The Dog Codex

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Choose two breeds. You’ll see the same strip of citeable traits — not a winner, and not kids / apartment / shedding scorecards.

Temperament lines are short plate excerpts, not a verdict. Open each plate for the full entry.

Pomeranian

Pomeranian

Toy · Germany

  • AKC group

    Toy

  • Size

    Toy

  • Height

    18–24 cm (FCI)

  • Weight

    1.4–3.2 kg (AKC; 1.8–2.7 ideal)

  • Energy

    Moderate

  • Energy notes

    Moderate. The AKC standard calls the Pomeranian an active toy dog, and the AKC says that although Poms enjoy being lapdogs, they benefit from exercise and like the chance to run, play and go for walks.

  • Trainability

    High

  • Coat

    The double coat has a short, dense undercoat and long, harsh guard hairs that stand off from the body, forming a ruff around the neck and chest, feathering on the forelegs, a skirt on the hind legs and a plume on the…

  • Origin

    Germany

  • Temperament

    The AKC standard describes an extrovert with great intelligence and a vivacious spirit: alert, inquisitive and buoyant, cocky and commanding. The FCI adds that the Toy Spitz is always attentive, lively and extraordinarily attached to its owner, very teachable, and neither timid nor aggressive, and calls its cheerful, companionable character ideal for a companion and a watchdog for house and apartment.

Chihuahua

Chihuahua

Toy · Mexico

  • AKC group

    Toy

  • Size

    Toy

  • Height

    ~13–20 cm (AKC profile)

  • Weight

    1–3 kg (FCI)

  • Energy

    Moderate

  • Energy notes

    Moderate. The Chihuahua loves to run and play but can usually get enough exercise in a small space, and the AKC says trotting around after its people is often enough, with short, slow walks to keep it fit.

  • Trainability

    Moderate

  • Coat

    There are two coats.

  • Origin

    Mexico

  • Temperament

    Big personality, tiny frame: the AKC standard asks for an alert dog with 'terrier-like' self-importance, confidence and self-reliance. The Kennel Club describes a gay, spirited and intelligent dog, neither snappy nor withdrawn, and the FCI a quick, lively and very courageous one.