Small size, big personality.
The Toy Group is made up of small, portable dogs originally bred to be companions. While their tiny frames might suggest fragility, most Toy breeds are surprisingly sturdy, clever, and packed with attitude. These dogs were designed to be close to their people — often doted on by royalty, aristocrats, and urban dwellers alike.
Though they don’t take up much space, many Toy breeds act like they own the room. They’re alert, expressive, and often totally unaware of their size. Most are highly adaptable and deeply bonded to their families — thriving in apartments, homes, and laps across the world.
Toy breeds often come with big-dog confidence in tiny packages. They’re smart and trainable, but can develop “small dog syndrome” if boundaries aren’t set early. Focus on positive reinforcement, but don’t skip structure just because they’re cute.
Their size makes them great for travel and indoor living, but they’re not low-maintenance. Many need regular grooming, dental care, and supervision outdoors — predators, stairs, or even a misstep from a larger dog can pose risks.
This group might be a great fit if:
