The Top 20 World's Smallest Dog Breeds 2024 (They Stay Small + Pictures)

The smallest dog breeds in the world are dogs that can easily fit into your backpacks and pockets. They are toy breeds you will like to have in your arms or laps. For small dog lovers, these breeds are right for them as they stay small. 

If you will like to own one of these breeds, it is important that you socialize them from a very young age same as the way large breeds of dogs are socialized to avoid clashes in the future. 

Most of them are surprisingly watchdogs but not guard dogs with regards to their size. The average overall length mentioned below is their length from the head without the tail. 

These are the world's smallest dog breeds 2024, (they stay small + pictures), they are, 

• Chihuahua
• Pomeranian
• Pekingese
• Chiweenie
• Brussels Griffon
• Maltese
• Biewer Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Miniature Dachshund
• Papillion
• Havanese
• Japanese Chin
• Toy Fox terrier
• Shih Tzu

And six more breeds you need to know. They are good options for city dwellers. Check out their withers height, weights, lifespan, and more. Keep reading!

1. Chihuahua - The Smallest Dog in the World  

Image credit: Image credit: Mark Timberlake/Unsplash 

Avg. Wither Height: 6-9 inches (15-23 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 8.5-13 inches (22-33 cm)

Avg. Length: 9.5-15 inches (24-38 cm)

Avg. Weight: 3-6 pounds (1.4-2.7 kg)

Lifespan: 10-18 years

They are named after Chihuahua, a Mexican state. This breed, being the smallest breed in the world in 2024 is loved by many people because of its unique size and appearance. Apart from their small size, they are entertaining and have big personalities. 

They are bold, smart, loyal, and lively dogs, for this, they are also called "saucy". Due to their bold personality, like big dog personalities, they are excellent watchdogs. This breed differs in appearance, some have long coats, and smooth coats, and others with a shorter coats. 

From their lifespan mentioned above, they are among the longest-living dogs. This breed is ideal for people living in small homes and students. They are easy to care for, as their coat needs occasional brushing.

2. Pomeranian                        

Avg. Withers Height: 6 to 7 inches (15 to 18 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 8 to 9.5 inches (20 to 24 cm)

Avg. Length: 9.5 to 11 inches (24 to 28 cm)

Avg. Weight: 3 to 7 pounds (1.4 to 3.2 kg)

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

Its origin is from Iceland but was developed in Pomeneria, a shore that encompasses parts of Poland and Germany, hence the name, Pomeranian. Unlike some breeds that have 3 to 7 colors, this breed has 23 color combinations. 

Their fur color changes as they mature. They are highly protective of their owners and they are loyal dogs. This dog is related to Akitas, Samoyeds, Malamutes, and Huskies all of which hail from the arctic region. 

In the beginning, this breed is herd reindeer and is used for pull sleds but they were eventually bred down to the small dog it is today. This dog has a rare phenomenon, in which its female can give birth to twins. 

3. Pekingese                     

Avg. Withers Height: 6 to 9 inches (15 to 23 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 7 to 10 inches (18 to 25 cm)

Avg. Length: 12 to 17 inches (30 to 43 cm)

Avg. Weight: 7 to 14 pounds (3 to 6 kg)

Lifespan: 12 to 18 years

They are highly intelligent, smart, strong-willed, loyal, and affectionate dogs. Most people that own this breed often described them as opinionated. They are obedient dogs even with their lion-like personalities. 

They are good guard dogs. They require high maintenance as their coats need to be brushed more than four times a week. Their coats need to be trim in hot weather and the coats above their eyes need to be trimmed too to help them see. 

Also, daily exercise is important in moderation for a long walk. They prefer cold weather as some owners are seen to carry ice packs with them while traveling. 

Even though they are one of the smallest dogs in the world in 2024 with their incredibly small size, they are heavy in weight. They are also known for their wonderful performance at the dog shows. 

4. Chiweenie                           

Image credit: Juliana Daniil / Unsplash 

Avg. Withers Height: 6 to 10 inches

Avg. Weight: 5 to 12 pounds

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

This breed does not do well with children, even though they are friendly. They are a cross-breed between Dachshund and Chihuahua. 

They were bred to have a breed that unlike dachshunds will have fewer back problems while still retaining a small size. Their coat colors include, white, blonde, red, and brown.  

They are loyal, energetic compact dogs. They display traits from both Dachshund and Chihuahua. This dog can be owned by small apartments and city dwellers.

