Among the first animals that a person tamed, there is, of course, a dog. And after that, for many millennia, she remained our assistant and devoted friend. The man took the dog with him for hunting and used as a guard for his home, as well as a protector for herds of pets. This went on for quite some time, until the life of people changed radically. For centuries, hunting for humans has not been the main source of food production. There was no need to keep dogs and to protect herds of sheep or cows.
Today, a person prefers to have a dog as a loyal friend or home companion. This fact also influenced the appearance of our pets. People have introduced new breeds that can be kept in any city apartment without any problems. These dogs have miniature sizes and are very loved by their owners. These “babies” are as loyal to humans as large animals, and also need care.
Advantages of small breeds
The peak of fashion for a small pet dog has been in the last two decades. Why do people prefer to have such a tiny animal? There are several reasons for this:
- Little weight. The mass of most dogs on the miniature list does not even reach five kilograms. This allows you to easily cope with their walking, training and education. But at the same time, it is worth remembering that the smallest dog breeds differ not only in their cheerful temperament, but also in their natural curiosity. And this will certainly require a lot of attention to the pet from the owner.
- Modest growth. The size that the smallest dog breeds have is their undoubted advantage. After all, some of these animals are brought not only for admiring, but also as irreplaceable assistants, for example, for hunters.
- Good looks. Without a doubt, the smallest breeds of dogs look very pretty. Their appearance is admired by people who love animals.
- Tolerance of excessive attention. It is worth saying that far from dogs love tenderness. Of course, every pet needs attention and care. However, it is unlikely that you will be able to caress, for example, a shepherd for a long time. She will quickly begin to express her displeasure or simply go away. Another thing is the smallest dog breeds. They are tolerant of the tenderness shown by the owners, and love attention.
- Lack of fear of heights. Of course, this fact should be treated with a certain amount of humor. Nevertheless, these small animals spend most of their lives sitting in their shopping bags or looking at the world from human hands. At the same time, dogs do not raise any objections.
Let's go through the list of 10 smallest dog breeds that exist on our planet.
Chihuahua
This is the smallest breed of dog in the world, loved by many people. Moreover, the small size of the animal is far from the main reason for its popularity. Chihuahuas are brave and friendly, loyal to man and can be kept even in a small apartment, as they do not require a lot of space.
The smallest dog breed in the world comes from Mexico. Moreover, its name, most likely, comes from the state of Chihuahua located in this country.
The growth of these miniature dogs is only 15-23 cm, and the weight is within three kilograms. However, thanks to selection, almost toy crumbs are born. What is the smallest dog in the world? The Chihuahua breed gave us a miniature record holder nicknamed Millie. Her height reached only 9.6 cm with a weight of five hundred grams. Millie's Owners are a married couple living in Puerto Rico. They say that this crumb can take food only in small portions, and caring for it requires a lot of effort. But most of all, Millie's owners are afraid to lose their favorite in the yard or in the house, because to notice this baby is not so simple.
In 2007, the longest -haired Chihuahua Boo Boo from the US state of Kentucky took first place in the smallest dogs in the world . In height, she reached only 16.6 cm, and in length - 10.16 cm. Her weight was only 680 g. This dog was so popular that she even appeared on television.
For many, the Chihuahua is the best small breed of dog. This is a classic “pocket” darling, jumping and funny, funny and curious, intelligent and courageous. These dogs are distinguished by devotion and friendliness to all members of the family, but still one of them becomes its most beloved owner.
Chihuahua loves care and attention. And in order to get them from their owner, a dog of this breed can come up with a variety of ways.
Chihuahua, which ranks first in the ranking of "The smallest dog breeds" (see photo above), is considered a rather jealous animal.
She expresses a clear resentment when she sees that the owner preferred her to the company of someone else. So those who already have a dog should seriously consider whether to buy a Chihuahua.
