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Miniature Dog Breeds

Miniature dog breeds are those that are small and stay small throughout their life. These are little dogs, and among the most popular dog breeds.

Are you ready to be owned by a miniature or small breed dog? Most small breed dog owners usually feel that way.

Let's face it, you are their companion and protector.

You are also their nurse, food server, hair stylist, pedicurist, mother/father, taxi driver, custodian, and anything else that your opposable thumb can do for them.

Sounds like a lot of work without much pay, but most owners will tell you that small breeds are simply the best.

"Why", you ask? Well,

• They are easy to transport, making them excellent travel companions.
• They don’t eat much, so food costs are reasonable.
• Many were bred for centuries solely to be companions, so they have learned how to do this job very well.
• They are easier to manage overall.
• They make excellent choices for first-time dog owners.
• They thrive in virtually any environment.

Beyond the obvious similarities, miniature dog breeds vary widely according to temperament, activity levels, grooming needs, trainability, friendliness, and affection levels. So, if you are interested in a pint-sized pooch, a little bit of research before you buy is essential.

Remember, the one thing that all miniature dog breeds have in common is that cuteness factor. It's hard to resist that tiny puffball with such a big personality.

All of these Dogs are 22 pounds (10 kg) or smaller. You may notice that some of these breeds are also listed on our Medium Size Breeds Pages. That is because their weight range falls into both categories.

Miniature Dog Breeds

Affenpinscher

Although the Affenpinscher dog breed may look like terriers, they are actually from the pinscher-schnauzer family which makes them more tolerant towards other dogs and pets.

They are inquisitive, affectionate and playful and are very loyal and protective towards other family members although they can be a little territorial when it comes to their food or toys so they are not advised for families with very small children.

Origin:  Germany

Height:  10-12 in (25-30 cm) 
Weight:  8-13 lb (4-6 kg) 
Ease of Training:  Moderate

Alaskan Klee Kai

You may have heard of the Alaskan Klee Kai, but you probably haven't seen one; they are relatively rare, and were only recognized by the AKC in 1997. With the Alaskan Husky as a forebear, the Alaskan Klee Kai belongs to the Spitz family of dogs. It is significantly smaller than the Husky, however, and many people think it is still a puppy, even when fully-grown.

Origin:  USA

Height:  Up to 13 in  (33 cm)  (Toy)
              13-15 in   (33-38 cm)  (Miniature)
               15-17   (38-44 cm)  (Standard)

Weight:  Up to 9 lb.  (4 kg)  Toy
               9-15 lb (4-7 kg)  Miniature
                15-22 lb  ( 7-10 kg)  Standard

Ease of Training:  Moderate

American Eskimo Dog

The American Eskimo Dog is a smart, affectionate pet that loves to be around its family. They are playful and energetic without being too rambunctious. These dogs are small enough to live in apartments, so long as they get ample exercise.

This being said, they are not best for owners who will not be home for most of the day, as they are prone to separation anxiety and will bark as a result. 

Origin:  USA

Height:  15-19 in  Standard
               12-15 in Miniature
                9-12 in  Toy

Weight: 20-40 lb Standard
              11-20 lb Miniature
                 6-10 lb Toy

Ease of Training: Moderate

Miniature Dog Breeds

American Hairless

The American Hairless is a small dog of the Terrier Group weighing just 12 to 16lbs, with a feisty nature. The breed actually has hairless and coated variations. The hairless dog is hypoallergenic, but has a few issues that potential owners should be aware of.

With no normal coat to protect the skin, they may get sunburned if out in bright sun for too long. At the other extreme, they lose body heat quickly if out in the cold, and need a dog jacket to keep them warm and prevent hypothermia.

Origin:  USA

Height: 10-18 in (25-46 cm)

Weight: 7-13 lb (3-6 kg)

Ease of Training: Moderate

Australian Terrier

Origin:  Australia

Height:  Up to 10 in (Up to 26 cm) 

Weight:  Up to 15 lb (Up to 7 kg) 

Easy of Training:  Easy

Basenji

The Basenji dog is a very unique breed for many different reasons, both physically, and emotionally. One of the most unique characteristics that stand out from the others is that the Basenji is a “barkless” breed. They do not bark like other breeds of dogs, but with this being said, they are not entirely silent.

