Chihuahua, papillons, Russian toy, yorkshire terriers, japanese chins, Pekingese - these and many other small dog breeds have truly modest dimensions. Usually, the maximum weight of representatives of these breeds does not even reach 5 kg, and growth ranges from 15-30 cm.There are also truly dwarf individuals. For example, in the Guinness Book of Records, the parameters of a Chihuahua from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico are recorded. The weight of the smallest dog in the world was only 170 g, height - 9.5 cm. True, such tiny dogs are still rare. Traditional parameters of the same Chihuahuas: weight from 500 g to 3.5 kg, height at the withers - from 12 to 20 cm.
Who are small dogs suitable for?
Small dogs are perfect for the elderly, residents of small apartments, as well as urban residents who do not have their own yards for keeping more large dogs... Small dogs do not have to have large yards for walking. Sometimes this becomes the main reason why people decide to have a small dog.
The demand for puppies of small breed dogs will probably never dry up. And that's why:
- People with a small living space can get a small dog. A large mastiff or newfoundland keeping in a one-room apartment is simply a crime. But a small Pomeranian - please;
- A dog with a low weight can be taken by the elderly or people with problem joints. No matter how much a big mastiff is brought up, it will still take strength to hold back the dog's pressure while walking. Keeping a miniature toy on a leash is easy even for a person who does not have great strength;
- The little dog is a great four-legged friend for families with children... This does not mean that you can perceive a living being as a toy. And it is better to refuse to buy a small dog for a very small child, because injury to the animal during the game cannot be ruled out. But buying a miniature dog for a child aged 5-6 years is not a bad idea. Firstly, the puppy will grow with the baby, which will contribute to their strong friendship. Secondly, at this age, the child may already realize that careless play will hurt the pet. Thirdly, a 5-6 year old preschooler will sometimes be able to lead a dog on a leash by himself (of course, in a safe place and under adult supervision);
- Busy people with irregular working hours give birth to a small dog. Those who do not have the opportunity to walk the animal daily for 1-1.5 hours in the morning and evening. This does not mean that small pets do not need outdoor walks. But if necessary, they can do with a one-time short walk. Whereas for shepherd or rottweilers sitting for a long time within four walls is highly undesirable;
- Tailed pets with low weight and small stature are indispensable friends of fashionistas. Naturally, you do not need to make a portable accessory out of the dog. But for some luxury lovers, Yorkshire Terriers and chinese crested - indispensable companions. Surely lead everywhere giant St. Bernard it would be ridiculous and inconvenient.
List of small dog breeds with name, description and photo:
ALASKA KLI-KAI
The Alaskan Kli-Kai was bred in Alaska as a husky to be kept in a city apartment. It has short hair and wrinkled ears and forehead. The Basenji's behavior is most like a feline, he is very intelligent, curious and independent.
Basenji was bred in Africa as a hunting dog. It has short hair and wrinkled ears and forehead. The Basenji's behavior is most like a feline, he is very intelligent, curious and independent.
BICHON FRISET
The Bichon Frize is an amazingly affectionate dog that was simply born to be a faithful companion to humans. This pet is a born artist. Previously, this breed could often be found in the circus, but today the dog entertains people at home more often than in the circus arena, although it can also be found in the arena, and not so rarely!
BOSTON TERRIER
Boston Terriers are companion dogs that are perfect as loyal friends for modern residents of large cities. These small dogs are good-natured to people and animals, take up little space, and are unpretentious in care.
BRUSSELS GRIFFON
This small dog can be attributed to Toy Dogs (decorative breeds), but by its nature, it is really a real terrier. Active, smart, loving to play, at the same time he gets along well with cats, he will become a real joy for all seven - all this is about the Yorkshire Terrier. A distinctive feature of this breed is the most beautiful coat, even trimmed!
CAVALER KING CHARLES SPANIEL
Big-eyed decorative dogs with the aristocratic name of the breed Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, who once made up the company of people from the upper society of Great Britain, today get along well in ordinary families all over the world.
Dwarf pincher
The Miniature Pinscher (Miniature Pinscher) is not a miniature Doberman, although its fearlessness is akin to this breed. This little doggie is suitable for an experienced dog breeder who can cope well with the character of the animal.
CHINESE CRESTED
Anyone who has ever seen a Chinese crested dog is unlikely to forget it. And how can you forget this amazing animal, covered with very short, but very soft silky hair, more like the most delicate velvet?
COCKER SPANIEL
The Maltese lapdog is a very gentle but fearless breed. The glamorous white coat gives the animal a special noble look, but don't forget that looks can be deceiving. This breed is very vigorous and energetic.
PUG
Round head, square build and curled tail - this is what a pug looks like. Wherever he is, his wrinkled face and cheerful nature captivate people on the spot. He perfectly finds rapport with other dogs and cats.
