Top 10 Smallest Dogs in the World

Although they may not take up much space, small dogs can have giant personalities and are perfectly sized for cramped living quarters. Smaller dogs don't necessarily need to work off loads of energy, so they're quite suitable for apartment life. But just because you're limited on space doesn't mean you need to skimp out on any of that cuteness. Quite the contrary, certain breeds like the Shih Tzu, the dachshund, or even a French Bulldog make for some of the most adorable lap warmers. If you're looking for a small companion that packs a heavy dose of sweetness, then stay tuned because today we're counting down our top 10 picks for the smallest dog breeds that are cute.

Number 10: Pomeranian
Have you met Boo, the cutest dog in the world? Well, he's a Pomeranian, and there's a lot more cuteness where that furball came from. This lively dog breed packs a personality much bigger than its tiny size. Pomeranians are cocky little extroverts who probably don't think of themselves as cute, but with those super fluffy coats and a face that looks like it's smiling at you all the time, it's no surprise why we think they're so adorable. Pomeranians can be as little as 5 inches tall and weigh only 4 pounds. But what they lack in size, they make up for in personality and an extremely poofy perk. In fact, their fur is one of their defining characteristics. Pomeranians have the most coat colors of any breed of dog, with 18 existing colors. That's 18 different shades of cute!

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Number 9: French Bulldog
Often described as a short, compact dog with bat ears and a wrinkly snout, the French Bulldog may not sound very cute. But once you see one, they're downright irresistible. Just look at that smoosh little face! Tiny yet muscular, these little lap warmers stand a mere 12 inches tall and weigh in at about 20 to 25 pounds. A French Bulldog can't live in your garage or backyard but only indoors as a member of your family. This is especially true since they have difficulty regulating their own body temperature and therefore need to live in a climate-controlled environment. They don't even need that much exercise, making them just perfect if you're looking for an apartment dog. French Bulldogs are so playful, affectionate, and smart that they can turn anyone into an adoring fan of the breed in no time.

Number 8: Dachshund
It's pretty hard to find someone who wouldn't find this tiny sausage on four legs the most adorable thing ever. Dachshunds are a lively breed with a friendly personality that makes an ideal pet for many homes. Known for their long and low bodies, they are one of the most popular breeds in the world. Dachshunds come in three different coat varieties, ranging from smooth to wiry to long-haired, so there's something for everyone. This breed can be standard-sized, usually 16 to 32 pounds, or even miniature, at 11 pounds or under. With their unmistakable long back bodies, little legs, and big personalities, it's no wonder this breed has made it to superstardom within the canine kingdom.

Number 7: Toy Poodle
This curly little fuzzball is known as the Toy Poodle and comes in three sizes: miniature, standard, and toy. Toy Poodles weigh in at just three to four kilograms and were originally bred as a water dog, meaning they do great in different water sports as well as in herding and tracking. This breed comes in a variety of colors, but what's most notable about them are their curly coats, which are often seen cut and styled to perfection.

A poodle's coat needs a lot of upkeep to stay beautiful and healthy. Most poodle owners take their dogs to a professional groomer every three to six weeks to save money. Some learn to do it by themselves, but it takes time and effort. Not that these adorable dogs aren't totally worth it.

Number six: Italian Greyhound
While most of us are drawn to fluffy little dogs, some of us may find the sleek and elegant Italian Greyhound better fits our definition of cute. This Italian breed is a diminutive version of the much larger greyhound. It stands at just over one foot tall. These slender dogs are full of grace, sweetness, and affection for their owners. Despite their delicate appearance, Italian Greyhounds are swift, hardy hounds that will chase after quick-moving prey at the drop of a hat. Even so, these little alert dogs are extremely loyal to their family and make for some of the most playful, highly loving companions you'd love to cuddle.

Number five: Brussels Griffon
Beards have been called many things from sexy to manly, but the word cute doesn't exactly spring to mind at the thought of facial hair. Yet with their almost human appearance, the Brussels Griffon defies all that logic. They are sensitive and devoted dogs that many would agree look a lot like people due to their large emotive eyes in their bearded faces. With this breed, you get one big personality in a small 5 to 15 pound package. One look into his big human-like eyes and you'll be smitten. Griffins have a low threshold for loneliness and will stick close to their special human, providing years of love and laughter. So if you're looking for a mature companion for life, this bearded companion might just be it.

Number four: Pekingese
This little lion is an adorable companion in one of several royal breeds created for the ruling classes of ancient China. Today, they are sophisticated dogs of undying loyalty and many subtle delights. These compact companions possess a regal dignity, intelligence, and self-importance, making them opinionated yet affectionate family members. Pekinese can weigh up to 14 pounds, but with a lack in weight, they make up for with a glorious mane almost resembling that of a lion. Their sparkly eyes and short muzzled head, which is wider than it is long, make for a constantly charming expression on their faces. These dogs enjoy walks but do not need a yard, making them a perfect choice for apartment life and one of the cutest little warmers a human can own.

Number three: Russian Toy Terrier
If you haven't heard of this breed before, we wouldn't be surprised. This dreamy little dog was almost entirely unknown outside of Russia, its country of origin, until the 1990s. Russian Toys are one of the smallest dogs in the world, weighing at around 2 to 6 pounds, and are totally unaware of their small size. They will automatically react and protect their owners out of great loyalty, as they get very attached to their pack. Brave as they are, it's more likely they'll be the ones needing your protection. Seeing as how small they are, this rare breed is similar to the Chihuahua in height, weight, and coat colors, but those big fluffy ears are truly something else. This tiny lap warmer loves to snuggle up and be close to its human companion and, instead of walking on its own four legs, doesn't mind being carried around at all.

Number two: Havanese
This national dog of Cuba is also the country's only native breed and has rightly been named similarly to their world-famous cigars. Havanese are cheerful little dogs with a spring in

Their step and a shiny gleam in their big brown eyes. What started off as a pampered lap dog of the aristocracy has now become a family companion and an excellent watchdog. But the real reason they made today's list are their silky coats and arched tails, which just add to their overall cuteness. Havanese weigh in at a mere 7 to 13 pounds and probably won't get any taller than 11 inches. Although they're a small breed, they remain energetic and do require some time off from warming your lap in order to exercise and continue being the healthy, adorable companions they are.

Before we reveal number one, be sure to check out other amazing videos on our Channel and give us a like if you enjoyed this video so far. Also, tell us in the comments which one of these is most beautiful according to you.

Number one: Papillon
The Papillon is our top pick for the cutest tiny dog breed, and for good reason. This breed packs a perfect punch of cuteness combined with elegance and liveliness. The breed gets its fancy name due to its wing-shaped ears. In case you didn't know, Papillon is French for butterfly, and if those fluffy butterfly ears don't win you over, the Papillon's happy and jumpy personality will. Most owners describe them as joyful, alert, and friendly. Although they weigh in at just 5 to 10 pounds and get no taller than 8 to 11 inches, the Papillons are a lot more robust than they look. These athletic little charmers love dog sports, learning new tricks, and more importantly, being your trusty sidekick for life.