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Toy dog breeds

Are you looking for a pocket sized ball of fluff to be your constant companion? A tiny little friend to love? Then you might be looking for a toy dog, which are often miniature versions of larger breeds.

To make it easy for you, we have put a list together with the most popular toy dog breeds in Australia. You can also view more small dog options on our small dog breeds page.

Learn more about their history, characteristics, temperament, common breed diseases and conditions and lots of other interesting facts to help you choose the perfect little dog!

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Brussels Griffon (Griffon Bruxellois)

The Brussels Griffon, also known as Griffon Bruxellois in Europe, is a toy dog breed.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are toy dogs with a kind and loving nature. They are wonderful companions and are very popular with families and the elderly.

Chihuahua

Chihuahuas are cute and energetic tiny size dogs that are fiercely devoted to their owners but can be snappy or reserved towards strangers. They have a lot of personality and a big dog attitude.

English Toy Terrier

These are cute, smart and energetic toy sized dogs that are quite rare in Australia. They are alert, lovable and fearless and make entertaining companions.

Italian Greyhound

The Italian Greyhound (also referred to as the IG) is a slim, fine boned dog.  It looks quite similar to the Whippet but it is smaller in size and stature. 

Japanese Spitz

The Japanese Spitz is an active small breed dog that loves human attention and tends to be very loyal and affectionate.

Miniature Bull Terrier

The Miniature Bull Terrier is a small and stocky but very strong little dog. Selectively bred from smaller examples of the full-sized Bull Terrier, the Miniature version is almost identical in its appearance and its temperament.

Miniature Dachshund

Miniature Dachshunds are adorably cute, willful little dogs with very short legs and a long body. They have a loveable yet independent temperament and a bright personality.

Miniature Fox Terrier

These are affectionate, courageous and energetic small sized dogs that are popular with Australian families as well as on farms where they work as vermin catchers.

Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher is a small domesticated dog, muscular and full of energy. An old breed, the Miniature Pinscher can be traced back to more than 200 years ago.

Papillon

The Papillon is small, fine boned, energetic dog that is also known as the Continental toy Spaniel or Dwarf Spaniels. 

Pekingese

Pekingese are very small dogs which have a long, soft, and straight coat that feels furry. The dog looks like a miniature dog-lion with a mane.

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