What breed of dog is the smallest? - briefly
The Chihuahua is commonly recognized as the smallest breed of dog. They typically weigh between 3 and 6 pounds and stand at about 5-8 inches tall at the shoulder.
What breed of dog is the smallest? - in detail
The Chihuahua is widely recognized as the smallest breed of dog based on height and weight standards set by major kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). This diminutive canine originates from Mexico and is known for its tiny size, averaging between 3 to 6 inches in height at the shoulder and weighing only 3 to 6 pounds. Despite their small stature, Chihuahuas are known for their bold personality and loyal nature, making them popular companions. However, it's important to note that while Chihuahuas are the smallest recognized breed, there can be individual dogs from other breeds or mixed breeds that may be smaller in size. The title of the smallest dog is often disputed among enthusiasts due to the variations in size within breeds and the existence of exceptionally small specimens from different lineages. Nonetheless, the Chihuahua remains the standard by which other small dogs are compared.