Toy dog breeds are perfect for pet parents who want all the fun and personality of a larger dog in a pint-sized package. Many of these smaller pups are great for apartment living or for owners who want a dog who can accompany them to most places – even on vacation.
Just like their larger canine couterparts, 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 are more lazy breeds, and will be content to snoozy by you once the play is done.
So, what are toy dog breeds? The term typically refers to any very small breed of dog, which can include miniature versions of larger dogs, such as a miniature pinscher. Most toy dogs are affectionate, social, and adaptable, however many can be quite reactive, which is worth keeping in mind.
If you think toy dog breeds are the category for you, read on as we reveal our favorite pup-sized pooches.
Toy dog breeds
1. Toy poodle
Height: 10 inches max
Weight: 4–6 pounds
Life expectancy: 10–18 years
There are three sizes of poodle: standard, miniature, and toy. Of those, the toy poodle is the smallest of them all, as well as one of the longest-living dog breeds.
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
Height: 7–9 inches
Weight: Under 7 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–15 years
This most ancient of the toy dog breeds 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”, Maltese dogs were bred as companions, proving to be playful, adaptable, and easily trained.
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. Toy Manchester Terrier
Height: 10–12 inches
Weight: Under 12 pounds
Life expectancy: 15–17 years
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 small-breed dogs as pets led to them being crossed with Chihuahuas. They were popular in Victorian England.
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
Height: 9–11.5 inches
Weight: 7–10 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–15 years
Although a relatively rare dog 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.
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
Height: 11–13 inches
Weight: 8–12 pounds
Life expectancy: 13–18 years
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, as the Chinese Crested is, for the most part, a hairless dog breed.
Although the powderpuff variety has hair across the body, the hairless ones have mere tufts. 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
Height: 8–11 inches
Weight: 5–10 pounds
Life expectancy: 14–16 years
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).
One of the cutest dog breeds, the papillon definitely has a look of elegance, 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
Height: 5–8 inches
Weight: not exceeding 6 pounds
Life expectancy: 14–16 years
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 playmates.
Chihuahuas 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 can also be prone to reactivity, so there's plenty to keep owners on their toes!
8. Shih tzu
Height: 9–10.5 inches
Weight: 9–16 pounds
Life expectancy: 10–18 years
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
Height: 7–8 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
Life expectancy: 11–15 years
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. 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. If you fancy jet-setting with your pup, check out how to travel with a dog by plane.
10. Pomeranian
Height: 6–7 inches
Weight: 3–7 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–16 years
Pomeranians are a spitz dog breed 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, but were bred to become even smaller with dramatic reductions during Victoria's reign.
11. Biewer Terrier
Height: 7–11 inches
Weight: 4–8 pounds
Life expectancy: 14–16 years
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 dogs and dedicated family members.
This playful pup may be small but they’re super athletic and have a reputation for being outstanding hunters of vermin.
12. Havanese
Height: 8.5–11.5 inches
Weight: 7–13 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–16 years
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 are also a wonderful therapy dog breed, 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
Height: 12–12 inches
Weight: 13–18 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–15 years
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. Though on the larger end of toy dog breeds, this breed nontheless has stunning looks, a sweet expression, an even temperament and a loving nature.
Wonderful with children and getting along brilliantly with other pets, this pup is highly adaptable and will do well in almost any home. In fact, they're often touted as one of the best dogs for first-time owners. 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
Height: 7–10 inches
Weight: 8–10 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–15 years
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 a wonderfully loyal and devoted family member.
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
Height: 13–15 inches
Weight: 7–14 pounds
Life expectancy: 14–15 years
A greyhound in miniature form, the Italian Greyhound is an elegant, alert, and playful pup with a sensitive soul. Doting companions with affectionate natures, Italian Greyhounds are very adaptable and because of that, they’re one of the best dog breeds for apartments.
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 some mental stimulation.
16. Japanese Chin
Height: 8–11 inches
Weight: 7–11 pounds
Life expectancy: 10–15 years
With its silky and profuse coat and charming personality, the bright, graceful, and affectionate Japanese Chin makes for a wonderfully loving companion. 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, this Japanese dog breed also has a mind of its 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
Height: 9–10 inches
Weight: 8–14 pounds
Life expectancy: 10–12 years
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 (although you may know it as the King Charles Spaniel – note, not Cavalier).
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.
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
Height: 6–9 inches
Weight: up to 14 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–14 years
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. Pug
Height: 10–13 inches
Weight: 14–18 pounds
Life expectancy: 13–15 years
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.
20. Toy fox terrier
Height: 8.5–11.5 inches
Weight: 4–9 pounds
Life expectancy: 13–15 years
The toy fox terrier is a spirited, pint-sized powerhouse with a tenacious and loving temperament. They are incredibly alert little dogs who adore a good play session and excel in obedience and agility competitions.
This breed is easy to train and eager to please. They are highly intelligent, and while they’re a true terrier breed 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.
One of the hardiest toy dog breeds 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.
21. Miniature pinscher
Height: 10–12.5 inches
Weight: 8–10 pounds
Life expectancy: 12–16 years
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 pinscher 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!
22. Silky terrier
Height: 9–10 inches
Weight: around 10 pounds
Life expectancy: 13–15 years
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.
Read next: Chihuahuas vs Pomeranians or miniature vs toy poodle
Edited by Georgia Guerin.
