Small Dog Breeds – The Benefits Of The Small Dog Breeds

There are many different types of small dog breeds, each having their own unique characteristics and traits. Each dog, of course, is very individual with regards to its personality, but generally most dogs of a given breed have similar behaviors and more similar than dissimilar personalities. Often small dog breeds are incorrectly characterized as high strung and yappy, and this simply isn’t true if the dog is cared for correctly, given lots of love and attention as well as good socialization and training. Small dogs as a rule may not adjust as well to boisterous children and rambunctious toddlers, but they can do very well with older children and families. Generally, small dog breeds average ten inches or less at the shoulder. In most breeds the male will be slightly larger than the female, but there will be only a slight size difference.

Small dog breeds are very lovable and enjoy human companionship. They usually make great lap dogs and are relatively sedate when indoors, but love a good walk and regular exercise. A great many of the small breeds were originally bred and developed to be companion dogs for royalty or courtiers. Some of the small breeds were also hunting dogs, bred to keep vermin and other small rodents out of houses and barns. The different emphasis in the various breeds is very obvious when you see the coats, personalities and behaviors of the various small breeds. The refined and dignified Maltese has definitely been bred as a companion dog, while the more active and athletic Jack Russell has its roots in the hunting field. Some small breeds, such as the Pekingese, were bred by Buddhist Monks and were believed to be the reincarnation of monks that had reached certain levels of enlightenment.

Most small dogs enjoy traveling and are very comfortable in crates and carriers on airplanes, trains or even in automobiles. Proper training and obedience is important with all breeds of dogs, but is often most important with small dogs that are inside more often that outside.

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Small Dog Breeds

Below is a list of a few of the most popular small dog breeds and a brief description of the dog.

• Boston Terrier – a very sleek little dog that has a unique face and alert and curious expression. Their large slightly protruding eyes are extremely expressive. They are good apartment dogs and require minimal routine maintenance.
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – a true companion dog, this longhaired spaniel needs to have constant human attention. An excellent dog for small apartments and spaces where someone is home most of the time, the Cavalier will want to curl up on your lap or just sit with you whereever you may be.
• Chihuahua – a good adult companion, Chihuahua’s are very intelligent. They are a somewhat nervous dog and require a lot of socialization from an early age. Chihuahuas do not do well in cold or damp climates.
• Terriers – there are many terriers, Cairn, Yorkshire, Dandie Dinmont, Skye, West Highlight White, Scottish, Silky, all of which are excellent companion dogs. They do very well with children that are familiar with dogs. The terriers have a great sense of fun and adventure and love to play and dig.
• Pomeranian – these lovable dogs are very adaptable to a wide variety of lifestyles. They are extremely affectionate and love to stay with their owners.
• Pugs – one of the most expressive of the small dog breeds, pugs are know for their “big dog” attitude in a small dog body. They can be good watchdogs.
• Shih Tzu – the elegant coat and refined attitude of the Shih Tzu reminds owners that this dog was bred for royalty. They have a beautiful coat that needs attention to be well maintained, but it's very much worth the effort.
• Dachshund – everyone knows the elongated body of the dachshund, a wonderful, playful family dog. They are every friendly and lovable, but are also outgoing personality wise.

There are many other small dog breeds available. Before choosing a breed do some research and talk to some breeders to find just the right match for you and your family.