So, what dog breeds are under 10 lbs?
Are you ready to fall head over heels in love with some of the cutest and most compact dogs on the planet?
These pint-sized pooches may be small in size but they’re big on personality! Whether you’re looking for a canine companion who can fit into your cozy apartment or an extra furry friend to join your existing pack, one of these teeny tiny furballs could be perfect.
So let’s dive right in and meet our top 12 tiniest dogs in the world!
Your Guide To Small Dog Breeds 10 Pounds or Under
All of these tiny dogs have a standard weight of ten pounds or less when it comes to males. Females typically are the same size or slightly smaller. All are organized from the smallest to the largest breed.
Quick list, what dog breeds are under 10 pounds…
- Pomeranians
- Toy Fox Terriers
- Poodles
- Papillions
- Chihuahuas
- American Eskimo Dogs
- Maltese
- Yorkshire Terriers
- Affenpinschers
- Brussels Griffons
- Miniature Pinschers
- Silky Terriers
12 Small Dog Breeds Under 10 lbs
Ready to be a pet parent to one of these small dog breeds? Learn everything you need to know about each of these small dog breeds with their traits, characteristics, and facts listed below.
1. Pomeranians
The Pomeranian, one of the absolute smallest dogs on our list, is often lovingly referred to as the Pom Pom or the ‘Pom’. It is a small, lively and affectionate breed of dog originally from Germany. They have an alert, intelligent expression and a vibrant personality that will bring any home joy. The size of this little fellow usually varies from 3-7 lbs and 6-7 inches tall (at the shoulder).
With its fox-like features and alert nature, it is often seen in show business as one of the favorite celeb pets. These compassionate pups require not only daily exercise but also need constant socialization to prevent them from becoming shy or lacking trust in people.
| Pomeranian Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 6 – 7 inches |
| Weight | 3 – 7 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 3 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 2 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 3 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 3 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 4 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 3 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 12 – 16 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
2. Toy Fox Terriers
Toy Fox Terriers were developed by crossing Smooth Fox Terriers with smaller toy breeds like the Chihuahua and Italian Greyhound in order to get their small size.
This breed is surprisingly lively and affectionate with its family members, while also being alert and courageous when danger arises.
This makes them a perfect fit as both watchdogs as well as beloved pets—while also being small enough to snuggle into your lap for some extra love!
| Toy Fox Terrier Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 8.5 – 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 4 – 9 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 3 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 2 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 5 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 5 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 5 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 5 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 4 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 13 – 15 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
3. Poodles (toy)
Toy Poodles are highly intelligent, eager to learn, and easy to train. Toy Poodles stand out among other breeds due to their hypoallergenic coat that requires regular grooming.
What’s more, they exhibit high levels of loyalty and affection towards their owners making them a great addition to any family.
With proper care and attention, they make exceptional lifelong companions that can live up to 18 years of age.
| Poodle (Toy) Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | No more than 10 inches |
| Weight | 4 – 6 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 5 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 5 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 3 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 5 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 5 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 10 – 18 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
4. Papillons
The Papillon dog breed is a small and friendly pup with origins that trace back to the Renaissance era. This elegant little pooch is known for its long, silky coat and its signature butterfly-shaped ears.
Its personality is friendly and happy, often looking wistfully into your eyes as if it were trying to tell you something – that it would love nothing more than to spend time with you!
| Papillon Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 8 – 11 inches |
| Weight | 5 – 10 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 2 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 5 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 5 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 4 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 5 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 5 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 5 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 5 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 14 – 16 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
5. Chihuahuas
The Chihuahua is a small and lovable breed of dog that originated in Mexico. This pup stands between 5 and 8 inches tall, weighs no more than 6 lbs, and is an incredibly affectionate pet.
Chihuahuas are known for being charming and sassy!
| Chihuahua Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 5 – 8 inches |
| Weight | not exceeding 6 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 4 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 1 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 2 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 2 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 4 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 5 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 3 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 14 – 16 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
6. American Eskimo Dogs (toy)
The American Eskimo (toy) dog breed is a bright, loyal and friendly breed that makes excellent family pets. They are loyal, versatile, and smart. These pint-sized pooches are energetic and love to play, excel at agility, obedience, and circus-style stunts. Plus they are incredibly intelligent overall.
This breed comes in three sizes: Toy (9-12 inches tall), Miniature (12-15 inches) or Standard (over 15 inches). Despite their diminutive size, they are relatively strong and surprisingly hardy dogs.
They do well in apartments, as long as they get plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
| American Eskimo Dog Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 9 – 12 inches (toy) 12 – 15 inches (miniature) 15 – 19 inches (Standard) |
| Weight | 6 – 10 pounds (toy) 10 – 20 pounds (miniature) 25 – 35 pounds (standard) |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 5 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 3 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 3 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 4 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 3 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 13 – 15 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Non-Sporting Group |
7. Maltese
The Maltese Dog breed is one of the oldest toy breeds in the world! Fun Fact: Greek artwork from as early as the 4th century B.C. depict the Maltese dog breed. Its bright expression, graceful movements and silky white hair make it look like a real-life teddy bear.
Even though they are tiny, these remarkable pooches always come equipped with a big heart!
| Maltese Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 7 – 9 inches |
| Weight | under 7 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 3 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 3 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 3 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 4 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 3 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 12 – 15 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
8. Yorkshire Terriers
Yorkshire Terriers, affectionately nicknamed ‘Yorkies’, are a crowd-pleasing dog breed! This tiny little breed was developed in the 1800s, becoming a fashionable lap dog for women of the Victorian era. Though they are quite small at seven pounds (on average) when fully grown, these dogs are just as brave as larger breeds.
Full of energy and curiosity by nature, Yorkies make excellent companions for those who love being active and seeking out new adventures.
Note that the Yorkies coat may need daily brushing.
| Yorkshire Terrier Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 7 – 8 inches |
| Weight | 7 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 5 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 5 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 5 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 5 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 4 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 4 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 11 – 15 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
9. Affenpinschers
Affenpinschers are small, confident, funny, and fearless dogs that are sure to bring some fun into your life!
Originating in Germany, they have been around since the 17th century. This breed carries a strong personality but also a courageous soul that makes them great companions.
They often act like little comedians and love playing and entertaining people with their antics.
| Affenpinscher Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 9 – 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 7 – 10 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 3 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 3 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 5 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 3 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 3 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 3 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 12 – 15 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Non-Sporting Group |
10. Brussels Griffons
The Brussels Griffon Dog breed is a small, spunky, and friendly breed. They are great companions and able to fit in almost any size of home. As their name suggests, their origins come from Belgium in the 1800s; however, they were a breed of dog centuries earlier.
When fully grown, they only reach about ten inches tall, making them more suitable for apartment living than many larger dogs.
Don’t let their tiny size fool you – the Brussels Griffons Dogs are full of personality and make wonderful companions for anyone who can give them lots of love and attention.
| Brussels Griffon Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 7 – 10 inches |
| Weight | 8 – 10 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 4 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 3 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 4 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 3 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 4 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 3 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 12 – 15 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
11. Miniature Pinschers
The Miniature Pinscher, affectionately known as the “Min Pin,” is a loyal and brave companion dog. Originating in Germany over 200 years ago, these small but daring dogs have earned a reputation for themselves as being full of heart and personality.
They are surprisingly agile and smart, with a bold curiosity that often leads them into adventures.
Great watchdogs, they are bravely territorial – until it comes to meeting new friends! Overall, Min Pins make excellent family companions with their love of play, lively spirit, and loving nature.
| Miniature Pinscher Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 10 – 12.5 inches |
| Weight | 8 – 10 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 3 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 4 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 3 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 5 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 3 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 5 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 5 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 5 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 12 – 16 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
12. Silky Terriers
The Silky Terrier breed is a small companion canine, known for its friendly and keenly alert personality. If you’re looking for a loving friend and confident protector, this breed may be the right one for you.
