Dog Breeds World

Small dog breeds, sometimes called the Pocket Pet dog breeds; because they can fit snugly into a woman's purse, are quite desirable world-wide (also called the Paris Hilton Syndrome). Depending on your preference, you should be able to find a small dog breed to fit your style easily.
They live longer than their larger counterparts, are readily accepted into public places, and are spoiled and pampered far above their harder working companions.
Some of the more popular small dog breeds in the United States are the Chihuahuas (brought into the limelight by spokes-dog for Taco Bell, "Yoquiero" in 1998 and recently by Paris Hilton's Tinkerbell) followed by Pugs, Maltese, Yorkies, and Toy Poodles.
The small dog breeds are popular with people who live in smaller homes or apartments for they don't need as much room to run. The small dog breeds are also popular with the Recreational Vehicle crowd as they don't take up as much space and travel well.
Diminutive in size, they are still bold, and can be aggressive dogs making good watchdogs for your home. Their biggest draw is that they are lap dogs and make wonderful, devoted companions and they are very tolerant when some owners get a whim to dress them up in doggy clothes. Whether you have an active lifestyle or a sedentary life, there is a small dog breed that is joyfully waiting to share it with you.

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Affenpinschers are one of the oldest toy breeds. In the 1600s in Germany, these little dogs were used as mousers and ratters on farms or in food businesses. Their name means monkey dog in German. An alert, sturdy little terrier standing 9.5 to 11.5 inches tall and weighing 8 to 10 pounds, he is known by his cute, monkeylike face. With a round head, short muzzle, round and dark expressive eyes, and erect ears (natural or cropped), the Affenpinscher has a distinct look. The rough coat is about an inch long. There is slightly longer hair on the face to emphasize his features. The coat can be black, gray, silver, red, or black and tan. The tail may be docked or natural.

Behavior:
This breed is playful and full of energy-very terrier like. A brisk walk morning and evening plus a playtime (or two or three) in between will keep most Affenpinschers happy. They also enjoy games and canine sports; trick training is always fun, as the breed is a natural showoff! Housetraining these dogs can be a challenge, but with patience and consistency it can be accomplished. The Affenpinscher Club of America recommends that these dogs attend puppy training classes for socialization, basic obedience training, and, if you should need it, help with the housetraining. The training should be structured yet fun; keep in mind that Affenpinschers may cooperate with training or they may not. They do have a quirky sense of humor! Affenpinschers are funny little dogs and do best with active people. The breed is fine with children as long as they treat him with respect. The breed is also good with other pets, although most Affenpinschers need to learn not to chase the family cat.
Health concerns include hip and knee problems, and they can have breathing problems during hot, humid weather.

Physical Characteristics:
Special characteristic: "monkey-like" face
Size: small, about 9 1/2-11 1/2 inches tall; about the size of a terrier
Coat: dense, rough hair about 1" long, possibly shorter in the back and longer on the head, neck, chest, stomach, and legs.
Color: Black, gray, silver, red, black-and-tan, or belge.
Eyes: round, dark, with black rims.
Ears: Cropped to a point.
Skull: round/domed
Muzzle: short, about as long as the space between the eyes
Nose: black and straight
Tail: small tail set high that stands out over the back of the dog while he or she is moving.

Grooming:
the Affenpinscher Grooming takes some skill. Show dogs must be hand-stripped. If you would like to do this, talk to your dog's breeder for guidance. Most pet dogs are groomed with scissors and clippers by a professional groomer.

history & orign:
The breed is German in origin and dates back to the seventeenth century. Its name is derived from the German Affe (ape, monkey). The breed predates and is ancestral to the Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon) and Miniature Schnauzer. Dogs of the Affenpinscher type have been known since about 1600 but these were somewhat larger, about 12 to 13 inches, and came in colors of gray, fawn, black and tan, gray and tan, and also red. White feet and chest were also common. The breed was created to be a ratter, working to remove rodents from kitchens, granaries, and stables

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In the 1800s, it was very common all over Europe for a terriertype dog (or dogs) to reside in stables to help control vermin. In Belgium and particularly in Brussels, the Griffons d'Ecurie (or wirecoated stable dog) was the most popular. This breed's ancestry is unknown, but at some point in the mid-1800s, the Pug and the English Toy Spaniel were introduced, and the ratter moved out of the stable and into the house to become a companion dog. The Brussels Griffon is a toy breed, standing 8 to 10 inches tall and weighing 8 to 12 pounds. The head is large and round; the eyes are very large, dark, and expressive; and the muzzle is very short. The nose should appear to be set between the eyes. The body is thick and short. The smooth coat is short and glossy; the wire coat is coarse. The coat can be red, black and red mixed, black and tan, or solid black.

