| Small dog breeds are becoming increasingly popular as | | | | They are wonderful family dogs, as well as easy |
| companion dogs because they are extremely | | | | going companions that are usually content doing |
| portable, adaptable to nearly any living environment, | | | | whatever their owners do. Most just enjoy snuggling |
| easier to take care of and cheaper to upkeep. With | | | | up while their owners watch a movie and many are |
| an overwhelming number of small dog breeds | | | | content with a little romp in the backyard. |
| available, this may makes finding the perfect small | | | | Some of the most popular breeds of small dogs |
| companion a difficult task. | | | | include… |
| Breeds of small dogs have a reputation for being | | | | Chihuahuas: This pup is known for being fiercely loyal, |
| excellent companion pets for someone living alone or | | | | as well as having a big dog attitude. Although this |
| for an older couple. This is because these types of | | | | works well for couples looking for a little watch dog, |
| small house dogs are happy and energetic, making | | | | Chihuahuas may not do well with children because of |
| them a great pet for a family, but are also small | | | | this loyalty and attitude. Because of their short hair, |
| enough to do well in a small apartment because they | | | | they will do best in a warm climate zone or where |
| don’t require much exercise. | | | | they can be kept indoors unless they are of the |
| Another benefit of small dog breeds is that they | | | | long-haired variety. |
| have an average life expectancy of 14-16 years. | | | | Dachshunds: Most recognize the "wiener dog" right |
| While some are prone to ailments simply because of | | | | away and this has helped to make them one of the |
| their size, many experience less health problems than | | | | most popular small dog breeds in America. They are |
| large breeds that deal with hip dysplasia, arthritis, or | | | | popular because of their fun and fearless attitude, a |
| joint problems. Before selecting a small dog breed, | | | | happy personality as well as being a great companion |
| you will want to do some research regarding potential | | | | dog. Owners need to regularly exercise them and be |
| breed specific health issues. | | | | careful of overfeeding because they are short and |
| Often small dogs, usually less than 15 pounds or so, | | | | long. |
| are considered part of the "toy" or "miniature" group. | | | | Pomeranians: This breed loves to be spoiled, so will |
| Some small breeds like the Poodle, are actually a tiny | | | | do well with a companion that wants to make their |
| version of the Standard Poodle. You may find some | | | | pet the center of attention. They don’t mind |
| small dog breeds available in weighs as little as 4-6 | | | | sitting on their companion’s lap all day long, |
| pounds at full growth, while others will weigh closer | | | | although they are known for being jealous. Poms are |
| to 14-16 pounds. | | | | one of the most popular small fluffy breeds that |
| Although there are great benefits to owning a small | | | | have more bite than its bark, making it a great |
| dog, you will need to be especially careful with some | | | | watchdog. |
| of the smallest breeds outdoors in the cold, as well | | | | Pugs: A sweet and lovable small dog with lots of |
| as around other large dogs, as they are more | | | | energy, Pugs fit well with any type of family, |
| vulnerable to injury. If you live in a cold climate zone | | | | although they will need regular exercise because of |
| and are interested in a small dog, you might want to | | | | their tendency towards being overweight. |
| consider small fluffy dog breeds, like a Shih Tzu or a | | | | Shih Tzus: Often referred to as the little lion because |
| Pomeranian. | | | | of their lion face and big personality, this breed |
| As well, just because these dogs are small does not | | | | commands attention and respect. Surprisingly, |
| always mean that they are instantly cute and sweet. | | | | although they are long-haired and require regular |
| Many small dog breeds, like the Chihuahua and | | | | grooming, Shih Tzus are actually considered |
| Pomeranian, have a reputation for being | | | | hypoallergenic. |
| temperamental, jealous and downright spoiled at | | | | Yorkshire Terriers: One of the smallest of the small |
| times. Depending on the breed, some may also be | | | | breeds, Yorkies are actually pretty hardy and can |
| difficult to train and housebreak, as they are often | | | | stand up to a little rough housing. These dogs are |
| known for being headstrong to make up for their | | | | extremely loyal companion dog that will usually pick |
| small stature. Before deciding on a small dog, you will | | | | their favorite owner, and have a tendency towards |
| also want to do some research, as some are better | | | | being jealous. |
| suited with children or other pets, while others may | | | | These are just a few of the many small dog breeds |
| not be suited in these homes. | | | | out there, and if chosen carefully, both you and your |
| Their benefits as pets far outweigh any downfalls | | | | pup will benefit with years of love and companionship. |
| and this shows as they continue to rise in popularity. | | | | |