5-inch Chihuahua may be smallest dog

LEESBURG, Fla., June 8 (UPI) -- The owner of a 5-inch-long Chihuahua in Leesburg, Fla., said it appears to be the world's smallest dog and Dancer celebrated its first birthday Friday.

The dog was measured by Dr. Jay Allen, a veterinarian at the Animal Clinic of Leesburg, the Orlando Sentinel reported.

"As close to the skin as you can get it, Doc," Jenny Gomes said as Allen held the little dog up by its hind legs.

The current holder of the Guinness record for smallest dog measures 5.4 inches. Gomes told the Sentinel that she plans to petition to give Dancer the bragging rights.

Dogs must have turned one to be eligible for Guinness records.