Small Dogs - Big Things Come in Small Packages
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Is a Small Dog a Better Breed Than a Big Dog?
You're in the market for a pet - a dog in particular - but do you choose a micro teacup Chihuahua or a Saint Bernard? The choice isn't just about your personal preferences, although that does play a huge part in your decision.
There are differences between small dog breeds
Small dog breeds don't eat as much, have fewer health problems in general, and a small apartment can provide a vast playground for your pet to get the daily dose of exercise it needs to stay healthy.
What's your purpose for getting a dog as a pet? If it's for security measures, then you might want a pit bull instead of a Pomeranian. But even a small dog breed can frighten off intruders who don't want the homeowner alerted to their presence.
If you want a pet dog for your children, then you have to evaluate the age of the kids as well as the breed of the dog. You don't want to pair a potentially dangerous large dog with a toddler who might inadvertently tug on the tail of the pooch and set it off into attack mode.
Likewise, putting a small dog in a household with rambunctious children who don't understand the fragility of a tiny dog can be devastating to the animal and possibly cause harm to it.
Click here to discover how to make a small dog a big part of the family today!
Freebie for Small Dog Owners:
The Most Popular Small Dog Breeds Today
List of small dog breeds - helping you choose
You may already know that a small dog would fit your personal preferences and lifestyle better than a big dog breed...But now you have to narrow down your choice to just one small dog - how can you possibly choose form all those big doe eyes and perky personalities?
Do your research on various small dog breeds
so that you know what personality traits and health issues come with the territory of being its owner. Ask yourself some basic questions, such as:- "Do I need a small dog that doesn't shed?"
- "Do I have to have a small dog that gets along well with children?
- "Does my small dog need to get along well with other pets?
What about the trainability of certain small dog breeds? While some are easily trained, others might be more difficult, although no dog is considered completely untrainable.
And how much personal care and attention does your small dog need? Will you manage the upkeep of a long-haired toy-sized dog that needs constant grooming and requires frequent trips to the vet?
Below are the most popular small dog breeds on the market today. Look at the list and then do some background research on each one to see which breed will best suit your lifestyle:1.) Yorkshire Terrier
2.) Poodle
3.) Chihuahua
4.) Shih Tzu
5.) Miniature Schnauzer
6.) Pomeranian
7.) Miniature Pinscher
8.) Bichon Frise
9.) West Highland White Terrier
10.) Pekingese
Dog? Or Accessory? Chihuahuas Are Fan Faves!
Small dogs are beautiful dogs :)
What Type of Small Dog Is Your Favorite?
Small Dogs for Big Hearts!
Small Dogs, Big Hearts: A Guide to Caring for Your Little Dog , Revised Edition
Amazon Price: $13.59 (as of 07/11/2009)
List Price: $19.99
"It takes the reader on a journey from puppyhood to adulthood and old age, in sickness and in health. Arden carefully points out the many ways in which the Toy breeds have unique needs that larger dogs do not have, at the same time emphasizing that they are indeed dogs and so benefit from training in exactly the same ways as larger dogs."
Release Date: 12/31/1969
Avg. Customer Rating: 
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How to Find a Small Dog for Your Family
As you're narrowing your decision down, maybe some of these buying tips will help you get the best small dog for your family. Choosing a breed of dog is just as important as choosing the breeder.Of course, you probably already know that it's not a good idea to buy a small dog (or any size dog for that matter) from a pet store in the mall. Many of these animals come from puppy mills, where the conditions are poor and inbreeding is ripe. This can result in health woes you won't want your small dog friend to endure.
The first place to look is through your own veterinarian. They usually know of reputable dog breeders (as well as unsavory characters in the industry) and can point you in the right direction.
If you want to rescue a pet, then you might consider finding a purebred pet rescue foundation to see if they happen to have the small dog breed of your choice. If you're still at a loss, look for a specific small dog breeder who specializes in the type of small dog you want.The breeder who is best will keep his operation small, letting the pets live indoors - not outside as part of his "inventory." The area they live in should be clean and healthy. Don't take a dog home from a disgusting breeding area because you feel sorry for it.
He or she should introduce you to the small puppy's parents and should welcome you to interact with the animals to see what their temperament is toward strangers. He'll also be able to prove shots and vet visits if you ask for those records.Keep in mind that you might have a waiting period to find the small dog
of your dreams.Good puppy breeders don't have litters overflowing on the property, but will take your name and number and call you when the next litter is born.
Do You Have a Question or Comment About Small Dogs?
Comments:
CHOPRN1127 wrote...
Great Lens. We have some lenses about small dogs as well. All about Yorkies
All about Pugs
All about Poodles
All about Dachshunds
All about Shih Tzus
Posted June 21, 2008
renovator wrote...
As an owner of a small dog (looks much like the framed pic above-pom) I found your lense very interesting. Like your point about small dogs in a household with lively kids. Great info.
Posted February 02, 2008
Vic_Goodman wrote...
I love small dogs and am researching many different breeds. This lens has some really good info and resources available.
5 Stars
I'll be back
Posted January 25, 2008
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