Behavior:
This companion dog does not do well when left alone for long hours every day. She will thrive with someone who can spend a lot of time with her. She is too small for rowdy children or those who do not treat her gently. She is good with other dogs and cats when raised with them, but should not be trusted with small pets. Health concerns include breathing disorders and reproductive problems.

Physical Characteristics:
Size: 8 to 10 pounds
Coat: rough, wiry, dense, and smooth, or straight, short, tight and glossy
Color: Red, beige, black and tan, black
Eyes: set well apart, very large, black
Ears: small and set rather high on the head
Skull: large and round, forehead domed
Nose: very black, extremely short
Tail: high-set and held up

Grooming:
The smooth coat is very easy to groom. A twice weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush will suffice. The rough coat will need twice weekly brushing as well, but also needs to be hand-stripped on a regular basis; owners of the rough coat variety can ask their dog's breeder for instructions.

history & orign:
The three variations of this dog, the Brussels Griffon (Griffon bruxellois), the Belgian Griffon (Griffon belge), and the Petit Brabançon, all descend from an old type of dog called a Smousje, a rough coated, small terrier-like dog kept in stables to eliminate rodents,[4] similar to the Dutch Smoushond. In Belgium coachmen were fond of their alert little Griffons d'Ecurie (wiry coated stable dogs) and in the 19th century, they bred their Griffons with imported toy dogs. Breeding with the Pug and King Charles Spaniel brought about the current breed type, but also brought the short black coat that led to the Petits Brabançon, which was originally a fault in the breed. The spaniels also brought the rich red and black and tan colour of the modern Griffon Bruxellois and Griffon Belge

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The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel got its name as the favorite pet of Britain's King Charles I, but the breed itself has been around for even longer. Many old portraits show dogs that look like today's Cavaliers. The Cavalier is an adorable, friendly toy spaniel. He stands between 12 and 13 inches tall and weighs 13 to 18 pounds. He has a rounded skull, large dark eyes, and a full muzzle. The ears are long and dropped, and the tail is long. His coat is silky and is medium to long, with feathering on the ears, legs, and tail. The Cavalier may be black and tan,
red (ruby), white with chestnut markings (Blenheim), or tricolored (black, red, and white).

Behavior:
This breed enjoys daily walks and playtimes but is also willing to cuddle. He is adaptable; if you are active and enjoy dog sports, he will do them with you. If you are more sedate, he can do that, too. All exercise should be on leash or in a fenced yard, as Cavaliers are still spaniels; if a bird or rabbit is flushed, they will be off in a flash The breed is friendly and affectionate but needs early socialization; without it, some dogs can be shy. Training is needed, too, as housetraining can be a challenge. Training is also important for the owner, as this breed is easy to spoil yet needs the same guidance and rules that other breeds require. The Cavalier needs a gentle, affectionate owner. He does not
tolerate rough handling well, and as a companion breed will not thrive when left alone for many hours. Most breeders will not sell a puppy to a family with very young children. The breed is good with other dogs and is usually trustworthy with other pets.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are the characteristics of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 12-13 inches
Coat: Silky, free of curls.
Color: The breed has four recognized colors: Blenheim; Tricolor; Black and Tan; and Ruby.
Eyes: Large, round, set well apart
Ears: high-set
Skull: Slightly rounded, but not domed or peaked
Muzzle: slightly tapered
Nose: black
Tail: carried upward but not higher than the back

Grooming:
Weekly grooming is advised for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Chose a brush or comb that will not damage the coat or irritate the skin and make grooming a part of a regular routine from day one. Your Cavalier will truthfully benefit from brushing and combing more than once weekly if you can afford the time. The long hair of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel requires more grooming time than other breeds but it is worth the effort. If left undone for a long period of time, the dog's coat may become dirty, tangled and dull. Upkeep is not merely for looks sake, but a messy knot of hair makes future grooming a real pain.

