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

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

Dwarf breeds include dogs whose height does not exceed 35 cm, and weight varies from 2 to 5 kg. The history of the appearance of small animals is rooted in the VIII century. BC e., when, according to modern scientists, an IGF-1 gene mutation occurredresponsible for the growth of living organisms. This hypothesis was confirmed in laboratory studies, during which an identical sequence of mutated genes was found, which is characteristic of all miniature breeds. Later, these dogs were divided into Toya, whose height is 12-28 cm, and weight does not exceed 2 kg, and dwarf individuals with a height of 28-25 cm and a weight of 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 accommodate all the teeth. Therefore, among these dogs, often there is edentulousness - a serious vice that does not allow the pet to participate in breeding. In addition, the animals form an incorrect bite, and the teeth grow crooked and bump into each other. But fortunately, such problems are not found in all dwarf dogs, and most pets delight owners with smooth and beautiful teeth.

Another physiological feature of most dwarf breeds is an unclosed fontanel.This is more common in toi, although it is not uncommon in dwarf pets. This pathology even entered the standard of many breeds, and is no longer considered a vice. Such animals safely participate in breeding and live with an unripe fontanel until the end of days.

The next difference between dwarf dogs is the disproportionality of the head relative to the body. Animal skulls 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 becomes the cause of hydrocephalus. This is due to the accumulation of excess fluid in the brain, which leads to headaches and a significant reduction in the life span of the animal.

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

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

Describing dwarf dogs, one cannot but tell about their character. So, most miniature pets are completely 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 in their direction. In relation to strangers, small pets behave with caution, carefully monitor the reaction of the owner, but they love the household with all their heart and very difficult to tolerate even short-term separation from the owners.

Almost all dwarf breeds respond well to training and are distinguished by high intelligence. Many owners claim that the pet does not need commands, understands simple human speech and fulfills requests the first time. However, for this it is necessary to start raising a dog as soon as possible, since many miniature breeds naturally have stubbornness and self-will. Besides because of the puppet appearance of the puppy, it is often a pity for the owners to keep it 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 engage in their education.

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

Another category of miniature dog adorers is the elderly. They take care of their little pets with pleasure and love them dearly.

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

• Due to their tiny size, it is very convenient to keep animals in small apartments. The dog does not require much space for sleep and games, and can live even in a hostel.
• Dwarf dogs do not need to be taken to the toilet several times a day, as they perfectly do their work on absorbent diapers.
• Animals need moderate physical exertion, they are able to satisfy the motor need in an apartment or a normal walking area. With them you do not need to make long exercises and evening runs, so these dogs are ideal for senior citizens.
• 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 are able to protect their master and scare the offender with a loud bark.
• Dwarf dogs are very convenient to travel. They are allowed to stay in the airplane cabin and compartment of the railway carriage, they are allowed into most hotels and allowed to transport in public transport.
• Miniature pets are highly intelligent, well trained and, with proper upbringing, are rather obedient.
• Small dogs are characterized by unlimited devotion, and when the owner changes, they can not endure the separation from their family and die.
• With proper care and proper nutrition, most dwarf dogs can survive up to 15 years or more.
• Many mini-breeds have no dog smell and do not cause allergies.

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 species in the world, the most common of which are discussed below.

Mobile 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 Brabanson with anyone, since few animals have such understanding and expressive eyes. Pets are distinguished by a sharp mind and quick wit, are easily trained and listen well.

These dogs have long 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 York is 3.1 kg, the growth of dogs does not exceed 23 cm, bitches - 20 cm. Despite their angelic appearance, Yorkies are very distrustful of strangers, and if they think that the owner is in danger, they will certainly intercede for him. A distinctive feature of the breed is the special structure of the hair, reminiscent of human hair. Animal hair grows throughout life and requires careful and timely care.

