate, social, and adaptable, however many also have strong protective instincts, which is worth keeping in mind.
If you think that a toy dog breed may be the perfect pup for you, read on as we reveal our favorite puppy-sized pooches.
32 toy dog breeds
1. Poodle
There are three sizes of poodle: standard, miniature, and toy. Of those, the toy poodle is the smallest of them all, weighing around 6lbs (2.7kg) and standing no more than 11 inches (28 centimeters) tall.
Originating in Germany and once bred as hunting dogs, poodles have long been hugely popular. Loved as cute companions and admired for their high intelligence and friendly nature, they have, over the years, been highly sought by wealthy Parisians and been firm favorites among royalty.
King Louis XVI of France had a particular fondness for them and celebrities enjoy them today. They also come in 10 different colors, live to a good age, and are amazing with children.
2. Maltese
This ancient breed has been around for thousands of years and, while no one knows their exact origins for sure, the Mediterranean island of Malta is where they most likely developed, having been imported by the Phoenicians.
Once known as “Ye ancient dogge of Malta”, they were bred as companions, proving to be playful, adaptable, and easily trained. But while their “toy” credentials are backed by them weighing no more than 9lbs (4kg) and standing no greater than 10 inches (25 centimeters) tall, what is perhaps most striking – and toylike – is their beautiful, easily-styled glossy, silky white coat. It's not hard to see why they were so loved by ancient Romans and Greeks.
3. Manchester Terrier
The toy variety of the Manchester Terrier emerged after the Industrial Revolution. The standard Manchester Terrier had been bred to kill rats in the early 1800s but a demand for smaller dogs as pets led to them being crossed with chihuahuas. They were popular in Victorian England.
Weighing as little as 2.2lbs (1kg), the toy Manchester Terrier is athletic, alert, and intelligent with a soft temper. They were once nicknamed the Groom's Pocket Piece because they were carried by horse riders in leather pouches suspended from their belt.
4. Affenpinscher
Although a relatively rare breed, the Affenpinscher – or Monkey Terrier as it is also known – originated in the 17th century. Bred in Germany as a vermin catcher, this endearingly scruffy-looking pooch is self-confident yet comical, boasting a distinctively cute-looking monkey-like face (hence the nickname) that caught the eye, thereby leading them to become popular as companions.
Weighing 13.2lb (6kg) at their heaviest and measuring up to 12 inches (30 centimeters) in height, they're great dogs to have around, becoming popular in the US following World World II when they were imported from Europe. Some are a little tricky to housebreak but they are generally quiet and very low shedding. They are also brave little things: they can pick fights with larger animals and become fiercely protective of their families.
5. Chinese Crested
It's hard not to perform a double-take when you see a Chinese Crested dog for the first time. It's certainly difficult to find a breed with a more unique appearance, especially if you've caught sight of the hairless variety with its exposed spotted pink skin.
Although the Powderpuff variety has hair across the body (with both being roughly 13 inches high (33 centimeters) and between 10 and 13 lbs (4.5 to 5.9kg) in weight), the hairless ones have mere tuffs. They are located around the paws and tail as well as the top and sides of their head and it's like they have socks and a punk rock hairdo!
6. Papillon
Descended from toy spaniels, the small, low-weight Papillon has been around for centuries. You can see the breed's ancestors depicted in European paintings from the 1500s onwards and the Papillon itself is said to have played a role in key historical events – the last queen of France, Marie Antoinette, was a fan and is claimed to have carried her dog with her to the guillotine (although some doubt the story's authenticity).
There is definitely a look of elegance with this tiny toy breed, helped in part by its large ears and beautifully shiny single-coated fur. Papillons love to laze around, making them ideal lapdogs. And while they are short in size, these intelligent dogs more than make up for that with their happy, friendly personalities.
7. Chihuahua
Named after the Mexican state of Chihuahua, these pooches are often carried around by their owners in tote bags. In many ways, these small but feisty toy dogs are the ultimate playthings. They adore being around people, form the closest of bonds, require very little grooming, and show an abundance of affection. They will use their small size to their advantage, though, by trying to squeeze in and through the tightest of spaces. They keep owners on their toes!