history & orign:
The history of the breed in America is relatively recent. The first recorded Cavalier living in the United States was brought from the United Kingdom in 1956 by W. Lyon Brown, together with Elizabeth Spalding and other enthusiasts, she founded the Cavalier King Charles Club USA which continues to the present day. In 1994, the American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club was created by a group of breeders to apply for recognition by the American Kennel Club. The Cavalier would go on to be recognised in 1997, and the ACKCSC became the parent club for Cavaliers.Source: Wikipedia.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, in Fact and Fancy

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The Chihuahua is a very small dog, never to exceed 6 pounds, with a bright, alert expression. Other than weight, there are no size classifications. The Chihuahua Club of America states on its website, "Teacup, Pocket Size, Tiny Toy, Miniature, and Standard are several of the many tags assigned to this breed." They caution that the use of these terms is actually incorrect and misleading. There are only two varieties of Chihuahua, and those are the coat types. The long coat Chihuahua has a soft, flat, or slightly wavy coat, while the smooth coat (or shorthaired) Chihuahua has a short, close, glossy coat. Both varieties may have an undercoat. Coat colors include black and tan, tricolored, red, fawn, sable, and brindle.

Behavior:
Chihuahuas are not sedentary lap dogs. They like to cuddle, but they also need exercise and playtime. Edna St. Hilaire, the president of the Chihuahua Club of Canada, says, "Chihuahuas are moderately active, playful, lively, and alert." She adds that two hours of exercise and playtime are needed each day. The breed's small size makes this easy, as Chihuahuas can chase a ball or toy across the room or go for a nice walk for lots of exercise. Socialization is important for this breed. St. Hilaire says, "They are very loyal to one person, although they will accept other family members and close friends." With early socialization to people of all ages, Chihuahuas can become more comfortable with people outside the home circle. Even though this is a very small dog, training is very important. Chihuahuas are bright dogs and quick thinkers. Without training, they can take advantage of a permissive owner. Training can be a challenge, but with fair yet fun training techniques, these dogs will learn and will have fun doing it. Chihuahuas are alert little dogs and try to be watchdogs; sometimes they take their job too seriously. This breed is not necessarily the best choice for children, as the dogs can be fragile. St. Hilaire comments, "They prefer older folks; however, they will accept children who have been taught to be gentle and to respect them." Health concerns include an open fontanel (soft spot on the skull), knee problems, and hypoglycemia.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are the characteristics of the Chihuahua breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: Weight: 6 pounds or less
Coat: Short-coated dogs: smooth, soft-textured, close and glossy. Long-coated dogs: soft-texture and either flat or slightly curly
Color: Any color, solid, marked or splashed
Eyes: Full, but not protruding
Ears: Large and standing straight up
Skull: Well-rounded "apple dome" skull
Muzzle: short, slightly pointed
Nose: Self-colored in blond types, or black
Tail: Long

Grooming:
Grooming this little dog is not difficult. The longhaired coat should be combed every other day and checked for tangles, especially behind the ears and in the pantaloons. The smooth variety can be brushed twice a week with a soft bristle brush.

history & orign:
Chihuahua's history has been hotly debated. One group feels that the breed originated in China before being introduced to Central America by Spanish explorers. Others firmly believe that the Chihuahua is a native of Central America, descended from the Techichi, a small dog who was a companion to the Toltecs as far back as the 9th century. Small dogs much like the Chihuahua have been found in the pyramids of Cholula, which were built before the 1500s. No matter where the breed originated, it has become a popular pet in Central and North America, Europe, and the Mediterranean, as well as other parts of the world.

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The Chinese Crested is found in two varieties-Powderpuff (with hair) and Hairless. These dogs stand 11 to 13 inches tall and weigh between 6 and 12 pounds. This small, fine-boned dog has a tapered muzzle, almond-shaped eyes, and large, erect ears. The Hairless variety has hair on the head and crest of the neck, the feet, and the tail. When running, with the coat flowing behind them,