Silky Terriers have long and beautiful coats that are soft to the touch and come in various shades of blue, black, gray, silver, and tan.
Silky Terriers respond well to positive training techniques, excel in activities such as agility, obedience or tracking competitions, and make great therapy or show dogs. All of these traits along with their loveable personalities make them ideal family companions who will bring joy and fun into your home!
| Silky Terrier Traits & Characteristics | |
| Height | 9 – 10 inches |
| Weight | around 10 pounds |
| Affectionate With Family | 5 out of 5 |
| Good With Children | 3 out of 5 |
| Good With Other Dogs | 3 out of 5 |
| Shedding Level | 2 out of 5 |
| Coat Grooming Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Drooling Level | 1 out of 5 |
| Openness to Strangers | 4 out of 5 |
| Playfulness | 4 out of 5 |
| Watch Dog / Protective | 5 out of 5 |
| Adaptability (Routines vs non) | 4 out of 5 |
| Trainability | 4 out of 5 |
| Energy Level | 3 out of 5 |
| Barking Level | 4 out of 5 |
| Mental Stimulation Needs | 3 out of 5 |
| Average Life Span | 13 – 15 years |
| American Kennel Club Group | Toy Group |
What is the easiest tiny dog to keep?
When it comes to the easiest tiny do to keep choose the Maltese. The Maltese is lower on the scale when it comes to its energy level and mental stimulation needs when compared to the next ten smallest dog breeds. Plus, the Maltese barks less than other dog breeds of its size.
What is the best tiny dog breed for a lazy person?
If you are lazy a Chihuahua would be the perfect small dog breed for you. When compared to other tiny dogs its size the Chihuahua is on the low end of needing to be groomed (occasional brushing would do), as well as their need to expel energy.
Don’t get me wrong compared to some larger lazy dogs the Chihuahua might be high maintenance, but when compared to other small dogs this is a good choice for the lazy owner.
Related Article: Every Dog Breed Ranked By Weight (3 lbs to 170+ lbs)
What is the best tiny dog breed for families with kids?
The Toy Poodle is the best tiny dog for families with kids. This breed is not only hypoallergenic but they are easily trainable. Plus, they do not drool or shed much compared to other dogs.
Read: 15 Best Small & Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds Under 30 lbs (With Photos)
What is the worst tiny dog to have with kids?
The Chihuahua is the worst small dog breed to own if you have kids. While the Chihuahua may be affectionate to its owner they tend not to have the patience when it comes to small children who may poke and pull at it.
Read: 21 Loving Dog Breeds Under 25 Lbs Who Are Great With Kids! (With Photos)
What is the most popular tiny dog breed?
The Poodle is the most popular toy breed coming in at 5th place when ranked out of 197 different dog breeds.
Make sure YOU vote for your favorite tiny dog breed! Keep scrolling down to see the poll.
What is the least popular tiny dog breed?
The Affenpinscher is the least popular tiny dog breed coming in at 159th place when ranked out of 197 different dog breeds.
Top 12 Most Popular Small Dog Breeds Ranked In Order
Here are popular small dog breeds listed in order of their popularity. Plus we have an overall ranking when it comes to how these small dog breeds compared to every dog breed, both little dog and big dogs, in the American Kennel Clubs popularity rankings.
| Small Breed | Popularity Overall |
| Poodle | 5th |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 13th |
| Pomeranian | 24th |
| Chihuahua | 37th |
| Maltese | 39th |
| Papillions | 54th |
| Miniature Pinschers | 76th |
| Brussels Griffons | 97th |
| Toy Fox Terriers | 110th |
| Silky Terriers | 116th |
| American Eskimo Dog | 122nd |
| Affenpinschers | 159th |
Final Thoughts
These adorably tiny dog breeds all weigh 10 pounds or under, making them the perfect lap dogs as well as perfect pets for apartment dwellers. If you’re looking for a small and cuddly companion, one of these pint-sized pups may be the perfect fit for you.
Still looking for the perfect dog based on size? Check out this article we put together, Every Dog Breed Ranked By Weight (3 lbs to 170+ lbs)