Small dogs are very fond of city dwellers. What is the secret of these miniature creatures? Each owner of a "mini-dog" will answer this question in different ways. Only one thing does not cause disagreement: these cute animals have many advantages.
Small dogs: breeds, names
Decorative breeds can be divided into three groups:
- Shorthair (dachshund, toy terrier, miniature pinscher);
- long-haired (Maltese lap dog, Shih Tzu, small poodle, Pomeranian, Yorkshire terrier, Japanese chin, Chihuahua, Italian lap dog);
- Chinese crested and hairless Mexican dogs.
In addition, there is also a group of decorative miniature dogs not yet recognized by FCI:
- Russian colored lapdog ;
- American Toy Fox Terrier;
- orchid (St. Petersburg and Neva);
- Naked American Terrier, etc.
Existing Misconceptions
It is believed that small breeds of dogs have an unstable psyche; animals are supposedly hysterical and cowardly. What this assertion is based on is unknown. It is safe to say that such an opinion is fundamentally wrong. Many of these babies are brave and faithful creatures, ready to defend their master until the last breath, regardless of the size of the enemy. For example, small terriers have a real "terrier" character. They are fearless, active and assertive in achieving their goals.
The advantages of small breeds
Undoubtedly, it is very important for a city dweller that these dogs are compact and practically do not occupy space in the apartment. In addition, they can be easily transported in any transport. And most importantly: with such a miniature size, they have the advantages of large dogs.
Features
It is quite natural that small breeds of dogs are not intended to perform any work. They belong to a special group - the "toy breed". Translated from English, toy is a toy. Since ancient times, such animals, entertaining their owners, at the same time symbolized their wealth and high social status. Everyone who wants to make such a tiny friend should remember that you are not acquiring a toy, but a living and understanding creature. In addition, do not forget that this is not a plush doggie, but a real dog with its own character and temperament.
Today we will introduce you some small dog breeds with photos and features.
Yorkshire Terrier
A decorative dog bred in England in the 19th century. It has a silky and long coat, which is very similar to human hair. Wool grows constantly and does not have an undercoat. The weight of the animal does not exceed three kilograms, but can be much less. With such a miniature size, the terrier is decisive and courageous, like his big brother. He is infinitely loyal to the owner, friendly to both people and animals. Very in need of attention. Ready to follow the owner on the heels of the whole day, and even better - comfortably sitting in his arms. The price of a terrier is from fifteen to fifty thousand rubles.
Chihuahua
Perhaps the smallest decorative dog. The name was given in honor of the state of Chihuahua in Mexico, where it was first discovered in 1850. However, it should be noted that she leads her family from the time of the Aztec and Mayan civilizations. Then this tiny creature was considered sacred. These cute animals come in two types - short-haired and long-haired.
Initially, they were used to catch rats on the ships of the Spaniards, and later they turned into companion dogs. Chihuahua has an excellent reaction, fearlessness and a very stable psyche. These are very curious and observant animals. In some incomprehensible way, they immediately realize that they have to go on a visit, and not on an ordinary walk. Dogs are very touchy. If, due to a bad mood, you accidentally broke into a cry, your pet can sit all day in his corner until he forgives you. The price of such a dog varies from five hundred to two thousand dollars. This variation depends on the sex of the animal, the presence of the pedigree, the titles of the parents, etc.
Russian toy terrier
Describing small breeds of dogs, photos of which you can find in our article, you can not say about this representative of the Russian breed. The toy terrier was bred in our country at the beginning of the 20th century. Very elegant and fine-boned, long-legged and short-haired small dog.
The animal is very active, devoted to the owner and affectionate with him. Please note: it is undesirable to have such pets in families with noisy children. The dog is stressed. Without professional help, an experienced dog handler can grow up very vicious. Does not require special care, great for keeping in a small apartment. Price - from 6 to 35 thousand rubles.
Dwarf Spitz (Pomeranian)
A decorative dog native to Germany. A miniature and funny doggie, incredibly loyal to the owner. He loves children very much and can tirelessly run around with them and play. Clever and quick-witted, longing to please the owner and earn his praise. Easy to learn. The price of such a dog starts from 14 thousand rubles.
Bichon Frize
Translated from French, the name of this breed means "curly lapdog." Naturally, this beauty rightfully represents small dog breeds. Incredibly showy blonde! Thick, long, silky hair (always only white) makes its appearance unforgettable. It is believed that this breed is the progenitor of all lapdogs.
Growth Bichon Frize does not exceed 30 centimeters, wool - about 10 centimeters. The animal is very funny and playful, does not show aggression at all, is easily trained, showing miracles of ingenuity. Price - from 600 to 1000 dollars.
Pekingese
A decorative dog native to China. The breed has about 2000 years of history. Its name is due to the capital of the country - Beijing. True, the Chinese themselves call these animals Fu dogs. Most likely, the Pekingese would never have got into the countries of Europe if in 1860 the British, who had captured the Beijing Palace, had not taken out five individuals of this breed as a trophy. The Pekingese loves to be groomed and cherished, but he is fearless and surprisingly inventive in games. It requires a lot of attention. Even in families with children, he considers himself the main character, therefore it is more suitable for maintenance for single people or families without children. Price - from 4 to 20 thousand rubles.
Mating small dogs
This process is quite complex and requires prior thorough preparation. Mating dogs of small breeds implies the mandatory presence of vaccinations in the expectant mother. It should be treated for ticks and fleas, it is advisable to drink your favorite medicine for worms. If pairing occurs for the first time, we recommend that you seek the advice of an instructor in your club. There are situations when inexperienced owners can not do without the help of professionals.
Pregnancy in dogs of small breeds lasts an average of 62 days. Immediately before birth, the body temperature of the animal drops by 1-2 degrees and remains at this level until the end of childbirth.
During pregnancy, feeding the dog should be more high-calorie and more fractional. The vitamins needed for your breed are recommended by your veterinarian.
Puppies of small dog breeds require the same attention and care as everyone else. During the first three weeks, they are in a pre-prepared nest next to their mother and practically do not leave him. At this time, the focus is on the nursing mother.
Nicknames for small breeds of dogs
Choosing a nickname for your pet is not as easy as it seems at first glance. When making your choice, consider the breed of the dog. The name Sharik or Barbos will sound absurd in relation to a huge rottweiler or a tiny chihuahua. Quite often, a puppy gets its name from the first owner, but this does not mean at all that you cannot change it.
Small breeds of dogs, however, as well as large ones, need the correct name. Largely thanks to her, the character of the animal is formed. You yourself decide in advance whether the dog will be funny, fashionable or the most ordinary. Dogs are very intelligent animals, regardless of whether they are mongrels, purebred, large or small. And, of course, the nickname will affect the behavior and character of the animal.