Love toy breeds? Discover These Tiny But Delightful Pups
Small dogs can offer big companionship. Toy dog breeds, though tiny, are known for their unique charm and can make excellent pets. Each breed has its own personality and temperament, so it’s essential to choose one that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Always spend time with a dog before adopting to ensure it’s the right match for you.
Here are 19 toy dog breeds that are known for being wonderful pets:
What is a Toy Dog Breed?
“Toy” breeds are characterized by their small size, often weighing less than 15 pounds. These dogs have been selectively bred for their petite stature and come in various types, appearances, and temperaments.
Benefits of Toy Dog Breeds
Toy dogs are easier to handle and generally require less space and exercise compared to larger breeds. They also tend to have lower veterinary costs and shed less, which can be advantageous for those living in apartments or smaller homes.
19 Toy Dog Breeds to Consider
1. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas are known for their lively personalities and strong bonds with their owners. They require attention and can become anxious if left alone for long periods, but their playful nature makes them a joy to be around.
- Height: 6 to 9 inches
- Weight: 2 to 6 pounds
- Coat: Short or long, in various colors like black, tan, fawn, and cream.
2. Yorkshire Terrier (Yorkie)
Yorkies are affectionate and playful, making them a favorite among toy breeds. They can be sensitive to rough handling, so they may not be the best fit for households with young children.
- Height: 8 to 9 inches
- Weight: 5 to 7 pounds
- Coat: Long and silky, often in combinations of black and gold or blue and tan.
3. Pug
Pugs are known for their charming wrinkled faces and playful demeanor. They are friendly and good with children and other pets, though they may be less trainable compared to other breeds.
- Height: 10 to 13 inches
- Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
- Coat: Smooth and short, typically in fawn or black.
4. Maltese
Maltese dogs are elegant and affectionate, with a long, white coat that requires regular grooming. They are known for their gentle nature and make excellent lap dogs.
- Height: 8 to 10 inches
- Weight: 4 to 7 pounds
- Coat: Long and silky, completely white.
5. Affenpinscher
Affenpinschers are small dogs with a distinctive shaggy coat and a bold personality. They are usually good-natured but might not be the best fit for families with young children.
- Height: 9 to 11.5 inches
- Weight: 7 to 10 pounds
- Coat: Wiry and shaggy, available in colors like black, gray, and red.
6. Japanese Chin
Japanese Chins are known for their elegant appearance and cat-like behavior. They are affectionate and enjoy companionship but can be somewhat reserved.
- Height: 8 to 11 inches
- Weight: 4 to 9 pounds
- Coat: Long and smooth, with colors like black and white or sable and white.
7. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are agile and affectionate, resembling their larger Greyhound cousins in a smaller size. They are generally friendly and good with children.
- Height: 13 to 15 inches
- Weight: 7 to 14 pounds
- Coat: Short and smooth, in colors like gray, black, and fawn.
8. Havanese
With a history dating back to 16th-century Cuba, Havanese dogs are smart, loving, and adaptable. They are great family pets and can also excel in therapy roles.
- Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches
- Weight: 7 to 13 pounds
- Coat: Can be straight or curly, in colors like black, white, or gold.
9. Miniature Pinscher (Min Pin)
Miniature Pinschers are known for their high energy and intelligence. They can be stubborn and vocal, so they might not be ideal for apartment living.
- Height: 10 to 12.5 inches
- Weight: 8 to 10 pounds
- Coat: Short and solid, typically black with rust markings.
10. Pekingese
Pekingese have a regal appearance and a distinctive personality. They can be friendly but might not tolerate rough handling or young children well.
- Height: 6 to 9 inches
- Weight: Up to 14 pounds
- Coat: Long and thick, in colors like gold and red.
11. Papillon
Papillons are energetic and intelligent, making them excellent candidates for dog sports. They are friendly and love to explore and play.
- Height: 8 to 11 inches
- Weight: 6 to 10 pounds
- Coat: Long and straight, often white with various markings.
12. Brussels Griffon (Griffs)
Brussels Griffons are known for their expressive faces and lively personalities. They can be sensitive but are generally playful and engaging.
- Height: 7 to 10 inches
- Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
- Coat: Smooth or rough, in colors like red or black and tan.
13. Silky Terrier
Silky Terriers resemble Yorkies but have their own distinct traits. They are affectionate and intelligent, though they may not always enjoy being a lap dog.
- Height: 9 to 10 inches
- Weight: About 10 pounds
- Coat: Long and straight, in blue and tan.
14. Toy Poodle
Toy Poodles are known for their intelligence and affectionate nature. They require regular socialization and enjoy engaging with their owners.
- Height: 9 to 11 inches
- Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
- Coat: Curly and dense, in colors like apricot, black, or cream.
15. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are among the larger toy breeds and are known for their friendly and adaptable nature. They are generally good with children and other pets.
- Height: 12 to 13 inches
- Weight: 13 to 18 pounds
- Coat: Long and silky, in colors like tricolor or ruby.
16. Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are popular for their affectionate and playful nature. They have a distinctive appearance with their long, flowing coat and characteristic snoring.
- Height: 8 to 11 inches
- Weight: 9 to 16 pounds
- Coat: Long and double-layered, in various colors.
17. Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds are notable for their unique appearance, often hairless with just a few tufts of fur. They are playful and loving, though their distinctive look may not be for everyone.
- Height: 11 to 13 inches
- Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
- Coat: Mostly hairless, with hair on the head, feet, and tail.
18. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are known for their lively and confident personalities. They are loyal and can be somewhat assertive, making them good watchdogs.
- Height: 6 to 7 inches
- Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
- Coat: Long and fluffy, available in a variety of colors.
19. Toy Fox Terrier
Toy Fox Terriers are energetic and intelligent, with a strong desire for human interaction. They thrive with regular exercise and playtime.
- Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches
- Weight: 4 to 7 pounds
- Coat: Smooth and shiny, in two- or tri-color combinations.
Each of these toy breeds has its own unique qualities, so consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing the right companion for you.
