The 30 smallest dog breeds in the world

While small dogs have a reputation for being somewhat feisty, tiny canines are increasingly appealing to an active, educated, and urban generation. Small dogs are generally more manageable than their larger counterparts, but can be equally agile, fun-loving, and affectionate. In fact, little dogs are blessed with huge personalities, a characteristic that makes them especially endearing to families and children.

So, are you looking for a pint-sized companion that's playful in nature? Click through this gallery and find out why cute things come in small packages.

Papillon

The Papillon, also called the Continental Toy Spaniel, is an alert and friendly breed of small dog. It derives its name from its characteristic butterfly-like ears.

Pumi

The Pumi is a compact, nimble-footed sheep dog of Hungarian origin. They have also been used to drive cattle. That said, they are excellent family dogs that have no difficulty adapting to indoor living, although they do require plenty of exercise.

Bichon Frise

This adorable Franco-Belgian breed of small toy dog is super willing to make friends, and gets on well with other dogs. Their glorious hypoallergenic snow-white coats make them the perfect choice for allergy sufferers.

Cairn Terrier

A fearless little dog originating in the Scottish Highlands, the Cairn is a typical terrier—happy, always busy, and delightful to have around.

Miniature Pinscher

A fun-loving toy breed known for its high-stepping gait, Miniature Pinschers have smooth, shiny coats that come in two shades of solid red, or chocolate-and-rust, or black-and-rust. They are one of the longest-living dog breeds, with a lifespan of 12–16 years.

Chinese Crested Dog

A lively and alert toy breed, the Chinese Crested Dog comes in two varieties: without hair and with hair (known as the powderpuff). These dogs love company and make great companions.

Cocker Spaniel

With their saucer-shaped eyes and soft, floppy ears, Cocker Spaniels are among the most popular of small dogs. This breed is noteworthy for producing one of the most varied numbers of pups in a litter among all dog breeds.

Havanese

The Havanese, the national dog of Cuba, is a loving and intelligent breed much appreciated for its bright, outgoing personality.

Brussels Griffon

Named for their city of origin of Brussels in Belgium, these intelligent and social dogs are recognized for their uncanny human-like expression.

Alaskan Klee Kai

The Klee Kai does indeed resemble the larger Alaskan Malamute. It is an energetic, intelligent dog with an appearance that reflects its chilly northern heritage.

Dachshund

All Dachshunds are indeed small in size. But not all Dachshunds are the same: the breed may be smooth-haired, wire-haired, or long-haired, with varied coloration.

Welsh Corgi

A strong, athletic, and lively little herder, the Welsh Corgi is willing to please and has bags of personality.

Shih Tzu

The "Lion Dog" from Tibet, the Shih Tzu is rather exotic in appearance. They were bred to be a house companion and require little exercise but quite a bit of grooming.

Cesky Terrier

The Cesky is an agile and relatively tough breed of terrier whose origins are in the Czech Republic. In fact, they are the country's national dog.

Pekingese

A breed long favored by royalty of the Chinese Imperial court as a companion dog, the Pekingese is still beloved for its regal lineage and its luscious, lion-mane hair.