Behavior:
The Chinese Crested is not overly active but does enjoy walks and playtimes. He does well in gility but also likes to cuddle. The Chinese Crested enjoys therapy dog work, and although the Powderpuff will be eagerly petted, the Hairless will always create conversation. As with all toy breeds, during therapy dog visits, these dogs should be protected from hard hugs that might injure the dogs. As with many toy breeds, it is very easy to spoil Chinese Cresteds, so early training is a good idea. With puppy training and socialization classes, the dog learns how to learn, is introduced to the basic commands, and gets to meet a variety of people and other puppies. In addition, the dog owner learns how to teach her dog and establish household rules. Housetraining can be a challenge. However, this breed is very clean, and with patience and consistency, housetraining will happen.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are the characteristics of the Chinese Crested breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 11-13 inches
Coat: "Hairless" variety: soft and silky; "Powderpuff" variety: completely covered with a soft and silky coat of two layers of fur
Color: Any color or combination of colors
Eyes: Almond-shaped, set wide apart
Ears: large and standing straight up
Skull: arched gently over the occiput from ear to ear
Muzzle: tapered cheeks
Nose: dark in dark-colored dogs; may be lighter in lighter-colored dogs
Tail: slender and tapered to a curve

Grooming:
Grooming the Hairless consists of bathing the dog, using moisturizers on the hairless skin to keep it healthy, and applying sunscreen to prevent sunburn. The Powderpuff requires twice weekly brushing to prevent tangles and mats.

history & orign:
Chinese Crested is an old breed, and as is so often the case, its history has been lost over time. Some experts feel the breed most likely descended from hairless dogs in Africa, with the Chinese developing the smaller version of the breed. Pictures created in the 1500s and 1600s show Chinese Cresteds involved in Chinese life. Chinese sailors kept the dogs aboard ship as vermin hunters and, in doing so, spread the dogs to ports throughout the world. They were known as Chinese Sailor Dogs, and many of the small dogs were used for barter. The dogs were especially prized during times of the plague, as the hairless skin didn't harbor fleas. The breed was also known as the Chinese Edible Dog, which can give you a clue as to the breed's other purpose in China.

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English Toy Spaniel is a small breed, standing 9 to 11 inches tall and weighing 8 to 14 pounds. He is compact and short-bodied, with a domed head and short muzzle. His eyes are large and dark, ears are long, and tail is docked. His coat is straight and silky, with profuse feathering on the ears, body, chest, and legs. The Bleinheim is red and white; the Prince Charles is tricolored; the King Charles is black and tan; and the Ruby is a rich red.

Behavior:
English Toy Spaniels enjoy daily walks and playtimes, but otherwise this is a breed who will be happy to cuddle and snuggle in the house. His activity level will mirror that of his owner. If you are up and about and active, he will be, too; if you want to relax, he will, too. This is a friendly, affectionate dog. Although not as watchful and wary of strangers as so many breeds are, socialization is still important, as unsocialized dogs can be fearful of new people and situations. Training will teach young Spaniels household rules. Housetraining can be a challenge, but with persistence and patience, it can be accomplished. This breed is happiest when spending time with his owner; he will not be happy spending long hours alone. He is one of the quietest of the toy breeds and does well in an apartment. He is good with children when they have been taught to be gentle with him. He will not tolerate rough handling; he will simply get up and walk away. He is also very tolerant of other pets.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are the characteristics of the English Toy Spaniel breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: eight to fourteen pounds
Coat: straight or only slightly wavy, silken, glossy-textured
Color: The Blenheim variety: red and white; Prince Charles variety: pearly white and black; the King Charles variety: black and tan
Eyes: Large, very dark brown or black with black rims
Ears: Very long, set low and close to the head, fringed with heavy feathering
Skull: High and domed; in profile, curves far out over the eyes
Muzzle: Very short, with the nose well laid back and with well-developed cushioning under the eyes
Nose: Large and jet black, with large, wide open nostrils

Grooming:
The coat tangles and mats easily, so it should be brushed and combed two or three times per week, and more often if the dog gets wet. Many pet owners keep the ears, feet, and under-the-tail areas trimmed for cleanliness. The wrinkles on the face may also need regular cleaning to remove dirt and food particles and to prevent skin problems.

history & orign:
The English Toy Spaniel is a very old breed whose roots probably go back to ancient Japan or China. Some experts believe that he may be related to the Japanese Chin or Pug, or that English Spaniels were crossed with these two breeds to create the round skull and shortened muzzle that all three breeds have. Although much of the breed's history is unknown, what is knownis that this wonderful spaniel has been known in England since the 16th century and, throughout much of history since that introduction has been a favorite of the English people. For a long time, only royalty was officially allowed to own the breed, although that didn't stop many breed enthusiasts.

