Chihuahua
Descended from a larger breed called Techichi, these tiny dogs were valued for companionship and spiritual beliefs.
Griffon Bruxellois
The Griffon Bruxellois, also known as the Brussels Griffon, originated in Belgium to hunt and control rodents in stables.
Maltese
The Maltese was originally bred as a companion dog and a symbol of luxury for royalty and noblewomen.
Papillon
Papillons were originally bred as companion dogs for European nobility and royalty during the Renaissance.
Pomeranian
Pomeranians were much larger, and by the early 1900s, they had become firmly established as a beloved companion dog.
Poodle
Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers, helping hunters retrieve ducks and other waterfowl.
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkies were originally bred in the 1800s to hunt and kill rats in mills and mines in Yorkshire and Lancashire, England.
Disclaimer: The size classifications provided for the breeds are based on the breed standards recognised by the Kennel Union of Southern Africa (KUSA). These measurements and weight ranges are intended as general guidelines only. Individual dogs may vary in size depending on factors such as genetics, sex, nutrition, and overall health.
