Small dogs and small dog breeds

There are many small dog breeds and are often given alternative names like miniature and toy dogs. Small dogs where first created more than 2000 years ago in Europe and at about the same time in the Far East. These small dogs were specifically bred as pets and human companions and most are related to larger breeds in other groups.

In spite of their size, these miniature dogs very robust, and if properly cared for are just as healthy, active and formidable, as their standard size relatives!

The main small dog breeds are:

Bichon Frise
Bichon is French for lap dog! Thrives on human companionship

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Lively, affectionate and versatile undemanding and easy to train

Chihuahuas
Adore human companionship, but need careful handling because of their tiny frame, not suitable for hectic households or those with small children as a result

Dachshunds
Loyal, independent, intelligent and defiant! Not ideal for young familiesItalian Greyhound comfort loving animal, makes a good family pet
must be kept warm and dry!

Japanese Chin
Intelligent, self-assured and fun loving, good house dog with deep bark for its size. Sociable with other dogs

Lhasa Apso
Highly intelligent but a little aloof! Good family dog, excellent guard needs a lot of grooming, but not much exercise

Maltese
Of the small dog breeds the Maltese makes the perfect human companion, excellent (although time consuming!) pet. Gentle with children and good with other dogs

Miniature Pinscher
Proud and intelligent, requires regular exercise but not much grooming great companion

Miniature and Toy Poodles
Responsive, thoughtful and lively. Good companion, adapts well to surroundings. A known show off!

Papillion
Very intelligent, friendly and playful. Easily trained and extremely protective coat needs regular attention

Pekingese
Loyal, stubborn and a bit aloof. The princes and princesses' of the small dog breeds and they know it! Needs lots of grooming and careful cleaning of the eyes and wrinkled face. Not easy to train

Pomeranian
Active, gay and affectionate. Keen watchdog, good with children, daily grooming essential

Pug
Charming, tolerant and intelligent. Affectionate towards children but strong willed and not easy to train. Amongst the small dog breeds Pugs require limited grooming and exercise required, but careful feeding regime is necessary

Shih Tzu
Alert and active, adaptable family pet. Minimum exercise required, but regular grooming essential

Tibetan Terrier
Lively and good natured, good guard dog. Reasonably easy to train

Yorkshire Terrier
Spirited and even tempered. Conveniently sized, popular urban pet. Good guarding instincts, but not easy to train. Coat requires regular attention. One of the most popular small dog breeds.

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