The Havanese is a sturdy toy dog who stands between 8.5 to 11.5 inches tall and weighs 7 to 14 pounds. Her body is slightly longer than she is tall, her head is wedge-shaped, eyes are dark, and ears are dropped. Her tail is plumed and carried over the back. Her crowning glory is her silky double coat. The undercoat is soft, while the outer coat is longer, abundant, and slightly wavy. Although white is the best known color, the coat may be any color.

Behavior:
The Havanese is playful and mischievous but not overly active. She will be happy with a nice walk and a couple of playtimes each day. This breed is intelligent. Havanese enjoy training, especially when interspersed with playtimes. They enjoy many canine sports, especially agility. Although these dogs are more affectionate with their owners than anyone else, they are still friendly to most people. Socialization is a good idea since the breed was at one time a watchdog, although today they are more social. Havanese makes wonderful therapy dogs. The Havanese will thrive in a home with affectionate people who like to play. She is wonderful with children who treat her gently. She is good with other dogs as long as larger dogs are not too rough. She can also be very good with smaller pets.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are some of the characteristics of the Havanese breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 8½ to 11½ inches
Coat: soft, light-textured, with two layers, the outer layer being slightly heavier
Color: any
Eyes: dark brown, large, almond-shaped
Ears: medium-long, high-set, broad-based,
Skull: broad, slightly rounded backskull
Muzzle: squared-looking
Nose: broad and "squarish," solid black or dark brown for the "chocolate" dog
Tail: high-set with long, plumed, silky hairs, arcing forward over the back, except when moving when carried over the behind

Grooming:
This coat does require some care. Daily brushing and combing will prevent tangles and mats. Show dogs should be untrimmed, but many pet owners have the coat trimmed to keep it neat and clean, especially around the genitals and under the tail.

history & orign:
The Havanese is one of the older breeds in the Bichon family. In the 1600s, explorers, colonists, and traders brought dogs from Tennerife to Cuba, where the dogs found favor with the local aristocracy. By the 1800s, they had been taken to Europe, where they were popular with the royal families in England, France, and Spain.

The Italian Greyhound is very much a sight hound but in miniature. Standing 13 to 15 inches tall, these delicate dogs weigh just 7 to 15 pounds. The head is long and tapered, the eyes are dark, and the ears are folded at half-mast. The back is curved, body is compact, and legs are those of a runner. The tail is slender and curved. The coat is short and fine and can be any color except brindle or black and tan.

Behavior:
IG puppies can be quite active and need daily exercise to prevent destructive behavior. The exercise can also help strengthen fine bones and build muscles. IG puppies should be prevented from jumping from heights (even a sofa), as they can break fragile leg bones. Adults are not nearly as active, although they will always enjoy a good run. All exercise should be on leash or within a fenced yard. Italian Greyhounds are affectionate and personable, but should meet a variety of people during puppyhood, as they can be aloof with strangers. Obedience training should be fun and fair. Housetraining can sometimes be a challenge. IG puppies need to eliminate often, and bowel and bladder control can take a few months to develop. Owners need to be patient and consistent in their training. This breed does not do well when left alone for many hours each day. This is an inside breed; the fine coat offers no protection at all from inclement weather. IGs usually get along with children and other small dogs but are fragile and should be protected from rough play.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are some of the characteristics of the Italian Greyhound breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 13-15 inches
Coat: very short, close to the skin, fine, glossy, and soft
Color: any
Eyes: dark, medium-sized
Ears: small
Skull: "not too broad"
Muzzle: long and
Nose: dark
Tail: slender, tapered, and curved at the end, low-set

Grooming:
The fine coat needs weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or soft curry comb.

history & orign:
The Italian Greyhound originated more than 2,000 years ago in the regions now known as Turkey and Greece. By the 1600s, the breed was a favorite in Italy, and as the breed's popularity spread, it became a favorite of many royal families in Europe, in countries including England, Prussia, Russia, and Denmark.

Japanese Chin Dog is a small dog, standing 8 to 11 inches tall and weighing only 4 to 11 pounds. The head is large and rounded; the eyes are large, round, and dark; and the ears are hanging. The muzzle is short. The tail is set high and is carried up over the back. The coat is single (with no undercoat) and is straight and silky. She has feathering on her tail, the back of the legs, the ears, and around the neck down onto the front of the chest. The acceptable colors include black and white, red and white, and tricolored (black and white with rust markings).

