For some people, the smaller the dog, the better. It seems like the trend started around 2003, when Paris Hilton was seen carrying her Chihuahua in a designer purse and started a line of doggy clothing for superpetite canines only. The hustle to get a tiny dog was strengthened by popular hybrid breeds, which started in the 1990s. In 2005, the AKC published a piece on the rise and expected continuing popularity of dogs in the toy group, and the smallest breeds have continued to be big favorites — even years later.

Common Characteristics of the Smallest Dog Breeds

The smallest dog breeds have much in common, but, generally, the smaller the dog, the more he gets — more attention, more privileges, more of the royal attitude. They also share some distinctive characteristics.

1. Low weight: This does not mean dogs going on a diet to fit into their new Hermes sweater. The smallest dog breeds are tiny and do not weigh more than 10 pounds.
2. Short height: Not as important in determining whether a dog qualifies for the “smallest” trait, but it can still be used.
3. Cute factor: The smallest dog breeds actually tend to look “cuter” than other breeds. This means a resemblance to teddy bears, with very small features, big eyes, and/or slightly larger heads.
4. Coddling tolerance: These breeds started out as lap dogs who were treated like infants. As they’ve shrunk even more, they seem to tolerate, and even like, a great deal of cooing and cuddling.
5. Head for heights: The smallest dog breeds may almost never touch the ground. Instead, they view the world from a human’s hip and don’t seem to mind.

Why People Want One of the Smallest Dog Breeds

Obviously, if you want to look trendy, it’s tempting to get a tiny dog with matching outfit and purse. Unfortunately, some people do get one of these breeds for that reason and are then surprised when they find out that these diminutive dogs actually pee and poop, bark and sometimes snap, and are supposed to be walked.

Here are some better reasons to consider getting one of the smallest dog breeds:

• Lifespan: The smaller the dog, the longer the life; many toy breeds live 15-plus years.
• Companionship: These breeds have the art of companionship down pat, since that’s what they were bred for.
• Space saving: Having a teensy-weensy canine in a tiny apartment gives you a lot more room. (Although not all great apartment dogs are small!)
• Lovable littleness: These breeds can make excellent therapy dogs, and their size makes them more portable.

The 10 Smallest Dog Breeds

1. The Chihuahua: This choice is no surprise, but Milly, a Chihuahua from Puerto Rico, outdid all others of her breed by weighing in at only 7 ounces (full grown). Chihuahuas usually weigh around 4 to 6 pounds on average.
2. Brussels Griffon: The AKC standards for this breed say it should weigh 8 to 10 pounds, but smaller Brussels Griffons (6 to 7 pounds) exist.
3. Pomeranian: With his full, fluffy coat, the Pomeranian looks bigger than his actual size. This breed is around 7 pounds.
4. Affenpinscher: This tiny dog with the “monkey face” weighs around 7 to 9 pounds.
5. Papillon: Papillons typically weigh 6 to 7 pounds.
6. Yorkshire Terrier: Lucy, a Yorkie from New Jersey, is probably the smallest of her breed to date, at 2-and-a-half pounds. Yorkies are usually around 6 pounds.
7. Toy Fox Terrier: Much smaller than his cousin, the Fox Terrier, weighing in at around 7 pounds.
8. Russian Toy Terrier: This petite Russian breed has feathered ears and can weigh up to 6 pounds.
9. Japanese Chin: This silky breed has a fairly wide range for weight at 5 to 10 pounds.
10. Chinese Crested: This almost-naked breed, which seems to shiver a lot, weighs in at 7 to 10 pounds.

Let’s face it: Tiny dogs get stepped on — sometimes literally. It’s tough for them to have their opinions heard because their voices are so small. And there’s the constant fear that something bigger will gulp you down or sit on you. But the smallest dog breeds are surviving and thriving just the same.

Tell us: Which small dog breed would you have added to this list? Tell us in the comments below!

Thumbnail: Photography by Dixi/THINKSTOCK.

Read more about dog breeds on Dogster.com:

• 9 Reasons to Meet the Happy-Go-Lucky Havanese
• Dogs With Blue Eyes? Meet These 6 Dog Breeds 
• 5 Dogs Who Can Be Left Alone While You’re Away at Work