Article provided by Carl Clark of ohmydogsupplies.com, the top ranked spot to find dog collars and leashes online.
Many people seem to believe that having a small breed dog means is easier than having larger dogs. Maybe they think it will require less exercise or less grooming. Some believe that small dogs are healthier.
If you are considering getting a dog, small, medium or large, do your homework. It is imperative that you fully understand everything about the breed or breeds that you are considering. For example knowing what the breed's intended purpose was may help you to understand what to expect in terms of temperament and activity level. Understand the grooming requirements: are they a do-it-yourself bath and brush or high maintenance requiring professional care. What are the potential health issues common to the breeds?
Not only should you know the answers to these and other questions, but you should also know what fits into your life style. Don't pick a pet because you think it's cute - pick one that fits your energy level, living situation and even your economic situation based on potential grooming, feeding, and veterinary expenses.
Many people assume that small breed dogs, particularly those in the 'Toy Breeds' category do not need much exercise thus making them best suited for apartment life or life with those who cannot be too active such as the elderly or infirmed. The truth is some small dogs, such as the Boston Terrier, Chihuahua, Miniature Pinscher and Toy Fox Terrier are extremely high energy and require daily and active playtime. That said, certain 'hand games' or fetching a small ball or stuffed animal can be done in the house or a small yard.
Some small breeds are actually known for nipping or biting and yapping or barking excessively. While these are behaviors that can be corrected it will take time, consistency and possibly money. If you are not an experienced dog owner you may need to attend school with your dog and/or hire a professional dog trainer to assist in correcting negative behavior.
A health crisis can occur with any dog. Research the breed you are interested in to learn which health problems occur at a higher than average rate for that breed. If you are obtaining your dog from a breeder, though I'd hope you would check rescues first, discuss the health of the parent dogs with the breeder. Also research the steps you can take to reduce the risks of certain health issues in your chosen breed and how to manage these issues if they should arise.
There are many great toy and small breed dogs to fit all living situations. Just be sure to do your homework and pick the breed that fits your life.
If you are considering getting a dog, small, medium or large, do your homework. It is imperative that you fully understand everything about the breed or breeds that you are considering. For example knowing what the breed's intended purpose was may help you to understand what to expect in terms of temperament and activity level. Understand the grooming requirements: are they a do-it-yourself bath and brush or high maintenance requiring professional care. What are the potential health issues common to the breeds?
Not only should you know the answers to these and other questions, but you should also know what fits into your life style. Don't pick a pet because you think it's cute - pick one that fits your energy level, living situation and even your economic situation based on potential grooming, feeding, and veterinary expenses.
Many people assume that small breed dogs, particularly those in the 'Toy Breeds' category do not need much exercise thus making them best suited for apartment life or life with those who cannot be too active such as the elderly or infirmed. The truth is some small dogs, such as the Boston Terrier, Chihuahua, Miniature Pinscher and Toy Fox Terrier are extremely high energy and require daily and active playtime. That said, certain 'hand games' or fetching a small ball or stuffed animal can be done in the house or a small yard.
Some small breeds are actually known for nipping or biting and yapping or barking excessively. While these are behaviors that can be corrected it will take time, consistency and possibly money. If you are not an experienced dog owner you may need to attend school with your dog and/or hire a professional dog trainer to assist in correcting negative behavior.
A health crisis can occur with any dog. Research the breed you are interested in to learn which health problems occur at a higher than average rate for that breed. If you are obtaining your dog from a breeder, though I'd hope you would check rescues first, discuss the health of the parent dogs with the breeder. Also research the steps you can take to reduce the risks of certain health issues in your chosen breed and how to manage these issues if they should arise.
There are many great toy and small breed dogs to fit all living situations. Just be sure to do your homework and pick the breed that fits your life.
