Small Dog Breeds

From LoveToKnow Dogs

Small dog breeds are those dogs under ten inches in height when measured at the shoulder. Small dog breeds usually make excellent indoor pets because they take up less room than larger dogs. Small dogs can also make excellent lap dogs due to their size. Many small dog breeds were originally bred to be companion animals, making them well-suited to live in close quarters with us.

Jack Russell Terrier puppies

AKC

The American Kennel Club (AKC), the premiere dog club in America, groups a number of small dog breeds into its Toy Group. You can see a list of these dog's images and names by visiting the Toy group page at AKC.org. However, there are other small dogs to be found in other groups. Some of these breeds, based upon the opinions of dog professionals and the public, include:

  • American Cocker Spaniel
  • American Eskimo
  • Beagle
  • Dachshund (both Mini and Standard)
  • Jack Russell Terrier
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Scottish Terrier
  • Welsh Corgi
  • West Highland Terrier

Small Dog Breeds: Big Problems

As with any dog breed, buying a member of the small dog breeds without doing your homework can lead to big problems. For example, certain dog breeds are prone to genetic health problems and purchasing a dog from an irresponsible breeder can increase the odds of your dog having medical problems. Likewise, if you have allergy problems, you may find the shedding of a long-haired breed causes you to sniffle and go into a fit of uncontrollable sneezing, where a short-haired dog may not cause you any discomfort.

Another consideration with small dog breeds is time. Since small dogs are often purchased for apartment living, many people assume they do not need exercise and can go hours without human companionship. Perhaps on a smaller scale than larger dogs, small dog breeds can also be quite destructive,tearing up clothing, furniture, rugs, and urinating on the floors if left unattended for long periods of time. They grow bored, just as a young child would be if left alone to fend for himself. And, remember, these dogs are bred to be companions. They crave your company. This means you need to make sure you or someone you can trust to do the job attends to your dog when you will be away more than a few hours each day.

Be sure to visit LTK's small dog breeds slideshow to see a variety of adorable little companions.


 


Comments

Hi Karen,

There are many opinions on this topic. Thanks for sharing yours. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly

I AM SO AGAIST AND HATE IT WHEN PEOPLE WANT TO MAKE DOGS INTO (TEACUP)SIZES. DOGS ARE MENT TO BE KEPT AS FREINDS NOT LITTLE TOYS.DOGS ARE WOLVS DEEP INSIDE.IF THEY WANT A SMALL PET GET A FISH. DOGS ARE NOT TOYS TO PLAY WITH.THERE DOGS WOLVS!

-- Contributed by: KAREN

Hi Sara, good catch!

I've amended the article, so thanks for pointing out that error. :)

-- Contributed by: Kelly
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