8. Shih Tzu
Originating from Tibet, Shih Tzus are calm, even-tempered, affectionate, outgoing, and playful. Dating back at least 1,000 years, they were once favorites among Chinese royalty but they also ended up in Europe less than 100 years ago before being imported into the United States following World War II.
Bred to resemble lions – their name actually means little lion – they are closely associated with the Tibetan Buddhist God of Learning. So many famous people have owned one including Queen Elizabeth II, Microsoft founder Bill Gates, and singer Mariah Carey, giving this lively toy breed a real air of glamour.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
As the most popular toy breed in the United States, the Yorkshire Terrier is a joy to have around. Small but with a big heart, they lavish affection on their owners and they love nothing more than curling up on your lap and going to sleep.
There's no mistaking why they are classed as being a toy breed. They are just seven inches tall (18 centimeters) and they weigh between three and seven pounds (1.36 to 3kg). Indeed, they are so unassuming and generally well-behaved that some airlines will even allow you to take them on board a plane when you travel.
10. Pomeranian
Pomeranians were bred from Arctic working dogs and they take their name from the German province of Pomerania. Their popularity continues to grow, putting them in the top 15 of registered American Kennel Club dog breeds and it's easy to see why given their incredibly cute teddy-bear-style looks.
Their fans over the years have included Queen Victoria who would exhibit her pets at London dog shows and Michelangelo who is said to have been accompanied by a Pomeranian when he was painting the Sistine Chapel. They were actually once larger than their seven to 12-inch (18–30cm) size but were bred to become even smaller, with dramatic reductions during Victoria's reign.
11. Biewer terrier
With their tri-colored, silky coat and plume-like tail, the elegant biewer terrier has a charming and whimsical attitude that makes it impossible not to fall in love with them. Their only mission in life is to love and be loved and they make incredibly loyal and dedicated family members. Weighing between four and eight pounds and reaching heights of up to 11 inches, this playful pup may be small but they’re super athletic and have a reputation for being outstanding hunters of vermin.
12. Havanese
Native to Cuba, the gentle, friendly, and outgoing Havanese is smart, affectionate, and loves to clown around. They also get on beautifully with children and seniors, making them wonderful pets for people of all ages and stages. Sweet and eager-to-please, you’ll have no trouble training your dog on your own if you adopt a Havanese as they’re quick learners who thrive on positive reinforcement.
Because they’re so loving, they also make wonderful therapy dogs, but don’t let their small stature fool you — they’re also confident barkers who will quickly alert you if they sense a threat.
13. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
If you’re looking for a canine companion who has the athleticism of a spaniel but the gentle attentiveness that many toy breeds are known for, then a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may well be the perfect pup for you. With their stunning looks, sweet expression, and even-tempered and loving nature, the cavie has long been one of the most popular dog breeds. Wonderful with children and getting along brilliantly with other pets, this pup is highly adaptable and will do well in almost any home. Devoted and faithful companions, if you plan on welcoming a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel into your family, make sure there’s always someone around to keep them company as they don’t like being left alone.
14. Brussels Griffon
Sensitive and inquisitive, the super intelligent Brussels Griffon hails from Belgium where they were originally bred to be rat catchers. These days though, this adorable and highly affectionate dog is content to remain by the side of their favorite humans and make wonderfully loyal and devoted family members. Small and sturdy, they are endlessly cheerful and curious, and they excel in agility, obedience, and other performance sports. Because they are one of the dog breeds most likely to suffer from separation anxiety, they aren’t suited to people with an independent lifestyle. Instead, they do best in homes where they can have frequent interaction with their humans.
15. Italian Greyhound
A greyhound in miniature form, the Italian Greyhound is an elegant, alert, and playful pup with a sensitive soul. They grow to heights of between 13 and 15 inches and can weigh up to 14 pounds with an average life expectancy of around 15 years. Doting companions with affectionate natures, Italian Greyhounds are very adaptable and because of that, they’re one of the best dogs for apartment living.
Just make sure to give them an opportunity for a vigorous play session each day — while they don’t require lots of exercise (they burn off their energy in short sprint sessions) they’ll still need a daily walk and a game of fetch.