Origin:  Central Africa

Height:  16-17 in (40-43 cm) 

Weight:  20-24 lb (9-11 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Challenging

Miniature Dog Breeds

Beagle

The Beagle dog breed is a favorite breed of friendly, affectionate and energetic family dogs. They are known primarily for their friendliness and small size, making them not at all aggressive, and great for people of all ages.

Origin:  UK

Height:  13-16 in (33-40 cm) 

Weight: 20-24 lb (9-11 kg)

Ease of Training:  Moderate

Bedlington Terrier

Don't be deceived by this Terrier. They have a fragile lamb-like appearance - BUT underneath those cute little curls is a hardy little dog which has feistiness and affection in equal measures!

The Bedlington Terrier enjoys being part of a household and absolutely adores being the centre of attention. Although loyal and loving to all, he tends to choose one member of the family to bond closest with, and may well spend all his time following them around!

Origin:  UK

Height: 16 in (41 cm) 

Weight:  17.5-23 lb (8-10.5 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy to Moderate

Bichon Frise

The Bichon Frise is a breed of small, energetic dogs, well known for its size as well as its intelligence. These dogs are famous for their ability to entertain, having been taught to perform professionally throughout history. Alongside making for great entertainment, these dogs are ideal companions for families.

Origin:  France/ Belgium

Height: Up to 12 in ( 30 cm) 

Weight:  6-13 lb  (3-6 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy

Miniature Dog Breeds

Biewer Terrier

Origin:  Germany

Height:  Up to 8.5 in (22 cm)

Weight:  Up to 7 lb (3.1 cm)

Ease of Training:  Moderate

Bolognese

Origin:  Italy

Height: 10-12 in  ( 25-30 cm) 

Weight:  5.5 - 8.8 lb  (2.5-4 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy

Border Terrier

The Border terrier is often described as independent, courageous, persistent, agile and intelligent. They are friendly dogs and will greet every visitor by jumping up on them to lick and welcome them into the house. They are frequent, loud barkers, and may howl and sing several times a day; Possibly not the best dog to have if you have close neighbors!

Origin:  UK

Height: 13 in (33 cm)

Weight: 11-16 lb  (5-7 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy to Moderate

Miniature Dog Breeds

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a very alert, friendly, overall happy go lucky type of dog. They are very family oriented and do great with children and other pets. This is a good breed of dog if you are looking for an energetic little bundle of joy that will keep you entertained for hours on end.

Origin:  USA

Height:  15-17 in (38-43 cm)

Weight: 11-24 lb (5-11 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy to Moderate

Brazilian Terrier

Origin:  Brazil

Height:  13-16 in (33-40 cm)  Males are larger

Weight:  Up to 22 lb (10 kg)

Ease of Training:  Moderate

Brussels Griffon

Also Known As Griffon Bruxellois

The Brussels Griffon is a fun, inquisitive, watchful little companion dog who is very eager to please! They have huge hearts and are so affectionate - they just love jumping up for snuggles! Brussels Griffon's must have human company. They absolutely crave it and will become depressed and withdrawn if denied. They tend to bond extremely closely with one person in the family so may not be the best choice if you are looking for a dog who will love everyone equally.

Origin:  Belgium

Height: 10 in (25 cm) 

Weight:  About 9 lb ( 4 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy to Moderate

Miniature Dog Breeds

Cairn Terrier

The Cairn Terrier was originally bred in Scotland to detect and dig out small rodents, larger animals in burrows, and even foxes. They still keep the instinct to dig and burrow, and will chase any small animals they see. They are small enough to fit comfortably on your lap, yet tough enough for a romp around the garden in any weather.

Origin:  UK

Height: 11-12 in (28-31 cm)

Weight:  13-18 lb (6-8 kg)

Ease of Training:  Easy to Moderate

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavaliers are great dogs for families. Their gentleness and calm demeanor make them great for people of all ages. They are well known for their use as therapy dogs because of these traits. This breed is recommended for families with children, although an adult should monitor small children when they are playing with dogs.

Origin:  UK

Height: 10 -13 in ( 25-43 cm) 

Weight:  10-19 lb (4-9 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy

Miniature Dog Breeds

Cesky Terrier

Origin:  Czech Republic

Height:  10-13 in (25-32 cm) 

Weight:  13-22 lb(6-10 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Moderate

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Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a funny, small companion. They are well known for their size, being the world’s smallest dog. Their personality outsizes their body, making them a lively, social and friendly companion. The world’s smallest dog holds the ranking as the 11th most popular breed in the United States.

Origin:  Mexico

Height: 5 in (13 cm) 

Weight:  1-6 lb  (0.5-2.5 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy

Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is a lively, alert, energetic breed that makes an excellent companion, and their size fits just about any environment. They make for lively company, but also like relaxing around their owners. They’re almost always up for playing, making them fun, interactive pets. This breed loves to be around people, whether it’s a vigorous game of fetch or just watching TV. 

Origin:  China

Height: 9-13 in  (23-33 cm) 

Weight:  Up to 12 lb  (5.5 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy

Coton de Tuléar

With a surprising origin on the big island of Madagascar, off the South East coast of Africa, the Coton is an endearing and happy toy dog breed with a strong desire to please their owners. They are companion dogs, and love being with their special person.

Origin:  Madagascar

Height: 10-11 in (25-28 cm) 

Weight:  12-15 lb  (5-7 kg) 

Ease of Training:  Easy

Miniature Dog Breeds

Dachshund

Dachshunds are probably one of the most recognised breeds in the world, and this breed of dog comes in six varieties - Long Haired, Short Haired and Wire Haired and all three of these varieties come in Standard size and Miniature size. 

Dachshund breed dogs are, surprisingly, commonly quoted as being among the most aggressive of breeds. While they are unlikely to inflict much damage to an adult, they could seriously hurt a child that they perceive as a stranger. Despite their tiny size, these dogs are brave, alert and playful little companions They are great watchdogs but also great for getting cuddles and having fun with.

Height: (Toy) Up to 12 in (30 cm)
             (Dwarf) 12-13.7 in (30-35 cm)
             (Standard) 13.75 in  (35 cm)

Weight:  (Toy) Up to 9 lb  (4kg)
              (Dwarf) 14.4 lb (7 kg)
              (Standard) Over 14.4 lb (Over 7 kg)

Origin: Germany

Ease of Training:  Medium

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a big dog in a small body, according to the AKC, bursting with confidence and energy, ready to chase anything that moves. Their ancestors were bred in the Border area between Scotland and England for controlling small wildlife, taking on badgers and otters. The Dandie has a long body, short legs, a large head and a thick and muscular neck.

Height:  8-10 in

Weight:  16.6 lb  (8 kg.)

Origin:  Great Britain

Ease of Training:  Easy

Dutch Smoushond

Height:  14-17 in (35-42 cm) 

Weight:  20-22 lb (9-10 kg) 

Origin:  The Netherlands

Ease of Training: moderate

English Toy Spaniel
aka.  King Charles Spaniel

Height:  8-12 in (22-30 cm)

Weight:  7.7014.3 lb  (3.5-6.5 kg)

Origin:  Great Britain

Ease of Training:  Easy

Miniature Dog Breeds

French Bull Dog

The Frenchie, as they are often called is a breed of small, happy dogs. Their energy exceeds their size, as this dog loves to run and play. These dogs are known for their insatiable desire to hang around people. They are little bundles of fun and great additions to any family they join. 

Height: 12 in (30 cm)

Weight: 13-26.5 lb (6-12 kg)

Origin: France

Ease of Training: Very Easy

Fox Terrier (Smooth  & Wire)

Height: 15 in (39 cm)

Weight: 17.5 lb (8 kg)

Origin: Great Britain

Ease of Training: Medium

German Hunting Terrier
(Jagdterrier)

Height: 13-16 in (33-40 cm) 

Weight: 18-22 lb (8-10 kg) 

Origin: Germany

Ease of Training: Challenging

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Miniature Dog Breeds

Havanese

Affectionate, charming and energetic, these playful dogs act like ambassadors to the world, bring fun and entertainment to everyone they meet. They know no strangers – friends to all, lovers of children, strangers, dogs and any other type of pet, they make the best family dog for those who prefer small breed dogs. Although very friendly, some can be wary of strangers which make them a decent watchdog.

Height: 8-11 in (20-28 cm)

Weight: 13 lb (6 kg)

Origin: Western Mediterranean

Training: Easy

Italian Greyhound

Although this dog breed carries the name "Greyhound", it is about half the size of the standard Greyhound. In the Middle Ages, it was used for hunting small game, but also found favor as a companion or "lap" dog with the wealthy classes in Europe. It's small size made it very popular with the ladies. Frequently referred to as the "I.G." for short, this abbreviation is sometimes pronounced "iggy". 

Height: 13-15 in (32-38 cm)

Weight: 11 lb (5 kg)

Origin: Italy

Ease of Training: Easy

Jack Russell Terrier

There are three breeds of Terrier that are often confused; The Jack Russell Terrier, the Parson Russell Terrier, and the Russell Terrier. They may look similar, but there are differences in size and physical proportions. This is an energetic breed that never seems to run out of steam. Originally bred over 200 years ago to hunt fox, their job was to detect where a fox had gone to ground, and to get down the fox hole to either flush it out or else to corner it until the hunters could dig the fox out.

Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm) 

Weight: 11-13lb (5-6kg) 

Origin: UK

Ease of Training: Challenging

Japanese Chin

These dogs are famously compact and can live in most environments, mainly apartments. They are not incredibly energetic breeds, and will happily become accustomed to a slow, relaxed pace of living. This being said, they can also be enthusiastic participants in all kinds of activities.

Height: 11 in (28 cm)

Weight: 6.6 lb (3 kg)

Origins: Japan

Ease of Training: Easy

Japanese Spitz

Height: 12-15 in (30-38 cm)

Weight: 11 lb (5 kg)

Origin: Japan

Ease of Training: Easy

Japanese Terrier

Height: 15-16 in (38-42 cm)

Weight: 17-18 lb (7.6-8 kg)

Origin: Japan

Ease of Training: Medium

Miniature Dog Breeds

Kyi Leo

Height: 15-16 in (38-42 cm)

Weight: 17-18 lb (7.6-8 kg)

Origin: Japan

Ease of Training: Medium

Lakeland Terrier

Height: 14 in (36 cm)

Weight: Up to 17 lb ( Up to 7.7 kg)

Origin: Great Britain

Ease of Training: Easy to Medium 

Lancashire Heeler

Height: 10-12 in(25-31 cm)

Weight: 7-13 lb (3-6 kg)

Origin: Great Britain

Ease of Training: Challenging

Lhasa Apso

This is an unusual breed from Tibet, bred to act as a watchdog inside Tibetan Buddhist monasteries. They have exceptionally god hearing, even for dogs, and regard all strangers with suspicion. They need to be socialized from an early age, otherwise they can be aggressive towards people they don't know.

Height: Approx. 10 in ( 25 cm)

Weight: Approx. 13-22 lb (6-10 kg)

Origin: Tibet

Ease of Training: Medium

Miniature Dog Breeds

Löwchen 
(aka. Petit chien lion,
Little Lion Dog)

Height: 12.5 in (32 cm)

Weight: 11 lb (5 kg)

Origin: France

Ease of Training: Easy to Medium

Lundehund (Norwegian)

Height: 12.5 - 15 in (32-38 cm)

Weight: 13.2-17.6 lb ( 6-8 kg)

Origin: Norway

Ease of Training: Easy to Medium

Maltese

This is a breed that seems to behave like a puppy for its whole life. They are always playful and bright, and looking for attention. They were bred specifically to be human companions, and so they seek out and need the company of humans.

Height: 8-10 in (20-25 cm)

Weight: 4-6.6 lb (2-3 kg)

Origin: Italy

Ease of Training: Medium

Manchester Terrier (Toy)
English Toy Terrier
Blue and Tan Toy Terrier

The Toy Manchester Terrier (MT) was once an excellent ratter, ridding the Manchester part of England of all its vermin. Nowadays, this breed has all but retired from that role and now enjoys the life of a real canine companion. He is alert and often wary of strangers — two traits that make them excellent watchdogs. Being a terrier, these dogs are likely to be diggers, talkers, chasers and possessive of their belongings. Most terrier breeds have these inborn characteristics - “hunting tendencies” to one extent or another. 

Height: 15-16 in (38-41 cm)

Weight: 11-22 lb (5-10 kg)

Origin: Great Britain

Ease of Training: Easy to Medium

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Miniature Dog Breeds

Miniature Pinscher

Despite its shape and colors, the Miniature Pinscher is not a small version of the bigger Doberman Pinscher. It's easy to see how this misconception comes about, since the 2 breeds have very similar coloring and general shape. In addition, the Doberman was exported to America before the Miniature, and so many people naturally assumed the Miniature was bred from the Doberman. In fact, the Miniature is a much older breed than the Doberman.

Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm)

Weight: 8.8 lb (4 kg)

Origin: Germany

Ease of Training: Easy to Medium

Miniature Poodle

Miniature Poodles

The Poodle is a fascinating and special breed of dog for many different reasons. One of the more prominent characteristics that separate this breed from the rest of the bunch is that they are said to be the only breed that comes in three different sizes! 

Miniature Schnauzer

Have you ever wondered how the Miniature Schnauzer got to be so much smaller than his standard and giant cousins? This is a prime example of how breeders can breed-down or miniaturize a larger breed. In fact, the mini version is less than 1/5 the size of the Giant and 1/3 the size of the Standard Schnauzer. This breed is most common of the Schnauzers, for many reasons. Owners enjoy their affectionate and loyal personalities, which is paired with their playful energy. Their intelligence makes them responsive and quick learners. 

Height: 12-14 in (30-36 cm)

Weight: 13-15 lb 6-8 kg)

Origin: Germany

Ease of Training: Easy to Medium

Norfolk Terrier

Height: 9-10in (22-25 cm) 

Weight: 11-13 lb ( 5-6 kg)

Origin: UK

Ease of Training: Average

Norwich Terrier

Height: 10 in (25-26 cm)

Weight: 10-12lb (5-6kg) 

Origin: UK

Ease of Training: Average

Miniature Dog Breeds

Papillon
(aka. Continental Toy Spaniel)

The Papillon is one of the Toy breeds, well known for its known for its affectionate and energetic personality. These small dogs are always looking for something to do, so they make for playful company, an ideal companion dog. They are very social and are excited when they get to meet new faces.This energetic tiny dog makes for a lively and fun pet. You can recognize a Papillon in an instant, from its large erect ears, like butterfly wings, and plumed tail. The name Papillon is French for Butterfly. They can also be called Continental Toy Spaniels.

Height: 8-11 in (20-28 cm)

Weight: 9-10 lb (4-6 kg)

Origins: France

Ease of Training: Easy

Parson Russell Terrier

Origin: UK

Height: 13-14 in (33-36 cm) 

Weight: 13-18 lb (6-8 kg) 

Ease of Training: Challenging

Pekingese

The Pekingese is a small, unique breed of intelligent and sturdy dogs. Owners find qualities similar to a proud lion, for which the breed is named. These dogs are confident and independent, but once they have a good, authoritative owner, they become loyal and protective companions.

Origin: UK

Height: 6-9 in (15-23 cm)

Weight: 7-12 lb. (3-5.5kg)

Origins: China

Ease of Training: Challenging

Phalène
Same as Papillon except for ears

Height: 8-11.5 in (20-29 cm)

Weight: 8.8-10 lb (4-4.5 kg)

Origin: France/Belgium

Ease of Training: Easy

Pomeranian

The Pomeranian is a member of the Toy group. They are very popular as companion dogs, with their small size and weight, and lively personality. This is the smallest of the Spitz breed, and is also called the Zwergspitz in German, which means 'Dwarf Spitz'.

Height: 9-11 in (22-28 cm)

Weight:4-6 lb ( 2-2.5 kg)

Origins: Germany

Ease of Training: Easy

Portuguese Podengo

Height: 8-12 in (20-31 cm)

Weight: 9-13 lb (4-6 kg)

Origins: Portugal

Ease of Training: Medium

Pražský Krysařík
(AKA (Prague Ratter)

Height: 6-9 in (16-22 cm)

Weight: 2-6 lb (1-3 kg)

Origins: Czech Republic

Ease of Training: Medium

Miniature Dog Breeds

Pug

Although the Pug dog will adapt well to many different lifestyles and living situations, they are not so versatile when it comes to temperature. Due to their smushed-in face (brachycephalic face) and stocky body, they can overheat very easily. It is important to always supervise your pup when they are outside in general, but especially in warmer climates. 

Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm)

Weight: 14-18lb (6.3-8 kg)

Origins: China

Ease of Training: Easy

Rat Terrier

The Rat Terrier breed is a small terrier developed in the USA to keep the rat population under control on farms and country homes. They are loyal, friendly and affectionate with their family, and they come in 2 sizes - Miniature and Standard.

Height: 8-14 in (20-36 cm) Small

14-22 in (36-56 cm) Standard

Weight: 7-9 lb (3-4 kg)

11-35 lb (5-16 kg)

Origins: U.S.A.

Ease of Training: Easy to Medium

Russian Toy (A.K.A. Russkiy Toy)

The Russkiy Toy dog came originally from Russia, where it was bred to be a small companion dog, descended from imported English Toy terriers. The modern version that we know today appeared in the late 1950s.

Height: 8-11 in (20-28 cm)

Weight: Up to 7 lb (Up to 3 kg)

Origins: Russia

Ease of Training: Medium

Schipperke

Height: 9-13 in (22-33 cm

Weight: 7-18 lb (3-8 kg)

Origins: Belgium

Ease of Training: Medium

Scottish Terrier

The "Scottie", as they are also known, was bred to hunt small rodents, foxes and badgers in its home country of Scotland. It is believed to be the oldest British dog breed. It is one of 5 terrier breeds from Scotland, the others being the Cairn Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Skye Terrier, and the West Highland White Terrier.

Height: 10-11 in (25-28 cm) 

Weight: 20-24 lb (9-11 kg) 

Origin: UK (Scotland)

Ease of Training: Challenging

Miniature Dog Breeds

Sealyham Terrier

The Sealyham Terrier is a unique and rare dog breed that originated in Wales, U.K.. It gets its name from the home of the original breeder (John Edwardes), who lived at Sealyham House in the Welsh county of Pembrokeshire.

Height: 10-12 in (25-30 cm) 

Weight: 20-25 lb (9-12 kg) 

Origin: UK

Ease of Training: Challenging

Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog breed looks like a small version of the Rough Collie, and originated on the Shetland Islands, north of Scotland, the most northerly point of the United Kingdom. These dogs are bright, playful and have lots of energy. Shetland Sheepdogs are affectionately known as the 'Sheltie' for short.

Height: 12-15 in (35-37 cm)

Weight: 13-15 lb (6-7 kg)

Origins: Scotland

Ease of Training: Easy

Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is a compact breed of loyal, determined, and alert dogs. These dogs are well known for their intelligence and are considered one of the most popular breeds in Japan. These companions have energetic personalities but do not come across as being overly hyper or boisterous and can be exceptionally quiet and calm indoors.

Height: 14-16 in (35-40 cm)

Weight: 18-22 lb (8-10kg)

Origins: Japan

Ease of Training: Challenging

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu dog breed may be just the perfect breed for you, if spunky, affectionate and playful is what you are looking for in a companion. A little larger than the typical toy dogs, and slightly thicker boned, the standard sized Shih Tzu weighs in between 9 and 16 pounds. Smaller Shih Tzu dogs can be found, though, and you might see them advertised as Imperial, Miniature, or Teacup, but those are not official names in any breed registry.

