If you love Chihuahuas but want to explore other small dog breeds, you have plenty of adorable options. From playful Toy Fox Terriers to fluffy Pomeranians and affectionate Yorkshire Terriers, several breeds offer the compact size and lively personality that Chihuahua fans enjoy.
Chihuahuas are known for their confidence, alertness, loyalty, and small stature. The American Kennel Club (AKC) lists their typical height as 5–8 inches, weight as no more than 6 pounds under its breed standard, and life expectancy as 14–16 years.
However, not every small dog has the same temperament, grooming needs, or exercise requirements. Some are cuddly lap dogs, while others are energetic terriers that need regular play and training.
In this guide, we explore 12 dog breeds like Chihuahuas, compare their characteristics, and help you choose the right small companion for your home in the United States.
What Dog Breeds Are Like Chihuahuas?
Some dog breeds similar to Chihuahuas include the Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, Toy Fox Terrier, Papillon, Miniature Pinscher, Maltese, Brussels Griffon, Russian Toy, Japanese Chin, Italian Greyhound, Toy Poodle, and Affenpinscher.
These breeds can be similar in size, companionship, alertness, or lively personality, but each has its own characteristics.
12 Dog Breeds Like Chihuahuas
1. Yorkshire Terrier
The Yorkshire Terrier is an excellent option for people who love tiny dogs with bold personalities. Often called a Yorkie, this breed is affectionate, curious, and confident.
Like Chihuahuas, Yorkies can form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy spending time indoors. They also have a terrier background, which means they may be more energetic and determined than their small size suggests.
- Size: Usually around 7 pounds under the AKC breed standard.
- Personality: Confident, affectionate, and lively.
- Grooming: Regular brushing and coat maintenance.
- Best for: Owners who want a small, active companion.
Yorkies may bark at unfamiliar sounds and need consistent training. Their small bodies also mean that rough play with young children should be avoided.
2. Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is a fluffy toy breed known for its bright expression and energetic personality. It is a popular choice for people who want a small dog with a confident attitude.
Pomeranians and Chihuahuas share a reputation for being alert, vocal, and closely bonded to their families. The biggest difference is the Pomeranian’s thick double coat, which requires regular brushing.
- Size: Generally 3–7 pounds under the AKC standard.
- Personality: Playful, outgoing, and alert.
- Grooming: Frequent brushing and regular coat care.
- Best for: People who enjoy fluffy dogs and interactive play.
Pomeranians can adapt to apartment living, but they still need exercise, enrichment, and training to manage excessive barking.
3. Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier resembles a Chihuahua in its compact body, upright ears, and alert expression. However, it has a stronger terrier character and often enjoys more vigorous activity.
This breed can be a good choice if you want a small dog that enjoys learning tricks, playing games, and exploring outdoors.
- Size: Small, typically around 4–9 pounds.
- Personality: Intelligent, energetic, and confident.
- Grooming: Relatively easy short-coat care.
- Best for: Active owners who want a trainable little dog.
Toy Fox Terriers benefit from early socialization and structured play. They may not be the best fit for households looking for a dog that is content to sleep all day.
4. Miniature Pinscher
The Miniature Pinscher is sometimes compared with Chihuahuas because of its small frame, erect ears, and fearless personality.
Often nicknamed the “King of Toys,” this breed is athletic, curious, and independent. It generally needs more activity than people expect from a small dog.
- Size: Commonly around 8–10 pounds under the AKC standard.
- Personality: Bold, energetic, and independent.
- Grooming: Low-maintenance short coat.
- Best for: Owners who enjoy walking, training, and interactive play.
Miniature Pinschers can be escape artists, so secure doors, fences, and leashes are important.
5. Papillon
The Papillon is a small companion breed recognized by its distinctive butterfly-shaped ears. It shares the Chihuahua’s compact size and alert nature, although its long, silky coat creates a different look.
Papillons are often enthusiastic learners and may excel at obedience, agility, and trick training.
- Size: Usually around 5–10 pounds.
- Personality: Friendly, intelligent, and lively.
- Grooming: Regular brushing.
- Best for: Owners who want a small dog that enjoys training.
Papillons are not simply decorative lap dogs. They need mental stimulation and regular opportunities to play.
6. Maltese
The Maltese is a gentle-looking toy breed known for its long white coat and affectionate nature. It can be a good alternative for someone who loves Chihuahuas but prefers a softer, silky appearance.
Maltese dogs often enjoy close companionship and indoor activities. Their coat, however, requires more maintenance than a short-haired Chihuahua’s coat.
- Size: Generally under 7 pounds under the AKC standard.
- Personality: Affectionate, playful, and people-oriented.
- Grooming: Frequent brushing or professional grooming.