16. Japanese Chin
With its silky and profuse coat and charming personality, the bright, graceful, and affectionate Japanese Chin makes for a wonderfully loving companion. Weighing between seven and 11 pounds and growing to be no taller than 11 inches, this petite pup is generally quiet and loves curling up on a warm lap. Mild-mannered and playful, the Japanese Chin is very easygoing and will adapt well to all living situations. While they are very intelligent and well-behaved, they also have a mind of their own and a fondness for climbing, so don’t be surprised if you find this cat-like dog in high places!
17. English Toy Spaniel
While they often get mistaken for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel due to the striking similarity in their looks, the English Toy Spaniel is recognized as a breed in its own right. Merry in nature, this pup is bright, loving, and eager to please, but while they are very affectionate with their favorite humans, they are extremely discriminating in their choice of friends outside of their family members and are known to snub people that they’ve decided they don’t like.
Growing no taller than 10 inches, they are not a particularly athletic breed and will be content with a casual stroll each day. Although they’ll get on with most children, they find lots of noise overwhelming and so are best suited to calm households.
18. Pekingese
A compact and robust dog reaching heights of just nine inches, the Pekingese is very loyal and loving where their owners are concerned but they can also be territorial and highly protective of those they love, so early socialization is key. Full of dignity and pride, they have a stubborn streak that can make training them a challenge, so you’ll need to have plenty of patience if you plan on welcoming a Pekingese into your family.
Thankfully, the benefits of training your dog are huge, so if you don’t mind putting in the time and effort, this pup will reward you by being a wonderfully affectionate companion.
19. Russian Toy
An elegant and lively little dog who weighs no more than six pounds, the Russian Toy has a cheerful disposition and buckets loads of smarts. While they can be slightly aloof with strangers, they love to snuggle up with their favorite humans and will take as many cuddles as their owners will dish out.
This pint-sized pup may be tiny but they can be quite vocal as they tend to like to guard their home, and while they’re very devoted to their family, they have a strong prey drive, which means they may not be suitable for homes with other pets.
20. Pug
Small yet sturdy, the playful, mischievous, and charming pug is one of the world’s most beloved breeds. An adaptable dog who’s full of character, the pug thrives in almost any environment, making them well-suited to life with singles, couples, families, or seniors.
One of the oldest dog breeds, this pup can be traced back to 400BC China where they were bred to be companions to emperors and others in the royal and ruling classes. Today, they make one of the best dogs for extroverts thanks to their social, friendly, and outgoing nature.
21. Toy fox terrier
The toy fox terrier is a spirited, pint-sized powerhouse with a tenacious and loving temperament. Weighing between four and nine pounds, they are incredibly alert little dogs who adore a good play session and excel in obedience and agility competitions. Easy to train and eager to please, they are highly intelligent, and while they’re a true terrier when it comes to their love of chasing after things, they’re also super affectionate and enjoy curling up on the couch with their favorite humans.
A hardy breed that’s known for living well into their teens, the toy fox terrier is extremely loyal and very protective of their family members, so expect a large bark that belies their small size.
22. Chorkie
A cross between a chihuahua and a Yorkshire Terrier, the fun, intelligent, and lively chorkie has a bold personality. Overflowing with love and affection that they’re constantly dishing out to their beloved humans, this breed gets on well with people of all ages and stages and is highly adaptable, making them well-suited to all living environments and situations.
Cheerful and outgoing, they love accompanying their owners wherever they go, and while they’re certainly energetic, they also have super short legs — which means you may find you have to carry them for at least part of your daily walk together.
23. Miniature pinscher
Affectionately referred to as ‘min pins’, the miniature pinscher is a fearless and fun-loving dog with bags of personality. Energetic and lively, the min pin may look like a Doberman in tiny packaging, but they’re actually a distinct and much older breed. Patient and gentle, they make wonderful companions for children and although they are active, they don’t require strenuous exercise each day, preferring a walk or a game of fetch with their family. You’ll want to be a strong pack leader if you plan on adopting a min pin as while they may be tiny, they’ll absolutely rule the roost if you let them!
