There are several small dog breeds with specific characteristics and needs. That’s why getting to know each one is important to ensure that your pet is well looked after and lives in harmony with the family. Check out 6 small dog breeds below!
1. Maltese
According to veterinarian Mabel Vaz, this breed is intelligent and affectionate towards its owner. “[These dogs] are very cheerful and expressive, qualities that make them wonderful dogs for companionship. They are very beautiful and elegant, due to their coat, and are a great companion for those who live in small spaces. Their fur is long and smooth and they don’t need grooming, just daily brushing. Very cheerful and agitated, they are always ready to play,” she says.
However, this little dog doesn’t like to be left alone for long. They always need to be close to someone, as their ability to interact is great. It gets on very well with people and other animals. They have a lot of energy and therefore require constant exercise to avoid becoming a stressed animal.
2. French bulldog
For the French bulldog, a little exercise is enough. As they have a flat/short muzzle, they find it more difficult to breathe when exercising.
This little dog loves company and always needs to be surrounded by humans. It loves everyone around it, enjoys being on your lap and playing with children. These qualities make the French bulldog a good companion. “An excellent companion, sociable, cheerful, playful, affectionate and intelligent,” describes Mabel Vaz.
3. Pomeranianulu
This dog looks like a stuffed animal! It’s enchanting. Also known as the dwarf German spitz, the Pomeranian lulu is very calm, quiet and gentle. Its coat is quite thick, but it doesn’t require grooming. To keep the coat healthy, it is important to brush it every day.
The Pomeranian is very intelligent and cheerful. It is always on the alert for any danger and observes all the actions around it. It can get on very well with children, as long as it is introduced to them from puppyhood. It is a very active dog and can sometimes bark a lot.
4. Pug
This little dog is very homely, loves to be on your lap and doesn’t bark too much. The pug doesn’t do well with intense physical activity. That’s why it’s a good companion for those who prefer to stay at home, quietly. “They are very attentive and docile,” says Mabel Vaz.
Just like the French bulldog, the pug can have trouble breathing, which often leads to snoring. It is an intelligent and obedient animal. It is always in a good mood.
5. Pinscher
They are very similar to Chihuahuas, which is why they are often confused with each other. They are docile and companionable dogs. Energetic, he loves to laugh. “He’s very affectionate with his owner, but doesn’t easily tolerate strangers. It barks furiously and raises the alarm at the slightest suspicious movement,” explains Mabel Vaz.
He is always on the alert and suspicious of all strangers. Because of its euphoric temperament and its size, anyone with children in the house needs to be careful. They may accidentally hurt him and he may try to fight back.
6. Poodle toy
Known for its intelligence, the toy poodle is one of the smartest dogs in the world, quick to learn commands, ranking second in the ranking of intelligence among dog breeds. Perfect for life in an apartment, it is compact but full of energy and curiosity. Its coat, which requires grooming every 60 days, is one of its charms. “The poodle is famous for its loyalty, aptitude for training and obedience, which makes it a very pleasant companion dog,” concludes veterinarian Mabel Vaz.