Height: 10-11 in (25-27 cm)

Weight: 9-16 lb (4-7.5 kg)

Origins: China

Ease of Training: Medium

Silky Terrier
(AKA Australian Silky Terrier)

The Silky Terrier comes from Australia, and at first glance you may mistake it for a Yorkshire terrier. While the 'Yorkie' certainly played a role in the development of the Silky, they are quite distinct breeds, with the Silky terrier being larger. Although this breed is known as the 'Silky Terrier' in the USA, it is known as the 'Australian Silky Terrier' in every other country of the World.

Height: Up to 9 in (Up to 23 cm) 

Weight: Up to 9 lb (Up to 4 kg)

Origin: Australia

Ease of Training: Challenging

Miniature Dog Breeds

Skye Terrier

The Skye was bred as a hunting dog, and they still retain an inquisitive and curious nature, ready to explore any interesting smells nearby. They enjoy getting out with their owner for a walk to explore the neighborhood, to satisfy their curiosity.

Height: 9-10 in (23-25 cm)

Weight: 19-23 lb (8.5-10.5 kg)

Origins: UK (Great Britain)

Ease of Training: Challenging

Swedish Vallhund

Height: 12-14 in (31-35 cm)

Weight: 25-35 lb (12-16 cm)

Origins: Sweden

Ease of Training: Medium

Tibetan Spaniel

Height: 10 in (25 cm)

Weight: 9-13 lb (4-7 kg)

Origins: Tibet or China

Ease of Training: Challenging

Tibetan Terrier

Height: 14-16 in (35-41 cm)

Weight: 17-31 lb (8-14kg)

Origins: Tibet

Ease of Training: Medium

Toy Fox Terrier

Height: 9-12 in (23-30 cm)

Weight: 3.5-7 lb  (2-3 kg)

Origins: U.S.A.

Ease of Training: Medium

Toy Mexican Hairless

Height: 11-12 in (28-30 cm)

Weight: 9-18 lb (4-8 kg)

Origins: Mexico

Ease of Training: Challenging

Toy Poodle

Height: 10-11 in (25-28 cm)

Weight: 6-9 lb (2.5-4 kg)

Origins: France

Ease of Training: Easy

Tsvetnaya Bolonka

Height: 7-10 in (17-25 cm)

Weight: Not Specified

Origins: Russia

Ease of Training: Average

Miniature Dog Breeds

Volpino
(AKA Cane de Quirinale

Height: 11-12 in (27-30 cm)

Weight: 9-11 lb (4-5 kg)

Origins: Italy

Ease of Training: Easy

Welsh Terrier

Although the Welsh Terrier may look similar to the Airedale Terrier in physical appearance, do not let that fool you into thinking that they have similar personalities. In fact, "Welshies", as they are fondly called, have their own personality, which is unique to their breed. 

Height: Up to 15 in (Up to 39 cm) 

Weight: 20-22 lb (9-10 kg) 

Origin: UK (Wales)

Ease of Training: Medium

West Highland White Terrier

Best described as alert, active, independent and friendly, the West Highland White Terrier is instantly recognizable. They are quick to win your heart with their energetic persona and their bright white coat that just accents their button eyes, making them an initial hit among anyone who loves a people oriented canine. 

Height: 10-11 in (25-28 cm) 

Weight: 15-22 lb (7-10 kg)

Origins: UK

Ease of Training: Medium

Yorkshire Terrier

Bold, affectionate, bright and fearless are words often used to describe the Yorkshire Terrier's personality. They enjoy adventures as well as snuggles, but they still maintain the terrier part of their temperament, which means they can be feisty and vocal. Possessing a very dominant character, they will not hesitate to stand up for their rights, even if it means attacking a dog twice their size.

Height: 8-9 in (20-23 cm) 

Weight: 7 lb (Up to 3 kg) 

Origins: UK

Ease of Training: Medium

We hope you enjoy our guide to miniature dog breeds!

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Dog of the Month!

Dog of the Month for May is a previous runner up, Shuggie, the Cockapoo from Scotland, UK, loving cooling down with a little treat! What a cutie!

Photo Competition

We are having a temporary break from our photo competition and choosing our Dog of the Month from past Runners Up

CLICK HERE to see previous winners

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