This group of dogs is made up of tiny dogs weighing from one to eighteen pounds with the average being eight pounds. The dogs in this group have been bred for pampering and protecting.

They are usually very sensitive to extremes in temperature as they do not have the body mass to maintain heat. Tiny dogs did not evolve naturally; humans bred and altered them specifically for their small size to be held and coddled. Due to their small size and sensitivity to the environment, The Toys would have difficulty surviving without human care.

Tend to be delicate dogs that are often not good companions for small children, but are excellent companions for adults and older, considerate children. Most have a much lower energy level than the dogs in other categories.

Examples: Chihuahua, Italian Greyhound, Maltese, Papillon, Pekinese, Pomeranian, Pug, Shih Tzu, Yorkshire Terrier, Toy Poodle

This group includes about 18 breeds: