6 Dog Breeds That Come in Different Sizes

Did you know that many dog breeds come in multiple sizes? These breeds include Poodles, Bull Terriers, and Rat Terriers.

May 5, 2024By Nikita Hillier
dog breeds that come in different sizes

Certain dog breeds have remarkable versatility in size. While many breeds only come in one size, some come in three: standard, miniature, and toy. This variation allows prospective dog owners to choose a size that best suits their lifestyle while still enjoying the distinctive traits and characteristics of their chosen breed.

In this helpful guide, we will examine several dog breeds that come in three sizes, including Poodles, Bull Terriers, Schnauzers, Rat Terriers, and others.

6. Bull Terriers

brindle and white bull terrier running
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Bull Terriers, with their distinctive, slight egg-shaped heads, come in three sizes. Miniature Bull Terriers stand only about 10 to 14 inches tall and weigh 20 to 35 pounds. They are known for their spirited energy and mischievous antics as pets and bring so much joy into households. Standard Bull Terriers, weighing 45 to 65 pounds and standing 20 to 24 inches tall, are much the same in personality, but stand much larger in stature than their smaller counterparts.

Large Bull Terriers, also known as Bullies, weigh 65 to 85 pounds and stand roughly 24 to 27 inches tall. They have a much calmer demeanor than the two smaller types, but understandably, they require much more space and need regular exercise. Despite the size differences in these dogs, they are all extremely loyal, intelligent, and affectionate.

They are some of the most beloved companions you will find.

5. Poodles

small brown poodle laying on carpet looking at camera
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Poodles are very much renowned for their elegant appearance and intelligence. They are available in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. Toy Poodles stand under 10 inches and usually weigh between four to six pounds. They’re known for their fun, lively spirits in a small body, making them perfect for seniors.

Miniatures usually stand between 10 to 15 inches tall and weigh about 10 to 15 pounds. They make very versatile family pets that everyone can enjoy. Standard Poodles are well over 15 inches and weigh around 45 to 70 pounds. They excel in various activities, including hunting and therapy work.

Regardless of their size, Poodles are extremely affectionate, trainable, and hypoallergenic, making them the perfect companions. They fit in very well with different types of families and make excellent emotional support dogs.

4. Schnauzers

schnauzer dog looking into camera
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Schnauzers are mustachioed pups that are characterized by their bearded snouts, bright expressions, and friendly natures. They come in miniature, standard, and giant sizes. Miniature Schnauzers are usually about 12 to 14 inches tall and weigh roughly 11 to 20 pounds. Despite their size, they take themselves quite seriously as watchdogs.

Standard Schnauzers usually stand between 17.5 to 19.6 inches and weigh in at roughly 30 to 45 pounds. These dogs are extremely intelligent and adaptable. Giant Schnauzers stand over 23.5 inches and 55 to 85 pounds.

Regardless of the size of the Schnauzer you choose to bring into your family, they all have great loyalty, intelligence, and very bold personalities, making them delightful companions. Their various size differences make them suitable for a variety of homes.

3. Rat Terriers

small rat terrier dog staring at camera
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at Terriers are known for their innate agility and impressive hunting skills. They come in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. A toy Rat Terrier stands at around 8 to 12 inches tall and weighs roughly four to six pounds. They really are tiny!

Miniature Rat Terriers are around 13 to 16 inches tall and weigh 10 to 18 pounds. They excel as family pets and watchdogs, who adore their family. They also don’t need lots of space, making them ideal apartment dogs.

Standard Rat Terriers are over 16 inches tall and weigh around 20 to 35 pounds. They are incredibly powerful hunters and are much bigger than their smaller counterparts. These dogs are super agile, intelligent, and affectionate, making them perfect companions for active families regardless of size.

2. Chihuahuas

small light brown and white chihuahua laying down

Chihuahuas are already a very small dog breed, beloved by those who love little lap dogs. In fact, it’s the smallest dog breed in the world! They come in standard, miniature, and teacup sizes. The standard Chihuahuas usually weigh up to six pounds and stand around six to nine inches tall.

Miniature Chihuahuas weigh two to four pounds and stand five to eight inches tall. The smallest of these dogs, teacup Chihuahuas, weigh well under two pounds and stand under five inches tall. Despite their small size, Chihuahuas are very bold, confident, and alert dogs that love to protect their families and form strong bonds.

Standards are usually a little more laid-back, while teacups are much more delicate and can be prone to health issues. However, all sizes of these dogs are known for their loyalty and affection. They make great little family members when you invite them into your home.

1. Dachshunds

small dachshund dog sitting in box
Image Credit: Erda Estremara on Unsplash

Dachshunds, like Corgis and Basset Hounds, have a congenital form of dwarfism that gives them their trademark, low-to-the-ground appearance. They come in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. Their coats also come in three consistencies: wirehaired, longhaired, and smooth. There’s a lot of variety in this breed!

Standard Dachshunds weigh roughly 16 to 32 pounds and stand around eight to nine inches tall. Miniature Dachshunds, on the other hand, can weigh less than 11 pounds and stand around five to seven inches tall.

Toy Dachshunds weigh eight pounds or less and stand under five inches tall. Standard Dachshunds are very bold and confident dogs, while miniatures are known for being much more reserved. Toys are often very lively and energetic, despite their small and fragile size.

Nikita Hillier
By Nikita Hillier

Nikita is a huge animal lover who has grown up on a farm with many different animals, from dogs and cats to horses and cows! She has a lot of experience in the equine industry and is even in the process of studying for an internationally accredited Equine Sports Massage Certificate! In her spare time, she enjoys writing and spending time with her beloved animals!