toy dog

noun

1. one of any of several breeds of very small dogs, as the Yorkshire terrier, English toy spaniel, Shih Tzu, and Pomeranian.

Word History and Origins

Origin of toy dog¹

First recorded in 1800–10

Example Sentences

First, each bested other dogs of its breed, and then of its “group” — toy dogs or hounds, for example.

From Seattle Times

The affectionate toy dogs are having a moment amid the monarchical fanfare.

From Seattle Times

His nonexistent companion Nippy is the type of adorable toy dog that only a gentle stranger would have.

From Salon

It posted a photograph on its Telegram channel of a toy kitten, a toy dog and flowers lying in the grass.

From Reuters

That’s because it’s hard to miniaturize the radar tech to a size that would be comfortable and lightweight enough for smaller pets, like toy dogs and cats.

From The Verge