Breeds of small smooth-haired dogs

Small-sized smooth-haired dogs are ideal for keeping in an apartment, especially if it is small. Caring for such a pet is minimal, they are undemanding, but they become loyal and devoted friends.

The dog's coat is not only a protection of the skin from the weather, but also a characteristic feature of the animal's exterior. According to the size of the coat and the presence of the undercoat, there is a relative classification that divides dogs into three groups:

• short-haired - without undercoat;
• long-haired - with a well-developed undercoat;
• hairless - characterized by the complete absence of hair.

In addition, a smooth coat is usually found in short-haired dogs, as they have no or very poorly developed undercoat. It is more practical and convenient to keep such animals in the conditions of city apartments. The coat of smooth-haired breeds is short, 2-2.5 cm, close to the body, glossy, but may be somewhat harsh to the touch. Due to the absence of undercoat, tangles do not form in the wool, it practically does not shed.

Such animals always look neat and well-groomed, although minimal effort is spent on their maintenance. The coat, especially on dogs with a dark color, is shiny, iridescent in the light. The negative aspects include the need to dress the pet in warm clothes in cold weather, because without the undercoat, the "fur coat" does not warm the dog well. Due to the inability of the short coat to protect the skin from external influences, subcutaneous fat fulfills this purpose.

Some inconvenience is caused by stiff bristles that can dig into upholstered furniture or clothing. But still, the main feature of small smooth-haired dog breeds is their compactness, they do not need a lot of space. Although their small size does not prevent them from perfectly performing the role of a watchman, and, if necessary, to protect themselves or their master. Also, ease of care and adorable appearance play in their favor when choosing a pet.

A fairly large number of small breeds of dogs belong to smooth-haired.

• Chihuahua - the smallest dog with a smooth coat. The baby weighs from 0.5 to 3.5 kg, the color is predominantly reddish or beige. Representatives of the breed are listed in the Guinness Book as the smallest dogs. Despite their tiny size, they are distinguished by their courage and curiosity, their character is rather calm. Stress and negative emotions have a bad effect on these pets, so it is better to protect dogs from such factors.

• French Bulldog has a compact body, flattened muzzle and erect ears. In height, it can reach 35 cm, and its weight is 8-15 kg. Frenchies are black, brown, beige or fawn. They are characterized by a cheerful disposition and activity. Very friendly dogs, but without hesitation, they will rush to defend the house or the owner in case of danger. Quite easy to train.

• Boston terrier considered the perfect companion. The breed belongs to one of the most loving and affectionate, they get along great with both adults and children. The special structure of the face often causes breathing problems, and the eyes also need special care. In cold weather, the dog needs warm clothing.

• Basenji. A graceful dog with a unique ability - it does not know how to bark at all. Instead of barking, it produces sounds more like rumbling or snorting. Representatives of the breed are characterized by extreme cleanliness, they wash with their paws, like cats. They can grow up to 43 cm in height. Another feature of the Basenji is the curled tail. Dogs are afraid of confined spaces and avoid water.

• Fox terrier with smooth hair, it can have different colors: white, brown, beige or fawn with spots of different colors. The wool is dense. Dogs of this breed have a fairly high intelligence, endurance, friendliness and hunting abilities, but they are quite capricious.

• Toy fox terrier. Despite its diminutive size, it has a well-toned and harmoniously built body. The dog weighs from 1 to 4 kg, but the tiny head and slender limbs give the impression that the dog is extremely fragile and delicate, almost weightless. The color is mainly white, there may be spots of other colors. The breed does not tolerate cold at all, it is very sensitive to high humidity. By their nature, these crumbs are born leaders, they like to dominate.

• Russian Toy Terrier belongs to the decorative species and is distinguished by its lively character and high activity. The color of the coat can vary from dark (brown, black) to beige with a light blue tint. With a height of 20-28 cm, they weigh 1.3-3 kg.

• Beagle belongs to hunting breeds, therefore it is characterized by a strong skeleton and muscles. By their nature, they love training and active games. Their mass can reach 12-18 kg. Very loyal and intelligent friends are made from representatives of this breed. The beagle treats children with special love and good nature, he can tirelessly tinker with them for hours.

• Jack Russell Terrier also a hunting breed, which is also well suited for sentry and sentry duty. Dogs have an independent character, which can manifest itself with a lack of education.They are affectionate towards children, they love to play with them, but they show aggression towards other dogs. The color of the breed is white with reddish or black spots.