Behavior:
The Japanese Chin loves to play and will demand a couple of play sessions every day. Those, along with a nice walk, will satisfy this breed's exercise needs. This dog should attend a puppy socialization class where she can meet a variety of people, as the breed is a bit wary of strangers. She is not aggressive or protective, just aloof with people she doesn't know. Some owners say she's even catlike. The Japanese Chin is also very bright and enjoys learning new things. She will thrive in gentle, fun, yet structured training and will do well with trick training. Many Japanese Chins serve as wonderful therapy dogs. The Chin is great for someone who wants a small, relatively calm companion. She is good with children who are gentle and treat her with respect, but is too small for rough play. She is usually very good with other small pets.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are some of the characteristics of the Japanese Chin breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 8-11 inches
Coat: straight, silky
Color: black and white, red and white, or black and white with tan points
Eyes: large, round, set wide apart, dark
Ears: V-shaped, hanging, wide apart
Skull: large, broad, slightly rounded between the ears though not domed
Muzzle: long and
Nose: dark
Tail: plumed, curved, and carried over the back

Grooming:
This lovely silky coat needs brushing and combing at least every other day to prevent tangles and mats from forming.

history & orign:
The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, is an ancient toy breed with a much debated history. Some experts feel the breed originated in China, while others say Korea was the birthplace. In any event, at some point the breed was introduced to Japan, where it became a favorite of the nobility.

Maltese dog stands between 5 and 8 inches tall and weigh 4 to 7 pounds. The head is slightly rounded on top, the eyes are round and dark, and the ears are hanging and covered with long hair. The tail is a long plume that is carried over the back. The coat is long, flat, and silky. It hangs to the ground and is pure white. There is no undercoat.

Behavior:
This breed is quite playful, even as an adult, but is not overly active. Maltese are companion dogs and are happy to snuggle and cuddle. Daily walks and a play session or two will satisfy this breed's exercise requirements. Training should begin early, as the Maltese can be a challenge to housetrain. The American Maltese Association recommends crate training for housetraining and for keeping the tiny puppy safe. It also prevents other problem behaviors, including chewing. Potential owners should understand that housetraining a tiny dog requires consistency and patience. The Maltese is a companion dog and is happiest when able to spend time with his owner. Although he can be good with children who handle him gently, most breeders will not sell a puppy to a family with young children, as the puppies are fragile.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are some of the characteristics of the Maltese breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 4-6 pounds
Coat: single coat that is long, flat, and silky, hanging over the sides of the body
Color: white
Eyes: not far apart, very dark, round, with black rims
Ears: low-set with heavily feathered long hair hanging close to the head
Muzzle: medium-long, tapered
Nose: black
Tail: long-haired, plume-like, carried over the back, with the tip lying to one side

Grooming:
The Maltese's wonderful coat must be brushed daily with a pin brush; make sure to go through the coat to the skin and not just brush over the top hairs. Particular care must be taken with the coat's cleanliness around the eyes, ears, mouth, feet, and genitals. Although the long, white coat is beautiful, many pet owners have their dogs trimmed shorter for ease of care.

history & orign:
This breed has a distinguished history going back more than twenty eight centuries in Malta. The tiny white dogs were so celebrated that poems were written about them, paintings were made, and stories told. The early Greeks built tombs for their Maltese, and numerous pieces of ceramic art depict dog

Miniature Pinschers stand between 10 and 12.5 inches tall and weigh between 8 and 11 pounds. The head is tapered, eyes are oval and dark, and ears are cropped up right or left natural. The body is as long as the dog is tall and is muscular. The tail is docked and erect, and the short coat is red, black, or chocolate. A signature characteristic of the breed is a hackneylike stepping action, with the front legs lifting high and forward with each step.

