Love the look of a Chihuahua but hoping for a pup that’s a little less vocal or maybe just a bit bigger and fluffier. You’re not alone! Chihuahuas may be tiny, but their bold personalities, big expressive eyes, and signature sass have won hearts worldwide.
Still, they’re not the only small dogs turning heads with that same adorable appeal. Believe it or not, several breeds share similar features—from pointy ears and compact bodies to that spunky, confident attitude.
In this fun little roundup, we’ve sniffed out 7 charming dogs resembling Chihuahuas (yes, we included pictures too!). Whether you’re searching for a Chihuahua doppelgänger or simply exploring other petite pups with similar vibes, this list is packed with irresistible cuteness.
So settle in, get comfy, and let’s meet the Chihuahua lookalikes that might just wiggle their way into your heart!
Dog Breeds that Look Like Chihuahuas
1. Miniature Pinscher
Miniature Pinschers, affectionately called “Min Pins,” often get mistaken for tiny Dobermans—but they’re their own feisty breed! Chihuahuas are the smallest dog breed worldwide, and these little dynamos pack a bold, confident personality into a sleek, compact frame.
If you’re hunting for a dog that looks a lot like a Chihuahua, the Min Pin is a top contender. They rock those signature pointed ears and a sturdy, stocky build, but with a bit more size and muscle. And don’t expect silence; these pups make excellent watchdogs and will bark up a storm at anything suspicious.
Energetic and assertive, Min Pins love to stay busy and need plenty of regular exercise and brain games to keep them happy. Loyal to the core, they are protectors of their family despite their small stature.
With a shiny, short coat and a confident, high-stepping strut, Min Pins exudes elegance mixed with fearless spirit. Though they belong to the Toy group, these little terriers have big attitudes and won’t just flop in your lap—they expect you to take their alerts seriously!
One last thing: because of their tiny size, they aren’t the best playmates for young kids who might accidentally treat them like toys. But with older kids and a mellow environment, these lively little shadows love being part of the family fun, states Purina.
2. Toy Fox Terrier
The Toy Fox Terrier is just a smidge bigger but quite similar to Chihuahuas, sharing that cute, compact, and stocky look with those adorable pointed ears. But that’s where the twins part ways! These little bundles of energy bring their own brand of quirky charm and a terrier’s tenacity, making them a lively substitute for Chihuahua lovers looking for something a bit different.
Originally bred in North America by mixing small smooth fox terriers with various toy breeds, Toy Fox Terriers sport a sleek, mostly white coat and those signature V-shaped, erect ears. They’re tiny athletic dynamos with personalities way larger than their size suggests. Get ready for nonstop fun—these pups are playful, smart, and seriously entertaining.
Toy Fox Terriers form tight bonds with their humans and adore cuddles, but don’t be fooled—they’re also fierce little watchdogs with a high prey drive. Introducing them to cats or small furry friends requires caution, as their hunting instincts can kick in, states PetMD.
They thrive in homes with older kids who can match their energy without accidentally turning them into chew toys.
Full of spunk and smarts, Toy Fox Terriers need plenty of daily exercise—think at least an hour of play and brain games—to keep them happy and avoid turning your home into a barking festival. Early training is key to managing their curiosity and bossy alertness, especially when it comes to chasing neighbourhood squirrels.
3. Papillon
Papillons are hard to miss thanks to their stunning, butterfly-shaped ears and silky, flowing, long coat. They share the Chihuahua’s petite size but have a friendlier, more outgoing vibe that makes them irresistible. Super smart and eager to learn, these little fluffballs shine in agility and obedience, proving brains and beauty go paw-in-paw.
The name “Papillon” literally means “butterfly” in French, inspired by those iconic ears that stand tall and proud like delicate wings. If you spot one with floppy ears instead, you’ve probably met a Phalene—the Papillon’s laid-back cousin.
Though different, they can even pop up in the same litter! Both breeds hail from French royal courts, bringing a touch of regal charm wherever they go.
Papillons might look like long-haired Chihuahuas with similar ears, eyes, and snouts, but don’t let their dainty appearance fool you. These pups are tough, active, and always up for playtime, long walks, or zoomies around the yard.
Their lively personality and affectionate nature make them fantastic companions who’ll happily curl up in your lap after a day full of fun.
While both Papillons and Chihuahuas share a playful spirit and affectionate streak, Papillons bring an extra dash of elegance and athleticism to the mix. If you want a small dog breed that’s as smart as they are sweet, a Papillon just might be your perfect match!
4. Pomeranian
Pomeranians are fluffy little firecrackers with a bold spirit that rivals any Chihuahua. Despite their tiny size, they bark loud and proud, making excellent little watchdogs. Known for their luxurious double coat and fox-like face, these fluffballs require regular grooming to keep their signature look on point. Smart, affectionate, and full of personality, Poms thrive when they get plenty of attention and mental stimulation.
Believe it or not, Pomeranians trace their roots back to the chilly Pomerania region between Poland and Germany and descended from large sled dogs—talk about an interesting heritage in a tiny package! Often called Dwarf Spitzes, they’re basically the pocket-sized version of their larger Spitz cousins, flaunting a thick coat and a confident attitude that’s anything but small.
