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A toy dog is a very small
dog kept as a pet, as compared to a very small working dog, although
both pet and working dogs can be very small.
Small dogs are wonderful and devoted
companions as well as great family pets. You can find
a small dog breed that is right for you no matter your lifestyle.
They may be small in size but can be bold and make good watchdogs. You need to decide if you want a puppy who is adorable but will take
a lot of time and attention or an older dog who is housebroken and
obedience trained.
Toy dogs have become enormously popular over the years.
The Toy Group
includes most of the very small and miniature lap dogs and
apartment-sized companion dog breeds.
There are many small and toy breeds that make excellent pets for
small homes. Toys are popular companion dogs for people living in
cities and adapt well to apartment life.
These toy dogs boast unique character and charm, and make
ideal pets and companions for many people and households.
Another area of contention is the idea that toy dogs are only
companion animals, slow moving, with little need for exercise and
with low endurance.
The use of the word "toy" to describe small dogs that belong to a
toy breed is redundant and also incorrect, suggesting that the breed
comes in different sizes - there is no such thing, for example, as a
"toy Chihuahua"; all Chihuahuas are toy dogs. (However, some breeds
do come in different sizes, such as Poodles, which come in standard,
miniature, and toy varieties).
Ten Most Popular Toy Dog Breeds :
The most popular small dog breeds are
: Chihuahuas, Pugs, Maltese, Yorkies and Toy Poodles.
Based upon statistics from the
American Kennel Club, the top ten toy dog breeds
include :
Chihuahuas :
The Chihuahua is a good apartment dog but enjoys exercising and
playing outdoors on warm day. They should be protected when outdoors
in cool or cold weather with a sweater. The tiny and very pretty
Chihuahua is a dog that has plenty of character, and is a devoted
and charming dog that offers love, entertainment, loyalty, and
excellent companionship. This is a very confident breed that knows
how to stand up for itself yet enjoys plenty of fuss and attention
from its owners. These dogs are perfect for the elderly
or an individual because they make wonderful companions.
They are loyal and have an affinity for being close to their master.
You need to watch their diet because they tend to gain weight
easily.
They only weigh between 2-6 pounds.
Adopt A Rescue Chihuahua
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
: A regal and graceful looking animal, the Cavalier King Charles
Spaniel is a dog with a gentle and agreeable and even temperament,
and is a loving, loyal, and loveable companion.
They are an
extremely patient dog and so eager to please you. Energetic and
playful, this devoted breed loves to be in the thick of the action
and enjoys plenty of fuss and attention from humans. They are
outgoing, playful and want to be loved.
Weight: 10-18pounds
Yorkshire Terriers
: A Yorkie is a lively and lovable companion. They are affectionate,
highly energetic, clever and make a good watchdog. This alert and
intelligent looking breed is strong, energetic, and loyal, and is
like a big dog in a small package. Although they can be stubborn and
are more suited to families with older children rather than
boisterous youngster, this is a small dog that can bring real
pleasure and entertainment as well as providing excellent
companionship. They do need daily brushing. He only weighs
between 5-7 pounds but he is fearless.
Yorkshire Terrier Breed, click here
Shih Tzu :
The
Shih Tzu is a sturdy and robust toy dog, with bags of character and
a playful,
confident, and bubby personality. One of the oldest
breeds, they are a graceful toy dog. They are very engaging, sweet
and spunky dog. They have a strong sense of self so would be a poor
choice for a family with babies or small children since he tends to
be jealous of them.He's a fine companion for older children. The
Shih Tzu is a very elegant and pretty dog. He is a very loyal and
friendly dog. They only weigh between 9-16 pounds.
Pugs : He is a
favorite with children and is just a great dog to have live with
you.
Pugs have a very distinctive and unique look and appearance,
and are robust and sturdy little toy dogs with plenty to offer. The
pug makes a great companion, and is playful, energetic, and full of
character. He loves to please you, is fun loving, even-tempered,
outgoing and playful.
Weight: 14-18 pounds
Maltese :
The
Maltese is a beautiful looking dog, and is also great for those with
pet related allergies because of reduced hair shedding and dander.
The Maltese needs daily combing and brushing, bathed regularly and
clean eyes daily. This breed is great for apartment
living.
They were bred for companionship so they don't
like to be left alone for long hours. This breed is loyal, loving,
and dedicated, as well as making wonderful companions. They also do
well with other animals. Basic obedience training is
sufficient because they are naturally obedient. Weight: 4-6 pounds
Papillon :
These dogs are eager to please and rank #1 toy dog in
obedience. Lively, affectionate, intelligent, and
charming, the Papillon is a breed that offers excellent
companionship and boasts plenty of character and charm. Papillons
are hearty, spirited and make good watchdogs.
This is a robust and attractive breed that will lavish its owners
with love and attention, as well as providing plenty of
entertainment. If socializated early with cats they are okay and get
along with smaller dogs but may challenge bigger ones. Although not
yappy but will bark at sights and sounds to alert their family to
danger and visitors. They have an alert and intelligent expression.
Weight: 3-9 pounds
Miniature Pinschers
: The Miniature Pinscher is a spirited and lively toy dog that
boasts bags of courage and character. These fun-loving extroverts
make good family pets and excellent companions.
The
Miniature Pinscher needs to be near people not left
alone for long periods of time. They learn easily and well learn
fast to obey you because they want to please you. They have high
energy and like to bark. Although this breed can be stubborn and
won't always get along with other dogs, the Miniature Pinscher does
offer excellent companionship and is ideal for those looking for an
entertaining, loving, and loyal pet. They are so curious and
love to investigate everything and will go to great lengths to do
it. They will escape whenever possible. Weight: 8-10 pounds
Pomeranians :
One of the smallest of the toy dog breeds, the cute and lively. Poms
do well in apartment living or small house.
Pom is a wonderful pet
for those looking for companionship and the affections of a loyal
and loving dog. Intelligent, eager, and entertaining, this
breed makes a great addition to the household. They are loyal to
their owner and eager to learn. They are an excellent indoor dog
that only require light activity like a short walk.
Weight: 3-7 pounds
Toy Poodles :
The miniature and toy are the most popular.
They are a highly
intelligent, good-tempered, extremely people-oriented and happy
dogs. These dogs make excellent companions, and are always ready to
shower their owners with love, attention, and devotion.
Weight: 4-9 pounds
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