- Best for: Owners who want a small companion and can maintain its coat.
Maltese dogs still require training and socialization. They should not be left alone for long periods without considering their individual needs.
7. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon is a tiny dog with a distinctive face and a personality that can seem much bigger than its body.
Like Chihuahuas, Brussels Griffons may develop strong attachments to their favorite people. Their expressive faces and playful behavior make them appealing to fans of small companion breeds.
- Size: Often around 8–10 pounds.
- Personality: Affectionate, curious, and sensitive.
- Grooming: Depends on whether the coat is rough or smooth.
- Best for: People who want an interactive indoor companion.
These dogs may be sensitive to rough handling, so gentle supervision around children is important.
8. Russian Toy
The Russian Toy is a very small companion dog with long legs, delicate features, and large ears. It may appeal to people who want a dog with a similarly tiny appearance to a Chihuahua.
Russian Toys are often lively and affectionate, but they still need appropriate exercise, socialization, and training.
- Size: Very small; adult size varies.
- Personality: Alert, lively, and devoted.
- Grooming: Smooth- and long-coated varieties have different needs.
- Best for: Owners who prefer a delicate, small companion.
Because of their fragile size, they need careful handling around larger dogs and young children.
9. Japanese ChinThe Japanese Chin is a small companion dog with a silky coat, broad face, and elegant appearance.
Compared with a typical Chihuahua, a Japanese Chin may have a calmer style of companionship. However, individual dogs differ, and all need appropriate care and social interaction.
- Size: Usually around 7–11 pounds.
- Personality: Affectionate, charming, and adaptable.
- Grooming: Regular brushing.
- Best for: People seeking a small indoor companion.
Because Japanese Chins have shorter muzzles, ask a veterinarian about breathing and heat-management considerations when choosing this breed.
10. Italian Greyhound
The Italian Greyhound is a graceful, slender dog that offers a different alternative to a Chihuahua. It is larger and leggier than many toy breeds but still has a compact frame.
Italian Greyhounds can enjoy running and playtime, followed by relaxing beside their owners. Their thin coats mean they often need extra protection in cold weather.
- Size: Commonly around 7–14 pounds.
- Personality: Affectionate, sensitive, and athletic.
- Grooming: Minimal coat maintenance.
- Best for: Owners who want a small, elegant dog and can provide safe exercise.
Their delicate legs can be vulnerable to injury, especially during rough play or jumping from high furniture.
11. Toy Poodle
The Toy Poodle is a small, intelligent companion dog. While it looks quite different from a Chihuahua, it offers a similar portable size and can thrive in a variety of homes.
Toy Poodles are known for their trainability and often enjoy learning tricks and solving simple puzzles.
- Size: Over 10 inches or less at the shoulder under the AKC Toy Poodle classification.
- Personality: Intelligent, active, and responsive.
- Grooming: Regular professional grooming is often needed.
- Best for: Owners who want a small dog that enjoys learning.
Toy Poodles may suit people who prefer less shedding, but no dog is completely allergy-proof. Coat care and training remain important.
12. Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher is a compact, shaggy dog with a mischievous expression. Like the Chihuahua, it can be bold, curious, and full of character.
Affenpinschers are not identical to Chihuahuas in temperament, but their small size and lively personality make them worth considering.
- Size: Usually around 7–10 pounds.
- Personality: Curious, confident, and playful.
- Grooming: Regular coat maintenance.
- Best for: Owners who appreciate spirited dogs with unusual looks.
Their independent streak makes positive, consistent training especially useful.
Comparison Table: Dogs Similar to Chihuahuas
Use this table to compare the 12 breeds before choosing a new pet. Sizes are approximate adult ranges, not guarantees; individual dogs can differ.
| Dog breed | Approx. adult weight | Coat care | Best known for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chihuahua | Up to 6 lb under AKC standard | Low to moderate | Tiny size, confidence |
| Yorkshire Terrier | Around 7 lb | High | Silky coat, bold personality |
| Pomeranian | 3–7 lb | High | Fluffy coat, alert nature |
| Toy Fox Terrier | 4–9 lb | Low | Energy and intelligence |
| Miniature Pinscher | 8–10 lb | Low | Fearless, athletic character |
| Papillon | 5–10 lb | Moderate | Intelligence, butterfly ears |
| Maltese | Under 7 lb | High | White coat, companionship |
| Brussels Griffon | Around 8–10 lb | Moderate to high | Expressive face, devotion |
| Russian Toy | Varies | Low to moderate | Very small, lively companion |
| Japanese Chin | Around 7–11 lb | Moderate | Elegant appearance, companionship |
| Italian Greyhound | Around 7–14 lb | Low | Slender build, athleticism |
| Toy Poodle | 4–6 lb commonly | High | Intelligence, trainability |
| Affenpinscher | Around 7–10 lb | Moderate | Shaggy appearance, confidence |
Weight and grooming descriptions are general guides. Confirm current breed standards and individual care requirements with a reputable breeder, rescue organization, or veterinarian. The Chihuahua’s standard is documented by the AKC and Chihuahua Club of America.
