I think they just look solid so my mind saw "bigger." I have one of the Wimaumau rescue giants (44 pounds), but even my 2 previous gals were far from petite... about 26 to 28 pounds. My dream of a petite 18 pound basenji just never happened, lol.
Her name is Mattie and she is a real sweetie. My son brought her home from a mission trip in Appalachia. She has become my shadow and we just can't imagine not having her around.