Behavior:
The Miniature Pinscher is a high-energy dog with a fearless attitude and a curious intelligence. Without close supervision and vigorous daily exercise, these little dogs will get into trouble. All exercise should be on leash or within a fenced-in yard, as these small dogs like to chase small animals. Training is very important. Min Pins were bred to work, and training can help channel this work ethic. The training should be structured and firm yet fun. They love to play games and learn tricks. Min Pins also enjoy agility training. Socialization should begin early, too, as the breed is cautious with strangers. They can be very alert watchdogs. Min Pins today are companion dogs and need to spend time with people. They can, however, take advantage of a soft owner. Although most Min Pins like to play with children (the dogs enjoy the playfulness and busyness of kids), these dogs are very small and fragile. Play with children, especially small children, should be limited and closely supervised. Many breeders will not sell puppies to homes with small children. This breed can be aggressive with other dogs.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are some of the characteristics of the Miniature Pinscher breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 10 inches to 12½ inches
Coat: smooth, hard, short, straight, shiny, close to the body and covering it completely
Color: solid clear red, stag red, black with rust-red markings
Eyes: slightly oval-shaped, dark
Ears: high-set, standing straight up
Muzzle: proportionate to the head
Nose: black or chocolate
Tail: high-set, held straight up

Grooming:
The coat needs weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush.

history & orign:
This German breed is several hundred years old, and although it resembles the much younger Doberman pinscher, they are not related. Breed experts say these small dogs, developed as ratters, have German Pinschers, Dachshunds, and Italian Greyhounds in their ancestry.

The Papillon today is a fine boned, elegant toy dog, with a happy, alert, and friendly disposition. The height is between 8 and 11 inches, and the weight is between 5 and 10 pounds. The body is slightly longer than the dog's height at the shoulders. The head is carried high and attentively, with dark, round, but not bulging, eyes. The ears are the breed's crowning glory and are large, erect, and feathered with long coat. The ears should look like butterflies. There is a drop-eared version called Phalene, and the ears are the same size and proportion as the erect ear. The Papillon's coat is long, fine, and silky, and there is no undercoat. The base color is always white, with patches of color. The ears and around the eyes must be a color other than white.

Behavior:
Papillons are active little dogs and need daily exercise. This can consist of a walk morning and evening, with a playtime in between. Luckily, the breed's small size makes playtime easy. A ball tossed across the room for the dog to retrieve can become an exciting game. But don't let the breed's small size fool you; these little dogs also make great agility dogs and fly ball competitors. Papillons love to play games of any kind. Socialization and training should begin when the dog is young. Papillons are alert little watchdogs, and barking can become a problem. With socialization, they can learn who to bark at and who not to, and training can control the tendency to bark too much. Intelligent dogs, Papillons also need training to challenge their minds. They have excelled in obedience competition, tracking, and many other canine sports. Papillons are good with the elderly, as they are easy to exercise, are friendly, and, after a game, are willing to cuddle. Although they are usually also friendly with children, they are too fragile for kids who play rough. Most breeders will not sell a Papillon puppy to a family with children under the age of 8 to 10 years. Papillons are also good with other dogs, although interactions should be supervised so that the Papillon isn't injured by rough play. They are good with cats, but interactions with small pets should be supervised, as some Papillons are natural mousers and ratters.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are some of the characteristics of the Papillon breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 8 to 11 inches
Coat: abundant, long, fine, silky, flowing, straight; flat on back and sides of body
Color: parti-color or white with patches of any color
Eyes: dark, round, medium-sized
Ears: either standing straight up or folded (drop)
Muzzle: thinner than the head
Nose: black, small, rounded and slightly flat on top
Tail: long, high-set

Grooming:
The Papillon's lovely silky coat can become matted if it is not brushed and combed every other day. If the dog gets wet (which most Papillons detest), she should be blow-dried and combed to prevent matting.

history & orign:
Papillon (French for butterfly) goes back centuries in Europe. Papillons were the darlings of royalty in France, Italy, Spain, and even Poland as early as the 1500s. Marie Antoinette was a Papillon owner, as were Madame Pompadour, Louis XIV, and numerous other notables. Dogs looking very similar to today's Papillons are in works of the old Masters, including Boucher, Fragonard, Watteau, Rubens, and other artists. Henry III was so infatuated with his dogs that he named the breed the official dog of the Royal Court.

Pomeranians today are very small dogs, most weighing between 3 and 7 pounds (show dogs weigh between 4 and 6 pounds). Height is between 8 and 11 inches. The Pom's body is slightly shorter than it is tall at the shoulder and, although small, should feel sturdy. The head is rounded, with a short, fine muzzle, dark, bright, almond-shaped eyes, and small, erect ears. The tail is plumed and lies flat on the back. The Pom has a double coat, with a soft, dense undercoat and a long, straight outer coat. The outer coat stands out rather than lying close to the body. Colors include red, orange, cream, black, brown, brindle, and parti-color.