Few people know but attractive appearance and a beautiful hairstyle with a bow hide the "professional" Pied Piper, of which the Yorkshire Terrier is. The breed was specially bred for these purposes and was actively used when working in coal mines. Dogs perfectly caught rats and mice, but were spotted on time by secular ladies. 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 chic appearance and are somewhat reminiscent of Shih Tzu. The height of an adult male is 25 cm, females - 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. Her representatives are very attached to the owner and urgently need communication. Dogs have a keen ear and a keen sense of flair, which makes them indispensable watchmen of household property. Such a pet, of course, will not be able to bite anyone, but it is quite capable of signaling the owner about the appearance of a stranger in time.

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

Dogs of this breed grow no higher than 26 cm, have a dense physique and short limbs. The character of the pet is very curious and friendly, but stubbornness can be manifested during training. In our country, animals are used as a companion, although in some others they still engage in their direct duties - hunting. Dog hair requires regular trimming, which should be done at least once every 3 months.

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

In its appearance, the dog resembles a reduced Doberman, never grows above 25 cm. Initially, the breed was used to catch rats, but today's pincher is an excellent companion and a true friend.

Dogs of this breed are distinguished by a characteristic "monkey" muzzle, on which, like beads, round shiny eyes are located. In combination with whiskers 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 for the owner. Dogs require increased attention of the owner and often feel in the children of competitors.

Like all other varieties of poodles, miniature pets have a very high intelligence and are considered the most intelligent among dwarf dogs. Moreover, the structure of a poodle’s hair is similar to that of a human hair, therefore it does not shed or smell.The only difficulty in keeping poodles is hair care, which consists of visiting the groomer regularly and combing them daily.

In their appearance, dogs look like little deer, have huge eyes and thin limbs. Pets are very friendly, easily come in contact with adults and children. Dogs are very easy to maintain and do not require daily grooming. The average height of pets is 25 cm, weight - about 3 kg.

Dogs of this domestic breed are direct descendants of English Toyas and come in two types. The first includes smooth-haired representatives of the breed, the second - long-haired. The growth of an adult animal is 20-28 cm, weight - 3 kg. Dogs are highly active and need daily long walks on which they are happy to rush and play with other dogs. Dogs respond 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 growth from 15 to 23 cm. Chihuahuas are very brave and hardy dogs, but they can be stubborn when brought up. The price for them starts at $ 200 and depends on the pedigree and the exterior of the puppy. Due to their light weight and miniature size, these dogs must be worn according to the weather.

Along with poodles, Spitz are among the ten most intelligent dwarf breeds, however, due to natural obstinacy and waywardness, they are not trained very well. Dogs are infinitely loyal to the owner, communicate well with his children, but really do not like other pets and neighbors' cats. The growth of adult animals reaches 18-22 cm, and the weight does not exceed 3 kg. Spitz has an unusual fox face, triangular ears and thick hair, which needs daily combing.

The breed is the most expensive among other decorative species. The price for a puppy with a pedigree starts at $ 450 per pet pet class and can reach $ 2,500 for a baby with an elite pedigree. Dog height does not exceed 27 cm, weight varies from 4.5 to 7 kg. A peculiarity of the breed is a sharp mind and some arrogance, which is why it is quite problematic to train pets. Such a dog is unlikely to run after the ball and will execute the commands of any member of the family, except the owner.

Representatives of this breed have a height of up to 25 cm and a weight of 1.8 to 3 kg. Dogs are highly intelligent, however, because of their waywardness, training is also not very easy. Unlike other dwarf breeds, khins bark very little, and do not fight in hysteria if they are not given something. Pets are distinguished by good health and unpretentious care. It is enough to comb the dog once a week, it is not necessary to cut it completely.

When choosing a dwarf puppy A number of important points to consider.

• The presence of young children in the house should serve as a pretext for the acquisition of another breed.Dwarf dogs have very fragile bones, so it is better not to risk the life and health of the pet.
• Before buying a puppy, it is advisable to look at his parents and 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 the kennel or from trusted breeders, since buying a puppy “by hand” can result in acquiring 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 is beautiful and shiny. You should not buy a sluggish or shy dog ​​with current eyes.

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