Which Dog Like a Chihuahua Is Best for You?
The best choice depends on your home, schedule, grooming preferences, and experience with dogs.
Best for a fluffy appearance: Pomeranian
Choose this breed if you love a small dog with a thick coat and a lively personality. Be prepared for regular brushing and training.
Best for a tiny companion: Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies can be devoted household companions for people willing to maintain their coat and provide daily interaction.
Best for an active owner: Toy Fox Terrier
This breed is worth considering if you want a small dog that enjoys games, walks, and learning new skills.
Best for a classic lap-dog look: Maltese
A Maltese may appeal to you if you prefer a white, silky-coated companion and have time for regular grooming.
Are Dogs Like Chihuahuas Good for Apartments?
Yes. Many small breeds can live comfortably in apartments, provided they receive exercise, training, and mental stimulation. The AKC notes that small dogs can suit apartment life, but small size does not automatically mean low energy or low barking.
Before choosing a breed, consider:
- Barking: Some toy breeds are vocal and may need extra training.
- Exercise: Small dogs still need daily walks or age-appropriate play.
- Neighbors: Work on quiet behavior and separation training.
- Temperature: Tiny, short-coated dogs may need extra warmth in cold weather.
- Building rules: Check pet restrictions, weight limits, and rental policies.
A dog’s individual temperament and training are just as important as its breed.
Are Small Dogs Like Chihuahuas Good With Children?
Some can be excellent family companions, but their small size makes them vulnerable to accidental injuries from rough play.
Teach children to approach dogs calmly, avoid pulling ears or tails, and leave a dog alone when it is eating or resting. Always supervise interactions between young children and dogs.
If your household has toddlers, ask a reputable rescue organization or breeder about the individual dog’s temperament and comfort around children. Consider the dog’s size, energy, patience, and history rather than relying only on breed labels.
How to Choose a Healthy Small Dog in the USA
When looking for dogs similar to Chihuahuas, consider adopting through a reputable rescue or purchasing from a responsible breeder who prioritizes health and temperament.
- Ask about health screening: Request information about breed-relevant health concerns and veterinary care.
- Meet the dog when possible: Observe its behavior and ask about socialization.
- Understand long-term costs: Budget for food, routine veterinary care, dental care, grooming, and emergencies.
- Avoid misleading size labels: Terms such as “teacup” do not establish a separate official Chihuahua size variety under the Chihuahua Club of America’s standard. Extremely small size claims should not replace health considerations. Chihuahua Club of America
- Plan for a long commitment: Small companion dogs may live for many years, so consider future housing, travel, and care needs.
Frequently Asked Questions dog breeds
1. What dog breeds look most like Chihuahuas?
The Toy Fox Terrier and Russian Toy are worth considering for their small size and alert appearance. Miniature Pinschers also share an upright-eared, confident look, although they have a different body type and temperament.
2. What is the smallest dog breed similar to a Chihuahua?
The Russian Toy, Yorkshire Terrier, Pomeranian, and Maltese can all be very small. Individual sizes vary, so compare adult size ranges rather than relying on claims that a breed is always the smallest.
3. Which dogs like Chihuahuas are good for first-time owners?
Maltese, Papillons, and Toy Poodles may suit some first-time owners who are prepared for grooming, training, and regular care. Every dog is an individual, and no breed is automatically easy for everyone.
4. What small dog breeds have personalities like Chihuahuas?
Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Toy Fox Terriers, and Miniature Pinschers can share some Chihuahua-like qualities, such as alertness, confidence, and lively behavior. Their individual temperaments still differ.
5. Are dogs similar to Chihuahuas expensive to maintain?
Costs vary by location, health, food needs, grooming, and veterinary care. Short-coated breeds may require less professional grooming, while long- or curly-coated breeds often need more frequent maintenance. Plan for routine and unexpected veterinary expenses.
Conclusion
There are many wonderful dog breeds like Chihuahuas, from the fluffy Pomeranian to the intelligent Toy Poodle and energetic Toy Fox Terrier. The right choice depends on whether you prioritize tiny size, a similar personality, low-maintenance grooming, or an affectionate indoor companion.
Before bringing a dog home, research its health needs, meet the individual dog if possible, and choose a companion whose temperament and exercise needs fit your lifestyle.
At PetCareFix, our goal is to help U.S. pet owners make informed decisions and provide safe, loving homes for their dogs.
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