Though similar in size to Chihuahuas, Poms are way fluffier and a bit more active, always ready to climb, explore, and cause some adorable mischief. Their endless curiosity means they’ll keep you on your toes—watch those shoes! With a dazzling range of colours and patterns, from tri-colour to sable and merle, each Pom is as unique as their personality.
Personality-wise, these sassy pups are social butterflies who get along well with other pets and love being the centre of attention. While they don’t need hours of outdoor play, their grooming needs are high-maintenance—think daily brushing or regular trims to tame that fabulous fur.
Highly intelligent and independent, Pomeranians enjoy learning new tricks but prefer walking on the ground rather than being carried like a royal. Compact size but big personality, Poms are perfect companions for apartment living, single persons, and families—ready to charm their way into your heart (and maybe your lap!).
5. Chinese crested
The Chinese Crested is a bit larger than the tiniest dog breed on the block—the Chihuahua—but their faces share that adorable, short, pointed snout. If you pick a hairless Chinese Crested, they practically double down on the Chihuahua look!
This small breed is a total sweetheart, affectionate and lively, quickly becoming a playful, utterly devoted member of your family. Bonus: they’re way less yappy than Chihuahuas, so if you want a quieter pup with personality, this might be your match.
Classified as a toy breed, the Chinese Crested is a fantastic lapdog and quite the entertainer. Their origins are a bit mysterious—some say they’re linked to hairless dogs from South America, and legends suggest Aztecs used them as bedwarmers (talk about cozy!).
There’s even chatter that they’re a mix between Mexican Hairless Dogs and Chihuahuas. Historically, these pups were skilled “ratters” in port cities, showing off their alert and loyal nature.
Known for their cat-like antics, Chinese Cresteds love lounging in high spots—think couch backs or chair arms—and they’re quick learners who shine in activities like agility courses and flyball, states PetMD.
They adore kids but need supervision around tiny toddlers since they’re delicate little dynamos. While they’re active, they’re not hyper, and barking? Rarely a problem.
Bonus point is they have little to no hair, which makes them truly hypoallergenic dogs. Just a heads-up—they have a stubborn streak and might take time to housebreak, so patience is your new best friend.
6. Jack Russell Terrier
The Jack Russell Terrier might be a tad larger than the Chihuahua and rock those cute folded ears, but there’s still a dash of resemblance in their expressive little faces. Both breeds bring that comical, clownish energy to the table—and yep, they both love a good barking session.
So, if you’re hoping for a quiet pup… maybe look elsewhere. But if you want personality? These two are overachievers.
Jack Russells, however, are next-level when it comes to energy. These aren’t your chill, couch-cuddling types—they’re go-go-go from morning zoomies to bedtime shenanigans. Bolder, braver, and bursting with curiosity, they’ll explore every inch of your home and maybe even try to redecorate it with their own flair.
Jacks are true terriers at heart—cheeky, fearless, and always game for mischief. They’re the kind of dog that will sneak a fry off your plate, dash into a hedge to chase something suspiciously squeaky, then casually trot back to beg for another fry like nothing happened.
As noted by Purina, while they’re incredibly loyal and affectionate, they’re also headstrong and not always fans of excessive handling. Cats and small critters? Not their best friends. With the right training and realistic expectations, though, a Jack Russell can be a hilarious, high-spirited sidekick with an endless heart (and maybe a side hustle in rodent control).
7. Schipperke
Schipperke and the Chihuahua might be neighbours in the toy dog world, but don’t let their small size fool you—they’re two totally different flavours of spunky. Both breeds make great companions, are alert little watchdogs, and live impressively long lives. But when it comes to personality, energy, and fur flair? That’s where the paths split.
Schipperkes, affectionately known as Belgium’s “little captains,” are like tiny furry dynamos. Originally bred to guard barges and chase rats, they’ve got a strong work ethic wrapped up in a mischievous, fox-faced package.
Unlike the often more laid-back Chihuahua, Schipperkes are high-energy explorers. They’re constantly on the move, curious about everything, and have zero chill when it comes to fun. Got a fenced yard or a toy box? They’ll turn both into a personal playground.
Their black smooth coats give them a bold silhouette, especially that luxurious ruff around the neck, and only need a good weekly brushing… unless it’s shedding season, when it might feel like your dog’s trying to clone itself in fur.
AKC states Schipperkes thrive in homes that can match their zest for life, provide plenty of playtime, and won’t mind the occasional zoomies through the living room. They’re clever and cheeky and bring a delightful bit of chaos to any household lucky enough to have one.
Conclusion
While the Chihuahua may be the ultimate little dog with a larger-than-life personality, it’s far from the only one of its kind. Other dog breeds like the Italian Greyhound, Russian Toy, Japanese Chin, and Brussels Griffon share striking similarities—whether it’s their petite size, big dog attitude, or those luxurious coats that demand attention.
Some other dogs even bring their flair to the mix, like the Toy Poodles with their varied coat types and high intelligence, or the Schipperke with its endless energy and fox-like face.
Whether you’re drawn to a similar breed for its gentle nature or want an excellent companion who doesn’t mind cold weather, there’s a new breed out there that might steal your heart.
From popular pets to lesser-known stars of dog sports, these pint-sized pooches prove that greatness can come in small (and very fluffy) packages. Whatever your preference—short-haired, silky coat, or full-on coat varieties—there’s a world of other breeds just waiting to charm future pet parents everywhere.
