30 Toy Dog Breed [With Pictures]—Miniature Dogs - Reader's Digest
Do you find yourself swooning and talking baby talk when you meet a puppy? These toy dog breeds stay small and retain that adorable puppy look all their life! Go ahead, start scrolling and pick your favorite pupster to bring home.
The most popular dog breeds are often small and adorable; some are so tiny they're dubbed teacup dogs. Pint-size pups make some of the best apartment dogs purely because they don't take up too much room. And toy dog breeds are so portable, you can take them just about anywhere without too much fuss. They love being carried in totes while out on the town or in a backpack, sniffing the fresh air and taking in the scenery as you hike or bike the trails. These cute little pups are so small you might want to get more than one!
What is a toy dog breed?
We know you're excited to see the pups, but there are a few things you should know about toy dog breeds first. For starters, how big are they? "A toy breed typically refers to a very small dog, typically weighing less than 14 to 18 pounds," explains Alena Abens, DVM and medical director of VCA Chicago North Animal Hospital. "However," she adds, "different kennel clubs have different breeds in their toy category."
For example, the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists the Affenpinscher in the toy category, while the Continental Kennel Club lists it in the pinschers and schnauzer group, and the United Kennel Club classifies it as a companion dog breed. To add to the confusion, "the Merck Veterinary Manual says toy breeds are those that weigh less than 10 pounds," says veterinarian Matthew McCarthy, DVM, founder of Juniper Valley Animal Hospital in Middle Village, New York.
"Perhaps another way to look at this is that toy dog breeds are a group of dogs that are small in stature and bred solely for their perceived attractiveness and companionship, as opposed to having 'practical' skills such as pointing or retrieving," says Dr. McCarthy. And when it comes to companionship, some toy breeds are known for being super affectionate and cuddly dogs.
Are toy breeds healthier than other breeds?
All dog breeds are susceptible to different diseases. Brachycephalic dogs, such as the pug and bulldog, have short snouts, which makes them more prone to breathing issues, especially heat stroke. Cavalier King Charles spaniels are predisposed to mitral valve heart disease, according to Dr. Abens. As for the healthiest, "Based on my experience, I would call out the Havanese and Miniature Pinscher as the least problematic," says Dr. McCarthy. The Coton de Tulear, also on our list, is relatively free of genetic health issues, per the AKC. Don't forget—those tiny chompers are part of the health factor too. Dr. McCarthy says periodontal issues are common in all toy breeds, so start dental care early.
Do toy breeds live longer than other breeds?
"In most of the animal kingdom, longevity increases with body size. For example, a mouse lives about 18 months while an elephant can live for 90 years. However, with dogs, longevity decreases with increased body size," says Dr. McCarthy. For instance, it's common for a toy poodle to live well into the teens, but sadly, Great Danes rarely live past 10 years of age. It is unknown why smaller dogs live longer, but some research has found that statistically larger dogs do in fact live shorter lives than smaller breeds, says Dr. Abens.
Read on to learn more about the most popular toy dog breeds.
Miniature schnauzer
We can't decide what's more endearing— the mini schnauzer's human-like eyes and bushy eyebrows, its distinguished beard and mustache, or its adorable stocky body. And if these attributes weren't enough to make the mini schnauzer the most favored of the Schnauzer breeds (there's the standard and giant schnauzer, too), they're outgoing, family-loving, and friendly. Check out these other dogs with beards you will just fall in love with.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 12 to 14 inches |
| Weight: | 11 to 20 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 15 years |
Toy American Eskimo
Here's a shocker: The American Eskimo doesn't come from the frozen tundras of Alaska. Eskie's, as they are known by adoring fans, originally hail from Germany. They're undeniably cute, playful, perky, and quick at learning tricks. They tend to be protective, with herding in their genes, but never in an "I'll nip your feet" kind of way. And that trait goes for the miniature and standard varieties of Amerian Eskimos.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 9 to 12 inches |
| Weight: | 6 to 10 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 13 to 15 years |
Toy poodle
If you're looking for an adorable toy dog breed that looks like a teddy bear, this fluffy little nugget is about the same size but much more cuddly and a whole lot more fun to play with. Maxing out at around 5 pounds and less than 10 inches tall, they're just as portable as a stuffed animal. They'll be your devoted sidekick for years. "Many toy poodles live to their upper teens. I've even seen some 24-year old toy poodles," says Dr. McCarthy. The toy is the smallest of the poodle breed: Next is the miniature, at 10 to 15 inches tall, and the standard, at about 15 inches high.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 10 inches max |
| Weight: | 4 to 6 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 18 years |
Shih poo
If the name doesn't give it away, this little doggie is a cross between a Shih Tzu and a poodle. You're getting the best of both doggie genes here—the super affectionate and charming traits of the Shih Tzu, and the playful, comedic, smartypants of the poodle. Both breeds tend to shed less, so they have that going from them too.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 8 to 15 inches |
| Weight: | 7 to 20 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 13 to 17 years |
Maltese
With those expressive eyes and outgoing, spunky personalities, you would have to have a heart made from coal to resist this loveable miniature dog. Dr. Aben agrees, saying "Maltese are typically affectionate and charming, and they make both good watchdogs and athletes." The only drawback is that their adorable white fur requires daily brushing to prevent matting. But that just means you get to spend more time with this little angel.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 7 to 9 inches |
| Weight: | Under 7 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 15 years |
Papillon
