What is the smallest dog breed in the world? Facts to know and history of the breed. - USA TODAY

Dogs are a popular pick when it comes to owning a pet. About 70% of U.S. households own a pet and 69 million homes are dog owning, according to a 2021-22 survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association.

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. Around 200 dog breeds are registered at the American Kennel Club. Small dogs are especially popular as they're easier to care for, have less costs associated and fit certain lifestyles, Highland Canine says. For what they lack in size, they make up with their energetic and fun personalities. Searching for a new apartment mate? Look no further.

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What is the smallest dog breed?

The smallest dog breed in the world is commonly regarded as a Chihuahua, according to Highland Canine. Named after the Mexican city, Chihuahuas have an average height of 5 to 8 inches, weighing no more than 6 pounds.  

Seen in movies like "Legally Blonde," Chihuahuas are highly popular among smaller dog breeds. They're loyal, playful, adapt well to apartment living and make a great family dog. Any behavioral problems like being territorial can be fixed with training, Highland Canine says.

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What is the smallest dog in history?

The title for the smallest dog in history also goes to a Chihuahua named Miracle Milly. According to Guinness World Records, Milly is a female Chihuahua at 3.8 inches tall and weighing roughly 1 pound or half a kilogram.

Milly lives in Dorado, Puerto Rico with her owner. She sleeps in a baby crib and eats only food cooked by humans.

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What are other small dog breeds?

Chihuahuas are the smallest but what are some other smaller dog breeds? Here are four breeds you can consider:

Pomeranian

At less than 10 inches tall, Pomeranians are known for their fluffy fur coats and weigh 4 to 6 pounds on average.

Pomeranians weren't always this tiny, according to Highland Canine. Years of breeding made them small and companion-sized, but originally, they were almost 10 times larger than their current average size.

Yorkshire Terriers

According to AKC, Yorkshire Terriers are believed to have been bred small by Scotland weavers to catch rodents in textile mills and thus, created the breed in the 19th century. At an average weight of 5 to 7 pounds, Yorkshire Terriers are brave, feisty and protective. They're also hypoallergic which makes them a good companion to people with pet allergies.

Papillons

Papillons, the dog breed, were named after the French term for butterflies, "papillons," due to their butterfly-like ears. They're highly trainable and often stand out in dog shows due to their tiny size. Papillons are friendly and have high energy. Dogs resembling Papillons were featured in historical paintings dating mid-1500s including Louis XIV's family portrait.

Affenpinschers

From the German term for "Monkey Terriers," Affenpinschers make curious house pets. With a sense of adventure and independence, Affenpinschers are 9 to 11 inches lengthwise and weigh a maximum of 10 pounds. Highland Canine highly recommends obedience training for this tiny dog breed.

Just Curious: Answering your everyday questions to life, pets, tech and more.

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