• Miniature pinscher or miniature pinscher belongs to German breeds. Initially, the dog was bred to catch rats and small animals, but today these agile and intelligent dogs serve as companions on long walks or amateur hunting. The color is dominated by brownish-red or black and tan shades. An adult pinscher weighs an average of 4.5-5 kg ​​with a height of 24-30 cm. Dogs are sensitive to high and low temperatures, so in summer they must have access to water, and in winter - warm clothes.

• Pug characterized by a compact, dense build, somewhat square in shape, a wide forehead with folds and a firm gait. The animal's tail is strongly curled. A shiny "fur coat" can be black or beige with a black muzzle. Pugs weigh 6-10 kg, due to their low activity, they are prone to obesity, so the dog's nutrition should be monitored. The breed is distinguished by undemanding care, characteristic laziness and passivity, but at the same time the animals are very loving and good-natured.

• Dachshund belongs to burrowing hunting dogs, thanks to its short legs and long body, it is ideal for such a role. The animal is extremely energetic, independent, with a sharp mind and an even character. In relation to the owner, he shows incredible devotion and loyalty, demanding communication in return. The head of the dog is elongated, with hanging ears, the body is long, with wide, squat limbs. The coat can be of different colors: from all kinds of shades of brown to black and tan.

• Prague rat or ratlik - Czech breed of dogs with dark short hair. On the head of the animal, the coat is somewhat less frequent and shorter than on the rest of the body. The dog is very active, fearless and at the same time very friendly. The breed competes with the Chihuahua for the title of the smallest. The color of the coat is brown, red and black with tan.

• Greyhound, or small Italian greyhound, has a thick, dense but extremely soft coat. Differs in a playful, reckless character, loves attention to himself and communication. Weight varies within 5 kg. The color is dominated by gray, beige and black colors, as well as their shades.

Small-sized smooth-haired dogs are ideal pets for city apartments. They do not need a lot of space, special care, and they are distinguished by boundless devotion and love for the owner. Animals with short hair are very clean and do not need any special care. Many of the smooth-haired dogs do not like long walks, they can easily learn to use the litter box. ...

Especially suitable for families with small children:

• Jack Russell Terrier;
• beagle;
• boston terrier.

It is better for active people to choose the following breeds:

• fox terrier;
• Russian toy terrier;
• beagle;
• dwarf pinscher;
• dachshund;
• Italian greyhound.

But pugs are more suitable for those who do not like noise and unnecessary fuss. Despite their miniature parameters, all breeds of small dogs are quite capable of protecting the house and the owner without hesitation. They are characterized by such character traits as courage and fearlessness. Whichever breed the choice falls on, the animal must be healthy. The coat should not have bald patches, the main feature of a normal coat is soft texture and silkiness.

Caring for small indoor breeds is somewhat different from keeping larger dogs. This is due to the fact that they have an accelerated metabolism. Because of this feature, they need food that contains a large amount of protein. Due to their physiology, the crumbs cannot wait long for a walk, for this reason it is better to have a tray at home. In cold weather, smooth-haired dogs need to be dressed for a walk, as they get cold quite quickly and can easily catch a cold.

There are no developed training methods for small dogs, but it is still better to learn basic knowledge. An important feature in keeping mini-dogs is the amount of food. The stomach of these dogs is tiny, so they do not need a lot of food, even if the pet begs. You should not overfeed them, most breeds are prone to being overweight. You need to give food twice a day, but clean water should be constant.

After walking, your pet needs to wash its paws. It is much easier to clean up a smooth-haired small dog than any other. Ears and teeth also need to be examined regularly and remember to brush. The coat should be combed out about once a week. A rubber brush or silicone glove works well for this. When the dog is shedding, it is best to brush it every day, in addition, this procedure has massage properties and improves the condition of the coat. After that, you can wipe the animal with a piece of soft cloth in the direction of the growth of the villi - this way the wool is polished and shine appears.

Smooth-haired dogs are very clean, so they do not need to be bathed often, 3-4 times a year are enough with the use of special shampoos. If it is necessary to clean the wool, it is simply wiped with a damp towel. The short coat dries very quickly and without the use of a hair dryer. Choosing a smooth-haired baby as a pet, you never regret it - it is impossible to find a more faithful and loving friend.

About the features of the pug breed in the video below.