Luckily for the toy breeds, providing companionship for humans has counted as suitable employment through the ages. This has ensured the survival of the breeds without practical skills, such as the Chihuahua, pug and Pomeranian. Many toy breeds, such as the miniature pinscher, the toy poodle and the English toy terrier appear to be miniaturized versions of larger breeds. Ranging between under 6 pounds (3 kilograms) in the tiniest Chihuahua and 20 pounds (9 kilograms) in the stockiest of pugs, these diminutive dogs have made for loving companions since they were first bred centuries ago. Later some toy breeds were the lapdogs of European royalty. Today their stature makes them excellent pets for people without a lot of extra space in their homes. And despite their tendency toward yappiness, they are considered the best dogs for novice owners, though their fragility can make them less than ideal pets for families with small children.

Toy dogs' love of attention serves them well outside of their loving homes, too. Loyal and intelligent, they are great at learning tricks, and many excel in obedience competitions.

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