Brussels Griffon
What is the smallest dog breed after a chihuahua? The second place on our list is held by an incredibly energetic, active and friendly Brussels Griffon. This breed of dog has a miniature size (height 22-28 centimeters with a maximum body weight of 4.5 kilograms). The animal readily spends time playing games and enjoys sleeping like a cat in the arms of its owner. At the same time, the miniature griffin has an excellent balanced character with the features inherent in a true aristocrat. But its appearance, this doggie is more like an impudent redneck. This impression is created due to the reddish ragged hair of the animal and its self-confident bearded face.
And apparently, it is no coincidence that this appearance has the smallest breed of dogs, whose name is the Brussels Griffon. Indeed, in the distant 17th century, her relatives could be found in the peasant settlements of Belgium. True, those dogs only vaguely resembled modern griffons. They had larger sizes and an elongated muzzle, which made it possible to use them as rat-catchers.
Pomeranian Spitz
What other dwarf dog breeds are there? The smallest dogs on the planet, occupying third place on our list, are Pomeranian spitzs. Their character, like many miniature animals, is very hot. It seems that these dogs feel much higher than their height, as they fearlessly rush to any opponent. They furiously bark not only at strangers, but also at guests of the house.
Of course, the character of this baby can be somewhat pacified. To do this, you need to take full responsibility to educate your pet, allowing him to communicate with his relatives, which would make it possible to release the accumulated energy. But at the same time, the Pomeranian is able to adapt to the lifestyle of its owner. If its owner is a clear homebody, then the dog will lie with him on the couch. With an active person, the Spitz will happily go for a walk in any weather.
Spitz were brought to England from Pomerania in 1870. Here the dwarf breed of this animal was bred. And today in the ranking of “Most Popular Breeds of Small Dogs” Pomeranian is in the very first places. These kids are favorites of kings and writers, idols of our time and artists.
The growth of the Pomeranian is only 22 centimeters. However, because of its vertically standing half-wool, it looks somewhat larger. The weight of such babies does not exceed 3.5 kg.
Affinpincher
If you do not know what the kindest small breeds of dogs exist, then you should pay attention to the baby who looks like a small monkey. This is an affinpincher who is completely devoid of any viciousness and always strives to please his owner in every possible way, and also gets along well with children. These little dogs are always cheerful and cheerful. In addition, they are distinguished by an excellent mood, as well as a perky and curious disposition.
Affenpinchers are very loyal not only to their owners, but also to their friends. As a rule, they behave calmly, but when attacked or threatened, they show fearlessness.
These kids are able to absorb everything very quickly. They love to be in the spotlight, but they make little noise.
Affinpinchers are suspicious of strangers and even children. But with dogs belonging to their breed, they get along well.
A person who decides to purchase this pretty dog can have problems with her training. Doggie quickly remembers the owner’s commands, but is stubborn, and therefore does not rush to execute them.
Affenpincher is a representative of the oldest breed of pet dogs, whose homeland is Central Europe. Initially, these animals were kept at stables and in shops, using as rat-catchers. And only in the future, the breeding of this breed went down the road. Today, the standard growth of the affinpincher is 28 cm with a weight of three to four and a half kilograms.
Papillon
These animals, without any doubt, can take first place in the ranking of "The most beautiful breeds of small dogs." And all this because of the shape of their ears, resembling a butterfly. However, not only these representatives of this breed remind us of winged beauties. Papillons are equally weightless and light, which brings the owners of these animals a sense of joy and harmony.
The character of these kids is playful, cheerful and cheerful. They respect their masters and are able to be faithful. Instead, they only need people's attention.
Despite their playful nature, papillons are happy to watch the world around them from the hands of their owners. They are unpretentious, but at the same time they love long walks and travels, calmly enduring climate changes.
The first representatives of the papillon breed appeared about eight centuries ago. In those days they were called toy spaniels. Today, this miniature doggie grows from 20 to 28 cm in height, reaching a mass of 2.5 to 5 kg.
Papillons are neat, do not require special care, feeling great even in small apartments, and can be easily trained.
