The diminutive size and winsome expressions of toy dogs illustrate the main function of this group: to embody sheer delight.

Affenpinschers have a fun-loving, sometimes mischievous, personality. Their intelligence, appearance and attitude make them a good house pet, but children should always be taught how to properly handle the dog.

The affectionate, charming and curious personality of the Brussels griffon makes it a good companion dog. However, this breed is not typical of the "pampered pet" stereotype of Toy breeds.

Friendly and easy to train, the cavalier is a trustworthy companion for children and thrives as part of a family. The coat requires weekly brushing but no trimming. The breed is adaptable in its need for exercise and is happy with sleeping on the couch and taking long walks.

Chihuahuas are alert dogs with terrierlike qualities. They are good with families if the children are gentle and patient. Because of their small size, they require little exercise and are good city dogs, but can be sensitive to cold temperatures. Smooth-coated Chihuahuas need very little grooming due to their short hair. Long coats need occasional brushing but still require minimal grooming.

A fine-boned, elegant toy dog that craves human companionship, the crested comes in two varieties. The hairless has soft, silky hair on its head (crest), tail (plume), and feet (socks). It is believed that Chinese mariners sailed with this breed -- thought to have evolved from African hairless dogs -- on board.

The English toy spaniel is a gentle, happy and playful loving breed that is naturally well-behaved and intelligent. They are good family companions and play well with children.

Havanese dogs are trainable and intelligent and possess a naturally affectionate temperament, which makes the breed an ideal family pet. Although a toy dog, they remain energetic and require some form of daily exercise. The breed's nonshedding coat makes it suitable for allergy sufferers, but regular grooming is necessary to keep the coat in top condition.

Playful and intelligent, the Italian greyhound is generally easy to train and prefers to spend most of his time with his owner. They like attention and affection, and are a peaceful, gentle friend to adults and children.

The Japanese chin is a bright, alert and playful breed. An affectionate and devoted family companion, this breed loves everyone it is familiar with, but may be reserved around strangers and in unfamiliar situations.

Even though the Maltese are very small, they tend to be brave and fearless. They are one of the most gentle of all little dogs, but are also full of energy and very playful, making them great family dogs. Maltese should be brushed daily, and groomed often to prevent mats from forming in their long, white coat.

The Manchester terrier comes in both standard and toy varieties. It is a lively, sharp witted breed that is eager to learn. The breed is extremely loyal to its owner(s) and forms a strong bond early on.

The miniature pinscher can really spice up a person's life. This dog is small, but he doesn't know it! He's quick and active, with a lively curiosity. They are good family companions and look out for their family, bravely challenging intruders with their bold, insistent bark.

Papillons are a happy breed whether living in an apartment, out in the country or anywhere in between. They love to play outdoors, but they can be easily entertained and exercised indoors as well.

Pekingese possess a regal dignity, intelligence and self-importance, making them good natured, opinionated and affectionate family companions.

Pomeranians are very intelligent dogs that love to please. Because of their outgoing temperaments, they can be very good family dogs with the right training. Due to their small size, they don't require much exercise, but they are an energetic breed that needs lots of attention from their people. They possess a thick double coat that needs to be brushed on a regular basis.

The poodle, a breed that includes standard, miniature and toy varieties can accommodate nearly any size living quarters. His hypoallergenic coat may reduce allergic reactions, but requires regular professional grooming. The Poodle is an active breed and requires daily exercise.

Pugs' reason for living is to be near their people and to please them, and their sturdiness makes them a family favorite. They are comfortable in small apartments because they need minimal exercise, but the breed can adapt easily to all situations. The pug sheds, but its short coat requires little grooming.

Cherished by Chinese royals as prized house pets for more than a thousand years, shih tzus are believed to have descended from crossing the Lhasa apso or Tibetan mountain dog with Pekingese. The shih tzu was the house pet for most of the Ming Dynasty and was discovered by soldiers in England during World War II.

This portable pooch can adapt well to any living situation, but make sure you have the time to devote to them -- they do not like to be ignored, preferring to play fetch or go on walks with their family.

Toy fox terriers are an outgoing and friendly, yet fiercely loyal to their families. They are content and capable of any range of activities from hunting, to obedience, to just lounging around in the sun (or on the sofa).

Yorkies are easily adaptable to all surroundings, travel well, and make suitable pets for many homes. Due to their small size, they require limited exercise, but need daily interaction with their people. Their long coat requires regular brushing.