24. American Eskimo
Bred in three distinct sizes (toy, miniature, and standard), the American Eskimo (or Eskie, as it’s affectionately referred to) is an adorably fluffy little pup known for its alert, social, and affectionate nature. Excelling in obedience and agility activities, they are smart and versatile dogs who get on famously with children.
Managing to effortlessly mix both brains and beauty, the American Eskimo makes for a fantastic pet, however because they insist on being full members of the family who are involved with every part of day-to-day life, they do not do well with being left alone, and need to be in a home where there are always people around to keep them company.
25. Shih-Poo
Small in stature but high in intelligence, the shih-poo is a cross between a poodle and a shih-tzu. The result is a low-shedding and affectionate pup who’s known for having a delightful personality. The shih-poo gets on beautifully with children and other pets and because they have a coat that’s as close to hypoallergenic as you can get, they’re a great choice for those with allergies. Moderately active, they enjoy a mixture of exercise and cuddle time, so if you’re looking for a dog that ticks all the boxes, the shih-poo is well worth considering.
26. Chiweenie
A cross between the chihuahua and the miniature dachshund, the chiweenie is a firecracker of a dog that will certainly keep you on your toes! Not a pup for the faint of heart, the chiweenie is super energetic and one of the most vocal dog breeds around.
They have a relatively long lifespan for a dog, with those in good health being known to live for up to 16 years, and while they can be a bit stubborn, on the whole, they’re relatively easy to train. Spunky, loyal and devoted, the affectionate chiweenie tends to attach most strongly to one person who they remain deeply bonded with throughout their life.
27. Cavachon
What do you get when you mix a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with a bichon frise? Why the adorable cavachon of course! One of the best dogs for introverts thanks to their quiet nature, the cavachon is a very sweet and gentle breed with expressive eyes and floppy ears. Making outstanding therapy dogs, they thrive on human companionship and get on well with children and other pets. Intelligent dogs who are quick to learn, they’re easy to train, and love learning new tricks.
28. Coton de Tulear
An immensely charming dog named after the city of Tuléar in Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear has a sweet and clownish personality that makes it a delight to have in the home. Believed to be related to the Maltese and bichon frise, they are one of our favorite low-maintenance pets thanks to their easy-going temperament and highly trainable nature.
Extremely low shedding and great for those with allergies, the Coton de Tulear can think of nothing better than being with their people and will quite happily spend their days following their humans from room to room and lying at their feet.
29. Miniature dachshund
Weighing 11 pounds or less, the miniature dachshund is a spunky and sprightly little pup with a bold, vivacious, and endlessly curious nature. Tireless dogs who are known for being up for absolutely anything, need to be kept frequently busy both mentally and physically to prevent them from becoming bored and getting into mischief. Brave to the point of being rash and more than a little stubborn, these endearing dogs have long been one of the world’s most beloved breeds.
30. Norwich Terrier
Loved for their friendly nature and keen intelligence, the Norwich Terrier hails from East Anglia in England where they were originally bred to hunt small rodents. These days, this curious and gregarious pup is an adored member of many families looking for an affectionate, happy-go-lucky companion.
Fearless dogs with bucket loads of energy, they’re hard-working dogs with just a hint of bossiness and stubbornness to them. However, while they are active, they’re also well known for their love of a warm lap and will happily spend hours snuggling with their favorite humans.
31. Border terrier
A small, rough-coated terrier hailing from England, the no-frills, no-fuss border terrier is a happy and plucky pup who’s good-tempered, easy to train, and loves exploring. They make wonderful playmates and companions for children and thrive in both the city and country. Border terriers need plenty of exercise, so you’ll want to make sure this active pup has plenty of walks and games to tire them out, while they tend to get on very well with other dogs, their strong hunting instincts mean they’re a breed best avoided if you have cats in your family.
32. Australian Silky Terrier
The Australian Silky Terrier is a joyful little dog that weighs less than 10 pounds and is known for their big personality. Alert and spirited, they are quick learners who pick up new commands and tricks easily, and they are incredibly adaptable, making them well-suited to a range of living situations and environments. True companion dogs who love to cuddle, are one of the most affectionate dog breeds and have a delightful nature that will light up any home.
