Dwarf dog breeds: advantages and disadvantages, types, choice and care

Dwarf dog breeds have been at their peak of popularity for many years. The enduring interest in these miniature creatures is due to such factors as the possibility of keeping animals in small apartments, low food costs, as well as the prestige and status of some breeds.

Dwarf breeds include dogs whose height does not exceed 35 cm and whose weight varies from 2 to 5 kg. The history of the appearance of small animals goes back to the 8th century. BC BC, when, according to modern scientists, there was a mutation of the IGF-1 generesponsible for the growth of living organisms. This hypothesis was confirmed in laboratory studies, during which an identical sequence of mutated genes was found, characteristic of all miniature breeds. Later, such dogs were divided into Toy, whose height is 12-28 cm, and the weight does not exceed 2 kg, and dwarf individuals with a height of 28-25 cm and weighing from 2 to 5 kg.

All small breeds have a standard set of 42 teeth, which is why they have a number of problems. The fact is that the jaws of dwarf dogs are very small, and they cannot contain all the teeth. Therefore, among such dogs, incomplete teeth are often found - a serious defect that does not allow the pet to participate in breeding. In addition, animals develop an irregular bite, and their teeth grow crooked and bump into each other. But fortunately, not all dwarf dogs have such problems, and most pets delight owners with even and beautiful teeth.

Another physiological feature of most dwarf breeds is an open fontanelle.This is more common in Toy, although it is not uncommon in dwarf pets. This pathology even entered the standard of many breeds, and is no longer considered a defect. Such animals safely participate in breeding work and live with an ungrown fontanel until the end of their days.

The next difference between dwarf dogs is the disproportionate head relative to the body. Skulls in animals are often prohibitively large in relation to the body, which is especially noticeable in puppies. And although a large head is one of the signs of the exterior of many breeds, such a structure often causes hydrocephalus. This is due to the accumulation of excess fluid in the brain region, which leads to headaches and a significant reduction in the life span of the animal.

Bones in dwarf breeds are similar in structure to birds, which is why a pet's jump from a height of 20 cm often threatens with fracture or dislocation of the limbs. Another problem is the general underdevelopment of internal organs and a predisposition to the appearance of an umbilical hernia. The latter is due to the weakness of the muscular corset, due to which the internal organs simply "fall out" from the abdominal cavity of the animal.

Besides, representatives of dwarf breeds often suffer from allergic reactions, which can begin to appear at a fairly mature age, are often freezing and more prone to colds than other breeds. In winter, this obliges the owners to dress the dogs in warm clothes or, in general, not to take them for a walk.

Describing dwarf dogs, one cannot but tell about their character. So, most miniature pets are absolutely fearless and, despite their small size, feel like full-fledged guards. Due to exorbitant courage, many males are very cocky and are eager to "fight" with large dogs. Therefore, the owner needs to socialize the animal to other dogs as early as possible, avoiding aggressive attacks on their side. In relation to strangers, small pets behave wary, carefully monitor the reaction of the owner, but they love the household with all their soul and it is very difficult to endure even a short-term separation from the owners.

Almost all dwarf breeds are highly trainable and highly intelligent. Many owners assure that the pet does not need commands, understands simple human speech and fulfills requests the first time. However, for this, you should start raising the dog as early as possible, since many miniature breeds by nature have stubbornness and self-will. Besides because of the puppy's puppy appearance, the owners often feel sorry for keeping him strict... This often leads to the transformation of a small fluffy lump into a real mini-monster, which quickly sits on the owners' neck and begins to command them. Many owners note that their pets literally throw tantrums and do not calm down until they get what they want. Therefore, despite the decorative purpose of dwarf breeds, it is still necessary to educate them.

The most popular mini-dogs are among the fair sex. Many celebrities and show business stars drag their pets to numerous social events, purchase expensive outfits for them and take them to dog beauty salons.

Elderly people are another category of miniature dog lovers. They are happy to take care of their little pets and love them dearly.

High popularity and stable demand for dwarf dogs due to a number of indisputable advantages of these miniature creatures.