Papillon
Advantages of small breed dogs
- Small dogs live long. They are able to be close to a person for 15-20 years. Animals of large breeds rarely live up to this age. Their life expectancy is much more modest - from 6 to 10 (sometimes up to 12) years;
- You can take a small pet everywhere: on a car trip, out into nature, on a visit, even to a cafe or restaurant. Of course, you can take a large-sized dog, but it will be much more difficult to transport it. Yes, and in a number of places with a large dog will not be allowed (for example, in the same catering establishment or store);
- Dogs with modest stature can be good watchmen... They are capable of raising a serious bark if they feel threatened. Of course, intruders are unlikely to be frightened by a dog weighing less than a cat. But the warned owner will be on the alert when he hears the shrill barking of his pet;
- Small dogs are not figurines that come to life. And many of the smaller breeds can be more than just indoor companions. For example, dwarf dachshunds - born hunting dogs... If desired, they can be trained on a small burrowing animal;
- Dogs whose weight does not exceed 3-5 kg and whose height is not more than 30 cm eat moderately. Their portion is no more than 200-250 g of feed per day. What is in the hands of an economical owner;
- Small pets do not require a lot of space. A small corner where the bed will be located will be enough for them;
- Indoor dogs can safely put a tray in the apartment. If the animal is taught from childhood to such a toilet, in bad weather it will be possible not to go outside. The owner can occasionally skip the morning exercise to get some sleep. Since the dog will be able to relieve himself in the litter box;
- Miniature animals do not require special education. Of course you need them educate and train... But it will be enough teach the dog basic commands ("To me!", "Near!", "Fu!", "Lie down!", Etc.). Moreover, you can train at home. But with a large dog (especially a fighting dog) it will be much more difficult. It is not for nothing that it is not recommended to have "serious" dogs for beginners and those who do not have an "iron" character. Even an inexperienced owner can bring up, for example, a Pekingese;
- Small breed dogs are not as destructive to the owner's property. They can, of course, chew on shoes or the leg of a sofa. But they are not as ubiquitous as large pets. For those it is enough to stand on their hind legs or jump a little - and there may be household appliances, documents, clothes in their mouths.
Disadvantages of small breed dogs
- The small dog is not a bodyguard. In case of danger, the owner will have to save her. In strength, dwarf dogs do not compete even with animals of medium size;
- Small dogs can be injured when falling from a height. If it is safe for a large dog to jump even from a 2-meter height, then very modest heights are dangerous for a baby;
- Dogs in ultra-light weight (up to 1.5 kg) often live short due to multiple developmental pathologies. For each breed, its own standard has been developed, which certainly indicates not only the features of the exterior, but also the weight and height. A pathologically small pet may be in poor health;
- Very small dogs (if their weight is less than 1 kg at the age of 8 months) are not allowed to breed. That is, sterilized or castrated;
- Small dogs often need help at birth. That is, the owner of a baby girl will have to have a connection with a qualified veterinarian, otherwise the dog may simply die;
- Small pets often have a rather scandalous character: they bark at passers-by, rush into battle with large dogs, and take offense at the owner. This does not apply to those babies who are properly trained from an early age. But, unfortunately, often the same papillons or chihuahuas are not brought up at all, believing that this is not at all necessary for animals of this size;
- A baby dog can be injured by accident, for example, without seeing it in the dark. Fragile bones can be easily damaged during games, walks;
- The miniature pet will have to be provided with clothes and shoes during the autumn-winter period. And not only outdoors, but also at home (if the room is cool).
Small dog health
Undoubtedly, a dog bought not in a breeding nursery is a kind of awl in a sack. But even a small animal with an excellent pedigree from an experienced breeder may have such health problems:
- Diseases of the musculoskeletal system: frequent dislocations of the joints (including congenital), displacement of the cervical vertebrae, dysplasia of the hip joints, osteochondropathy;
- Diseases of the teeth: late change of milk teeth, problems with enamel, incomplete teeth, malocclusion;
- Respiratory system problems: tracheitis, pneumonia, bronchitis;
- Accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain: hydrocephalus;
- Sharp surges in blood sugar: hypoglycemia;
- Various severe diseases of internal organs: pulmonary stenosis, renal and heart failure;
- Eye diseases: glaucoma, keratitis, conjunctivitis.
Feeding small dogs
Despite their small size, small breed dogs love to eat. The owner should not follow the lead and do not give the pet too large portions of food (usually no more than 35-50 g of dry food for every 1 kg of dog weight or 65-80 g wet). In addition, miniature pets can also be quite finicky. If for some reason they don't like the food in the bowl, the dogs may simply ignore the feeding. Therefore, it is important to accustom your puppy to a varied menu from childhood. By the way, it is undesirable to take away too small a puppy from the mother (under 2 months). The best food for him is the milk of his mother's dog.
Small four-legged pets are fed with both natural and commercial, industrial food (dry or canned food). Each type of food has its own pros and cons. Natural food is food that a caring owner will prepare specifically for the pet. These are by no means homemade cutlets and borscht. The basis of food for small dogs is high quality natural meat (pulp, it is possible with veins). Suitable meat of chickens and turkeys (without skin, since it is very fat), calves, rabbits, lambs. Fatty lamb and pork are undesirable. Sometimes dogs are pampered with by-products - lungs, liver. Meat and offal can be given raw (before serving, the products will have to be frozen for several days to exclude helminthiasis infection) or boiled. Be sure to grind the meat into small pieces before feeding the animal. It is not necessary to make meat puree for an adult dog - it must be able to chew well. Usually dogs are given meat mixed with porridge (oatmeal, buckwheat) or vegetables (zucchini, cabbage, pumpkin). Once or twice a week, dogs are given cottage cheese, a little more often - fresh sour milk products (low-fat natural yoghurts, kefir). By the way, sometimes dogs are given boiled fish, but always sea fish.