Small dog breeds are becoming more and more popular around the world because they are easy to keep in small homes and are very cute in appearance. Small breeds are considered those that in their adult life do not weigh more than 15 kg . However, within these small breeds we also find miniature dogs that can weigh between 1 kg and 6 kg.

If you are looking for a small dog breed, then you need to read this article to find out the benefits of having a toy dog ​​at home, the recommendations when adopting one and the necessary care to protect them. In addition, we have prepared a list of toy dogs with the most popular small breeds .

Benefits of adopting a small dog

• Small dogs are perfectly suited to small spaces , so if you don’t have a large garden, these breed types are perfect for you.
• Keeping a small dog is less expensive than keeping a large dog. The expenses decrease mainly due to feeding, since the small breeds, although they eat often, eat very little . And the cost of the vet is also usually lower.
• Toy dogs are easy to transport in vehicles, you just need a wooden travel box or a small carrier and that’s it.

Most popular small, toy and miniature dog breeds

miniature dachshund

Caniche ToyThis type of dog is one of the miniature dog breeds, also known as the dachshund or dachshund and is of German origin. This puppy does not weigh more than 6 kg. However, there is a breed of dachshund that is classified as a standard dog that can weigh up to 11 kg. Its physiognomy is due to a genetic mutation known as bassetism and its coat characteristics can vary from one dog to another. They are found long-haired, wire-haired and short-haired.

If you are looking for a puppy that looks like a stuffed animal, then you are looking for a toy poodle . Its main characteristic is the curly, dense and abundant coat, although there is also a variation of the breed with fur in the form of tufts. They are very tender little dogs that do not weigh more than 4.5 kg. Toy poodles are descended from traditional poodles mixed with smaller breeds. It is also known as Poodle or Pudel, they are intelligent and learn instructions very quickly, which is why it occupies position 2 in Stanley Coren’s classification about the intelligence of dogs.

Chihuahua

It is another breed of miniature dogs which is of Mexican origin, this puppy does not weigh more than 3 kg. Its main characteristic is its ears that are very large compared to its body. As a guard dog it is excellent, since it is quite suspicious and emits very good barks. However, in homes with children it is necessary to be careful because the Chihuahua or also called Chiuaueño  is usually very nervous and can get upset quickly.

Mini Yorkshire

Miniature schnauzerThis puppy is really a breed of miniature dogs that does not weigh more than 2kg, which is why it is also known as a Miniature Terrier. The Yorkshire has a smooth, full, double-colored mane that has made it popular as a show dog. Probably his mane is what attracts attention among models and celebrities from all over the world who choose him as their spoiled pet. It can even be seen that it is the mascot of Barbie, the traditional American doll. This well-groomed breed of dog can live up to 17 years.

This small breed of dog originally from Germany does not weigh more than 6 kg, it is descended from the cross of the standard schnauzer and probably the miniature pinscher . They are strong-willed, although they are still playful. Traditionally they accompanied the owners of farms to keep them free of mice and to guide the horses. Miniature Schnauzer breed dogs are excellent company for adults as their character is serious. He needs socialization when he is young so as not to be shy as an adult.

Pug

It is a dog originally from China, also known as a pug, mops or pug . It is a fairly sensitive and low-noise dog, it gets along very well with children and easily learns instructions. Its large head, bulging eyes and flat nose are characteristic of this dog. It can live up to 12 years. It is a playful dog and ideal for company. It does not stand out for its guardian qualities or for being a great barker.

Pekines

It is a small dog that does not weigh more than 8 kg, its main characteristic is its character, since it can be a small beast. He is of Chinese origin and became part of royalty, in ancient China, whoever hurt a Pekingese was severely punished, he could even pay the death penalty. There are several types of Pekingese, the standard and the miniature. It is a very brave dog and faces dangers out of proportion to its size. It is not recommended for children or playful adults, since it does not like to be disturbed or very spoiled. He prefers prudence and can even be frivolous.

Butterfly

This breed of toy dog ​​is also known as the Continental Toy Spaniel . It is a small breed of dog of French and Belgian origin. Papillon is a French name that means butterfly, a name that this small breed of dog has earned due to the shape of its ears. It is a somewhat shy dog ​​so you have to teach it to socialize from a young age. It is also a very independent dog that, if it is not educated, can resolve its conflicts in its own way and cause certain disasters at home. It is really sensitive and easily adapts to the mood of its owner, it can understand its anguish and also its joys.

Recommendations and / or care of small dogs

• Choose a small dog based on your needs and abilities. There are some dogs that are ideal for children because they are patient and playful. Others are more for older adults because they are passive, calm, act like real company and can even sniff out health problems. There are those who are guardians and who are very active and energetic. Before adopting a small dog breed, ask yourself what your companionship needs are.
• Regarding their care, small breeds run the risk of lowering their temperature very quickly, so in winter and times of rain and cold it is advisable to leave their fur long and have a warm space.
• Small breeds of dogs are very common to live in small houses without a patio or garden. Therefore, your chances of wearing down your nails are low. If this is your case, the frequency of nail cutting must be higher.
• The deterioration of teeth in small dogs is faster than that of large dogs. From the age of 3, more dental control is important. Find out from your vet about the frequency and manner of brushing, caring for the teeth, and the toys available to help control plaque.
• The frequency of daily food should be greater than that of a large dog, since small dogs are more active and this causes an acceleration in their metabolism. The exclusive foods for small breeds take into account this particularity and have the necessary calories for small dogs.

List of all breeds of small, miniature or toy dogs

If you still have questions about which breed of small dogs is for you, in Tom Cat Wiki we leave you a list of other small breeds that you will surely love.