Contributed by Info Guru Lindsay Shugerman
It’s a dream come true…a dog that looks like a puppy its whole life long. I think that’s one of the reasons people love tiny dog breeds so much. And these smallest dog breeds continue to grow in popularity.

Whether it’s due to a desire for canine companionship in a smaller package, or a rediscovery of the long-standing love of lapdogs among Europeans and residents of the Far East, little dogs are chosen by men and women more and more every day. If you’re looking for the right one for you, here’s a list of the top 10 tiny breeds.

10. Yorkshire Terrier

Firstly, we have the Yorkshire terrier or simply Yorkie. The Yorkie is the most popular of the toy breeds and continues to grow in popularity. These silky-coated dogs average seven pounds when full-grown, although some are bred to be slightly smaller.

Yorkshire Terriers have devoted family dogs. However, they can become yappy if startled, so make sure your puppy training addresses barking issues from the start. They’re very food motivated, so healthy dog treats are a good tool to use to work on basic commands.

9. Chinese Crested

Some people mistake this hairless breed for a chihuahua, but the Chinese Crested originates in the Far East, although some say he arrived there centuries ago from Africa.

The breed was developed as a companion for invalids, as hairlessness was thought to be less irritating to those who are ill. They are consummate lap dogs, loving nothing more than to curl up on a lap or stay close on a nearby dog bed.

8. Teacup Toy Poodle

Poodles are probably the most familiar of the very small dog breeds. Originally bred as hunting dogs, poodles are one of the only breeds to be available in four distinct sizes: standard, miniature, toy, and teacup. The teacup size averages under 6 pounds, while the toy can reach 10 or 11 pounds.

Toy poodles are very intelligent, but if not properly socialized and trained, they can become nervous, unfriendly, or even nippy. Make sure puppy classes, on-leash walks among people, and dog park time with other dogs are a frequent part of your pup’s life, and you should be able to head off any issues.

7. Cairn Terrier

Best known as Toto in the Wizard of Oz. The Cairn Terrier is a friendly little pup with lots of energy. They are excellent family dogs, with the stamina and playfulness to keep up with small children well. In addition, Cairns was named 200 years ago for its role in chasing rats from rock piles (cairns) in Scotland.

Cairns love to play, so a good assortment of dog toys is a must for this breed. They are heavier than some toy breeds, averaging about 13 pounds.

6. Chihuahua

Is it possible to see a Chihuahua without thinking of the Taco Bell commercial?

These iconic super-small dogs have a long and impressive history dating back at least to the mid-1500s in Mexico. In fact, they were the favorite of the upper class. Some historians believe they may date back further. This is based on by citing the description of a tiny dog Christopher Columbus brought back from his travels.

Like toy poodles, this breed can become nervous and snappy. So make sure good dog training and socialization starts as a puppy.

5. Maltese

If you see a tiny ball of white fur racing by you at the dog park, odds are it’s a Maltese. These tiny, high-energy pups love their walks (and runs!), enjoy wrestling with dog toys as big as they are, and yet will happily spend the evening curled up in your lap.

The Maltese coat tends to tangle, so make sure you invest in a good dog brush for daily grooming.

4. English Toy Terrier

Often mistaken for Pinschers or Chihuahuas, these tiny, long-legged terriers top out at only about 6-8 pounds. They were originally bred in England for rat hunting, a talent that evolved into a blood sport where rats and the terriers were released into a pit.

The dog that killed the most rats was declared the winner. Fortunately, today’s English Toy Terriers are far happier chasing a ball around the yard with the kids. This small dog breed is a popular one that you should consider having a pet.

3. Papillon

Papillon means “butterfly”, and these tiny pets live up to their name with flowing, elegant ear “feathers” that stream out behind them like wings. In the 16th and 17th centuries, these dogs were most often found on the laps of noblewomen. Today, they continue their tradition as content and cozy lapdogs or warm and friendly service dogs.

2. Pomeranian

At only 3-7 pounds fully grown, Pomeranians are one of the smallest breeds on this list. These tiny bundles of fur are ideal for people looking for a small dog that doesn’t need a lot of exercises.

But daily grooming is a definite must, as that long hair becomes matted with even a bit of neglect. Furthermore, poms are extremely devoted to their families, so be sure to include good socialization to keep them open to strangers and other dogs.

1. Morkie

Finally, we have the Morkie. Although not an official AKC breed yet, I had to include these teeny fur babies in the list. They’re a cross between the Maltese and the Yorkie (both on this list.) The result is a tiny puff-ball of a dog with the energy and intelligence of both parent breeds in a more compact size. They are devoted little dogs, with a soft coat and a big heart.