They’re cute, cuddly, and pack tons of personality into a Small Dog Breeds stature. But is a small dog right for you? That depends. Small dog breeds come from a variety of backgrounds and vary widely in personality, activity needs, and maintenance requirements.
Popular small dog breeds include French Bulldogs, Toy Poodles, Dachshunds, Corgis, Pugs, Pomeranians, Beagles, Yorkshire Terriers and Chihuahuas, but each is loved for its own reason.
Some are known for being child-friendly, others for their high energy, intelligence. While some dogs need to live in places with open spaces, others are perfectly happy in small flats.
Similarly, it is important to note that dogs are classified into 3 broad size categories (small, medium or large) according to their weight. It is important to know which category your dog falls into, as dogs have special diet and exercise needs specific to their size (and sometimes breed).
There is no way to determine your dog’s category based on breed alone, as size can vary within a single breed, or even between sibling dogs. The best way to verify a dog’s size is to check its weight first. For small dog breeds, the weight should be between 1 kg to 10 kg.
Toy’ size classification of dogs
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Just as there is a dog size classification called ‘Giant’ there is also a dog size classification called ‘Toy’. If your dog weighs between 1kg and 10kg, he or she falls into the small dog category.
These dogs generally have a lot of energy and are usually kept as indoor pets. Because they are mostly indoor pets, they are prone to skin irritation and weight gain. Care should be taken to ensure that they are exercised regularly and groomed with some frequency.
Toy dogs are small dogs that weigh less than 8.2 kg and are less than 45 centimetres tall, both measured as adults. Examples of Toy dogs include Pinschers, Spaniels and Terriers.
There are even ‘Teacup’ dogs which are smaller than Toy dogs, in fact they are small enough to fit in a teacup.
To qualify as a Teacup dog, the dog must be no taller than 43 centimetres or weigh more than 1.8 kg at 12 months of age. Chihuahuas are a good example of a Teacup dog. Other examples are Poodles, Yorkshire terriers and Maltese.
Advantages of small dog breeds
– Small dogs cost less to feed. This first point is quite clear, a small dog such as a Chihuahua or Jack Russell will be satiated much sooner than a large dog such as a Golden Retrieves or an Australian Shepherd.
– Small dogs are usually easier to cuddle. Because of their small size, it is easier to take these dogs in your arms and place them on your lap for a cuddle session.
– Small dogs are easily transported. Being small means they will be less uncomfortable during travel. You can buy an adapted bag and carry the small dog in it. Similarly, a small dog tends to be more accepted on public transport, such as buses and trains. Some airlines also accept dogs in the cabin if they weigh less than 6 kilos.
– Small dogs can be walked on a leash more easily. Dogs, whether small or large, should all be walked daily. Small dogs are easier to walk without tiring you out.
– Small dogs are often loved by passers-by. Having a dog means an instant connection with the people you meet, whether in the park or during your daily life. Owners of small dogs will notice more smiles and questions rather than the distrust and fear that can sometimes occur when pedestrians see a physically imposing dog. Having a small dog is a great way to meet people.
The most popular small dog breeds
Which one might be right for you? Each animal is, of course, an individual, and you’ll need to meet any potential pet to see if you’ll be a good match. But, below you’ll find a list of the most popular small dog breeds, which can help you figure out which one is right for you.
Affenpinscher:
As mischievous as they are fearless and as loyal as they are fun, these little dogs pack a big personality into a small package.
– Personality: Brave and curious, these dogs go through life with a bold curiosity.
– Temperament: They are curious, eager to learn and can coexist well with children, but are one of the few small dog breeds that need constant, attentive training.
– Activity level: Moderate. Their small stature is suited to flat life, but they will still need plenty of time for play and daily walks.
Beagle:
The ability to follow their noses made the Beagle a faithful companion on 16th century hunting excursions. Today, these small dogs are best known for their role as good family pets.
– Personality: Pleasant, unassuming and probably a little communicative. Beagles’ vocal cords are more robust than many other dogs, allowing them to make unique noises.
– Temperaments: Some may have a stubborn streak, and tend to follow their noses when they pick up a scent. But Beagles are known as one of the best small dogs for children, as they are quite trainable and prefer to be close to company.
– Activity level: Moderate to high. Beagles enjoy long antics where they can follow a scent and explore.
Bichon Frise:
The adorable Bichon Frise, who looks like a cuddly cuddly toy, is affectionate, sweet, sensitive and one of the Toy dog breeds that makes a great family pet.
– Personality: Typically friendly with everyone he meets, the Bichon Frise has a playful side and a penchant for cuddling.
– Temperament: Has some barking tendencies, but generally responds to training and is good with children and other pets.
– Activity level: Moderate. The Bichon Frise is a small but still active dog, needing daily exercise in the form of indoor play or short walks on a leash.
Chihuahua:
Known as one of the smallest dogs, this pocket-sized puppy is full of big personality, with lively energy and fierce loyalty to his family.
– Personality: His size alone is diminutive. Chihuahuas have tons of character and some firm tendencies, but their devotion is unquestionable.
– Temperament: Chihuahuas can be reserved with strangers and tend to get along best with older children.
– Activity level: Low. Chihuahuas are lively, but can exercise very well indoors. In fact, many may be sensitive to cold or extreme temperatures outdoors.
Badger Dog (Dachshund):
They have a keen sense of smell and are fearless, hailing from 1600’s Germany and were bred to help rid farms of vermin.
– Personality: Kind, friendly and playful. Dachshunds make good family pets.
– Temperament: Longer-haired varieties may be quieter, while less long-haired varieties may be more outgoing. In general, Dachshunds are good with children in their own family.
– Activity level: Moderate. Dachshunds may do well in flats, but these small dogs still like to sniff, scratch and explore outside.
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