• Due to their tiny size, animals are very convenient to keep in small apartments. The dog does not require much space to sleep and play, and can even live in a hostel.
• Dwarf dogs do not need to be taken outside to the toilet several times a day, as they perfectly cope with their needs on absorbent diapers.
• Animals need moderate physical activity, they are able to satisfy the motor need in an apartment or a normal walk. With them, you do not need to make long exercises and evening runs, so these dogs are ideal for retirees.
• Pets have a very attractive appearance, touching others and resembling soft toys. However, despite their decorativeness, they are very brave, and in case of danger they are able to protect their master and scare off the offender with loud barking.
• It is very convenient to take dwarf dogs on trips. They are allowed to be in the cabin of the plane and in the compartment of the railway carriage, they are allowed into most hotels and are allowed to be transported in city public transport.
• Miniature pets are distinguished by high intelligence, they are well trained and, with proper upbringing, are quite obedient.
• Small dogs are distinguished by boundless loyalty, and when the owner changes, they may not endure separation from their family and die.
• With proper care and nutrition, most dwarf dogs can live up to 15 years or more.
• Many mini-breeds are odorless and non-allergic.

The disadvantages of dwarf species include poor health, a high probability of giving birth to puppies with defects and pathologies, excessive fragility of bones and a constant risk of injury. The disadvantages include the cost of puppies.

In total, there are more than 20 types of dwarf breeds in the world, the most common of which are discussed below.

Agile and very active dogs, whose height does not exceed 28 cm, and the average weight is 4.5-5 kg. It is difficult to confuse Brabancon with anyone, since few animals have such understanding and expressive eyes. Pets are distinguished by a sharp mind and quick wit, are easy to train and listen well.

For a long time these dogs held the palm in the ranking of the most popular dwarf breeds, they are characterized by good character, lack of aggressiveness and high decorativeness. The average weight of a Yorkie is 3.1 kg, the height of males does not exceed 23 cm, bitches - 20 cm.Despite their angelic appearance, Yorkies are very distrustful of strangers, and if it seems to them that the owner is in danger, they will certainly stand up for him. A distinctive feature of the breed is the special structure of the coat, reminiscent of human hair. Animal hair grows throughout life and requires careful and timely care.

Few people know, but attractive appearance and beautiful hairstyle with a bow hide behind a "professional" rat-catcher, which is the Yorkshire Terrier... The breed was specially bred for these purposes and was actively used when working in coal mines. The dogs were excellent at catching rats and mice, but they were noticed in time by the ladies of the world. Those, in turn, quickly pulled them out of the dungeon and made them their companions at social events and other public events.

Dogs of this breed have a gorgeous appearance and somewhat resemble a Shih Tzu. The height of an adult male is 25 cm, of a bitch - 20-23 cm. The weight of animals depends on age, activity and nutrition, on average it is 5 kg. The breed belongs to the category of the most ancient. Its representatives are very attached to the owner and are in dire need of communication. Dogs have a keen hearing and delicate instinct, which makes them irreplaceable guardians of household property. Of course, no one will be able to bite such a pet, but it is quite capable of signaling the owner in time about the appearance of a stranger.

Dogs of this breed amaze others with their beautiful snow-white coat and have an aristocratic disposition. They are calm and obedient, they instantly respond to any request of the owner and are very fond of children. The growth of adults never exceeds 25 cm, weight - 3-4 kg. The animals are quite active and love to play outdoors. However, for a person who is too busy, such a dog is not suitable: the Maltese is very badly tolerated by loneliness and will not be able to sit locked in an apartment for a long time.

Dogs of this breed grow no higher than 26 cm, have a dense build and short limbs. The character of the pet is very inquisitive and friendly, however, during training, stubbornness can manifest itself. In our country, animals are used as a companion, while in some others they are still engaged in their direct duties - hunting. The dog's coat requires regular trimming, which should be done at least once every 3 months.

Dogs of this breed have a cute appearance and an almost human character. They never grow taller than 27 cm and do not gain more than 3-4 kg. Pets belong to the category of long-living dogs and easily live up to 18-19 years. However, the eyes, ears, teeth and hair of the papillon require painstaking care. In addition, animals need daily active walks, balanced nutrition and proper training.

