Top 5 smallest dogs

Chihuahuas are possibly the best-known tiny dog of all. Photo / Thinkstock

The appeal of small dogs needs little explanation: they make less mess, they're (mostly) easier to clean up after and, of course, the cute factor is usually off the charts. You don't have to be Paris Hilton to be a small dog fanatic - here are some of our favourite dinky dogs.

1. Brussels Griffon

These squishy-faced little Belgian pups are so cute and unique-looking, they were the inspiration behind the Ewoks in George Lucas's Star Wars! (Fun fact: George Lucas owned some of these dogs himself.)

2. Havanese

The national dog of Cuba, these little legends are so cute and friendly they've earned the nickname "Velcro dogs", for their needy, attached nature and devotion to their owners. Havanese are known for having a spring in their step and are great, happy little pets to be around.

3. Chihuahua

Okay, okay, so we said you don't have to be Paris Hilton to be mad about small dogs - but that doesn't mean you can't still love Chihuahuas! Possibly the best-known tiny dog of all, Chihuahuas make feisty, confident pets and, most importantly, will be your friend for life.

4. Papillon

Their name means 'butterfly' in French but we're sorry to report these dogs don't actually have wings. What they do have are playful and affectionate temperaments, making them great companions with the liveliness and spirit to keep up with active families.

5. Italian Greyhound

The smallest of the sighthounds, Italian Greyhounds are athletic and agile, like their bigger counterparts. Unlike bigger Greyhounds, however, their small size can make them more prone to injury if handled too roughly, so these aren't always the best dogs to have around boisterous kids.