5. Brussels Griffon                     

Image credit: MtthwHnry / Pixabay 

Avg. Withers Height: 7 to 8 inches (18 to 20 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 10 to 11 inches (25 to 28 cm)

Avg. Length: 10 to 11 inches (25 to 28 cm)

Avg. Weight: 7 to 12 pounds (3 to 5 kg)

Lifespan: 10 to 15 years

As the name implies, it hails from Brussels in Belgium. They are also referred to as griffon Bruxellois and monkey dogs. They have a human-like eyes and they are known for chasing rats. They are loyal, energetic, and playful dogs. 

These breeds are of two types, smooth-coated and rough-coated. They are breeds that result from cross-breeding from breeds such as Affenpinscher, pug, and toy spaniels. 

The smooth coat of these breeds is exhibited from their lineage of the pug, their large eyes and the round head are from toy Spaniels and their wiry hair from Affenpinscher. Their coats are of different colors, such as black, black and tan, reddish-brown and red. 

6. Maltese                  

Avg. Withers Height: 7 to 9 inches (18 to 23 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 cm)

Avg. Length: 13.5 to 17.5 inches (34 to 44 cm)

Avg. Weight: 3 to 8 pounds (1.4 to 3.6 kg)

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

They are a fluffy small breed of dogs in the world in 2024. They are gentle dogs with black button noses and round eyes that are rimmed in black. 

They have been human companions for centuries, and they are often spoilt by their owners. They are lively, intelligent, and trainable especially when their owners praise them or when they are treated well. They are extremely alert, so they are good watchdogs. 

However, it is important for owners to train them not to be excessively or overprotective. They are adaptable dogs, that can do very well both in big houses and small apartments. 

7.  Biewer Terrier                      

Image credit: Natalie Scott / Unsplash 

Avg. Withers Height: 7 to 11 inches (18 to 28 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 10 to 15 inches (25 to 38 cm)

Avg. Length: 11 to 17 inches (28 to 43 cm)

Avg. Weight: 4 to 8 pounds (2 to 4 kg)

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

Its name come from the breeder, Gertrud and Werner Biewer, Germany. Even though it is a terrier, it belongs to the smallest dog breed in the world. 

This breed has one special characteristic, it is tri-colored and it has long hair. The three coat colors are white, tan, and black, with no pattern dominating it. 

They are good companion dogs, always wanted to be loved, athletic, devoted, intelligent, playful, and lighthearted. They are loyal to everyone in the family, including children and other animals. They always like to cuddle and prefer their owner's laps. 

8. Yorkshire Terrier                            

Image credit: Svenska Mässan from Sweden

Avg. Withers Height: 8-9 inches (20-23 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 10.5-13 inches (27-33 cm)

Avg. Length: 12-15.5 inches (30 to 39 cm)

Avg. Weight: 5-7 pounds ( -3.2 kg)

Lifespan: 11-15 years

This tiny breed is also referred to as Tomboy Toy. Even though it is a small breed, it is energetic, confident, easy to train, and brave. They have the self-important characteristics, agility and they always have their head high. 

All these personalities help them to do very well in sports. They are good family dogs, great travel companions and they are also used in therapy work. 

From its dimensions above, it is certainly among the smallest dogs in the world in 2024. Its long coat texture is similar to that of our hair. Its coat needs daily brushing as it can tangle and its hair does not shed, because they do not have undercoats.

9. Miniature Dachshund                      

Avg. Withers Height: 8 to 9 inches (20 to 23 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 13 to 14.5 inches (33 to 37 cm)

Avg. Length: 21.5 to 25 inches (55 to 64 cm)

Avg. Weight: 16 to 32 pounds (7.3 to 14.5 kg)

Lifespan: 12 to 16 years

It is a special member of the hound family with its miniature size. They have a long spine and a short rib cage. Generally, a dachshund has the golden ratio of 2:1, the shoulder height is half of its body length. 

They tend to have back problems compares to other dogs. In fact, their food needs to be weighed to avoid overfeeding which could cause overweight and this can leads to back pain. 

They are loyal, lovable, energetic, bold and clever, tenacious and spirited. They are good for families with older children, singles, and city dwellers. Their sense of smell is highly sensitive, as they hunt tunneling animals such as badgers, foxes, and rabbits. 

10. Papillon                                

Image credit: Blue Bird / Pexels 

Avg. Withers Height: 8 to 11 inches (20 to 28 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 12 to 16.5 inches (30 to 42 cm)

Avg. Length: 12 to 17 inches (30 to 43 cm)

Avg. Weight: 5 to 10 pounds (2.3 to 4.5 kg

Lifespan: 14 to 16 years

They are lively and energetic dogs that love running around the house. They have upright butterfly ears and this is how they got their name, they also have fluffy bodies. 

Even though where they originated from is unclear, it seems they have French origin. They are smart and agile and they are often used as therapy dogs. They have a low maintenance tendency because they require low food, unlike big dogs.

11. Havanese                          

Image credit: buchsammy / Pixabay 

Avg. Withers Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches (22 to 29 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 12.5 to 17 inches (32 to 43 cm)

Avg. Length: 19 to 25.5 inches (48 to 65 cm)

Avg. Weight: 7 to 13 pounds (3.2 to 5.9 kg)

Lifespan: 14 to 16 years

They are also referred to as Havana Silk dogs and they are native to Cuba. They are happy affectionate dogs. They are trainable and intelligent. Their coats can be wavy or straight. They have people-pleasing personalities and they are adaptable. 

Owners are advised to socialize them as they can become timid when in contact with strangers. Since they are also fluffy, they need constant brushing like 3 times or more per week, while trimming is not necessary. 

Owners are also encouraged not to leave them alone over a long period of time. They are good family pets, for a family that loves active dogs and frequent walks.

12.  Japanese Chin                          

Image credit: Joliot

Avg. Withers Height: 8 to 11 inches (20 to 28 kg)

Avg. Standing Height: 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 cm)

Avg. Length: 12 to 15 inches (30 to 38 cm)

Avg. Weight: b9 to 15 pounds (4 to 7 kg)

Lifespan: 10 to 14 years

Despite the name, the breed originated from China and not from Japan. They are companion dogs found in both Chinese and Japanese royalty, although it was with the Chinese royalty first. They were intentionally bred to be small so that they can be carried by sleeves of women's kimonos. 

The first of these breeds came to the US from Japan in the 1850s by American Commodore Matthew Perry. The "Chin spin," as it is known among Japanese Chins, is an endearing habit. When they are aroused, they will spin around in circles, usually on two legs.

13. Toy Fox Terrier                     

Image credit: Jagrolet at English Wikipedia

Avg. Withers Height: 8.5 to 11.5 inches (22 to 29 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 11 to 15 inches (28 to 38 cm

Avg. Length: 12 to 17 inches (30 to 34 cm)

Avg. Weight: 4 to 7 pounds (2 to 3 kg)

Lifespan: 12 to 14 years

Some people named their toy and a terrier. They originated from the Americans. They have amusing toy appearances and personalities. 

They have V-shaped ears, shorter tails that are set high and their head are solid. They are proud, loyal, and lovable dogs. They have athletic and agility appearances. They were actually bred to get rid of rats and other small animals. 

14. Shih Tzu                               

Image credit: Joshua J. Cotten / Unsplash 

Avg. Withers Height: 9 to 10.5 inches (23 to 27 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm)

Avg. Length: 15 to 17.7 inches (38 to 44 cm)

Avg. Weight: 9 to 16 pounds (4.1 to 7.3 kg)

Lifespan: 10 to 18 years

They originated from Tibet and not from China as some claim. Many people believe they originated from China because they serves as companion dogs to the ancient Chinese emperors.

 In ancients time, it was Tibetans who sent this breed to Chinese royalty. The breed name, Shih Tzu means little lion. This is because they are bred to resemble a little lion. 

 For this, it is nicknamed little lion. Their coat is in 14 different colors, they can be black, black and white, gray and white, and more. 

15. Toy Poodle                     

Image credit: FROGGYTUFF / Pixabay 

Avg. Withers Height: 9.5 to 11 inches (24 to 28 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 13 to 15 inches (33 to 38 cm)

Avg. Length: 12 to 14 inches (30 to 41 cm)

Avg. Weight: 6 to 9 pounds (3 to 4 kg)

Lifespan: 12 to 18 years

They are intelligent, confident, agile, and sensitive dogs. They are bred as companion dogs. However, they have the reputation of not being so good with children.

They are protective, they can sense anger but they are not aggressive or territorial. They have their folds over their ears and their eyes are ovals. 

Their coat comes in different thick colors such as black and white, café-au-lait, and apricot. Generally, they are healthy dogs even though they are still prone to skin conditions and watery eyes. 

