Know the best small dog breeds before you pick one
Small dogs are cute and so, people may prefer them over big dogs as they seem quieter and cuddlier. But alike humans, every dog breed has a different personality. Not all small dogs are cute; some of them are arrogant enough to make up for their small stature. Others may not have a meek personality. So, before you decide to pick a small dog, know the best small dog breeds and decide on the basis of your priorities. It is good to know what you are exactly getting.
1. Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers are exceptionally affectionate and loyal small dogs. They are good to their owners and are friendly with older children apart from being brave and energetic. Their average lifespan is about 12 to 15 years. But they have delicate digestive system along with dental problems and may suffer from abnormal skull formations and bronchitis. They shed minimal fur but need to be brushed daily to prevent tangles and mats.
2. Dachshund
They are short-legged dogs from hound families and hunt smaller preys like rabbits. Due to normal shedding, they require moderate grooming. They are not good with children but otherwise, they are loyal, social and courageous. They are known for their aggressive temperament. They are prone to spinal problem and have 14 years of life expectancy.
3. Miniature Poodle
They are friendly, light hearted and intelligent. They are suitable companion and responsive to training. They require exercise for around an hour each day and need grooming as their fur is fluffy. Their average life expectancy is 14 years but they are susceptible to hip dysplasia or abnormality in hip joints or eye diseases leading to loss of vision.
4. Shih Tzu
They have long, flowing mane-like coat and are lively, sturdy, toy like dogs. They may be arrogant but are also playful and gentle. They love to cuddle and do tricks. They shed minimal hair and avoid hair allergies if groomed well. But they are prone to wheezing and snoring and can develop ear, eye or respiratory problems. Dental issues need to be resolved for them and they shouldn’t be overfed. Overall, they are happy watchdogs and prefer socialization.
5. Miniature Schnauzer
They have an average lifespan of 13 years and are highly active, robust dogs. They are devoted to the owners and are extremely affectionate, trainable and intelligent. They are the watchdogs with distinctive features like bushy eyebrows and beard. They need daily brushing and exercising and have sturdy, healthy bodies.
6. Chihuahua
They are the smallest dog breed but are quite muscular. Each Chihuahua has unique individual personality and display human like expressions. They are loyal and devoted and extremely attached to the owner, demanding his attention. But they don’t socialize with children or other pets even though they are gentle, sweet watchdogs. They require hygiene and protection against cold while bathing only once a month.
7. The Pomeranian
These descendants of sled dogs from Iceland have grown in size over the town, but are still small dogs. They are typically friendly but also bossy, requiring grooming of their long, thick hair. They get along with older children and are upbeat. But they may suffer from eye diseases like Progressive Retinal Atrophy and other hereditary issues.
8. Pug
Pugs are sensitive to voice and are great watchdogs. They are sturdy, devoted and friendly. They can get along with anyone and are exceptionally good with children. They should be socialized at an early age. Overall, they don’t require much grooming and have a fine short coat. They love long walks and are habitual to different kinds of environment. Make sure that you allow him to exercise, otherwise he’ll become lazy and avoid activity.
9. Boston Terrier
These dogs look as if they are wearing a tuxedo and therefore, they are branded as ‘The American Gentleman.’ They can be a true companion, are exceptionally kind and clever. They can be raised with a child as they have a sense of responsibility towards your little ones. They are alert and love learning. They have a life expectancy of 14 years but they can suffer the problem of snorting, snoring and wheezing while their deformed faces can lead to potential health problems.
10. Maltese
They are exceptionally cute and have smiling faces. They live for about 12-14 years but they are found in less numbers. They have a pure white silky coat and are extremely cheerful, adorable pets. They are good around kids and take care of them. They generally don’t suffer too many health problems but require constant grooming and make an entertaining companion.
11. Pekingese
These dogs have an average life expectancy of 15 years and have double coated top coat that requires constant grooming. They tend to catch cold easily and may be prone to dislocated kneecaps. During later years, they can suffer from breathing problems. By temperament, these dogs are brave and courageous, but are also stubborn. They are independent but can get jealous.
12. Beagle
Beagle puppies look like miniature foxhound dogs and have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Their learning rate is high and they are extremely charming, courageous and excellent family pet. They may be prone to heart diseases, dwarfism, eye and back problems during their old age. But overall, they have a good sense of smell, express keenness to learn and acquire.
13. Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are handsome dogs and have luxurious, soft and silky coat with floppy ears. Their eyes are attractive and they are average shedder so they need good grooming. They need ample exercise, are friendly and like barking on occasion. They like gaining attention and would even move friendly around the strangers. They can be jealous. They may suffer from cataracts, glaucoma and are prone to allergies in later stages. Their average life expectancy is 12 to 15 years.
14. Papillion
They are alert and intelligent, have petite appearance but are really sturdy and considerate towards older children. They require moderate grooming and are quite obedient. These dogs are good at problem solving and require socialization. They have an average lifespan of 14 years but they are prone to eye problems and cold. Overall they are quite active dogs.
15. Bichon Frise
They are cuddly, charming and intelligent dogs, are pretty energetic and friendly. They don’t shed a lot of fur and low to be blow dried. They have an average lifespan of 14 years and don’t suffer from too many problems if they are constantly groomed. They carry themselves cheerfully.
Remember that before you decide to buy a small dog, always opt for a good pet shop and buy a dog with certificate so that you ensure that your dog doesn’t suffer from any hereditary ailments.
