Suggestions for Small Breed Pets

~~ Melly

Expert Reply

Hi Melly,

There are several Toy breeds that fall in the five pound range, but please understand that a dog's condition is more important than a weight dictated by a breed standard. Any small dog should have a little cushion over it's rib cage. Being too thin, or too fat, can result in adverse affects on a pet's health.

That said, I'm not sure exactly which breed you're interested in unless you can give me a more detailed description. Until then, let me offer a few suggestions for small dog breeds that I have found to make lovely pets.

• Yorkshire Terriers: This breed can be quite small, so you must take extra care not to step on them. They grow long coats, usually in gun metal gray and gold colors, but this varies and some dogs are full black and tan. You can choose to let the hair grow and tie it in a top-knot on the head, or keep your Yorkie trimmed in a shorter "puppy cut".
• Chihuahuas: The standard for this breed says they should only reach a maximum of six pounds. As a breeder, I've found that they average around three to five pounds, but some dogs can grow slightly larger. This breed comes in two coat types: long and short. There is also great variety in colors and patterns.
• Toy Poodles: This smallest variety of the Poodle family has been a favorite with pet owners for many years. They are quite affectionate, but require regular grooming to keep their coats in good shape.

There are many other small breeds that make wonderful pets. I think you'd enjoy perusing the American Kennel Club website. You can find images and breed standards for all of the currently recognized breeds, plus images of rare breeds. I'm sure this will help you find the dog you're looking for.

Have fun browsing!

~~ Kelly

Which Breed Should I Choose?

I am looking for a dog, but I don't know which breed to get. I am looking for a dog that does not shed or at least sheds very little. I'd like it to be small to medium in size, and not hyper but somewhat active. Any suggestions?

~~ Jess 101

Expert Reply

Hi Jess,

I have a few suggestions for you about breeds. See what you think of these.

• Shih Tzu: The average size is ten to twelve pounds, and these dogs do not shed in the traditional sense. When hair falls out, it tends to hang in the coat. Rather than lots of floating hairs, you'll find the occasional tuft on the floor. You can keep one in a puppy trim to keep grooming simple. The Shih Tzu temperament is ideal for a family situation.
• Toy or Miniature Poodle: These two varieties of Poodles cover the small to medium range, and they are practically non-shedding. They have great personalities, but it's important to buy one from a breeder that has the pups tested for the major genetic disorders in the breed.
• Chinese Crested: The Crested isn't as common as some other breeds, but since the body is hairless on most specimens there is only a bit of shedding from the mane, tail and paws. Again, great personalities, and they're not too hyperactive.

Hopefully these suggestions will give you a place to start your search. The most important thing is to spend time at the breeder's getting to know the pups so you can get a good idea of what one will be like when you bring it home. Take your time looking until you know in your heart you've found the right puppy for you.

Good luck!

~~ Kelly

Puggles and Children

Hi,

I have no idea how Puggles get along with children. Can you please tell me?

~~ Carla

Expert Reply

Hi Carla,

By all reports, Puggles are very good natured dogs that make nice family pets. They tend to spread the affection around and get a long well with children. The biggest challenge with this new "breed" seems to be in potty training them.

That said, it's very important that children are taught proper dog etiquette before bringing any breed of dog home. They must understand that pets can become tired and overwhelmed by too much attention, and that it's important to give them space and let them rest. Children should also be instructed in how to properly pick up a dog, as well as the body language a dog uses to let us know how he/she is feeling. If this can be achieved, you've laid the groundwork for a good relationship between the children and your potential new pet.

Thanks for your question, and best of luck.

~~ Kelly.