16. Bichon Frisé                             

Image credit:  Heike Andres 

Avg. Withers Height: 9.5 to 11.5 inches (24 to 29 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 13 to 16 inches (33 to 41 cm)

Avg. Length: 18 to 22 inches (46 to 56 cm)

Avg. Weight: 7 to 12 pounds (5.4 kg)

Lifespan: 14 to 15 years

It is a fluffy white breed of dog that hails from Spain. They are loved by many owners for their lively personalities and unique appearance. It got its name from its curly hair, in french it is called, "bichon à poil frisé". 

They are highly affectionate dogs and surprisingly watchdogs. They are royal lap warmers and for this, throughout history, they have been depicted in many artworks. 

They are easy to train and were used as circus dogs in the 1800s since some of their owners have died or they are imprisoned. There are many celebrities that own this breed including, Eva Longoria, Kristin Chenowith, and Ashley Tisdale. 

17. Pug                                          

Image credit: RitaE / Pixabay 

Avg. Withers Height: 10 to 13 inches (25 to 33 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 13 to 17 inches (33 to43 cm)

Avg. Length: 15.5 to 20.5 inches k(39 to 52 cm)

Avg. Weight: 14 to 18 pounds (6.4 to 8.2 kg)

Lifespan: 13 to 15 years

They are loved by many people around the world and they are often seen on tv, in movies, and on social media. Possibly because they are extremely affectionate, loyal, adorable, and funny. 

This breed is actually bred for Chinese royalty as lapdogs, they are part of the imperial court. They are one of the smallest breeds of dogs in the world in 2024 that are highly valued. 

 They were purposefully bred with wrinkles on their face. Their coats come in 3 different main colors, black, apricot-fawn, and silver. A group of this breed made up of about 3 or more pugs is known as a grumble. 

18. French Bulldog                     

Avg. Withers Height: 11 to 13 inches (28 to 33 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 15.5 to 18.5 inches (39 to 47 cm)

Avg. Length: 18 to 21.5 inches (46 to 55 cm)

Avg. Weight: 16 to 28 pounds (7.3 to 12. Kg

Lifespan: 10 to 12 years

They are among the smallest breed of dogs in the world in 2024 that are native to France, hence the name French bulldog. They are mixed breeds between England and Parisian ratters and Toy bulldogs. They have bat-like ears with facial wrinkles. They have fairly muscular and compact bodies.

 They are known for their loud snoring but gentle and quiet personalities. Their short coats come in different colors. They always crave love and attention. They are easygoing, so they are the best option for families with children.

19. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel     

Avg. Withers Height: 12 to 13 inches (30 to 33 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 15 to 16.5 inches (38 to 42 cm)

Avg. Length: 19 to 20 inches (48 to 51 cm)

Avg. Weight: 13 to 18 pounds (5.9 to 8.2 kg)

Lifespan: 12 to 15 years

From the name of these breeds, actually shows it has a royal lineage. It is loved by many royals around the world. They are loved for their expressive face and long, droopy ears. They are among the smallest dog breeds in the world in 2024. 

They are both lapdogs and sporting dogs. They succeed in sports like obedience, rally, and agility. They are breeds with bundles of love, in fact, they are the friendliest breeds. 

They show much affection to their family and they get along with kids and other animals like cats and other dogs. Anything that comes their way even strangers is friends to them. 

For this, they are good therapy dogs. They look gentle with their large beautiful round eyes. Their coat has just four colors and patterns that are distinct, Ruby, tricolor, Blenheim, and Black and tan.

20. Boston Terrier                                

Image credit: jaminriverside / Pixabay 

Avg. Withers Height: 15 to 17 inches (38 to 43 cm)

Avg. Standing Height: 19 to 21 inches (48 to 53 cm)

Avg. Length: 22 to 24 inches (56 to 61 cm)

Avg. Weight: 10 to 25 pounds (4 to 11 kg)

Lifespan: 11 to 15 years

It is a small compact breed that hails from the United States. It is a mixed breed between a bulldog and a white English terrier. They have short noses, large eyes, and black and white markings. 

Although they are now known as companion dogs, they were rats hunters and pit fighting dogs. They are highly intelligent, easy to train and perform very well in sports like flyball and agility. 

They are entertaining dogs with muscular little bodies. Sometimes, this breed is confused with a French bulldog, it is easy to differentiate them as they have pointed ears while Frenchies have round ears.

What do you think about the smallest dog breeds in the world in 2024 you just read about? Let's hear from you in the comments section below (Post a comment). Please share this article and follow us on our social media handles or you can subscribe to our mailing list. Thanks for reading!