27th June 2016
Whether you live in a small apartment, and so need a smaller dog that will feel at home in your flat, or you just love the smaller framed breeds, there are so many favoured breeds to choose from. To help you decide which dog will fit best into your family, here are our top five most popular small dogs.
Maltese
The Maltese is a very popular dog, especially with families, because they don’t tend to shed that much. This breed is also great with other dogs and even cats, making introducing a Maltese to your family a fairly simple process.
While Maltese dogs are sociable animals, they don’t like to be left alone for too long, which is something to consider when you’re choosing your new furry friend.
Jack Russell Terrier
Although the Jack Russell Terrier is a popular small dog breed, some owners can be put off by their vocal nature. However, the Jack Russell can be a fantastic family addition, as they love to be an active, loyal member of any family.
If you are worried about the Jack Russell Terrier’s boisterous nature, proper training and dog classes can be very effective in teaching your pet calmer behaviour.
Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers are notorious for being loyal, family orientated dogs, that bond well with children. They also don’t require a lot of grooming, as they’re a short haired breed that tend to keep themselves well preened.
One word of warning, Boston Terriers love to chew on household items, so be careful what you leave around your new dog as items may get munched! Chew toys can definitely help Boston Terriers to overcome this urge to chew.
Chihuahua
One of the smallest breeds on our list, the Chihuahua has a reputation for being bigger than its boots! This dog is known for snapping and being argumentative towards other dogs, and isn’t a good fit for children as Chihuahua’s are known for nipping smaller members of the family.
However, before you write this breed off, Chihuahuas are also known for being extremely loyal pets, who love to be affectionate towards their families. They’ve even been known to get along with cats, providing the introduction is safely handled and an appropriate adjustment period is adhered to.
Pomeranian
Although this breed can be quite noisy, Pomeranian’s are adorable, mellow and gentle dog breeds. They get on well with children, especially when introduced to them as a puppy, and they’re known for creating strong bonds with their families.
The only drawback to a Pomeranian, in some people’s opinions, is that they shed profusely, making them unsuitable for a household with pet allergies.
So there you have it. There are so many small dog breeds that are suitable for all lifestyles, it’s no wonder they’re so popular!
You should always be careful when adopting small dog breeds, as some are purebreds which have been interbred for years, causing some congenital defects. It’s always best to check with your vet if you have any concerns about your new family friend.
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