In appearance, the dog resembles a Doberman of a reduced size, it never grows above 25 cm. Initially, the breed was used for catching rats, but today's Pinscher is an excellent companion and loyal friend.

Dogs of this breed are distinguished by their characteristic "monkey" muzzle, on which, like beads, there are round shiny eyes. In combination with sideburns and a mustache, it looks very funny and funny. Pets are excellent companions and could be a full-fledged family dog, if not for their excessive jealousy of the owner. Dogs require increased attention from the owner and often feel competitors in the children.

Like all other varieties of poodles, miniature pets are distinguished by very high intelligence and are considered the smartest among dwarf dogs. Moreover, the structure of the poodle's hair is similar to human hair, therefore it does not shed or smell.The only difficulty in keeping poodles is grooming the coat, which involves regular visits to the groomer and daily brushing.

In appearance, dogs are similar to small deer, they have huge eyes and slender limbs. Pets are very friendly, they easily come into contact with adults and children. Dogs are very easy to keep and do not require daily grooming. The average height of pets is 25 cm, weight is about 3 kg.

Dogs of this domestic breed are direct descendants of the English Toy and are of two types. The first includes smooth-haired representatives of the breed, the second - long-haired. The height of an adult animal is 20-28 cm, weight - 3 kg. Dogs are very active and need daily long walks, on which they are happy to run and play with other dogs. Dogs lend themselves well to training and have high intelligence.

The breed, along with Yorkies, is one of the three leaders in the popularity of dwarf breeds, and its representatives are among the smallest dogs. Their weight varies from 1.5 to 3 kg with a height of 15 to 23 cm. Chihuahuas are very brave and hardy dogs, but when brought up they can show stubbornness. The price for them starts at $ 200 and depends on the pedigree and exterior of the puppy. Due to their low weight and miniature size, such dogs must be dressed for the weather.

Along with poodles, Spitz are among the ten smartest dwarf breeds, however, due to their natural stubbornness and willfulness, they are not well trained. Dogs are endlessly loyal to the owner, they communicate well with his children, but they really do not like other pets and neighboring cats. The growth of adult animals reaches 18-22 cm, and the weight does not exceed 3 kg. Spitz have an unusual fox face, triangular ears and a thick coat that needs daily brushing.

The breed is the most expensive among other decorative species. The price for a puppy with pedigree starts at $ 450 for a pet-class pet and can go up to $ 2500 for a baby with an elite pedigree. The growth of dogs does not exceed 27 cm, weight varies from 4.5 to 7 kg. A feature of the breed is a sharp mind and some arrogance, which makes it quite problematic to train pets. Such a dog is unlikely to run after the ball and will follow the commands of any family member, except for the owner.

Representatives of this breed are up to 25 cm tall and weigh from 1.8 to 3 kg. Dogs are distinguished by high intelligence, however, due to their waywardness, training is also not very easy. Unlike other dwarf breeds, chins bark very little, and do not fight hysterically if they are not given something. Pets are distinguished by good health and unpretentious care. Brushing the dog once a week is enough; you don't need to trim at all.

When choosing a dwarf puppy there are a number of important points to keep in mind.

• The presence of young children in the house should be the reason for the acquisition of another breed.Dwarf dogs have very fragile bones, so it's better not to risk your pet's life and health.
• Before buying a puppy, it is advisable to look at his parents, to evaluate their reaction to strangers and other dogs. If the parents are too aggressive, then there is a high probability that the puppy will be the same.
• You need to buy a puppy either in a kennel or from trusted breeders, as buying a puppy "off hand" can turn into the acquisition of a small lump, from which a dog the size of a table will subsequently grow.
• It is necessary to pay attention to the appearance of the puppy. The eyes and ears of the pet should be dry and clean, and the coat should be beautiful and shiny. You should not get a flaccid or shy dog ​​with current eyes.

See the top 10 smallest dog breeds in the next video.