Smallest Dog Breeds: 5 Teacups Perfect for Apartment Life

Small dog breeds aren't always calm dogs. The smallest dog breeds are often big dogs in small bodies, fearless and vocal. Those cute small dog breeds have a reputation for making their voice known by their barking.

But who could resist their charm? Especially when they are so small you could take them everywhere you want. They can be the perfect couch potato with lots of snuggles to give.

What is the very smallest dog breed?

1. Chihuahua
2. Yorkshire Terrier
3. Pomeranian
4. Maltese
5. Toy Poodle

1. Chihuahua - Small and spunky companion

• Height: 5-8 inches
• Weight: 4-6 lbs
• Lifespan: 12 – 20 years
• Temperament: loyal, aggressive, devoted, alert

Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed in the world and they are also in the top of dog breeds that live the longest.

These tiny dogs are great family pets, but they tend to be aggressive because of their fierce loyalty to their owners. They need to socialize frequently and from an early age to avoid territorial aggression.

Chihuahuas are also called pocket dogs. That means that they are so small you could take them anywhere you want.

2. Yorkshire Terrier - Elegant and energetic lap dog

• Height: 8-9 inches
• Weight: 4–7 lbs
• Lifespan: 13 – 16 years
• Temperament: loyal, bold, devoted, intelligent

Another big dog in a small body, the Yorkshire Terrier has a big personality and a long lifespan. Yorkey is one of the smartest small dog breeds.

This cute small dog breed is brave and not afraid to bark a lot. Loving and devoted, he is a perfect dog for families, and especially good for elders or people with medical issues.

Yorkshires are one of the best apartment-friendly dogs. They love cuddling and sleeping with their hooman.

3. Pomeranian - Fluffy and friendly toy breed

• Height: 7-12 inches
• Weight: 3-7 lbs
• Lifespan: 12 – 16 years
• Temperament: loyal, friendly, active, intelligent

Pomeranians are famous small dog breeds known for their fluffy coat and playful temperament.

This cute small dog barks a lot, too, that's why he needs intense training. Poms are agile and brave dogs. They are friendly with kids, but never let your Pomeranian with them because they are unpredictable.

Be careful, and don't let your fluffy Pomeranian alone because he can easily be a target for dognappers due to his beautiful coat.

The most popular colored Pomeranians are orange and orange sable because they’re warm and cheerful. If you want a dog with a different color palette than these, check out how this tiny fluff appears on black in the most popular black dog breeds article.

4. Maltese - Sweet-natured lap dog

• Height: 8-10 inches
• Weight: 6-8 lbs
• Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
• Temperament: playful, docile, fearless, loving

Maltese dogs are pure happiness and they enjoy both active and lazy life, as long as they are next to their hooman.

These tiny dogs are devoted to their owner. They have no fear and they can bark a lot.

Maltese are one of the cutest fluffy dog breeds that are perfect for apartment living.

5. Toy Poodle - Intelligent and active companion

• Height: 9-10 inches
• Weight: 6-9 lbs
• Lifespan: 12 – 15 years
• Temperament: intelligent, loyal, energetic, irresistible

Toy poodles are extremely intelligent and natural athletes. These cute fluffs can learn so fast any trick.

Besides their intelligence, they are at the top of the list of most famous curly-haired dog breeds. They are also known as "Caniche", standardized in France, where it became extremely popular. Now, these cute curly dogs are recognized as the country's national breed.

Their level of energy is very high. They are also very loving and obedient. Of course, they can be stubborn sometimes, but it's worth having such a sweetheart.

Among the cutest small dog breeds, toy poodles are playful and always protective of their home and family.

If you wish that your dog could stay a cute little puppy forever, then you could choose one of these small dog breeds that are the perfect snuggle bugs.

Prepare for lots of love and a happier life with one of those toy dog breeds!

See you in the next article! Paws & love! 🐾