Tiny Wonder: Pearl the Chihuahua Crowned the World’s Shortest Dog at Just 3.59 Inches

In a world where size often turns heads, a tiny Chihuahua named Pearl has done just that—but in the most unexpected way. Measuring only 3.59 inches (9.14 cm) tall and 5 inches (12.7 cm) long, Pearl has officially been named the world’s shortest living dog by the Guinness World Records, and her story is capturing hearts across the globe.

Born in Orlando, Florida, Pearl is no ordinary pup. Weighing just 1.22 pounds (0.55 kg), she fits comfortably in the palm of a hand. Her miniature frame may be small, but her personality is reportedly huge. Pearl belongs to Vanesa Semler, who was also the owner of the previous record holder, Miracle Milly—another tiny Chihuahua. Milly, who passed away in 2020, was just slightly taller at 3.8 inches.

According to Guinness World Records, Pearl was born on September 1, 2020, from one of Milly’s embryos that had been preserved and implanted into a surrogate mother. That makes Pearl not only special in stature but also something of a miracle in science. “She is a bit of a diva,” Semler says, “but she’s a very happy and healthy little dog, and we are so proud of her.”

Pearl’s record-breaking status was officially verified at the GWR’s offices in Florida, where she was measured three times by a veterinarian, each time standing upright from the base of her front paw to the top of her withers (shoulders). The average was taken to ensure precision and fairness.

Despite her tiny size, Pearl lives a full life. She enjoys a diet of high-quality food, goes on carefully supervised walks, and has her own miniature accessories, from tiny toys to custom-made clothes. Her favorite pastime? Cuddling in soft blankets and basking in the attention she gets from people who can’t believe she’s real.

The Chihuahua breed is known for being small, but Pearl takes this to an entirely new level. Interestingly, while Chihuahuas are often characterized by their fierce loyalty and lively temperament, Pearl is said to be particularly calm and gentle. “She loves being carried around and gets along well with all the other dogs,” adds Semler.

Pearl was introduced to the world on a Guinness World Records TV talent show in Milan, Italy, where she strutted across the stage in a custom crystal-studded carrier. Her appearance wowed both the audience and judges, not only for her adorable look but for the fascinating story behind her birth and upbringing.

The record for the smallest dog ever still belongs to a different dog—yet another Chihuahua, named Sylvia, who measured only 3.8 inches in length when alive in the early 2000s. However, Pearl now holds the living title, and her achievement is a joyful reminder of how extraordinary animals can be.

While Pearl’s fame is soaring, her owner remains focused on keeping her comfortable and happy. “She’s part of the family. We never expected her to become a global celebrity, but it’s been a lovely surprise,” Semler shares.

In a time when headlines often focus on the big and bold, Pearl’s quiet rise as the world’s smallest dog is a beautiful reminder that greatness comes in all sizes. And with her health in good standing and a loving family to care for her, Pearl’s tiny paws seem destined to leave a big footprint in the world of record-breaking pets.