Behavior:
Poms still need daily exercise, but their diminutive size makes this easy. A short walk will do, as will a game of ball thrown across the living room or down the hallway. They are happiest when active and love to train on the agility course or chase a small flying disc. Housetraining Pomeranians can be a challenge, but with close supervision, perseverance, and patience, it can be accomplished. Poms are also protective little watchdogs, and barking, if uncontrolled, can become a problem. Training should continue past puppyhood to keep the breed's bright mind active and learning. Poms excel in trick training and love to be the center of attention. These dogs have participated very successfully in several dog activities, including obedience competition, agility, and therapy dog work. Poms are happy, affectionate little extroverts who make great pets for the elderly. They are too fragile for very small children but can be wonderful companions for gentle older children. Interactions with other dogs must be carefully supervised, both because Poms are so tiny and because Poms have no idea how small they are and often try to control the situation with other dogs. Poms are usually good with other pets, although they may try to chase the family cat.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are some of the characteristics of the Pomeranian breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: 3-7 pounds
Coat: long, straight, harsh overcoat over soft, dense undercoat
Color: black and tan, brindle, parti-color, and others
Eyes: dark, medium-sized, almond-shaped
Ears: small, high-set, standing straight up
Muzzle: short, straight
Nose: black
Tail: covered with long, harsh, straight hairs

Grooming:
Show Poms have a lovely coat that makes the entire dog look like a powder puff. The majority of pet Poms, however, do not have this coat; instead, they have a lush coat that tends to lie down. In either case, the coat needs to be brushed two or three times a week to prevent tangles and mats from forming. Poms are very clean dogs. Cayla Horn's Pomeranian, Keely, will lick her paws after eating and then wipe her face with her damp paws.

history & orign:
This adorable toy breed traces its family tree back to sled dogs in Iceland and Lapland. At that point, the dogs probably weighed between 20 and 30 pounds and were used to herd sheep. In the mid-1800s, the breed was introduced to England, and Queen Victoria fell in love with the breed. The breed was gaining popularity in the U.S. by the late 1800s, although the dogs were bigger and heavier boned and had larger ears than the Poms we know today.

Toy Poodles stand 10 inches tall or less at the shoulder and weigh 5 to 7 pounds. There is no official size other than this; the Poodle Club of America does not recognize teacup toys or tiny toys. The head is moderately rounded, with a long muzzle. The eyes are dark and oval, and the ears are dropped. The tail is docked. The coat is curly and dense. Coat color should be one solid color and may be apricot, silver, cream, black, blue, or one of many other colors.

Behavior:
The Toy Poodle is an active dog but is small enough that her exercise needs are easily met. She will enjoy daily walks but can also play in the house. Toy Poodles are bright and intelligent but are easily spoiled and, when spoiled, can be very demanding. Fun training, including housetraining, should begin early so the dog grows up understanding household rules. Toys also need early socialization, as they can be wary of strangers. Toys are great companions for people who spend time at home. Most breeders will not sell Toys to families with young children, as the dogs can be fragile.

Physical Characteristics:
Here are some of the characteristics of the Poodle breed as determined by the American Kennel Club's published breed standard.
Size: Standard: 15 inches or taller, Miniature: 10-15 inches; Toy: 10 inches or shorter
Coat: curly or corded
Color: blue, gray, silver, brown, cafe-au-lait, apricot, cream
Eyes: very dark, oval-shaped
Ears: hanging close to the head, set at eye level or slightly lower, long wide, and feathery
Muzzle: long, straight
Tail: straight, high-set, carried upward
The Poodle's Origins and History

Grooming:
Grooming the Toy Poodle is a complicated process. Show dogs must be groomed in a specific cut that requires some knowledge, so potential owners who wish to show their dogs should discuss this with a breeder prior to buying a dog. Pet owners often take their dogs to a professional groomer on a monthly basis; potential owners should be aware of the cost. Between grooming sessions, the dog should be brushed every other day to prevent matting.

history & orign:
It is generally accepted that all Poodles (toys, miniatures, and standards) are the same breed of dog. The standard variety is the oldest; you can read about the breed's shared history on page 326. But Toy Poodles are not new; Louis XVI of France had toys, and many paintings from the 15th and 16th centuries show tiny dogs that look much like today's Toy Poodles.