"Papillons are named after the French word for butterfly due to their wing-shaped ears. They are dainty and elegant but can also make excellent agility dogs," says Dr. Abens. They live to flaunt their stellar intelligence and agility while doing obstacle courses and obedience trials. Fortunately, the papillons don't have to compete outside of the home to be content. Feed their curious and alert mind with food puzzles and new tricks, and after you're all done, snuggle those adorable ears.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 8 to 11 inches |
| Weight: | 5 to 10 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 13 to 15 years |
Chiweenie
We love this sweet teensy-weeny toy dog breed. Does that give you a clue as to who its parents are? This designer breed mix of a Chihuahua and a dachshund, also known as a choxie, is pocket-size but has a giant personality. Both breeds are known for their spunk and moxie and their fearless loyalty to their favorite human. Chihuahua and dachshunds come in short or long-haired, and so do chiweenies, and their bodies tend to be shorter and robust, favoring the Chihuahua, with a long and narrow tail of a dachshund.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 6 to 10 inches |
| Weight: | 5 to 12 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 15 years |
Yorkshire terrier
A delightfully sweet and devoted companion you can carry in your tote? Sign us up! Yorkies love to be with their human, and if that means a shopping trip to Nordstrom Rack in a snazzy tote, so be it. Yorkies aren't likely to trigger allergies or shed too much. They can be little yappers, which really just translates to "lively and alert." At least you'll know when your Amazon order is delivered.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 8 to 9 inches |
| Weight: | 4 to 6 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 13 to 16 years |
Pug
"The pug motto is 'multum in parvo' which translates to 'a lot in a little,'" says Dr. Abens, and we couldn't agree more. "They are typically happy and energetic dogs with adorable facial expressions." And by energetic, we don't necessarily mean physical. Truth be told, they would rather cuddle than do anything too strenuous. They're energetic in the sense that they are extroverts—animated and gregarious, making their rounds at gatherings and entertaining the masses. Where do you think the dogs in these funny pictures got their ideas from?
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 10 to 13 inches |
| Weight: | 14 to 18 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 15 years |
Cavalier King Charles spaniel
If there were a competition for the most comfort-bestowing toy dog breed, the Cavalier would be hard to beat. They are mild-mannered, and their heartwarming affection knows no limits, nor does their eagerness to please. They easily check off the qualifications for being one of the best dog breeds for emotional support. Yet, they can balance between being a therapy dog and a family dog title simultaneously. "They adapt well to their owner's lifestyle, so they can be very active or lazy couch potatoes," says Dr. Abens.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 12 to 13 inches |
| Weight: | 13 to 18 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 9 to 14 years |
English toy spaniel
Whoops! Did we share the same dog twice? Nope, the English toy spaniel and CKCP are toy dog breeds everyone gets confused. Their coats are similar, but look closely, and you might notice their bodies are different. The English toy is stocky, compact, and square. The head is chunky and prominent. The Cavalier's head is proportionate to the body, which is well-balanced and slightly longer. Personality-wise, the English toy is an affectionate, good-natured, and gentle companion dog like the Cavalier, albeit a wee bit stubborn when it comes to training.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 10 to 11 inches |
| Weight: | 8 to 14 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 12 years |
Havanese
"Havanese are typically born trainable extroverts with silly personalities, and they can be excellent watchdogs," Dr. Abens says. That's about the only time they bark, so if you hear them, something's up. Havanese delight in all kinds of activities, including performing tricks, clowning around, and playing with toys. These happy extroverts don't shed much, but daily grooming is essential to keep their silky coat smooth.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 8.5 to 11.5 inches |
| Weight: | 7 to 13 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 13 to 15 years |
Pomeranian
Is this sweet pom pom a miniature dog or tiny fox? That teeny fox-like face is so precious. You can't help but scoop them up to cuddle. Sly like a fox, though—not so much. They tend to be headstrong, feisty, and sassy, and love to be the center of attention. Sometimes they're just playful, but other times they convey their opinions with yapping.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 7 to 12 inches |
| Weight: | 3 to 7 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 to 16 years |
Brussels Griffon
The beard on a Brussels Griffon may remind you a bit of the miniature schnauzer, and then there's that sweet, grumpy face. Griffs can be demanding, assertive, and full of self-importance—but it's just their way of saying they want to be as close as possible to you, whether you're on the sofa, sleeping, making dinner, or going to the bathroom. They don't like to be left alone at home, and if they are, they will probably bark their complaints for all the neighbors to hear.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 7 to 8 inches |
| Weight: | 7 to 12 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 15 years |
Cavachon
The Cavachon is a super cute mixed dog breed whose parents are a Cavalier King Charles spaniel and Bichon Frise. The parents are part of the AKC toy group and non-sporting group, and their combined genetics create a sweetheart of a combo pooch oozing with an affectionate, sensitive, and gentle nature. That doesn't mean they'll be all-day lap loungers, though. They like to mingle and play with humans and other animals too.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 12 to 13 inches |
| Weight: | 15 to 35 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 10 to 15 years |
Shih Tzu
Their strong independent streak might not make Shih Tzus stellar students when learning new commands, but their stubborn attitude is so stinkin' adorable, you can't help but forgive them. And really, can you blame them? Initially bred to be companion dogs, their doting and fondness for human attention come naturally. If it were up to the Shih Tzu, it would skip even the best obedience school for dogs and meet new friends at a wine and whoof tasting.
| Breed Overview | |
| Height: | 9 to 10.5 inches |
| Weight: | 9 to 16 pounds |
Life expectancy:
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