The popularity of smaller dog breeds is on the rise.
The increase in apartment living, easier travel, and lower food costs are some of the reasons for dog lovers to lean more towards smaller breeds.
However, there are people who want to take this a step further and go with a breed that doesn’t grow much from puppyhood to adulthood.
The good news for these people is that there’s a great variety when it comes to puppies that stay small, unlike what some might think. And in this article, we will list some of the top choices.
Continue reading to find the right teacup-sized canine companion for yourself.
Our List of Puppies That Stay Small
Below are ten breeds that stay small throughout their lives, typically maturing under ten pounds.
We’ve included their average adult size according to the American Kennel Club and traits that make each breed stand out.
Brussels Griffon
Weighing eight to ten pounds, Brussels griffons are known for their almost human-like facial expressions and comical personalities.
Many owners of this breed choose to add to their appearance and temperament by keeping long, distinct beard and mustachel hair that resembles the Star Wars character Chewbacca.
Chihuahua
The Chihuahua is officially the smallest dog breed in the world, weighing just two to six pounds as adults.
However, you shouldn’t let the tiny frame of the Chihuahua fool you; they are bold, alert, and deeply loyal to their people.
Basically, they have a much bigger character than their tiny size.
If you’re looking for a lively yet small pup, the Chihuahua is undoubtedly going to be one of the best choices.
Maltese
The Maltese is a gentle companion breed that weighs under seven pounds when fully grown.
They are well-known for their flowing white coat and sweet, affectionate temperament.
These tiny little dogs thrive on human attention, making them fantastic companions for people who spend a lot of time at home and want a cuddly dog.
Miniature Dachshund
The smallest variety of the dachshund, the miniature dachshund, is also among the puppies that stay small. They weigh under 11 pounds but are just as goofy and lively as their larger counterparts.
They are playful, clever, and courageous dogs that guarantee constant entertainment, making them a great fit for individuals and families who want a small but bold dog.
Papillon
Papillons, named after their butterfly-like ears, weigh five to ten pounds.
While many other dogs that stay small earn their popularity through companionship, Papillons stand out with their intelligence and athletic capabilities.
They are highly intelligent dogs that can learn a variety of tricks, which makes them the right pup for people who want a small dog with the trainability of a larger working breed.
Pomeranian
Among the most popular small dog breeds, the Pomeranian weighs three to seven pounds.
They are little balls of energy and full of personality.
Poms are curious, confident, and often act much larger than they are, proving how big a character they have.
Shih Tzu
The shih tzu is a larger dog compared to many others on this list; they weigh between 9 and 16 pounds.
While their size may be a little larger than desired, shih tzus make many forget about their size with their overly affectionate and loyal nature.
They are, without a doubt, one of the friendliest, most adaptable, and loving dog breeds out there.
Toy Fox Terrier
Toy fox terriers combine the spunk of a terrier with the compact size of a toy breed at just four to nine pounds.
They are energetic, intelligent, and endlessly entertaining, ideal for active owners who want a tiny dog with an energetic personality.
Toy Poodle
The toy poodle weighs four to six pounds, yet ranks among the smartest of all dog breeds in the world.
However, it isn’t only the intelligence and trainability of the poodle that makes them attractive for people looking for puppies that stay small.
They also have a hypoallergenic coat that produces less dander, though professional grooming costs are something to be aware of before getting one.
Yorkshire Terrier
Shortly known as the Yorkie, the Yorkshire terrier is a tiny dog with a true terrier spirit.
While they weigh four to seven pounds, a Yorkie might want you to add one or even two more digits next to this.
They are feisty and surprisingly (or comically) brave dogs that bond strongly with their loved ones.
Just like the toy poodle, their hypoallergenic coat makes them a popular choice among allergy sufferers.
Puppies That Stay Small: Consider These in Addition to Size
While our list covered puppies that stay small, size should never be the only factor in your decision.
Small breeds differ greatly in temperament, grooming needs, health, and overall care.
Before settling on a breed, be sure to understand it as a whole rather than simply picking the smallest dog.
Most importantly, work with a responsible breeder.
Downsizing is popular in nearly every breed, but when it is done without following best practices, it can lead to a long list of health issues, including fragile bones, heart defects, and inherited diseases.
As you search for puppies for sale online, vet every breeder carefully to make sure the puppy you bring home not only stays small but also healthy throughout their life.