Yorkshire Terrier
In the last decade, representatives of this breed of dwarf dogs have been of particular interest to lovers of miniature animals. And all this is due to its appearance and interesting character.
Yorkshire Terrier has a passionate disposition and decisive character. This kid with the same courage pounces on rats and larger animals, demonstrating his hunting instinct. It has a lot from a big dog. The Yorkshire Terrier is independent and grumpy, but at the same time hardworking and smart.
The birthplace of this breed is Scotland. It was on its lands that aristocrats forbade peasants to keep large dogs, and commoners began to breed miniature animals, which were used as rat-catchers. And only then did the Yorkshire Terrier get into high society, becoming the favorite of the nobility. Today, individuals of this breed grow to 17-29 centimeters, reaching a mass of 2 to 3.5 kg.
Yorkies get along easily with all family members. They do not conflict with other animals. Cute dogs are tolerant of their competitors and not jealous.
Toy Fox Terrier
Representatives of this breed of dogs are tiny lumps of energy that can improve the mood of their master. Toy Fox Terrier is a small apartment animal with a strong physique, as well as an active and agile character, easily amenable to training. Despite their small size, these dogs are fearless and not shy. The main thing in their life is the owner, in the absence of which they can become depressed. That is why toy fox terriers are not recommended to be left alone in the apartment for a long time, as the neighbors are unlikely to be happy with their endless barking.
The tiny dog has a charming appearance and a loving heart. These animals are loyal, noble, love children and get along well with all pets.
Toy Fox Terrier is a relatively young breed. She was bred in the United States in 1936 through lengthy breeding work, for which the best representatives of the Fox Terriers and the Chihuahua were selected. Today, the average growth of toy fox terriers is in the range from 16 to 25 cm with a mass of 1.5 to 3.5 kg.
Russian toy terrier
These dogs have an inexhaustible supply of energy, which they gladly spend on an active game or on a walk with the owner. Kids are easy to care for. However, they need walks where they leave part of their indefatigable energy. Otherwise, Russian toy terriers will spend it on various pranks in the apartment. This may be disobedience, aggression, spoiled furniture, etc. But at the same time, representatives of this breed are smart, smart and easy to train.
The history of the toy terrier began in the 17th century. It was then that Russian breeders bred this breed from the English toy terrier. As a result, a long-haired puppy was born, which, unlike his ancestors, had a pretty fringe on the ears and a slightly wavy black coat. Today, the standard growth of such individuals is 18-26 cm with a mass of about 2.5 kg.
Japanese chin
The ninth place on our list is occupied by an exclusive decorative dog. Japanese chin has an impressive appearance, which in combination with obedience and devotion makes the animal very popular. This is an elegant little spaniel. It features a wide short muzzle and soft coat.
In Japan, this small creature with huge eyes adored infinitely, considering it a sacred messenger of the gods. Such a precious dog could have only the imperial family and the most noble aristocrats. To date, this breed, whose representatives reach a height of 23-25 cm with a weight of up to 4 kg, is very popular among lovers of miniature animals. Khins are characterized by a balanced character and never disturb their owners with a stupid bark. They will respond to a visit from a stranger or to a doorbell. But no more than that. These dogs are smart and proud, affectionate and obedient. They become attached to their master and love all members of the family.
Maltese
Completes our top ten dwarf breeds of dogs maltese. This cute lap-dog is distinguished by a long snow-white coat, beautiful, slightly convex eyes and an affectionate character. For centuries, only elites could have maltese.
The history of the breed dates back more than one century. A dwarf dog was revered in ancient Greece, as evidenced by the images of these animals in pottery and paintings. They worshiped the Maltese and the Egyptians. It is believed that the island of Malta was the island of Malta, in whose honor it got its name.
A small lapdog is preferred by many lovers of miniature animals. She looks very tender and soft, and dark eyes and a button nose only enhance her charm. These miniature lumps, despite their small size, demonstrate to their master a great sense of affection and love, are easy to care for, and perfectly tolerate long journeys.