Which is the Smallest Dog Breed in the World?

If asked what the “smallest dog breed in the world” is, the most common answer will be the one which is definitely the tiniest dog breed in average terms of weight and height. At the same time, the question can mean both breeds in general as well as individual dogs which have set world records in terms of smallness either in life height or in weight. 

This difference should be noted as in one case the breed standard is used while in the other Guinness World Record is used.

Which is the Smallest Dog Breed in the World?

Chihuahuas are definitely considered to be the smallest dog breed in terms of its average weight and height. Most of the dogs from this breed rarely exceed the heights of 15-23 cm (6-9 inches) in height at shoulder and their average weight rarely exceeds 2.7 kg (around 6 lbs).

All current reigning “world’s shortest” dogs that have won at least once in the Guinness World Records competitions have been Chihuahuas. This helps reinforce the reputation that the Chihuahua is indeed the world’s smallest dog breed.

Famous Record Holders

There was one very famous miniature dog that gained recognition from Guinness World Records as the shortest dog based on her height. Miracle Milly was a Chihuahua, measuring only 9.65 cm (or 3.8 inches) in height and weighing about 1 pound (0.45 kg). She was an excellent representation of a tiny Chihuahua dog.

Another record holder, named Pearl, was declared as the world’s shortest living dog in 2023. Pearl is another Chihuahua and measured 3.59 inches high, 5 inches long, and weighed only 1.22 pounds. 

These types of dogs exhibit dwarf-like characteristics due to some extremely rare genetics; however, these dogs are Chihuahuas and not a new breed.

How is a Dog Measured?

For Guinness World Records and other similar organizations, there is a set standard of measurements when it comes to measuring the “smallest” dog. This standard states that the height should be measured from the withers (shoulder height) to the ground and length from the tip of the nose to the bottom of the tail. 

Measurements need to be verified by a vet or some other type of specialist and photographs are obligatory.

Kennel clubs and websites focused on providing breed information are not interested in record-breakers; they rather describe an average size of a particular breed. This makes it easier for owners to see what their pets should look like.

Other Small Breed Dogs

Although Chihuahuas are considered the smallest breed, there are a couple of others that come pretty close. One of them is the Pomeranian. These fluffy dogs grow up to 18–22 centimeters (7–9 inches) and weigh less than 7 pounds. This breed has the appearance of a little teddy bear.

Toy Poodles are not bigger – they reach an average height of about 28 centimeters (11 inches) and weigh about 4–6 pounds.